10 14 16 Vol. 38 No. 10 by The Leaven

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 38, NO. 10 | OCTOBER 14, 2016

NAME OF NEW PARISH REVEALED AND FOUNDING PASTOR INSTALLED BY MOIRA CULLINGS

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Father Andrew Strobl concelebrates Mass with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann on Oct. 9 at Madison Place Elementary School in Olathe which is serving as the worship space for the new Olathe parish. At the Mass, Archbishop Naumann announced that the new parish would be named St. John Paul II.

LATHE — “It will be a joy to formally install Father Andrew [Strobl] as pastor today,” said Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. “If we could just get him to be excited about it. . .” Laughter erupted from the packed gymnasium at Madison Place Elementary School in Olathe, where the archdiocese’s newest parish community was gathered for the installation of the ever-enthusiastic pastor on Oct. 9. “I’m confident of Father Andrew Strobl’s abilities and zeal, and sharing the Gospel and celebrating the sacraments, his love of the Lord and his desire to be a father to this community,” said Archbishop Naumann. “It’s a great joy to present him to you this time formally as your pastor. I invite you to show your approval.” After a full minute of cheering,

LIFE’S END

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City in Kansas’ new parish. St. John Paul II was just perfect.

“I’M CONFIDENT OF FATHER ANDREW STROBL’S ABILITIES AND ZEAL, AND SHARING THE GOSPEL AND CELEBRATING THE SACRAMENTS, HIS LOVE OF THE LORD AND HIS DESIRE TO BE A FATHER TO THIS COMMUNITY.” Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann the audience and Father Strobl, who sat beaming with joy, waited on the edge of their seats to hear the parish’s name for the first time. And Archbishop Naumann couldn’t have chosen a more fitting one for the Archdiocese of Kansas

How can you help loved ones as they near life’s end? Page 4

‘A special patron’ Because this is the first parish founded since Archbishop Naumann arrived the archdiocese, he said choosing the name with help of Father Strobl and his parishioners was particularly thrilling. St. John Paul II made him a bishop in 1997, he said, appointed him to the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas in 2004, and the two met on several occasions. Pope John Paul II is also a “special patron” of the new evangelization — something near and dear to Father Strobl’s work, said the archbishop. “As you know, [for] Father Andrew, an important part of his ministry in recent years has been leading our efforts at evangelization,” said Archbishop Naumann. Father Strobl hopes to carry on

MISSION SUNDAY

Find out how you can support mission churches all over the world this World Mission Sunday. Pages 8-9

those efforts in his new capacity at St. John Paul II. “I’m grateful for the opportunity because I really think there’s something special about forming a new community where everybody’s a new parishioner,” said Father Strobl. “We get to go from the ground up in terms of building on good practices and a good leadership team.” “I get to put into practice a lot of what we’ve been working on with the office of evangelization the last three years, which I’m really excited about,” he added. Father Strobl, who was in college when the last parish was founded in 2003, is “humbled” that he was chosen for this role. “It’s not something a priest normally gets to do,” he said. “Honestly, it wasn’t anything I ever expected as a priest that I’d have the opportunity to do.” >> See “OLATHE” on page 7

ANGELS AMONG US

Tom and Sandy Long have been named CEF’s Angels Among Us. Page 16

OCTOBER 14, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Our choices end where another’s more fundamental right begins

hough he has local roots in the Kansas City area, I have never met vice presidential candidate, Senator Tim Kaine. From those who do know him, I understand that he is a very affable and likable person. In the Oct. 4 vice presidential debate, Senator Kaine acknowledged he was blessed with great Irish Catholic parents and grew up in a wonderful faith-filled family. He also mentioned proudly that he is a graduate of Rockhurst High School, crediting the Jesuits with instilling within him a desire for public service and a commitment to advocate for the poor. I wish that was the end of the story. It was painful to listen to Senator Kaine repeat the same tired and contorted reasoning to profess his personal opposition to abortion while justifying his commitment to keep it legal. He said all the usual made-for-modernmedia sound bites: It is not proper to impose his religious beliefs upon all Americans. He trusts women to make good reproductive choices. And when all else fails, there is always: Do we really want to criminalize and fill our jails with post-abortive women? With regard to the imposition of religious beliefs, Senator Kaine appears to have no qualms with his public positions conforming with his religious beliefs with regard to such issues as the church’s opposition to racism or

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN our preferential option for the poor. He appears not to be conflicted with our public policies mirroring the Ten Commandments with regard to stealing, perjury, or forms of murder, other than abortion. The founders of our nation actually dealt with this issue 240 years ago in the Declaration of Independence, in which they articulate certain self-evident and inalienable rights that government does not bestow but has a responsibility to protect. Our founders actually believed that the right to life is given to us by our Creator, not by the Supreme Court. Of course, religion will speak about fundamental human rights issues. However, to understand that the government has a right to protect human life is not dependent on religious belief. As the founders’ stated, these are self-evident truths. They are accessible to everyone through the use of reason. They do not require faith. Why is Senator Kaine

personally opposed to abortion, if he does not believe that it is the taking of an innocent human life? I hope in his science classes at Rockhurst he learned that at the moment of fertilization a new human life has begun with his or her own distinct DNA — different from the genetic code of both the child’s mother and father. It is difficult to imagine that Senator Kaine has not seen the ultrasound images of his children and grandchildren when they were in their mother’s womb. Is the senator unaware that abortion stopped the beating hearts of 60 million American children aborted legally since 1973? If he knows these truths of biology, why would he believe that anyone has the right to authorize the killing of an unborn human being? This is where the reproductive choice euphemism breaks apart. Does anyone really have the choice to end another human being’s life? Our choices end where another individual’s more fundamental rights begin. As far as Senator

Kaine’s fear that if abortion is made illegal, our prisons will be teeming with post-abortive women, we actually have decades of legal history in our own country when this was certainly not the case. Before the late 1960s when abortion was illegal in every state, except for the life-of-the-mother cases, it is difficult to find a single instance of a woman imprisoned for abortion. The laws were enforced against the abortionists. Our own legal experience shows clearly that it is possible to develop public policies aimed at protecting children, not punishing women. Actually, I wish Senator Kaine would take the time to talk with some of the post-abortive women that are assisted by Project Rachel and other post-abortion ministries helping women and men find healing, hope and mercy after an abortion. Our current permissive abortion policies, placing the entire burden of responsibility for the abortion decision upon the mother, results in millions of women experiencing an inner imprisonment where the bars keeping them from freedom and happiness are the guilt and unresolved grief that inevitably ensues from abortion. It is interesting that Senator Kaine expressed his personal anguish when as governor he enforced capital punishment sentences. He gave the impression that he attempted unsuccessfully to convince Virginians to abolish the death

penalty. Yet, with regard to legalized abortion, I am not aware of Senator Kaine making a similar effort to convince his constituents to work for public policies that protect the lives of the unborn. Instead, he appears eager to champion not only maintaining the status quo, but actually expanding abortion rights. It is ironic that Senator Kaine expressed such profound concern about imposing his religious beliefs on others, while supporting efforts: 1) to coerce the Little Sisters of the Poor and other faith-based ministries to violate their conscience by including abortifacients, contraceptives and sterilizations in their employee health plans; 2) to put small business owners (e.g., florists, bakers, photographers, etc.) out of business with crippling fines if they decline to participate in same-sex marriage ceremonies; and 3) to force every American taxpayer to help fund abortion. This presidential election presents all Americans with a difficult choice. Both major political parties have nominated very flawed candidates. In making your decision as a voter, I encourage you to think not only of the candidate, but who they will appoint to key Cabinet and other powerful government positions if he or she becomes president. We are choosing not just a president, but an entire administration. Finally, be wary of candidates who assume to take upon themselves

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN Oct. 14 Conception Seminary board meeting Oct. 15 Sisters, Servants of Mary profession of vows Oct. 16-27 Pilgrimage to the Holy Land

ARCHBISHOP KELEHER Oct. 15 Wedding — St. James Academy Oct. 16 Federal camp Mass Oct. 18 Prison talk — Nativity, Leawood Confirmation — Sacred Heart, Tonganoxie Oct. 22 Confirmation — St. Philippine Duchesne Latin Mass Community Oct. 23 Mass — Blessed Sacrament, for Fraternity of the Poor

the role of defining what Catholics believe or should believe. Unfortunately, the vice-presidential debate revealed that the Catholic running for the second highest office in our land is an orthodox member of his party, fulling embracing his party’s platform, but a cafeteria Catholic, picking and choosing the teachings of the Catholic Church that are politically convenient.

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OCTOBER 14, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

FAITH OF OUR FATHERS

Zardas, Catholic Cemeteries to receive Deo Gratias Award By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — An enduring hymn that most Catholics are familiar with is “Faith of Our Fathers.” For the Zarda family, it’s not just a hymnbook standard, but also a guide for a way of life — and the reason why Ben and Betty Zarda and Tom and Mickey Zarda are Deo Gratias Award recipients for 2016. The two couples are lifetime members of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee. Ben and Tom are two of five brothers born to hard-working dairy farmers. Betty is the daughter of parents who were “truck farmers,” and Mickey is the daughter of a widowed mother of nine children. It was their Catholic faith that got their families through the hard work and rough times, and prompted a lifestyle of giving back to the church and community that has spanned generations. Once, when his father was preparing to go out and make yet another fundraising appeal for the parish school, Ben asked him a question. “I said, ‘Dad, you know, you’ve been working all your life for the church and doing all those things. Your kids are all out of school now and there are other kids and parents there. It seems like they ought to be taking your place.’ “And he said, ‘Let me tell you something. We came from the old country, got married and came out to Shawnee. We had kids. There was a school here for them to go to and a church for us to go to. I had nothing to do with those facilities being here. Someone before me made it possible for the next generation. I owe that to the next generation, to make sure there is a church and school for them to attend.’” It was such examples of faith and giving back from their parents that led both Zarda couples to serve their parishes and schools, and a plethora of worthy causes for both the church and the community. Annually, the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas presents the Deo Gratias Award to individuals and Catholic institutions at a dinner. This year, that dinner will be on Nov. 3 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas. The Deo Gratias (Latin for “thanks be to God”) Award is given in recognition of outstanding achievement, service and support of Catholic institutions that are CFNEK fund holders, as well as Catholic Legacy Society members. In addition to the Zardas, Bob Chenoweth will accept an award on behalf of Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas. Today, the Zardas are a Johnson County success story. Over the years, Ben and Tom have had a variety of diversified business activities, includ-

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) President: Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Betty and Ben Zarda (left) and Mickey and Tom Zarda (right) are Deo Gratias Award recipients for 2016. The two couples are lifetime members of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee.

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“I PERSONALLY HAD AN OPPORTUNITY, A SCHOLARSHIP, TO GO TO ST. BENEDICT’S COLLEGE, BUT I HAD TO TURN IT DOWN BECAUSE OF THE BUSINESS, BECAUSE I HAD TO MILK COWS.” Tom Zarda ing banks, convenience/dairy stores, a sports complex, a cemetery, strip malls, apartment buildings and an industrial park — just to name a few. But it all began with a dairy farm and about 120 cows. It included milking those cows twice a day, 365 days a year, without interruption. The Zarda family almost had to close the dairy at the beginning of World War II, when all the farm help left to work in higher-paying defense industry jobs. Ben recalled how, in 1942, their father called the five boys together and gave them two choices: Either the boys had to drop out of school to help run the dairy, or they’d have to liquidate the farm. The boys dropped out of school. Eventually, the older boys served in the military. Ben drove a dairy

route at age 14 — before he could legally hold a driver’s license. Tom, the youngest, was fortunate to finish high school, but could go no further. “I personally had an opportunity, a scholarship, to go to St. Benedict’s College [in Atchison], but I had to turn it down because of the business,” said Tom, “because I had to milk cows.” While he was in junior high and high school, Tom would get up at 3 a.m. to milk cows with the family, go to school, and come back to milk again at 3 p.m. Leading the family was their father, who, despite the long and unrelenting work hours, was a daily Mass-goer. “That’s the example he gave us,” said Ben. “We went through the hard times — the drought and depression — and he always trusted that the good Lord would get us through. He had a strong faith.” So how do Ben and Tom feel about

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“WE WENT THROUGH THE HARD TIMES — THE DROUGHT AND DEPRESSION — AND [DAD] ALWAYS TRUSTED THAT THE GOOD LORD WOULD GET US THROUGH. HE HAD A STRONG FAITH.” Ben Zarda

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

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Reporter Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

receiving the Deo Gratias Award? Very humble. “I think there are a lot of people in the archdiocese who are as deserving as we are,” said Ben. “We’re honored, of course, but a little embarrassed. I feel that others have done an awful lot of things, too.” “We’re being honored when we really should not be,” said Tom. “Each and every one of the things you see on my resume that we’ve been involved with or accomplished, we’ve been influenced by somebody else or a group of other people, and those are the people who should be honored.” At the beginning of that long list, said Tom, are the priests of St. Joseph Parish, the Benedictine Sisters who taught in the school that started him on the path to do good for others, and, of course, his parents. “Of course, I have to back up a bit and say I could have not accomplished any of that without my wife, my children, my family and my brother . . . to give me the time and opportunity to do those things,” said Tom. “I’m receiving the award to recognize and thank those other people who really are the cause of my success.” Tom is grateful to receive the Deo Gratias Award, but it will be the last he’ll agree to accept. He’d like to see other folks, who are doing great things for the church, to be recognized, too. “Those that know me, know. And those who don’t know me, that’s OK, about the things I’ve been involved in,” said Tom. “I think I’d like my obituary to read that way.”

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

OCTOBER 14, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Caring for loved ones at life’s end

n old Irish proverb says, “It is in the shelter of each other that the people live.” Indeed, we are created to depend upon one another and walk together in suffering. But when family members or friends approach life’s end, we may not know how best to “shelter” them. Here are some concrete ways we can compassionately care for them.

. INVITE GOD IN: Pope Francis has said that “praying in difficult situations is like opening the door to the Lord, in order that he might enter.” The dying process is a sacred time — a final season to seek closure in this life and prepare for the next in the hope of sharing in Christ’s resurrection. As you enter into this season with your friend or family member, ask God to accompany both of you.

. LISTEN: Try to discover your loved one’s values and how best to honor his or her wishes. This requires true empathy. It can be hard not to assume he or she wants the same thing you think you would want if you were in the same situation. Listen with a nonjudgmental ear so your loved one feels free to speak openly.

during the dying process. You can help ensure a peaceful transition for your loved one by facilitating opportunities for reconciliation with others and for mutual expressions of love and gratitude. Consider offering to invite a priest to hear his or her confession and to administer the Eucharist as viaticum and the sacrament of the anointing of the sick, all of which heal the soul and prepare us to meet the Lord.

. INFORM YOURSELF: Be aware that wishes for refusing ordinary or proportionate treatment — or for pursuing assisted suicide — are usually rooted in fears of dependency, helplessness or pain. Make yourself available to discuss these or any concerns. Know that hospice care focuses on alleviating pain and other symptoms, meeting basic needs and providing comfort. Seek to understand the Catholic Church’s teaching on end-of-life care, which can help you provide authentically loving support that respects life.

. BE STEADFAST IN COMPASSION: Pope Francis reminds us, “Compassion means ‘suffer with.’” Your friend or family member will likely face ups and downs. Recognize these as part of a natural process. Surround him or her with love, support and companionship that are “anchored in unconditional respect for their human dignity, beginning with respect for the inherent value of their lives.” The patient’s suffering can be alleviated by your empathy, as well as by quality hospice care by medical personnel.

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. HELP THEM ACHIEVE CLOSURE: Help your family member or friend define the unfinished personal projects, financial concerns, unresolved relationships or other matters that occupy his or her mind. Due to changing circumstances, some goals may need to be reframed. Creating and accomplishing this list of unfinished business can help the person discover a sense of purpose and feel more at peace.

. PROVIDE OPPORTUNITIES FOR RESOLUTION: Ira Byock, a hospice medical director, illustrates in his book, “The Four Things That Matter Most,” how saying “I love you,” “Please forgive me,” “I forgive you,” and “Thank you” can promote much-needed healing

. REMINISCE: Our appetites diminish as our bodies experience a decreased need for food and fluids when we near life’s end. Provide smaller amounts of your family member’s or friend’s favorite foods. Even if unable to eat them, he or she may still enjoy the aromas and reminisce with you about special memories they evoke.

. PROVIDE A PEACEFUL PRESENCE: There comes a time of natural withdrawal from surroundings when dying persons may lose interest in many activities that used to be enjoyable. Your own quiet, patient presence can provide important support as your loved one prepares emotionally and spiritually for his or her passing. Hearing can become very acute, so placing the phone in another room, playing favorite music, reading a favorite passage, praying together or simply sitting quietly with him or her can all be very soothing.

. SHOW TENDERNESS: Those who are dying remain in need of the tenderness of personal human contact. Ask if you might gently brush your loved one’s hair, apply lotion to her hands or feet, or simply hold his hand. Tell stories, laugh and share memories to reassure the person he or she is a cherished gift, not a burden in any way.

. BEAR THEIR TRANSITION PATIENTLY: Transition, the time immediately preceding death, may bring rapid physical changes, such as in breathing patterns, as well as changes in mental or emotional states. Try to be patient and allow the “how” and “when” of death to be between God and your loved one. Ask God for the wisdom to know what final words to say — if any — and when. As you are able, give your loved one permission to make the transition. For example, you might say, “I love you. It’s OK to go home now.” Accompanying a loved one in his or her last days is enormously important work, but we do not need to fear our own limitations. Pope Francis tells us, “[God] comes to assist us in our weakness. And his help consists in helping us accept his presence and closeness to us. Day after day, touched by his compassion, we also can become compassionate toward others.”

Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas • Catholic Bequests

• Donor Advised Funds

• Gift Annuities

• Named Scholarship Funds

• Endowments

• Memorial Funds

Remember a gift to the church in your will

(913) 647-0325 CFNEK@archkck.org www.cfnek.org

OCTOBER 14, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Shop for your vocation at the ULTIMATE Vocation Fair

By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven

re you trying to discover what God wants you to do with your life? Perhaps you’re trying to figure out whether you’re being called to the priesthood — or maybe to a life as a monk or nun. If so, don’t miss the upcoming ULTIMATE Vocation Fair, at which there will be representatives of nearly 100 religious communities to talk to — all in one place. This event is set for Oct. 26 from 5 to 8 p.m. in the gym at Church of the Ascension, 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park. The vocation fair is free and open to students of all ages, their parents and other persons considering vocations to religious life. Sponsors include the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, local communities of women religious and Serra Clubs. “With the National Religious Vocation Conference meeting in the metropolitan area at the end of October, we are seizing the opportunity to gather as many religious communities in one place to share information and visit with anyone thinking about a religious vocation,” said Sister Vicki Lichtenauer, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth, who is spearheading the vocation fair. “We’re making this convenient and accessible,” she added, “so that discerners can walk through at their own pace and gain exposure to the ministries and personalities of religious communities from the Kansas City area, the Midwest and from around the country.” “In my 20 years as a Sister, I’m not aware of any such vocation fair with so many religious vocation opportunities represented — priests, women religious, Brothers,” continued Sister Vicki. “We are extremely grateful to Father Scott Wallisch, archdiocesan vocation director, and the Serra Clubs for their tremendous support of this unique event.” Father Scott shares Sister Vicki’s enthusiasm. “We encourage priests, parents, teachers and parishes to promote the event to those who might be discerning religious vocations,” he said. “This welcoming and very hospitable environment will present an ideal opportunity for young people to explore possible answers to God’s plan for their lives.” Parents who attend will have the opportunity to meet with parents of young members of religious communities to hear about their experiences and ask questions. Advance registration is not required. For more information, contact Sister Vicki at (816) 718-2660 or by email at: vickiL@ scls.org, or Father Scott at (913) 647-0303 or via email at: frscott@archkck.org.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

MASS OF INNOCENTS

In the arms of her father Patrick Leis, 6-year-old Madeleine inscribes into The Book of Names the name of one of her siblings lost to miscarriage, while Patrick’s wife Katie holds Rebecca, 2. The Leises are members of Holy Family Parish in Eudora.

Catholic Bar Association to hold historic first conference

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Mo. — At a time when religious liberty is a hot topic, Catholic attorneys are banding together to hold the inaugural meeting of the Catholic Bar Association. The association was founded on July 6, 2015, on the 480th anniversary of the martyrdom of noted lawyer and chancellor of England, St. Thomas More. “The Catholic Bar Association is a response to an urgent need within the church,” said Joshua McCaig, CBA president. “[There is] a need to unite Catholic legal professionals into one organization nationally and internationally,” he continued, “and to build a community where — united by the common bond of faith — the members may grow professionally and personally in the ideals set forth by St. Thomas More — that we are ‘the King’s good servant, but

Donnelly College seeking tutors

onnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking persons who are interested in being teachers or tutors for inmates at medium and minimum security facilities in Lansing. The college is seeking individuals who have 18 or more graduate hours in the subject fields of English, science, biology,

Faithful Citizens & FIAT Present This Year’s Must See Film: EWTN’s

‘A Wolf In Sheep’s Clothing’ Bring a friend and join us for a local showing of

“Wolf in Sheep’s Clothing” Life and Times of Saul Alinsky,

If you missed the premiere of this blockbuster event Oct.1 on EWTN then come see it with friends

Thursday, October 20

KU Edwards Regent Center, 127th and Quivira, at 6:30 P.M. Best Building, Room 120 Contact Courtney Williams with any questions 913-568-5453

God’s first.’” The meeting and associated events will be held from Oct. 27-30. The conference will start with a Mass at 5:30 p.m. on Oct. 27 at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, 2552 Gillham Rd., Kansas City, Missouri. Bishop James Vann Johnston of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph will be the celebrant and homilist, and Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and Bishop Thomas John Paprocki of the Diocese of Springfield in Illinois will concelebrate. After the Mass, activities will shift to Westin Crown Center Hotel, 1 E. Pershing Rd., Kansas City, Missouri. Gov. Sam Brownback of Kansas will be the keynote speaker at a dinner on Oct. 28. Hadley Arkes will be the keynote speaker for the dinner Oct. 29. Other speakers for the remainder of the weekend include Hillary Byrnes, assistant general counsel of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops; Lester Ruppersberger, MD, president of the

philosophy, theology and mathematics. Teachers and tutors receive minor compensation. Instruction occurs late afternoons and evenings Monday through Thursday during 16-week semesters. For more information, call Steven Jansen at (785) 842-1549 or send an email to: sjansen@ donnelly.edu.

Catholic Medical Association; and Patricia Dugan, of the Canon Law Society of America. Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila of the Archdiocese of Denver will also attend. The Catholic Bar Association invites Catholic attorneys, judges, politicians and law students to participate in the historic gathering. Continued Legal Education credits are pending for attorneys for Missouri and Kansas. Registrations will be accepted up to the day of the event and at the door. Talks given on Oct. 27 and 28 are open to non-lawyers for a $25 per person donation. For attorneys, the cost to attend just the lectures is $100, and the whole weekend is $300 (which includes the two keynote dinners). Anyone may attend the dinners for the cost of $100 per dinner. To register and for information, visit the Catholic Bar Association website at: www.cbaconference.com. Or call McCaig at (913) 575-1776.

Bioethics dinner set for Oct. 22 Catholic physicians and health care personnel are invited to the Kansas City Guild of the Catholic Medical Association’s fall bioethics dinner Oct. 22 from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. at Jack Stack Barbecue - Freight House, 101 W. 22nd St., Kansas City, Missouri. For more information and to register, visit the website at: www.catholicmedkc. org and click on “Events.”

OCTOBER 14, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

WORKERS thein VINEYARD

TOOLS FOR FAMILIES Growing as Disciples of Jesus

You’ve been charged

his Sunday, St. Paul charges families to be persistent in following Christ whether it’s “convenient or inconvenient” (2 Tm 4:2). Today, families have many opportunities to follow Christ and proclaim him, even when it’s inconvenient because of work, worry of offending or because we have so many commitments in front of us. Prayer: Lord, help me ARTWORK BY NEILSON CARLIN, 2015 shine you even when it’s not convenient. I desire to be an example to others. — By William O’Leary

WEBSITE EXCLUSIVE

CHURCH OF THE WEEK At St. John Parish in Greeley, Richie Rommelfanger keeps track of who is buried where in the parish cemetery, as well as selling and marking off lots for new burials.

Caring for the parish cemetery a family affair

St. Joseph, Topeka Address: 227 S.W. Van Buren Phone: (785) 234-3338 Pastor: Father Timothy Haberkorn Mass Times: Sunday, 8 a.m.; Sunday, 11 a.m. (in Latin)

Website: http://www.sacredheartstjosephcatholic.org MORE PHOTOS AND A VIDEO TOUR of this church can be seen online at: www.theleaven.org.

WEBSITE EXCLUSIVE

TEAM OF THE WEEK Hayden girls golf

Head coach: Dan Key Next tournament: At press time, Hayden was playing in its regional tournament. If victorious, Hayden would travel to Hesston Golf Park, 520 Yost Drive, Hesston, for state. Tee time would be at 9 a.m.

In the famous parable, some came early and some came late. But the wages for all were everlasting life. Are you toiling in the Lord’s vineyard yet? Join us here every week to meet one of the folks The Leaven has discovered hard at work building the kingdom — sometimes in the most unusual ways.

REELEY — Family roots run deep in small, rural parishes. And if you need confirmation, all you need to do is visit the cemetery. You can practically draw family trees by reading the headstones. At St. John Parish in Greeley, Richie Rommelfanger is tasked with taking care of an important part of the history and heritage of the parish — as well as carrying on a family tradition. Rommelfanger keeps track of who is buried where in the parish cemetery, as well as selling and marking off lots for

new burials. “I was asked to take care of selling the lots and taking care of the cemetery several years ago,” he said. “My Uncle Joe was doing it, when he was in his mid-70s. He moved out of town to be with his family, so I took over what he did.” In previous years the job was more “hands-on.” His uncle used to dig graves by hand, but now they use a machine. Rommelfanger also used to mow with push mowers, but now volunteers use big riding mowers. He also used to work by hand to level the graves. “All I do is look after the cemetery — selling lots and marking out the lots, and talking to people about where they might want to be buried,” said Rommelfanger. It’s not a difficult job, but it can be tricky in one aspect: You’ve got to know for sure where the plots are — and if they’re occupied. The cemetery was laid out over 100 years ago and the

plots have corner markers — if you can find them. Sometimes they’re buried six to 10 inches deep, and Rommelfanger has to do a bit of digging to find them. “Sometimes it takes some patience,” he said. Rommelfanger, who is a lifelong parishioner, has plenty of relatives buried in the cemetery — most of whom helped build up the parish in one way or another. “It’s just part of my heritage,” he said. “My family, way back to the turn of the [previous] century, always volunteered to do things for the parish.” If volunteerism built the church, volunteerism also maintains it. And Rommelfanger is reminded of that every time he walks past the graves of his family members as he carries out his duties. Story by Joe Bollig Photo by Doug Hesse

ONLINE

• VIDEO REPORT: Learn more about the Hayden girls golf team with Todd Habiger’s Team of the Week report. • PHOTOS: Check out Jay Soldner’s photo gallery from the recent varsity tournament at Falcon Lakes Golf Course in Basehor.

All this and more can be found online at: www.theleaven.org.

Hunts donate $1 million to St. Thomas Aquinas High School

VERLAND PARK — At a ceremonial groundbreaking Sept. 30 during the school’s annual Homecoming Tailgate, AQUINAS 2020 campaign chair John Cosentino announced the largest cash gift to St. Thomas Aquinas High School here in its 29-year history, from Saints alumni parents Rita and Lamar Hunt Jr. The Hunts have committed $1 million from the Loretto Foundation to the high school. Objectives for the AQUINAS 2020 comprehensive campaign are to improve facilities and help secure long-term constituent support of the four-year, coeducational archdiocesan high school, located at 114th and Pflumm in southern Johnson County.

Rita and Lamar Hunt Jr. (pictured right) have committed $1 million through the Loretto Foundation to St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park for AQUINAS 2020. Campaign chairs John and Julie Cosentino (left) and school president Dr. Bill Ford (center) announced the gift to the Saints community on Sept. 30.

OCTOBER 14, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS Darlene (Weishaar) and Eugene S i t t e n a u e r, longtime members of St. Joseph Parish, Nortonville, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on Oct. 16 with a family Mass and lunch, followed by an open house at St. Joseph School from 1-2:30 p.m. The couple was married on Oct. 16, 1951, at St. Joseph Church, Nortonville. Their children are: Patty Clinkinbeard, Jeanne Clark, Diane Babcock, Karen Ledbetter, Annette Steinke, Cathy Mast, Mark Sittenauer and Beth Wilson. They also have 20 grandchildren and 24 great-grandchildren. Elaine (Mulligan) and Henry “Hank” DeVader, members of Immaculate Conception Parish, St. Marys, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Oct. 15 with a family dinner. The couple was married on Oct. 13, 1956, at Holy Cross Church, Emmett, by Father A. O’Sullivan. Their children are: Steven, Michael, Kathleen and Jeannette. They also have seven grandchildren and seven great-grandchildren.

Kathleen (Stahl) and David Eichhorn, members of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on Oct. 27. The couple was married on Oct. 27, 1951, at St. Michael Church, Girard. Their children are: Chris Eichhorn, Debra Smit and Denise Finlen. They also have seven grandchildren and three great-grandchildren. Toni and Eladio Valdez, members of St. John the Evangelist Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Oct. 1. They received a blessing at Mass, followed by a reception with family and friends. Their children are: Eladio, Gina, Angela and Teresa. They also have nine grandchildren. They were married on Oct. 1, 1966, at St. Andrew Church in Rock Falls, Illinois. Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an email to: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.

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Olathe parish now has a name said Father Strobl. “But [our parishioners] have to really look and appreciate why we have parishes. “What role do they want the parish to play in their life?” St. John Paul II has essentially been Father Strobl is struck by the enthusion the planning board since 2008, when asm of his parishioners, many of whom the need for a new parish was identified are young families. in the regional plan for Johnson County. And of the nearly 200 households Because Prince of Peace Church in who have already registered, Katie and Olathe is the largest parish in Kansas James Van Booven were the first to have and 1,000 families larger than the next their son, Zander, baptized immediately biggest parish, a new parish in that after the parish’s name was established. area will be a huge bene“We’re very excited,” fit to the archdiocese, said For more information said James, “especially Father Strobl. on St. John Paul II starting a new family and Even after the new Parish or registration having our son baptized parish is well-established, details, contact the the same day our priest he said, Prince of Peace parish office at (913) is officially installed as will still remain the state’s 747-9636; by email pastor and the parish is largest parish. at: newparish@arch named.” “Basically, the reason kck.org; or visit the St. “So for us, it’s especialwe have a new parish is beJohn Paul II Catholic ly special to be starting cause the faith spreads so Parish Facebook page. our family here at the new much,” said Father Strobl. parish,” he added. “There was so much The two, like many at St. John Paul II, growth in that area that we need it for are grateful Father Strobl is the foundpastoral concerns.” ing pastor. St. John Paul II has no official time“He’s awesome,” said Katie. “He line for when it will break ground brings a lot of energy to add to our on the church building. For now, the parish.” parish currently celebrates Mass at Archbishop Naumann has high Madison Place Elementary at 8:30 and hopes for the parish and left the instal10:30 a.m. on Sundays and will have a lation with a final prayer. 5:30 p.m. Saturday evening Mass start“We ask [St. John Paul II] that he will ing in Advent. intercede with the Lord to help this Long-term plans for the parish also community truly be a community where include an office, rectory and school. the Gospel is proclaimed,” he said. “Right now, it has a sense of newness,” >> Continued from page 1

Off to a strong start

World Miss CONNECTING WITH A WORLD IN NEED . . .

our prayers and generous support on World Mission Sunday (Oct. 22-23), through the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, directly benefit the mission church in its service to the world's most vulnerable communities. Please give to the World Mission Sunday collection, which touches 1,111 mission dioceses.

CONNECT WITH THE AMERICAS . . . where catechists travel to remote areas to bring the good news of God's great love to families.

MESSAGE FROM POPE FRANCIS

Missionary church,

ear brothers and sisters, The extraordinary jubilee Year of Mercy, which the church is celebrating, casts a distinct light on World Mission Sunday 2016: It invites us to consider the “missio ad gentes” as a great, immense work of mercy, both spiritual and material. On this World Mission Sunday, all of us are invited to “go out” as missionary disciples, generously offering their talents, creativity, wisdom and experience in order to bring the message of God’s tenderness and compassion to the entire human family. By virtue of the missionary mandate, the church cares for those who do not know the Gospel, be-

cause she wants everyone to be saved and to experience the Lord’s love. She “is commissioned to announce the mercy of God, the beating heart of the Gospel” (“Misericordiae Vultus,” 12) and to proclaim mercy in every corner of the world, reaching every person, young or old. All peoples and cultures have the right to receive the message of salvation which is God’s gift to every person. This is all the more necessary when we consider how many injustices, wars and humanitarian crises still need resolution. Missionaries know from experience that the Gospel of forgiveness and mercy can bring joy and reconciliation, justice and peace. The mandate of the Gospel to "go therefore and make disciples of all na-

JUST THE FAQS ABOUT WORLD MISSION SUNDAY What can my World Mission Sunday donation help accomplish in the missions? A gift of $25 is one month’s support for a mission catechist; $75 provides for the work of religious Sisters. An offering of $100 is one month’s help for a village mission. Always, your prayers are your most treasured gift to the missions.

On averag Catholics in Society for each year for

Catholics in $50 million e the Faith to s the church in

I just dona the Propagat help the miss

sion Sunday 2016 CONNECT WITH EUROPE . . . where new churches are being built to welcome faith communities renewed after years of persecution.

WHAT HAPPENS TO YOUR WORLD MISSION SUNDAY DONATION?

CONNECT WITH ASIA . . . where six million children receive an education from religious Sisters in some 16,000 church-run elementary schools.

CONNECT WITH AFRICA . . . where those who are sick are provided with loving care at 6,400 Catholic hospitals and small clinics.

CONNECT WITH OCEANIA . . . where 1,000 young men are preparing for the priesthood to bring the Lord's healing, hope and peace to those in need.

DOWNLOAD Missio on your mobile phone or tablet. Visit missio.org

ver wonder what happens when you place $10 ($5 or $20 or more) into your special collection envelope for World Mission Sunday? First, after you place your envelope in the collection basket, your pastor sends your offering to your diocesan office of the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, one of four pontifical mission societies. Then, your pastor jots down your name and address and sends this information along to the diocesan mission office as well, so that you can receive a free subscription to MISSION magazine, published four times annually. The director of your diocesan mission office then sends your donation to the pontifical mission societies’ national office in New York City. Each spring, the pontifical mission societies’ national directors travel to Rome to meet with other national directors from around the world. At this meeting, the national directors are presented with a

list of the projects and programs in the missions that need support from the Society for the Propagation of the Faith. The directors look carefully at each of these requests for help and then vote to decide what projects are most in need of assistance so that the good news of Jesus — and his love and peace — may reach all peoples, in all nations. Once these allocations are decided, funds are distributed directly to the missions from each national office. Your World Mission Sunday gift may be used to buy Bibles for catechists in Sierra Leone, or provide for a small parish in India. Your offering may be used to help Sisters in Sudan lovingly care for orphans in Jesus’ name, or it may buy a bicycle for a priest in Thailand so that he can travel from village to village to celebrate Mass. Most importantly, wherever your offering is sent, it brings with it the good news of Jesus Christ and his message of peace, hope and salvation.

Start connecting — and join the community of world changers

, witness of mercy tions, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you" (Mt 28:19-20) has not ceased; rather, this command commits all of us — in the current landscape with all its challenges — to hear the call to a renewed missionary “impulse,” as I noted in my apostolic exhortation “Evangelii Gaudium”: “Each Christian and every community must discern the path that the Lord points out, but all of us are asked to obey his call to go forth from our own comfort zone in order to reach all the ‘peripheries’ in need of the light of the Gospel” (20). This jubilee year marks the 90th anniversary of World Missionary Day, first approved by Pope Pius XI in 1926 and organized by the Pontifical Society for the Propagation of the Faith. It is appropriate then to recall the wise instructions of my pre-

ge, about how much money do the United States offer to the the Propagation of the Faith r the missions?

n the United States donate about every year to the Propagation of support the evangelizing work of the missions.

ated money to the Society for tion of the Faith. How else can I sions?

decessors who ordered that to this Society be destined all the offerings collected in every diocese, parish, religious community, association and ecclesial movement throughout the world for the care of Christian communities in need and for supporting the proclamation of the Gospel even to the ends of the earth. Today, too, we believe in this sign of missionary ecclesial communion. Let us not close our hearts within our own particular concerns, but let us open them to all of humanity. May Holy Mary, sublime icon of redeemed humanity, model of missionaries for the church, teach all men, women and families to foster and safeguard the living and mysterious presence of the risen Lord in every place, he who renews personal relationships, cultures and peoples, and who fills all with joyful mercy.

MESSAGE FROM ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN

We are all missionaries

y dear brothers and sisters in Christ, “Mercy changes the world!” On World Mission Sunday, Oct. 23, Pope Francis invites each of us to be part of that change for our world of great need, calls us to announce the mercy of God, “the beating heart of the Gospel” (“Misericordiae Vultus,” 12). On this 90th World Mission Sunday, our archdiocesan family joins our brothers and sisters around the world who will gather at the Lord’s table to celebrate, with great joy, our common vocation as missionaries. Our prayers and financial help, through the Society for the Propagation of the Faith, support the work of the mission church, its witness to Christ and service to the poor.

The life of St. Thérèse of Lisieux, patroness of the missions, offers Catholics insight into how they may fulfill their baptismal responsibility to share the good news of Jesus without ever “going to the missions.” St. Thérèse dedicated her life to the missions by offering her prayers and her personal sacrifices — her pain, her loneliness, her suffering — for missionaries and those whom they served. Do Catholics throughout the world celebrate World Mission Sunday?

“Let us not close our hearts within our own particular concerns, but let us open them to all of humanity.” Message for World Mission Sunday 2016 I echo these words of our Holy Father, asking you to open your hearts as you connect on World Mission Sunday with every corner of the globe . . . with the Americas, where catechists travel to remote areas to bring the good news of God’s great love to families; with Europe, where new churches are being built to welcome faith communities renewed after years of persecution; with Asia, where six million children receive an education from religious Sisters in some 16,000 church-run elementary schools; with the Pacific Islands, where 1,000 young men are preparing

Absolutely! In fact, at the height of the genocide in the African nation of Rwanda, one small parish offered $81 on World Mission Sunday. How can I help support vocations to the missions? You can offer your prayers and personal sacrifices for the work of the Society of St. Peter Apostle. The Pontifical Society of St. Peter Apostle supports some 80,000 seminarians (major/minor) all over the world. You can also help young men as they prepare for the priest-

for the priesthood, to bring the Lord’s healing, hope and peace to those in need; with Africa, where those who are sick are provided with loving care at 6,400 Catholic hospitals and small clinics. You can also continue this connection with the missions all year long through MISSIO — online at: missio.org or on your phone. Grateful always for your generosity of spirit and heart, and confident of your missionary commitment to share the joy of the Gospel and help the poor, I pray for blessings for you and your families! Sincerely yours in Jesus, the Lord of Life,

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas

hood through the Society of St. Peter Apostle with a donation of $700 for a year of studies. A gift of $300 will help toward the formation of men and women novices preparing for a life of service as religious Brothers and Sisters. For more information about World Mission Sunday, to subscribe to MISSION magazine or to donate, contact us online at: pmsusa@ propfaith.org.

10/16

OCTOBER 14, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NATION

Pope announces 17 new cardinals, including three from U.S. By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

ATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis will conclude the Year of Mercy by creating 17 new cardinals, including three from the United States: Archbishop Blase J. Cupich of Chicago; Bishop Kevin J. Farrell, prefect of the new Vatican office for laity, family and life; and Archbishop Joseph W. Tobin of Indianapolis. Announcing the names of the new cardinals Oct. 9, Pope Francis said, “Their coming from 11 nations expresses the universality of the church that proclaims and witnesses the good news of God’s mercy in every corner of the earth.” The new cardinals — 13 of whom are under the age of 80 and therefore eligible to vote in a conclave to elect a new pope and four over 80 being honored for their “clear Christian witness” — will be inducted into the College of Cardinals Nov. 19, the eve of the close of the Year of Mercy. The next day, Nov. 20, they will join Pope Francis and other cardinals in celebrating the feast of Christ the King and closing the Year of Mercy, the pope said. Shortly after the pope’s announcement, Archbishop Tobin tweeted: “I am shocked beyond words by the decision of the Holy Father. Please pray for me.” The first of the new cardinals announced by the pope was Archbishop Mario Zenari, who, the pope explained, “will remain apostolic nuncio to the beloved and martyred Syria.” The last of the cardinals he named was Albanian Father Ernest Simoni, a priest of the Archdiocese of Shkodre-Pult, who will turn 88 Oct. 18. He had moved Pope Francis to tears in 2014 when he spoke about his 30 years in prison or forced labor under Albania’s militant atheistic regime. Ordained in 1956, he was arrested on Christmas Eve 1963 while celebrating Mass and was sentenced to death by firing squad. He was beaten, placed for three months in solitary confinement, and then tortured because he refused to denounce the church. He was eventually freed, but later arrested again and sent to a prison camp, where he was forced to work in a mine for 18 years and then 10 more years in sewage canals.

CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING

CNS PHOTO/BOB NICHOLS, CATHOLIC MOMENT

CNS PHOTO/TYLER ORSBURN

The three new U.S. Cardinals that Pope Francis announced on Oct. 9 are, from left: Archbishop Blase J. Cupich of Chicago, Archbishop Joseph W. Tobin of Indianapolis, and Bishop Kevin J. Farrell, prefect of the new Vatican office for laity, family and life. In creating 13 cardinal-electors — those under the age of 80 — Pope Francis will exceed by one the 120 cardinal-elector limit set by Blessed Paul VI. The number of potential electors will return to 120 Nov. 28 when Cardinal Theodore-Adrien Sarr of Dakar, Senegal, celebrates his 80th birthday. The youngest of the new cardinals — who will be the youngest member of the College of Cardinals — is 49-yearold Archbishop Dieudonne Nzapalainga of Bangui, Central African Republic. When violence broke out in his country, the archbishop, along with a Protestant leader and a local imam, began working together to build peace and counter efforts to turn the conflict into a religious war. Archbishop Nzapalainga hosted Pope Francis during a visit to Central African Republic in November 2015. Seven of the 11 nations represented by the new cardinals did not have a cardinal at the time of the pope’s announcement: Central African Republic, Bangladesh, Mauritius and Papua New Guinea will now have cardinalelectors. Malayasia, Lesotho and Albania will be represented in the College of Cardinals, although their cardinals will be too old to vote in a conclave.

Here is the list of new cardinals • Archbishop Mario Zenari, an Italian who is 70 years old. • Archbishop Dieudonne Nzapalainga of Bangui, Central African Republic, 49. • Archbishop Carlos Osoro Sierra of Madrid, 71. • Archbishop Sergio da Rocha of Brasilia, Brazil, who will be 57 Oct. 21. • Archbishop Patrick D’Rozario of Dhaka, Bangladesh, 73. • Archbishop Baltazar Porras Cardozo of Merida, Venezuela, who turns 72 Oct. 10. • Archbishop Jozef De Kesel of Malines-Brussels, Belgium, 69. • Archbishop Maurice Piat of Port-Louis, Mauritius, 75. • Archbishop Carlos Aguiar Retes of Tlalnepantla, Mexico, 66. • Archbishop John Ribat of Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, 59. • Retired Archbishop Anthony Soter Fernandez of Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, 84. • Retired Archbishop Renato Corti of Novara, Italy, 80. • Retired Bishop Sebastian Koto Khoarai of Mohale’s Hoek, Lesotho, 87. • Father Ernest Simoni, 87, Archdiocese of Shkodre-Pult

Cardinal-designate Dieudonne Nzapalainga

Cardinal-designate Ernest Simoni

Cardinal-designate Carlos Osoro Sierra

OCTOBER 14, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Drivers - Special Beginnings Early Learning Center is seeking part-time drivers for its school-age program located in Lenexa. Candidates must be able to drive a 13-passenger minibus, similar to a 15-passenger van. CDL not required, but must have an excellent driving record. Candidates would pick up children from area schools and then work directly with them when arriving back at the center. Experience preferred. Must have strong work ethic and the ability to work with children. Insurance provided. Background check will be conducted. Great opportunity for retired persons or those seeking a second job. Job responsibilities include: ensuring safety and well-being of children who are being transported at all times, including loading and unloading. Driving short, round-trip routes to elementary schools in Lenexa/Olathe area. Summer only: Driving short, roundtrip routes to two Lenexa city pools. Maintaining mileage log. Keeping interior of vehicle clean. Apply by sending an email to: chris@specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215. Career opportunity - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City metro, Atchison and Topeka area. Ideal for a determined, high energy, high expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better than average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. This is a full-time position. Please contact John A. Mahon, general agent, for more information or an interview at 1275 Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS 66612 or call (785) 408-8806. You can also send an email to: john.mahon@kofc.org. Client Experience Coordinator - Wellington, a full-service event management and marketing company, is looking for a Client Experience Coordinator to assist with the production of extraordinary events for clients of all sizes. The CEC frequently acts as the face of the company, being the first person to greet guests and direct client, partner and vendor phone calls. They are a personable, structured and disciplined individual who is able to handle high-pressure situations. Because they juggle numerous projects and tasks at any one time, the CEC must have the ability to multitask and complete a variety of tasks quickly — without sacrificing accuracy and attention to detail. Applicants may apply online at: http://www.wellingtonexperience.com/careers/. Teachers and assistant teacher - The Goddard School in Olathe is seeking a preschool teacher, a pre-kindergarten teacher and a toddler teacher — all full-time positions — as well as an assistant teacher for multiple classrooms. Lead and assistant teachers work together. Daily responsibilities are: developing lesson plans; meeting the individual needs of the children; communicating with parents; participation in staff and training meetings; designing appropriate room arrangement to support the goals and development level of the children in the classroom; interacting with the children to support play, exploration and learning; presenting expectations that are appropriate to the child’s age and developmental level; plan and implement activities that develop self-esteem and social skills; communicate appropriately and professionally with parents and fellow staff; building teamwork; use assessment tools; and commit to continuing education. To apply, email a resume and cover letter to: olathe2ks@goddardschools.com. Tax credit process manager - The Catholic Education Foundation (an educational ministry of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas) is seeking a part-time team member to assist with the new Tax Credit for Low Income Students Scholarship Program. This position will work directly with participating Catholic schools and will oversee application and scholarship processes as well as compliance with program policies. This position reports to the director of tax credits. The ideal candidate must be self-motivated, detail-oriented and extremely organized. Applicants must demonstrate advanced skills in Excel and database management. Applicants must also have effective written and verbal communication skills. This position includes the ability to speak compassionately about Catholic education, CEF and this program with a variety of constituencies. Applicants must be practicing Catholics in good standing, have a bachelor’s degree, be able to speak authentically about Catholic education and have a minimum of three successful years of applicable experience. Interested individuals should email cover letter and resume to: tcl@archkck.org no later than noon Oct. 28. Drivers - Assisted Transportation is now hiring caring and reliable drivers to transport K-12 students to and from school and other activities in company minivans. Positions are now available in Olathe, Overland Park and Kansas City, Kansas. Competitive wages and flexible schedules. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Call (913) 262-3100 or apply online at: Assisted Transportation.com. EEO. Learning resource paraprofessional - Bishop Miege High School is seeking an adult with previous education experience to assist the Learning Specialist. Duties include read-aloud of material; proctoring quizzes/tests; writing; and other tutoring support daily. Send letter of interest and resume to: mjaksa@bishopmiege.com.

Concrete Work

Any type of repair and new work Driveways, Walks, Patios Member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish

Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

Groundskeeper - Catholic Cemeteries is seeking an individual for a full-time groundskeeping position, hours Monday through Saturday. This position requires heavy lifting. Must be physically fit; experience operating construction equipment would be a plus. Must be a fast learner and flexible on hours. Interested individuals should contact Matt Wirtz at (913) 371-4040. Teacher assistant - Special Beginnings, Lenexa, is seeking full- or part-time after school teacher assistants at all locations. We are looking for a teacher assistant candidate who has an excellent work ethic, heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. Experience and/or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Teacher assistants will work with the lead teacher to care for and educate the children. Primary responsibilities include assisting the lead teacher with: care and supervision of children, lesson plan implementation, parent communication, and cleanliness and organization of classroom. Starting hourly pay ranges based on experience and education. Pay increases are based on job performance. Opportunities for advancement are available, as the company prefers to promote from within. Apply by sending an email to: chris@specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215. Drivers needed - Medi Coach Transportation is looking for caring and reliable drivers for nonemergency transportation. CDL is not required. Contact Jeff at (913) 8251921. Three teaching positions - Prince of Peace Early Education Center in Olathe is looking for three afternoon teachers. One position is from 3:30 - 6 p.m. M - F in a two-year-olds room and is perfect for high school students who are 16 years or older. The other positions are from 2 – 6 p.m. with 3-year-olds and school age. You must love children to apply. We have a friendly work environment. Previous child care experience preferred, but not necessary. This is a perfect opportunity for early childhood/elementary education majors. Contact Amanda at (913) 829-2728.

SERVICES Fall tutoring - Available for K - 12 and home-schooler in music and academics. For more information, call/text Kathleen at (913) 206-1837 or email: klmamuric@yahoo. com. Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@kc.rr. com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlawyer. com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress. 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. The GO GO Girls - Now have time available for new clients. Maybe you aren’t driving as much, or at all; we can help. If you need to GO to the doctor, dentist, hairdresser, barbershop, grocery store, etc., let us know. If you don’t want to GO yourself, we can run your errands for you. We will GO to your home, if you need someone to sit with a loved one, while you get away. Contact us at (913) 4696211 or (816) 806-0564 to discuss your needs. Johnson County area only. Quilted memories - Your Kansas City Longarm shop Nolting Longarm machines, quilting supplies and machine quilting services. We specialize in memorial quilts - custom designed memory quilts from your T-shirt collections, photos, baby clothes, college memorabilia, neckties, etc. For information or to schedule a free consultation, call (913) 649-2704. Visit the website at: www. quiltedmemoriesllc.com. Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959.

Agua Fina Irrigation and Landscape The one-stop location for your project! Landscape and irrigation design, Installation and maintenance. Cleanup and grading services It’s time to repair your lawn. 20% discount on lawn renovations with mention of this ad. Visit the website at: www.goaguafina.com Call (913) 530-7260 or (913) 530-5661 Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting. Hedge trimming, mulch, leaf removal. Fully insured and free estimates. John Rodman (913) 548-3002

HOME IMPROVEMENT EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 252-1391 NELSON CREATIONS L.L.C. Home remodeling, design/build, kitchens, baths, all interior and exterior work. Family owned and operated; over 25 years experience. Licensed and insured; commercial and residential. Kirk and Diane Nelson. (913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 8294336. DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time. Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and you’ll be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com Local handyman and lawn care – Water heaters, garbage disposals, toilets, faucets, painting, power washing, doors, storm doors, gutter cleaning, wood rot, mowing, carpet, roofing, etc. Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118. The Drywall Doctor, Inc. - A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655 Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. - We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful. Woodwork will glow. Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125. Swalms organizing - downsizing - cleanout service – Reduce clutter – Any space organized. Shelving built on-site. Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp.; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115. WWW. SWALMSORGANIZING.COM. KIRK AND YEYO PAINTING Whole house painting Wood rot repair, affordable Only premium paint used Licensed and insured (913) 927-5240, nelsport@everestkc.net Kansas City’s Premier Deck, Fence & Concrete - We repair, power wash and stain wood decks and fences. We power wash and seal concrete drives, walkways, pool decks and more. Call Brian at (913) 952-5965. Member of Holy Trinity Parish.

Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install! “Kevin of all trades” your professional organizer and “Honey-do” specialist. Call today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055. Insured. References. Visit our website at: www.KOATINDUSTRIES.com.

House Painting Interior and exterior; wallpaper removal. Power washing, fences, decks. 30 years’ experience. References. Reasonable rates. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.

Housecleaning - A range of services provided - from housecleaning to organizing closets, rooms and garages, as well as hoarder projects. 15 years of experience. Professional, energetic and dependable. Call Danielle at (913) 636-0607.

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

EVERFIT fitness community - We provide a variety of classes designed to make fitness fun while challenging you to a higher level of performance. Classes include boxing, cycling, HIIT, weights, PiYo, TRX, our signature EverFit Tri, and more. EverFitKC.com. Save 10% with this ad or Promo Code LEAVEN.

Want to help someone heal from an abortion? Call Toll Free 888-246-1504

HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com

Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. Thank you for another great year - Through your support my family has been blessed and my business has grown. We do windows, trim, siding, doors, decks, interior and exterior painting, wood rot, bathroom renovations, tile and sheetrock. If you need work done around your home, we can do it. Josh (913) 709-7230. Detail construction and remodeling - We offer a full line of home remodeling services. Don’t move — remodel! Johnson County area. Call for a free quote at (913) 709-8401. 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) 491-5837 or (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

CAREGIVING Looking for high quality home care? - Whether you’re looking to introduce care for your family or simply looking to improve your current home care quality, we can help. Our unique approach to home care has earned us a 99% client satisfaction rating among the 1,000-plus families we have assisted. We are family-owned, with offices in Lenexa and Lawrence. Call Benefits of Home Senior Care, Lenexa: (913) 422-1591 or Lawrence: (785) 727-1816 or www.benefitsofhome.com. 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. “Lynn at Heart” - 24 years’ experience in all types of private care. Excellent references. 24/7, shift or respite care. In-home, assisted living, nursing home, companionship, light housekeeping, meal prep, transportation, ADLs, care management, hospice. Greater KC area. Call (913) 707-0024. Ask for Mark. Personalized care - Experienced, specializing in dementia, medication setup and activities of daily living. Excellent references. Contact Andrea at (913) 548-1930. Caregiving - For your loved one. Cheerful, experienced, empathetic. Excellent local references. Call Vivian at (913) 292-4829. CNA, Home Health Care Professional - Provides TLC in the comfort of the client’s residence. Budget friendly. Available 24 hours, or part time. Excellent references. 25 years of Seasoned Experience. Nonsmoker. Call (816) 806-8104.

FOR SALE Residential lifts - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood. Call Silver Cross KC at (913) 327-5557. For sale - At Mount Calvary Cemetery, Kansas City, Kansas. Tandem crypt in mausoleum. Today’s selling price is $7,035; offering this space for $5,000. Call Marcie at (913) 712-8124.

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 - I’m Mark Edmondson, a local parishioner at Holy Trinity, and I buy and sell houses in any condition. If you have a house “situation,” call me. I might have a solution for you. (913) 980-4905. Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, lighters, fountain pens, post card collections, paintings/prints, pottery, sterling, china dinnerware. Renee Maderak, (913) 631-7179. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee

VACATION For rent - The Villages of Florida cottage home. Two BD (king and queen), 2BA, study/office and lanai. 55 and older community. ourhome4rent.com. House ID: 3754. Free Wi-Fi. Monthly or two-week rental. Call Joan at (913) 449-5109. Branson Condo - Enjoy fall colors and Christmas programs. Condo sleeps 6. Fully furnished and close to entertainment. On golf course, has indoor pool, Wi-Fi and exercise room are available. Please call (913) 515-3044.

0CTOBER 14, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR GIFT AND CRAFT BAZAAR St. Joseph Parish (McDevitt Hall) 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Oct. 15 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Hosted by the Ladies Guild, there will be 50 tables filled with gift and craft items, including handmade rosaries and other religious items. Continental breakfast, lunch and afternoon refreshments will be provided at low cost. For more information, call Mary Spruk at (913) 825-0358.

ROME SWEET HOME ITALIAN FESTIVAL Christ the King Parish 5973 S.W. 25th St., Topeka Oct. 15 at 4:30 p.m.

The outdoor Mass begins at 4:30 p.m., followed by food and entertainment, including a sit-down Italian dinner in the parish center (advance purchase required; make reservations online at: CTKtopeka.org). There will be food trucks and vendors throughout the evening, beer and wine gardens, a coffee bar, a DJ and a live band, activities for kids of all ages and professional fireworks set to music.

OKTOBERFEST St. Mary-St. Anthony (Bishop Forst Hall) 615 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 15 at 4 p.m.

A traditional dinner will be served. The cost of dinner is $10 with a ticket; $12 at the door. Tickets are available at Theresa’s Hair Salon, 508 N. 6th, Kansas City, Kansas, or at the parish office. For more information, call Carol Shomin at (913) 897-4833 or send an email to: cshomin@ everestkc.net.

‘REDISCOVERING JOY’: A DAY RETREAT FOR WOMEN Annunciation Church 213 E. 5th St., Frankfort Oct. 15 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Enjoy a day of fellowship with other women of faith. There will be music, discussion groups and meditation. The “Soul Provider” gift shop will have religious items for sale. Lunch will be provided; a freewill offering will be accepted. The deadline for registration is Oct. 7. Register online at: www.annunciation frankfort.org or call (785) 292-4283.

ROSARY RALLY Queen of the Holy Rosary Church 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park Oct. 15 at 9 a.m.

We will honor Our Lady of Fatima with a rosary procession outside and pray with others throughout the world for peace, the reparation of sins and for the conversion of sinners. Benediction will follow.

MEMORIAL LITURGY Curé of Ars Church 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood Oct. 15 at 8 a.m.

BAZAAR AND CHICKEN DINNER Queen of the Holy Rosary - Wea 22779 Metcalf Rd., Bucyrus Oct. 16 from noon - 4 p.m.

Following Mass, the bereavement ministry group will have a grief support meeting in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be: “Grieving During the Holidays.” For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

A fried chicken dinner with sides, desserts and drinks will be served. The cost for dinner is: $10 for adults; $5 for kids ages 3 - 12; and $30 for families (2 adults and 3 or more children). There will also be bingo, kids games, a quilt raffle, and vendor and craft booths.

LILLIS HIGH SCHOOL CLASS OF ’66 50-YEAR REUNION RC’s Restaurant and Lounge 330 E. 135th St., Kansas City, Missouri Oct. 15 at 5 p.m.

BBQ DINNER AND SALE Church of the Ascension 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Oct. 16 from 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Food and drinks available. There will be a pre-party on Oct. 14 at Windy City Pub (12924 State Line Rd., Leawood). For more information, call Deborah at (816) 916-2922.

ANNUAL HOPE BENEFIT DINNER, DANCE AND AUCTION Abdallah Shrine Temple 5300 Metcalf Ave., Mission Oct. 15 from 5 - 10 p.m.

Dinner includes smoked ribs, smoked turkey, barbecue beans and more. The cost is: $10 for ages 10 and up; $5 for ages 5 - 11; and free for ages 5 and under. There will also be prepaid orders for slabs of ribs: $20; turkey breast (6 - 7 pounds): $25; and beans: $10 per quart. These can be picked up from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the Ascension Parish hall. For more information, call Frank Colletti at (913) 406-2995 or send an email to: frank colletti@att.net.

Join the Sanctuary of Hope’s 11th annual Hope Benefit dinner, dance and auction. This benefit helps provide an affordable, innercity prayer and retreat center in Kansas City, Kansas. The cost is $50 per ticket/person for full buffet, drinks, dancing and auction. For more information and to purchase tickets, call Julie at (913) 321-4673 or send an email to: Julie@sanctuaryofhope.org.

HARVEST MOON SINGLES DANCE Curé of Ars Church (school cafeteria) 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood Oct. 15 from 7:30 - 11:30 p.m.

The cost to attend is $20 at the door and includes a meal of meat hors d’oeuvres, desserts, wine, beer and soda. Drive behind the school to park. For more information, call (913) 631-6873.

PUBLIC SQUARE ROSARY RALLY Curé of Ars Church 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood Oct. 15 at noon

The rosary rally, sponsored by America Needs Fatima, will be held outdoors in the Marian Garden. This public rosary rally will be one of over 15,000 rallies taking place all across the United States. Bring a lawn chair.

wine will be available; BYOB welcome. For more information, call Chris or Vicki Dieterman at (913) 780-6428.

CATHOLIC MEDICAL ASSOCIATION FALL BIOETHICS DINNER Jack Stack Barbecue - Freight House 101 W. 22nd St., #300, Kansas City, Missouri Oct. 22 from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m. SELF-DEFENSE CLASS Bishop Miege High School (gym) 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Roeland Park Oct. 17 at 6:30 p.m.

The Bishop Miege Mother’s Club, in conjunction with the Ali Kemp Educational Foundation, will be hosting a T.A.K.E. Defense Training class for all women over the age of 12. The cost is $20 per person. For instructions on how to register, go to the Bishop Miege High School main web page and click on the “Upcoming Events” tab.

Father Tom Donaldson will host mission talks each evening, Sunday through Tuesday. All are welcome.

FALL FESTIVAL Little Sisters of the Poor Home 8745 James A. Reed Rd., Kansas City, Missouri Oct. 16 from noon - 5 p.m. Join the Little Sisters of the Poor for an afternoon of fun. There will be a spaghetti dinner, bake sale, craft sale, a cash raffle and a handmade quilt raffle. All proceeds benefit the Sisters’ home for the elderly poor. For more information, call (816) 761-4744.

All Catholic physicians and health care personnel are invited to the Kansas City Guild of the Catholic Medical Association’s fall bioethics dinner. National authority Dr. John Brehany from the National Catholic Bioethics Center will present an informal evening of conversation and collegiality. Proceeds go to benefit Gianna Family Care. For more information and to register, visit the website at: www. catholicmedkc.org and click on “Events.”

SYMPT0-THERMAL METHOD OF NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING Oct. 19 at 6:30 p.m. St. John the Evangelist School 1208 Kentucky St., Lawrence

A reasonable course fee is charged and online registration is required at: www. ccli.org. Call Shannon or John Rasmussen at (785) 749-1015 or the Couple to Couple League of Kansas City at (913) 894-3558 for more information. A second class will be offered in Topeka beginning Oct. 22 at 7 p.m. For more information, call Dana or Eric Runnebaum at (785) 380-0062.

HEALING MASS Curé of Ars Church (Father Burak Room) 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood Oct. 20 at 7:30 p.m.

A Mass with prayers for healing, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held. Father Ken Kelly will preside. For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

29TH ANNIVERSARY TWINNING CELEBRATION Good Shepherd Parish 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee Oct. 22 at 5 p.m.

The event begins with a bilingual Mass and is followed by a celebration in the social hall that includes Salvadoran food, a mariachi band and piñatas. Food tickets will be sold at the event. For more information, call (913) 481-1120.

OKTOBERFEST DINNER AND DANCE St. Anthony Parish (basement) 615 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 22 from 6 - 10:30 p.m.

The cost for admission is: $20 for adults; $10 for kids ages 12 - 20; $5 for kids ages 6 - 11; and free for kids under the age of 5. Admission includes dinner, drinks and dancing to The Willie Kirst Band. Raffle tickets will be sold. Tickets can be purchased at the door. For more information, call Patty Orth at (913) 371-2468.

PARISH MISSION St. Joseph Parish 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Oct. 16 - 18 at 7 p.m.

STEAK DINNER AND BINGO St. Patrick Parish (center) 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Oct. 22 at 6 p.m.

The cost for dinner is $15 per person. Reservations are needed. This event is sponsored by the Men’s Club. For more information, to purchase tickets or make reservations, call Fritz Vertz at (913) 515-0621.

AUTUMN HARVEST DINNER/DANCE St. Paul Parish (gym) 900 S. Honeysuckle Dr., Olathe Oct. 22 at 6 p.m.

Doors open at 6 p.m., dinner is served at 7:30 p.m. and dancing lasts until 10 p.m. Advance tickets cost $10 each or $18 per couple; all tickets are $10 at the door. This event is adults only (21 and over). Beer and

CRAFT AND BAKE SALE Sacred Heart-St. Joseph Parish 312 N.E. Freeman Ave., Topeka Oct. 23 from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.

The St. Anthony’s Guild will have its annual craft and bake sale in the Sacred Heart basement hall. There will be quilts, crafts, baked goods, bierocks, cinnamon rolls, noodles and much more. Breakfast will be served.

FALL DINNER AND BAZAAR St. Philip Neri Church Osawatomie City Auditorium 425 Main St., Osawatomie Oct. 23 from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Dinner will be homemade chicken and noodles with sides and desserts. The cost is: $10 for adults; $5 for kids ages 6 - 12; and free for kids under the age of 6. There will be both live and silent auctions, a country store and children’s games.

‘MISSION FROM GOD’ NATIVITY HOUSE FUNDRAISER Boulevard Brewery 2015 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri Oct. 24 from 6 - 10 p.m.

Nativity House KC provides care for homeless, adult pregnant mothers. For information on this fundraiser, go to: www.nativityhousekc.org.

ULTIMATE VOCATION FAIR Church of the Ascension 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Oct. 26 from 5 - 8 p.m.

Could God be calling you to the joy of religious life as a priest, Brother or Sister? Join us for the Ultimate Vocation Fair; nearly 100 religious orders will be represented. This event is sponsored by the archdiocese, Serra clubs and religious Sisters. For more information, contact Sister Vicki Lichtenauer, SCL, at (816) 718-2660 or send an email to: vickiL@scls.org, or Father Scott Wallisch at (913) 647-0303, or send an email to: frscott@archkck.org.

PROJECT ANDREW Most Pure Heart of Mary 1800 S.W. Stone, Topeka Oct. 30 from 4 - 7 p.m.

Archbishop Joseph Naumann invites single men ages 16 and over to Project Andrew, an evening of prayer, inspiring priest learning about discernment and a delicious dinner. Parents may attend and will have a special session with parents of seminarians. There is no cost, but please register by going to the website at: www.kck vocations.com or send an email to: vocation @archkck.org.

OCTOBER 14, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY TWENTY-NINTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Oct. 16 TWENTY-NINTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Ex 17: 8-13 Ps 121: 1-8 2 Tm 3:14 – 4:2 Lk 18: 1-8 Oct. 17 Ignatius of Antioch, bishop, martyr Eph 2: 1-10 Ps 100: 1b-5 Lk 12: 13-21 Oct. 18 LUKE, EVANGELIST 2 Tm 4: 10-17b Ps 145: 10-13, 17-18 Lk 10: 1-9 Oct. 19 John de Brébeuf and Isaac Jogues, priests, and companions, martyrs Eph 3: 2-12 (Ps) Is 12: 2-3, 4b-6 Lk 12: 39-48 Oct. 20 Paul of the Cross, priest Eph 3: 14-21 Ps 33: 1-2, 4-5, 11-12, 18-19 Lk 12: 49-53 Oct. 21 Friday Eph 4: 1-6 Ps 24: 1-4b, 5-6 Lk 12: 54-59 Oct. 22 John Paul II, pope Eph 4: 7-16 Ps 122: 1-5 Lk 13: 1-9

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Friendship is like a rainbow between hearts

ather Mark Goldasich . . . Guest of Honor That’s what the name badge read as I picked it up last Friday outside the Athens Banquet Room at the Argosy Hotel in Kansas City, Missouri. A few minutes later, I was tempted to add the words “and Klutz” to the badge after failing to attach it to my shirt several times and instead dropping it on the floor. Not to worry, though, one of my kids picked it and said, “Do you need some help with that?” As she deftly fastened it, I thought to myself that this was certainly a role reversal: The student had become the teacher. The “kids” I’m talking about were students that I’d taught theology to while they attended Marymount International School in Rome. MMI, an all-girl Catholic school, was run by the Religious of the Sacred Heart of Mary, and seminarians from the North American College were invited to teach at the school. I was lucky enough to be there during the 1979-80 and 1980-81 academic years. So, why were we gathered at the Argosy

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.

in Kansas City? It all started last December when Jill, one of the Class of 1981, suffered an aggressive recurrence of breast cancer in Tennessee. I knew something was up when my Messenger app from Facebook started to chime insistently. Jill’s former classmates wanted to alert me via Facebook about her condition and lead them in prayer for Jill and her family. When Jill died, it came as a terrific blow and became the stimulus for reconnecting once again in the real,

rather than online, world. The idea for a mini-reunion slowly emerged. Kansas City was selected, due to its central location, and Susan from Oklahoma began the planning. Lo and behold, things came together and about 32 of us — from both U.S. coasts, Canada, the Midwest and the South — found ourselves at the reunion. I expected it to be a good time, maybe even a great time. It actually turned out to be an extraordinary experience. It was surreal at first, as my “kids” were now in their early 50s! I’d not seen them since they’d graduated or I left Rome. So, at least 35 years had gone by. I’m happy to say I recognized them all. What a blessing it was to see where life had taken them in

these intervening years. Most were parents and, through the miracle of smartphones, I was treated to picture after picture of their families. But, more than that, they let their old teacher in on the story of their lives after high school. As you’d expect, there were plenty of joyous times, such as marriages, trips and career successes, but there were heartaches as well from divorces, deaths of family members and battles with serious illnesses. The most amazing thing, though, was: We picked up right where we’d left off, which seemed to be only a few months ago. One of the songs that played — loudly — during the reunion was “We Are Family” by Sister Sledge (and no, she was not a member of the religious order staffing the school!). Being “ex-pats” forges deeper bonds of friendship because the people that you go to school with and live with in a foreign country become your de facto family. They are the ones you share your daily joys and sorrows with, the ones you often celebrate holidays with, and the ones you grow into maturity with.

The words of the Book of Sirach kept cycling through my mind: “A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter; he who finds one finds a treasure. A faithful friend is beyond price, no sum can balance his worth. A faithful friend is a life-saving remedy” (Sir 6: 14-16a). This past weekend, I was plopped into the middle of such friends . . . and I felt incredibly rich. Coming to the reunion, I have to admit I was worried about my appearance. After all, when my kids last saw me I had lots of curly hair and was “half the man” I am today (if you know what I mean!). However, none of that mattered because, you see, the most important thing had not changed one bit: the love we had for one another in our hearts. On the way home, I set my iPhone to repeat a beautiful song by Ray LaMontagne, whose refrain says: “If it’s a friend you need, let it be me.” The reunion showed that my “kids” are that for me. I hope they know that if they ever need a friend . . . well, let it be me!

Two avenues into parable lead to different insights

hen you hang a picture on the wall, usually you place a frame around it. That establishes a boundary between the picture and the wall. It sets the picture off from its background. Something similar is happening in this Sunday’s Gospel reading, Lk 18:1-18, in which we hear the parable about the widow who constantly asks the unjust judge for justice. The parable that Jesus tells is framed in commentary. Before Jesus speaks, the Gospel prefaces the parable with the sentence: “Jesus told his disciples a parable about the necessity for them to pray always without becoming weary.”

POPE FRANCIS

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

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

This explanation places the emphasis on the widow’s persistence in approaching the judge and holds her up

Cooperation, peace and prosperity come when people know how to hold fast to their cultural and religious identities without ever denigrating or trying to deny the rights and identities of others, Pope Francis said. Twenty-five years after Azerbaijan, a predominantly Shiite Muslim nation, proclaimed its independence from the Soviet Union, the

as an example for us to imitate. Then, after Jesus finishes the parable, he says: “Pay attention to what the dishonest judge says. Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night? Will he be slow to answer them? I tell you, he will see to it that justice is done for them speedily. But

when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” These concluding remarks by Jesus draw our attention to the judge who responds to the widow’s pleas. In comparison, how much more likely is God to answer our prayers for justice! Here, the emphasis shifts to the action of God and to God’s concern that justice be done. The commentary that frames the parable can shape our interpretation of it. Do we focus our attention on the persistence of the widow, as the editorial comment that precedes the parable suggests? That would lead us to place the emphasis on our own efforts at prayer. Or, on the other hand,

pope said strong civic institutions and lasting economic growth would come only when attention is paid to the poorest sectors of society and only as long as the nation’s multicultural identity is seen as a national treasure. Pope Francis met with President Ilham Aliyev, government officials, representatives of civic institutions and members of the diplomatic corps in Baku Oct. 2, the final day of a threeday trip that began in Georgia. Aliyev said

do we instead emphasize God’s dedication to justice? “He will see to it that justice is done for them speedily.” That puts the focus on God’s action, rather than our own. Both are useful ways to approach the parable. We persist in praying to God, only because of our faith that God will answer our prayer. Without that faith, we would have no motivation to pray. That explains the poignant remark that Jesus makes at the end of the Gospel reading: “But when the Son of Man comes, will he find faith on earth?” True and real faith will enable us to persist in prayer, even to the end of the world.

that although the Soviets closed or destroyed many mosques, churches and synagogues, the nation’s people have always coexisted in peace. The Vatican initially had framed the trip as a three-nation visit to the Caucasus region, but a sudden outbreak of violence in the contested territory of Nagorno-Karabakh in April led to a decision to do the visit in two stages. Pope Francis went to Armenia in June. — CNS

OCTOBER 14, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMNETARY

CYO keeps the emphasis of children’s sports on play

ollege rowing coach Susan Saint Sing has a quote that I use while presenting our Play Like a Champion coach formation programs in CYO. Sing says, “A child at play is in touch with the purest essence of the energy of God.” Meant to refer to both the athlete’s connection to God and the importance of play among children, these words capture an essential element of the ideal youth sports experience. They speak to the importance of joy. The presence of joy may be the difference between a positive youth sports experience

THE SPORTS APOLOGIST

PETER J. PISCITELLO Peter J. Piscitello is the executive director of the archdiocesan Catholic Youth Organization. He can be reached at: pete@cyojwa.org.

and one a child would rather forget. In environ-

ments that prioritize joy, children participate with broad smiles. The sound of laughter is heard echoing from the fields of competition. Children compete with a freedom and confidence that comes from being fearless. They work hard,

but it’s evident they are enjoying the opportunity to give their best effort. In fact, they are not at work; they are at play. Yet, too often, we see the opposite in youth sport. Where joy is absent, play quickly becomes work, and the child is burdened by expectation and afraid to fail. Instead of smiles, the faces of children seem heavy with pressure. We wonder how God was lost amid the desire to win at all costs. It often seems that something is lacking in the experience. Perhaps that’s because it is in joy where God feels most present in sport. It is in these

joyful environments that God’s essence seems to consume the competition. We are reminded that our children participate in an activity intended to be fun, one where we seek to develop virtue and to allow children to use their God-given gifts to glorify him. Watching a young athlete truly at play, it is as if nothing else matters but remaining in that moment, in that presence of God and a game he created. Our CYO strives to embody the connection between authentic joy and sport. Our goal is to provide opportunities for children to play, to develop skill and to grow

in their relationship with God. Because the ultimate source of joy is God, if we use our athletic gifts to glorify him, then competition can exist as a manifestation of the joy we find in him. Too often, we believe that joy comes from winning a game. While winning is great, the joy we seek is not contingent upon results, but comes from the approach to the journey of an individual or team. We invite you to join us on this journey. Together, may we find joy in the great gift of sport and glorify God as we watch our children play. Visit the website at: cyojwa.org to learn more!

The path to God needs guides

any people — even some living in our homes — see faith, prayer and friendship with Christ as frightening and foreign. Guides are needed to show the way and make the process simpler and more comfortable. The Christian term for this is discipleship. There are several opportunities coming up in the months ahead for you to learn to serve as a guide or to find some guidance yourself. First, did you know that Camp Tekakwitha is offering the inaugural Camp Tekakwitha Women’s Retreat on April 28-30, 2017? For years, women have

SEEKIING CHRIST’S HEART

DEACON DANA NEARMYER Deacon Dana Nearmyer is the lead consultant for the archdiocesan office of evangelization and Catholic formation of youth.

asked Deborah Nearmyer, director of the camp, when a camp for women

was going to be offered. “We want to be inspired like our kids,” they’d say. “We want to grow closer to each other and to Christ, like our kids do at camp.” So that opportunity has finally arrived. Grab a friend and sign up! Next, parents and kids occasionally find

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ULTIMATE VOCATION FAIR Oct. 26, 5 to 8 p.m.

that life feels really hollow at times. Adolescent and family speaker Chap Clark has the answer to that. His book, “Hurt 2.0,” has turned many lives away from the prevalent culture of abandonment toward a great experience of appreciation for our family members. It changed my life, I know. So, plan to hear him speak either the evening of Jan. 18 at St. James Academy in Lenexa from 7-8:30 p.m. or on the morning of Jan. 19 at Savior of the World Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas, from 9:30 a.m. - noon. Next, the Junior High Youth Rally, on Feb 26, 2017, is placing the focus on the heart of

each participant. Our theme — “Backstage Pass” — is more than a metaphor. While having a blast, we are going to guide each participant to go “backstage” in their interior life, and parents are invited along for the ride. Not all progress has to await an event or a program. What does it mean to disciple someone? Information and prayer are key parts of the equation, but so is time spent together. Parents are called and commissioned to disciple their children in the baptismal rite, and those confirmed are sent on the mission to disciple those near to them. We, the evangeliza-

tion team of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, want to help individuals and parishes create a culture of evangelization that will benefit all ages — those just introduced to Christ, as well as those who are old friends of Jesus. Ask your pastor about being a pilot parish for animating the Evangelization Benchmarks, as part of the archdiocesan 10-year vision, which can be viewed online at: www.archkck.org/vision. Or contact the archdiocesan evangelization office at (913) 721-1570 to talk to Deacon Dana Nearmyer, Emily Lopez or Kimberly Rode.

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OCTOBER 14, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

GOLDEN OPPORTUNITY

Gaudeamus preparing for another record-setting event By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

VERLAND PARK — Last year’s Gaudeamus, the Catholic Education Foundation’s biggest fundraising event, had a sold-out attendance of more than 1,500. And that has happened once again. For those who have attended in the past, it’s hard to believe it could get any better, But on Oct. 29, CEF patrons are in for a few surprises. “Bill Kirk, our new executive director, will be there that evening,” said director of events Laurel Sharpe. “He will be speaking.” Indeed, the evening will launch a new chapter for CEF as Kirk introduces himself and talks about his passion for Catholic education. “It’s so exciting for me,” he said. “I’ve been involved in Catholic education my entire life. “And I honestly believe it’s so important in the formation of our children. “I hope my passion will be infectious and get folks excited, knowing they can do some real good by supporting CEF.” Because students are the beneficiaries of the foundation’s fundraiser, once again they’ll be an important part of the event — greeting, serving and entertaining guests throughout the evening. Topeka’s Mater Dei School drum line, now a fixture at the event, will usher guests from a cocktail reception into the ballroom and Overland Park’s Church of the Ascension School choir, a favorite at last year’s event, will make an encore performance, accompanying vocalist Ron Gutierrez. KSHB-TV 41-Action News’ Christa Dubill’s interviews with guests will be projected on big screens — and also be available to a wider audience this year. “As a special feature this year, we’ll be doing Facebook Live,” said Sharpe. “We’ll have different snapshots, including at least one of the interviews with Christa Dubill and the Mater Dei drum line.” Another highlight of the evening will be the student speaker from Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas, who will give patrons a glimpse of how their donations can change a life and impact a future. That message will be reinforced by a video crafted especially for the event. “It’s called ‘A Golden Opportunity,’” said Sharpe, “and it will convey the message of CEF supporting a student

STATEMENT OF OWNERSHIP, MANAGEMENT and CIRCULATION (Act of October 23, 1962; Section 4369, Title 39, United States Code) PS Form 3526 1. Title of Publication: The Leaven 2. Publication Number: 0194-9799 3. Filing Date: Oct. 1, 2016 4. Issue Frequency: Weekly September - May, except Friday the week after Thanksgiving and New Year’s, and Friday after Easter; biweekly June - August. 5. Number of Issues Annually: 41 6. Annual Subscription Price: $21 7. Complete Mailing Address of Known Office of Publication: 12615 Parallel Parkway, Kansas City, KS 66109

CEF honors longtime patrons

he Angels Among Us Award honors individuals and families that stand out in their efforts to support Catholic education in our archdiocese. Tom and Sandy Long have been involved with CEF from its beginning, so much so that many say they are its beginning. The Longs were PTO board members at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park when Blake Mulvany retired as the school’s president in 1996. “Some of the [St. Thomas Aquinas] families said we ought to have a party for him,” recalled Sandy. “I got involved, and we planned the party at the Overland Park Convention Center.” The retirement party was such a huge success that guests wanted to do it again the following year. The Longs volunteered to help organize the next year’s event. Because Mulvany had a vision to help archdiocese schools in underserved areas, the group decided to make the event a fundraiser for that cause. “Blake had this vision that these kids needed to be helped,” said Sandy. “So that was the whole thrust: How do we make money for scholarships to help these kids that can’t afford Catholic education?” And they called the event Gaudeamus (“Let us rejoice” in Latin). “The first year, we made somewhere around $30,000,” said Sandy, “and I think there were 300 people there.” The rest is history. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann embraced the concept of Gaudeamus and established the Catholic Education Foundation with Michael Morrisey as executive director. “Michael called me and asked if I would stay on,” said Sandy. “I was there for the kids. So that’s when I became a member of the board they set up.” The Longs served on the committee that organizes Gaudeamus for 11 years. They chaired that committee for seven years, and Sandy served on the CEF board of directors for eight years. “Tom was always there to support and do whatever needed to be done,” said Sandy. “We had so many good

all the way from kindergarten to high school.” This year’s Angels Among Us Award honors Tom and Sandy Long. Also during the evening, the School of Excellence Award will be presented. Guests will have an opportunity to

8. Complete Mailing Address of Headquarters or General Business Office of Publisher: 12615 Parallel Parkway, Kansas City, KS 66109 9. Full Names and Complete Mailing Addresses of Publisher and Editor and Managing Editor: Publisher: Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, 66109-3718 12615 Parallel Parkway, Kansas City, Kansas Editor: Rev. Mark Goldasich, 12615 Parallel Parkway, Kansas City, Kansas, 66109-3718 Managing Editor: Anita McSorley, 12615 Parallel Parkway, Kansas City, Kansas, 66109-3718 10. Owner: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas 11. Known Bondholders, Mortgagees, and Other Security Holders Owning or Holding 1 Percent or More of Total Amount of Bonds, Mortgages, or Other Securities: None

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

Tom and Sandy Long look on as Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann shows students at Christ the King School in Kansas City, Kansas, the pectoral cross he wears. The Longs are this year’s Angels Among Us honorees for their contributions to Catholic education. people who wanted to be involved. “It was a community effort.” “Tom and Sandy have given many years to CEF and serving on the Gaudeamus committee,” said Laurel Sharpe, director of events. “We wanted to honor them for all their time and energy that they put into the organization.” The Longs, members of Church of Nativity in Leawood, have been married for 47 years. They have three adult children and 13 grandchildren. Tom started a logistics management software company in 1975. “When I came from the hospital with our third child,” recalled Sandy, “I started doing billing in the basement of the first house we lived in. “Then we struggled through and built the company until we sold it in 2006.” The Longs have always been generous with the blessings of their success. Providing a Catholic education to those in need is particularly dear to their hearts. “Especially in today’s world,” said Sandy, “children need that grounding of

make a donation and, once again, there is a generous challenge of $270,000 that’s sure to be met. Along with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher, there will be a host of priests and Catholic school supporters

15. Circulation: Av. No. copies Single issue each issue during nearest to preceding 12 mos. filing date A. Total no. copies printed (Net press run) 52,216 52,139 B. Paid Circulation 1. Mail Subscriptions 51,846 51,695 3. Sales through dealers and carriers, street vendors and counter sales 0 0 C. Total Paid Circulation 51,846 51,695 D. Free or Nominal Rate Distribution 1. Outside-County copies included on PS Form 3541 285 281

the faith and a vision of what is really important. “And they can’t get that in public schools.” Though public schools provide basic education, the Longs believe children need a faith community to go along with that. “The kids in Catholic school have a place to belong,” said Sandy. “Those teachers really do sustain and support them. “Not that teachers in public schools don’t care, but I think there is an extra element to Catholic teachers. “They’re not there for the money. They’re there because they love their faith and they love what they do and they want to share that with those kids.” Sandy retired from the CEF board in 2014, but she and Tom are still active supporters of the foundation. “We both firmly believe in the value of a Catholic education and are very proud to be associated with such a worthy organization,” she said.

sharing the evening. A coffee bar will follow, and young adults will be treated to an after-party downstairs with live music. It’s sure to be another outstanding fundraiser for CEF.

4. Free Distribution Outside the Mail (Carriers or Other Means) 0 0 E. Total Free Distribution 285 281 F. Total Distribution (Sum of C and D) 52,131 51,976 G. Copies not Distributed Office Use, Left-Over Unaccounted, Spoiled 85 163 H. Total (Sum of 15 f and g) 52,216 52,139 I. Percentage Paid and/ or Requested Circulation 99.4% 99.4% I certify that the statements made by me above are correct and complete. Rev. Mark Goldasich, Editor