11 09 18 Vol. 40 No. 14 by The Leaven

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 40, NO. 14 | NOVEMBER 9, 2018

TACKLING FALL HEAD ON The cooler weather is not slowing anything down in the archdiocese, as sports, volunteerism and the archbishop’s busy schedule keep Leaven freelance photographer Jay Soldner hopping.

HEADS UP

Above, Bishop Miege, Roeland Park, junior forward Garrett Hagen puts his head into the first half of the Kansas Class 1-4A state soccer championship game Nov. 3 at Piper High School in Kansas City, Kansas. Miege won the match 4-0 to capture its fifth straight boys state title.

TRICK OR TREAT

At left, St. Thomas Aquinas students — from left, Lauren McEnroe, Olivia Garcia, Kelly Lane, Danny Eckerberg, Katie Venteicher, Sanaz Mohammadrabie, Gabe Kraft and Greta Woolway — talk with Michelle Molinaro inside her home after she gave them a donation. On Halloween each year, costume-wearing Aquinas students go door to door, trick-or-treat style in hopes of filling their bags with canned goods and cash donations for Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas.

THE RUNDOWN CORPORAL WORK OF MERCY

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann speaks to young men at the Juvenile Correctional Complex in Topeka. He visited the complex on Oct. 19, accompanied by the Little Brothers and Little Sisters of the Lamb and chaplain Father Joseph Chontos.

Lenexa’s St. James Academy junior Sarah Murrow won the Kansas Class 5A individual state championship Oct. 24 at Rimrock Farm north of Lawrence. St. Thomas Aquinas, Overland Park, senior Ethan Marshall won the boys 5A individual championship.

NOVEMBER 9, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ARCHBISHOP

Religious orders transform neighborhoods — and lives

his past Saturday evening, I had the privilege of offering Mass in the Bishop Miege High School chapel for Miege Foundation members and benefactors. In the dinner following the Mass, the Ursuline Sisters were honored for their 60 years of service to the Bishop Miege community. Last June, Sister Martina Rockers died. She served Bishop Miege High School during its entire 60-year history. Sister Martina has been described as the heart and soul of Bishop Miege. The school’s courtyard is named in her honor. Through most of her teaching career, Sister Martina taught science. There is a Kansas City metro area science award named after her. Ten years ago in 2008, Sister Martina was honored by the National Catholic Educational Association for her distinguished career in Catholic education. Sister Martina exemplified the remarkable service so many Ursuline Sisters provided to Bishop Miege High School. The Miege community prides itself in continuing the Ursuline charism by forming young people in the Catholic faith, challenging them to develop fully their God-given gifts and

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN talents, and mentoring them to become men and women of service to others. Earlier on Saturday morning, I had the privilege to dedicate and bless the newly erected Light of Mary, Mother of God Monastery for the Little Brothers of the Lamb. The new monastery is on the site of the former St. Benedict School in Kansas City, Kansas. It complements the Little Sisters’ Lumen Christi Monastery on the property that was the location for St. Benedict Church and rectory. These twin monasteries have been instrumental in renewing and strengthening the neighborhood. A neighbor recently confided that when the Little Sisters arrived 10 years ago, she was the only homeowner on her block.

Today, the neighborhood has changed, in part because of the presence of the Little Sisters and Little Brothers of the Lamb. More people own their own homes, and residents appear to take better care of their houses and property. In addition to the monastery, the Little Brothers erected a grotto with an icon of Mary, Mother of God, and the Nativity of Jesus. The grotto is illuminated at night and has already become a place of prayer and devotion for the people of the neighborhood. Over 500 people attended the dedication of the monastery on Saturday and more than 300 came on Sunday afternoon to enjoy a creative musical dramatization of the Nativity narrative. On Monday night each week, a group of about 30 young adults come for Mass, dinner and discussion with the Little Sisters and Brothers. Many of the youth

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became connected to the Community of the Lamb by participating in its annual walking pilgrimage to the outdoor shrine dedicated to St. Rose Philippine Duchesne near Mound City, where the future saint lived with the Potawatomi Indians. Many of these young adults participated in the play. Every Saturday, the Little Brothers host what they term an “open table,” where anyone can come to enjoy a meal, prayer and conversation. This weekly gathering has helped to create a little community among their neighbors — some of whom were previously living fairly isolated lives. The Bishop Miege High School event and the dedication of the Light of Mary, Mother of God Little Monastery reminded me of the gift religious life is to the entire church. When religious women and men live their vows of poverty, chastity and obedience with fidelity and joy, they become leaven within the church, inspiring the rest of us to live our faith more sincerely and passionately. Throughout the history of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, we have been blessed with some extraordinary religious Sisters and Brothers. The Ursuline Sisters have a long and storied

Archbishop Naumann

Nov. 19 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording

Nov. 9-15 U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops meeting — Baltimore Nov. 15 Religious Alliance Against Pornography conference call Nov. 15-16 Visit Pope St. John XXIII Seminary — Weston, Massachusetts Nov. 17 Rural Catholic Youth Conference Mass — Topeka Capital Plaza

“Trust One Greater” — Benedictine College Nov. 20 Retired priests meeting Administrative Team meeting Nov. 21 Chancery staff Thanksgiving Mass and breakfast Nov. 25 Baptism of third or more child — Cathedral Nov. 26 Finance Council meeting

Nov. 18 Crosier Mass and brunch — Savior

Nov. 27 Envisioning Team meeting

St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Awards, Mass and reception — Sacred Heart, Mound City

Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas annual board meeting and social

history in northeast Kansas. The Little Sisters and Brothers of the Lamb have only been in our archdiocese for 10 years. However, both communities — with their unique charisms — are examples of the power of religious life to change and impact positively the lives of so many. For the dedication of the Little Brothers monastery, individuals came from Alaska, Connecticut, Indiana, Minnesota,

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Missouri, Argentina, Chile and Colombia. If you have never visited the Little Sisters of the Lamb monastery, I encourage you to make a mini-pilgrimage to visit both the Little Sisters and Brothers. Come for Mass or some other liturgical celebration to experience the beauty of their communal prayer. Come experience the Village of the Lamb that is helping to transform a neighborhood from the inside out.

Appointment Father John A. Riley, chancellor, announces the following appointment by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, effective Nov. 2: Abbot James Albers, OSB, has granted retirement to Father Benjamin Tremmel, OSB, from pastor of St. Ann Parish, Effingham; St. Louis Parish, Good Intent; and St. Mary Parish, Purcell. Father Benjamin has returned to residence at St. Benedict’s Abbey. Atchison, due to health issues. Father Daniel Gardner, to parochial administrator of St. Ann Parish in Effingham, St. Louis Parish in Good Intent, and St. Mary Parish, Purcell, and remaining as pastor of St. Ann Parish in Hiawatha, and St. Leo Parish, Horton. Priests from St. Benedict’s Abbey will provide weekend Masses and sacramental assistance until a pastor can be appointed.

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NOVEMBER 9, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

On the grounds of Light of Mary, Mother of God monastery is a grotto built from stones unearthed during construction. The grotto interior, painted by the Community of the Lamb, is an icon depicting the Nativity of Our Lord.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann blessed the crowd that gathered in a tent erected for the Mass of dedication of Light of Mary, Mother of God, the new monastery of the Little Brothers of the Community of the Lamb.

Concelebrants in the Mass blessing the new monastery are, from left, Little Brother Francios-Dominique, prior of the Little Brothers of the Lamb; Little Brother Christophe; and Abbot Benedict Thomas Neenan, OSB, of Conception Abbey in Conception , Missouri.

Little Brothers get a new home By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

Visit the twin monasteries

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — There’s a good chance St. Benedict’s ears were burning this past weekend. His name was often mentioned as Light of Mary, Mother of God monastery was consecrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann on Nov. 3. The simple structure in the heart of Kansas City, Kansas, is the new home of the Little Brothers of the Community of the Lamb. It stands at the intersection of Homer and Boeke streets, where St. Benedict Grade School once stood. Just up the street on Boeke is the Little Sisters’ monastery, Lumen Christi, consecrated in 2013 on the former site of St. Benedict Church. Before the celebration, the community’s foundress, Little Sister Marie, thanked Abbot James Albers of St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison, who attended the dedication, for “sowing the seeds of faith so well.” The day of the event was cool and so a tent was erected beside the monastery where friends, neighbors and family could attend the Mass. During the blessing of the monastery, the archbishop prayed that the light of Christ would shine there through fraternal love. “May the Little Brothers be of one heart and soul,” he said. “May they be witnesses of the love that is stronger than hatred and of the life that is victorious over death. “At the example of Saint Dominic

Founded 40 years ago, the Community of the Lamb is still young and growing. The Brothers and Sisters in Kansas came at the invitation of Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. They are the first community established in the United States. Their ministry flows from their poverty, which requires them to go out and beg for their daily bread in the tradition of St. Dominic and, in the process, share the Gospel with those they meet. Their motto is: “Wounded, I will never cease to love.” All are welcome to visit the little monasteries, to pray at the grotto of Light of Mary, Mother of God or attend Mass at Lumen Christi. For more information and Mass schedule, visit the website at: www. communautedelagneau.org.

and Saint Francis, may they live as pilgrims in this little monastery, in the simplicity of evangelical poverty. “May they recognize Christ in whomever knocks on the door, welcoming him as their Lord.” He entrusted the monastery to the Virgin Mary, and prayed that through her intercession, it would truly be the light of Mary. A unique feature of the new monastery is a grotto featuring an icon of Mary, mother of God, built by the community. As the archbishop blessed the grotto, he said, “Send the grace of

President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

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

your most Holy Spirit upon this icon of the nativity of the Lord, that your servants have made in [Mary’s] honor and memory.” Before the Mass began, Little Brother Christophe took a moment to thank all who had donated money and service to make the monastery a reality. He also thanked those who “opened themselves up to the building code of the Community of the Lamb — which is sometimes surprising.” Indeed, tradition dictates that the buildings of this community be low to the ground and as simple as possible. Their beauty is in their minimalist construction with unfinished wood and clean lines decorated in simple icons. In his homily, Archbishop Naumann thanked those in attendance, particularly Bishop James Johnston of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph; Abbot James; Abbot Benedict Neenan of Conception Abbey in Conception, Missouri; and Father Oswaldo Sandoval, pastor of All Saints Church in Kansas City, Kansas. “Some days our gratitude is magnified,” he said. “Today is such a day.” Referring to the “twin monasteries,” the archbishop acknowledged the contribution of Little Brother Christophe, who was instrumental in designing both. He thanked the architects, contractors and benefactors, the countless volunteers who gave energy and talent to assist the Little Brothers in minimizing the cost of construction, and Father Sandoval and the parishioners of All Saints. “Most of all,” he said, “we give

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Reporter Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

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

thanks for all the Little Brothers and Sisters and all their lay members who gave their blood, sweat and tears, laboring tirelessly. “Thank you all for giving us cause to celebrate and for giving me something beautiful to bless.” At the end of the Mass, Little Sister Marie, visiting from the motherhouse in France, spoke briefly about the moment she arrived at the monastery of the Little Sisters and only had to turn her head to see its twin monastery down the hill. She recalled the words of Pope Benedict. “A monastery is not only the hidden prayer of the monks,” she quoted. “Monasteries are also for the people of God. “They are made to make visible faith as strength of life.” Little Sister Marie said the gift she wishes everyone to receive from these twin monasteries is strength of life through faith. “For the world needs it so much,” she said.

After the dedication, a long line of patrons, benefactors, neighbors and friends from around the world waited to tour Light of Mary, Mother of God monastery, the new home of the Little Brothers of the Lamb.

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.

NOVEMBER 9, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Hayden hosts speaker on bullying, peer pressure By Carolyn Kaberline Special to The Leaven

What: Nathan Harmon and ‘Your Life Speaks’ Where: Hayden High School 401 Gage Blvd. Topeka, Kansas 66606 When: Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. Doors open at 6 p.m. Cost: Free, although donations will be accepted

OPEKA — The product of divorced parents, he’s faced eating disorders, suicidal thoughts and drug addictions. He’s served time in prison for the death of a passenger in a car he was driving while drinking. But Nathan Harmon is on a different track now. And he spends his life sharing a message of hope and accountability with young people across the country. Having turned his life around, Harmon is now the most requested school speaker in the United States. He speaks on topics like peer pressure, bullying, overcoming adversity and the power of every choice made. As he tells his audiences, “Your life speaks.” Sponsored by Sole Reason, Harmon is currently scheduled to speak in seven Topeka area schools — including Hayden, Seaman, Washburn Rural and Topeka High — during the week of Nov. 12. He will also be speaking at Hayden High School the evening of Nov. 15 in a free public event beginning at 7 p.m. “I found out about Nathan last Easter morning after Mass,” said Jerry Hudgins, founder and president of Sole Reason, a Topeka nonprofit that specializes in the collection and distribution of new sneakers. “I went home

PHOTO COURTESY OF NATHAN HARMON

Motivational speaker Nathan Harmon will speak at Hayden High School Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. Harmon has overcome many obstacles and turned his life around. The talk is being sponsored by Sole Reason in Topeka. and prayed for a way to do something else for kids in need in our community and went to bed. “When I awoke, I picked up my phone, and Nathan was the first thing I saw on my phone. I was intrigued about what he does so I watched some of his videos and knew he had to come to help these kids in Topeka.” “The next day,” continued Hudgins, “I began the process of bringing him to Topeka.” Hudgins began Sole Reason while working at Catholic Charities and wanted to do something else for the

community. He came up with the idea of collecting sneakers in response to Pope Francis’ call during the Year of Mercy. Last year, the organization gave away more than 1100 new pairs of sneakers and anticipates more than 1600 pairs will be given away by the end of this year. “While this event does not really relate to our mission of providing new sneakers to kids in need,” said Hudgins, “I just believe in the kids in Topeka and want to help make them be successful in life. “I am getting tired of losing our

Programs help prevent abuse through education >> Continued from page 16 of Ethical Standards and Harassment Policy. Two programs were also implemented for children in 2005. Both are offered annually, usually at the beginning of the school year. They are required for children who attend Catholic schools, parish religious education programs or participate in youth groups. One, the Happy Bear program for children ages 4 to 7 is offered by Sunflower House. The second is Teaching Touching Safety, offered by Virtus, for children from kindergarten through grade 12. Each parish and school have a safe environment coordinator who administers the aforementioned programs under the authority of their principal or pastor. Are these programs effective? Yes, said Becky MacCallum, a counseling consultant at Christ the King School in Kansas City, Kansas, and at Good Shepherd School in Shawnee. She also teaches the Virtus program for adults. “I don’t think all parents talk to their children about the importance of personal safety and what to do,” she said. “I think [the programs] are effective because the children hear them every year in some form, and it’s good to have that safety information repeated and be fresh in their minds, and not in just a one-time talk.” “It’s effective because some children are exposed to this kind of thing and they need to know there are people available to help them,” she continued. “It’s important not to keep our children naive to the point that they cannot protect themselves.”

Virtus by the numbers*

trained facilitators present the Virtus program’s adult awareness training sessions.

More than

1,365

Virtus adult awareness training sessions have been scheduled.

A few parents opt out of this training for their children, but most are glad the archdiocese is taking measures to protect children. “People are grateful the archdiocese addresses the issue and is proactive about protecting our children,” said MacCallum. “In my adult training, I’ve had very positive feedback from parents saying, ‘I’m so glad we’re doing this. I hope more parents attend; I hope people are more aware and involved.’” In a perfect world, there would be no sexual abuse of children, or there would be child protection programs that stop all abuse all the time.

Holiday home tour benefits St. Benedict School in Atchison

More than

46,000

individuals have attended Virtus adult awareness training sessions in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

41,000

background checks have been completed in the archdiocese. * SINCE 2003

Call the confidential report line at (913)

youth to suicide, drugs, alcohol, bullying and other issues facing them today. Just today in North Carolina, [there was] another senseless tragedy. This guy (Harmon) changes and saves lives. “If he can save just one life, it is worth it.” Hudgins recommends Harmon’s program to youth 10 years of age and older. “The doors to the Nov. 15 event will open at 6 p.m.,” said Hudgins. “His events are about an hour and a half in length. He talks on topics from real life experiences.” Hudgins notes that while there is no charge for the Nov. 15 event, freewill donations will be accepted. For more information on Harmon, visit his website at: www.yourlife speaks.org. More information on Sole Reason can be found online at: www.sole reason.net.

647-3051 to report suspected abuse. But in the far-from-perfect one in which we live, programs like Virtus for adults, and Happy Bear and Teaching Touching Safety for children go a long way toward keeping everyone safer. “Our goal is prevention,” said MacCallum. “Through education and being proactive we can, hopefully, help kids grow up in a world that is safer. We can help adults and kids know what to do if anything is happening that shouldn’t be happening. “Can we 100 percent prevent it? “No. But we can sure put forward a good effort, and I think that’s what we are doing.”

TCHISON — The weather may not reflect it, but the holiday season is right around the corner. One of the best ways to celebrate is with the Historic Homes Christmas Tour here. Atchison’s rich history makes it the perfect setting for a historic tour. Just follow the brick roads and make your way inside gorgeous Victorian homes, divinely decorated for the Christmas season. The tour, which is a major fundraiser for St. Benedict School, will take place on Nov. 17. The self-guided tour will run from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. Guests will receive a guide of the homes and museums and receive a punch in their punchcard at each stop to mark completion. Tickets are $35 and include entry to five historic homes and two local museums, as well as a hot lunch at St. Benedict School. The home of legendary female pilot and Atchison native Amelia Earhart is one of the seven destinations on the tour, as well as the historic Cray Museum. Limited tickets are available. Call (913) 360-0342 for more information or to purchase tickets.

Corrections In the Nov. 2 issue on the Gaudeamus fundraiser, the amount raised was incorrect. The event raised $1.2 million. Also, Angels Among Us honoree Glenn Wells name was misspelled.

NOVEMBER 9, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Iris Marguerite and Delbert Joseph Straub, members of St. Joseph Parish, Flush, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Nov. 18 with an open house for family and friends from 1 to 3 p.m. in St. Joseph Parish hall. They request no gifts. The couple was married on Nov. 15, 1958, in Edinburgh, Scotland. Their children are: Yvonne Bish and Jeanette Siebert, both of Houston; David Straub, Asheville, North Carolina; and Karen Guzman, Wamego. They also have seven grandchildren.

PHOTO BY ANITA PAULS

HONORING VETERANS

For Veterans Day, the Holy Spirit, Overland Park, students from kindergarten through sixth grade, worked to create a special flag to honor all of those who have served. The kindergarten class painted the wooden stars white; grades first through sixth decorated a red, white or blue wooden square. They chose to do a pattern on their square, either an image or word that represented the United States and/or veterans. Kitty Toepfer, Holy Spirit art teacher, helped the students to create this work. The flag will be on display during the school’s Veterans Day program and will later be donated to St. Michael’s Veterans Center in Kansas City, Missouri. Pictured are, front row, from left: Felicity Williams and Myah Woods; and back row, from left: Gia Gonzalez, Kellen Barrett, Isaiah Braddy and Jaxxon Michaelsen. All are first-graders.

Easton house of prayer invites all to Advent retreat By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — There are many ways to respond to the abuse crisis in the church, said Vince Eimer, but the best way to start is with prayer. That’s why Christ’s Peace House of Prayer, Easton, will host an Advent penitential retreat Nov. 30-Dec. 2. There is no charge for the retreat, but those who attend are asked to give alms. The freewill donation will be given to an organization for abuse victims. “The retreat is a response to the Pennsylvania report of abuse that went on there for so long,” said Eimer, director of the house of prayer. “So, like so many people in the church, we want to do something to help. “What we can do is have a weekend

of prayer, fasting, silence and almsgiving for the intention of purifying and healing the church — for those who were abused, for real penance and healing of those who committed the crimes, and for those who hid them.” Eimer was inspired to host this retreat by a Scripture passage in which the disciples asked Jesus why they couldn’t drive out a demon, and he replied, “This kind can only come out through prayer” (Mk 9:29). The retreat begins with check-in at 6 p.m. on Fri., Nov. 30. This will be followed by orientation at 6:30 p.m., Mass at 7 p.m., outdoor Stations of the Cross and the beginning of eucharistic adoration for the weekend. On Dec. 1, the day begins with morning prayer at 8 a.m., Mass at 10 a.m., the Angelus at noon, the Divine Mercy chaplet at 3 p.m., evening prayer at 4 p.m. and night prayer at 9 p.m. On Dec. 2, the day will begin with

morning prayer at 8 a.m. and Mass at 10 a.m. Following ancient penitential practices from early Christianity, the retreat will also feature silence and fasting — the only sustenance being bread and water. The sacrament of reconciliation will also be available. Eimer would like to accommodate as many people for the retreat as possible, so he’s particularly grateful that generous donors provided funds that enabled the retreat center to build six new rooms for guests and groups. People are welcome to spend the night, come for a day or for part of a day. “We want as many people to come as who want to help in this time of crisis,” said Eimer. If you would like to attend the penitential retreat, contact Eimer by calling (913) 773-8255 or sending an email to: info@christspeace.com.

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Doris (Fox) and William Magerl, members of St. Agnes Parish in Roeland Park, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on Nov. 10. The couple was married on Nov. 10, 1953, at Holy Trinity Church, Kansas City, Missouri. Their children are: Connie Zarda, Bobby Magerl, Suzie Irwin, Diane Tyson and Michael Magerl. They also have nine grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. The couple will celebrate with a family dinner. Jim and Rosemary (Werner) Simons, members of Mater Dei Parish, Topeka, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Nov. 8. The couple was married on Nov. 8, 1958, at Sacred Heart Church, Paxico, by Father George Klasinski. They have two daughters, Amy Jennings, Leawood; and Christy Roach, Denton, Texas. They also have six grandchildren. Mary Ellen (Braun) and George Fracul, members of St. John the Baptist Parish, Kansas C i t y , Kansas, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Oct 4. The couple was married on Oct 4, 1958, at St. Anthony Church, Kansas City, Kansas. Their children are: Susan Fuhrmann and Paul Fracul. They also have two grandsons. Connie (Haller) and Rick Daggett, members of Christ the King Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 17 with a reception for family and friends. The couple was married on Nov. 16, 1968, at Most Pure Heart of Mary Church, Topeka, by Father Gerald Sheeds. They have a son Aaron and two grandchildren. Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries, or email: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.

NOVEMBER 9, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

FAMILY LIFE

TOOLS FOR FAMILIES

Growing as Disciples of Jesus

Why it’s important to teach modern kids to ‘mind their manners’ By Calah Alexander

hen I was growing up, my parents made teaching us good manners a priority. We learned from a young age to say, “yes ma’am,” “yes sir,” “please,” “excuse me” and “no, thank you.” Every adult was “ma’am” or “sir” to us, no matter what the adult in question told us to call them. But since we were raised in Texas, we weren’t often corrected — the adults we met almost always commented on how polite we were. I could tell it made my parents proud. They worked hard to teach us to be polite — not just to strangers, either, but to everyone, including them and each other. It created an environment that I took for granted as a child, but one that I wish I had managed to re-create in my own family. The older I get, the more I’m beginning to realize that politeness and manners aren’t artificial social constructs that obscure authenticity. In fact, manners are a way of showing empathy for others, and teaching children to be polite also teaches them to be empathetic. As The Atlantic magazine puts it, manners and the empathy underlying them are “social glue, binding people together and creating harmonious relationships.” There are multiple ideas of what it

means to be polite. The oldest, coined by the British philosopher Lord Shaftesbury in the early 1700s, holds that “‘politeness’ may be defined a dext’rous management of our words and actions, whereby we make other people have better opinion of us and themselves.” That is, we behave politely so as to boost our own social standing among our peers. But I prefer the definition offered by Brendan Fraser’s Cold War-era prepper character in the 1999 feature film “Blast from the Past”: “Manners are a way of showing other people we care about them.” Signaling that you understand how hard someone else’s situation is certainly makes

you better at cocktail parties. But empathy — or “politeness,” or “manners” — isn’t just there at the start of interpersonal relationships; it also holds them together. Unfortunately, this is a truth that took me many years to learn. We often take the people we love the most for granted — it’s human nature. Sometimes when we get comfortable with our closest friends and family, we gradually stop making the effort to be polite. Requests slowly lose the accompanying “please.” And if we’re not careful, over the years they can morph from requests into demands. R e -

membering to “mind your manners” doesn’t mean remembering to use certain words. It means remembering to treat others the way you would want to be treated. It requires us to always keep the humanity of the other in the forefront of our minds, ensuring that our interactions are characterized by respect and empathy. In the end, minding our manners is a way of building virtue — specifically, the virtue of compassion. I never would have guessed that my parents’ attention to teaching us manners would help us grow in virtue, but it did. It still does. And that’s a lesson I absolutely want to pass on to my own children. It might be late in the game, but it’s never too late start teaching children to mind their manners. As with every lesson, the most effective way to teach is by showing . . . so it’s time for me to go back to the lessons my parents taught me decades ago and remember to mind my manners. Only this time, I know it’s not a pointless set of rules to follow — it’s a way of showing my family, friends and strangers that I care about them. Reprinted from aleteia.org with permission from the author.

ANNUAL GOLUMBKI DINNER IN LEAVENWORTH

he St. Casimir Men’s Society will host its Annual Golumbki Dinner on Sunday, Nov. 18, in the St. Casimir Parish Hall at 719 Pennsylvania Ave., in Leavenworth. Dinner will be served from noon to 3 p.m. Takeout will be available beginning 11 a.m. Tickets cost only $10 for adults and $5 for children 12 and under. Come join your friends in Leavenworth for this traditional Polish feast. Meatloaf will also be served. AD COURTESY OF DOUG SCALARD, CFP®

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NOVEMBER 9, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Catholic funerals, burials provide comfort, encourage healing By Sean M. Wright Special to The Leaven

Benefits of a Catholic funeral

It is therefore a holy and wholesome thought to pray for the dead, that they may be loosed from their sins. —2 Mc 12: 45b-46

hristian concern for the dead is a legacy bestowed on us by our Jewish forebears in faith who venerate in death the body created in God’s image and likeness. Catholic funeral rites continue this heritage, paying homage to what were once temples of the Holy Spirit, while imploring the intercession of angels and saints in commending their souls to the mercy of our loving Creator. Catholics benefit from Christian burial rites in emotional, spiritual and practical ways, all of which work together. Three events — referred to as “stations” — comprise a Catholic funeral: the wake, the funeral Mass and the committal. “In my pastoral experience of 26 years,” said Father Vaughn Winters, pastor of St Mary Church in Palmdale, California, “I find that a lack of final services leads to an emotional barrenness when facing the loss alone. Families able to put time, energy and resources into a proper Catholic funeral experience the benefits of enhanced healing in their time of grief. “The consolation of faith,” he added, “helps the faithful face and deal with their loss in a positive, constructive way, and the gathering of family and friends provides them with a support network to help them get through the initial difficult time of loss and begin to heal, as they start a new chapter of life without their loved one.” At the wake, family and friends gather for emotional support, often with the body of the deceased present. It is a time for sharing warm, touching, even amusing anecdotes, as well as recalling his or her achievements in a eulogy. In some cultures, the wake is accompanied by much festivity, but also includes recitation of the rosary, traditionally led by clergy or members of the decedent’s family. At the funeral Mass, family and friends gather to grieve the loss while also offering praise and thanksgiving to God for the gift of the person’s life. Following Mass, the sprinkling with holy

Emotional support can come from members of one’s family, friends and parish clergy gathered to ask God’s mercy on those we have loved. Note also that many parishes have bereavement support groups to help those overwhelmed by grief.

2 water and incensation honor the former home of a child of God, united by baptism to the redemptive death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. The prayers of commendation, notably the “in paradisum” (“into paradise”), are among some of the most beautiful in any Catholic liturgy. During the committal in the consecrated ground of Catholic cemeteries, the church once more lifts hearts in prayer for the repose of the decedent’s soul, calling on God to grant the person life, peace and joy in his presence forever. Again, the church expresses belief in Christ’s comforting promise: “I am the resurrection and the life. Whoever believes in me, even if he die, yet shall he live” (Jn 11: 25-26a). Catholic cemeteries, under the direct control of the bishop of each diocese, remain tended, practical and peaceful oases of consolation and spiritual contemplation for the faithful when visiting the graves of family and friends for prayer and loving remembrance. Michael Crahan, director of sales and marketing for Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas, works in the practical side of burials. And that work has shown him another aspect of Catholic faithfulness. “I can’t begin to recount the number of my friends, my children’s friends or simply people met in passing that comment to me once they learn that I work for the church, that they are simply ‘spiritual but not religious,’” he said. “Ironically, it’s often some of these

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“THE CONSOLATION OF FAITH HELPS THE FAITHFUL FACE AND DEAL WITH THEIR LOSS IN A POSITIVE, CONSTRUCTIVE WAY. same people that have recently attended the funeral Mass of a friend or family member,” he continued. “Many will express their appreciation for the beauty, the prayerfulness, the inspiration and consolation they experienced from a Catholic funeral liturgy. “In fact, we hear a number of these same comments at the Rite of Committal in our cemeteries when they see all of the beautiful symbols of our faith prevalent only in Catholic cemeteries. “The traditional Catholic funeral can be a source of evangelization,” he added, “the occasion when friends and family members who have ‘de-churched’ reawaken their desire and find a need to again practice their faith. Their hearts are opened to seek to come to know Jesus and draw closer to his church.” Sean M. Wright, an Emmy-nominated television writer, is a master catechist for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and RCIA team member at his parish.

Spiritual support and comfort can flow from the church’s funeral prayers and liturgical rites, especially by receiving Our Lord in Communion.

Outpourings of grace may be gained by uniting ourselves in prayer with all the other members of the communion of saints: the church on earth, in purgatory and in heaven.

Catholics can be confident in the conviction that death is not the end and cannot break the loving bonds of family and friendship forged in life for anyone who believes in Jesus Christ.

Doors of grace can be opened to benefit family members and friends, especially those who come to honor the deceased but may have strayed from Christ’s flock.

Catholics experience practical support from family and friends, along one’s parish clergy and staff members of Catholic cemeteries.

Catholics can gain emotional solace and spiritual graces by visiting Catholic cemeteries to pray that our beloved dead are alive in Christ.

Social media; or kee What role can social media play in evangelization? By John Grosso Catholic News Service

hese days, one is hard-pressed to find people who speak positively about social

John Grosso is director of digital media at the Diocese of Bridgeport, Connecticut.

media. In fact, a quick Google search of the term “social media” brings about doomand-gloom articles discussing how social media have brought about the ruin of our institutions, turned us into antisocial scrollers and are the root source of depression and anxiety. I am not one to discount or deny the negative aspects of social media, particularly as it relates to the Catholic Church, but I take a different approach. Social media, especially Catholic social media, can be a difficult, hostile place. These days, we often see discussion devolve into debate, and debate devolve into fighting, and fighting devolve into mudslinging. The current climate in the Catholic Church has supercharged this phenomenon in an ugly way. It is for these very reasons that faithful Catholics must take our message of love of and trust in Jesus Christ to social media. Now is the time to show the world what it means to be a Catholic: to love our neighbor, to advocate for life in all of its forms and to be in awe of the real presence of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. Social media allow us to communicate with hundreds of thousands of people with one click — so what better place to spread this message of hope and love than Facebook (or Twitter or Instagram)? Using social media to witness to Christ — and hopefully to evangelize in his name — starts by treating social media as an end in itself, not just a means to an end. Pope Francis, in his 2016 message for World Communications Day, alluded to this: “Emails, text messages, social networks and chats can also be fully human forms of communication. It is not technology that determines whether or not communication is authentic, but rather the human heart and our capacity to use wisely the means at our disposal.” It is extremely important to use our social media out-

lets to invite people to Mass, eucharistic adoration, confession and Catholic events, but we can’t only use our social media in this way. Rather, we must acknowledge that our Facebook friends, or the accounts following our parish’s Twitter account, are communities themselves. That means we must use social media to minister to and feed these communities by offering them content that will help them encounter Jesus in some way. Whether it is an inspiring or comforting quote from Scripture, live-streaming Masses or events, or catechetical videos that share the richness of our Catholic tradition, we need to offer something of substance to our friends and followers. If we share meaningful content, we can use social media to bring people into an encounter with Christ every single day. Meaningful content is two things: authentic and vulnerable. In a world where lives are lived on social media, where we are bombarded with advertisements and noise, people crave authenticity. They desire something stable, something comforting and something that helps them make sense of their crazy lives. That “something” is actually “someone,” and his name is Jesus Christ. In my role as director of digital media at the Diocese of Bridgeport, Connecticut, I’ve found people respond strongly to short videos, authentic reflections and spiritual graphics. Likewise, parishes that use their social media to highlight their parishioners, share words of wisdom from their pastor, and provide prayer and reflection resources to the faithful are all authentically using social media for the betterment of their parishioners. Social media must also be vulnerable. These days, many people live their lives on social media, meaning they open themselves up to the inherent and constant vulnerability that comes from putting their hopes, dreams, emotions, opinions and day-to-day experiences out on display for all to see.

Since they live their lives this way, they expect the institutions they follow to live this way, too. That’s why it is so important for our parishes, schools and dioceses to have fun on social media, to use informal language and to show people “the behind the scenes” of the institution. This allows us to show that the church is made up of people, with all of their triumphs and tribulations, all trying to serve God as best they can. In this way, we are both authentic and vulnerable. We cannot resign ourselves to indifference or cynicism simply because social media sites can often be desolate places. Rather, if we bring a spirit of love and joy, rooted in Christ, to everything we do on

social media, we can provide an incredibly compelling example to a searching world. Christ himself tells us: “This is how all will know that you are my disciples, if you have love for one another” (Jn 13:35). There is nothing more authentic, no narrative more powerful and no message more challenging than the Gospel. Let us strive to share it through our example of loving witness on social media.

eping Catholic online Being Catholic online — problems and possibilities By Jana Marguerite Bennett Catholic News Service

s there a theology of social media? Our sacramental tradition values our bodily natures and the material substances of wine, bread, oil and water. Social media seem to overlook our bodies, instead drawing us into an abstract world of words and images. Sites like Instagram, Facebook and Twitter are known for generating belligerent, hurtful arguments. Researchers note connections between cyberbullying and social media;

news stories tell of youth who become depressed and even consider suicide due to the horrific online actions of others. Yet what can be put to evil use can also be put to good. Pope Francis noted in his 2016 World Communications Day message: “It is not technology that determines whether or not communication is authentic, but rather the human heart and our capacity to use wisely the means at our disposal. Social networks can facilitate relationships and promote the good of society, but they can also lead to further polarization and division between individuals and groups.”

I suggest that our Catholic theology should reflect our belief in God and shape our online life, just as with our offline life. I offer the following points for reflection: • Never forget that what we do and say online affects real people. It is easy to forget that the people with whom we interact online are flesh-and-blood people with feelings. Yet for all that, we also know that online interactions can have both positive and negative impact on peoples’ emotions and well-being, including physical well-being. That is why our sacramental faith is not in conflict with our online participation. Full participation in the church’s sacramental life helps us to see others as made in the image of God, with the dignity that image entails. Yet what about online sacraments? None of our seven sacraments are available online — not even reconciliation (which is often mistakenly thought to be offered online), though there are apps available to help people with an examination of conscience. However, there are numerous prayer opportunities for Catholics online — from praying the Liturgy of the Hours to rosaries to spiritual reading. Online prayer groups provide space for people to share their concerns, and so help us keep connected to the embodied lives of people, online and offline!

• Build and foster small online Christian communities. A great benefit of online social media is to connect people who might otherwise become disconnected. This is important for churches! Illness, disability, frequent moves, changes in work schedules and doubts about our faith are all reasons people disappear from church attendance. Social media can be a way to address social isolation and enable vigorous theological discussion about our faith. Some communities are wholly online (like online Bible study groups), some are online and offline (like my parish’s adult education group), some are devoted to particular faith practices (like eucharistic adoration), some form around common causes (like seeking just wages or using natural family planning) and some have common characteristics (like home schooling). These communities enable us to teach, pray for others and respond to others’ needs — just as the Scriptures call us to do. • Ensure online communities reflect Christian virtues. It is easy for our small Christian communities to become isolated or, worse, to see themselves as better than “those other” online groups. Catholics are particularly bad at seeing the worst in other Catholics online — even though we share the Eucharist with each other! (This has been most evident recently in discussions about the pope’s declaration on the death penalty.) The best Christian communities enforce ground rules prohibiting trolling but also cultivate respect when making arguments. In short, social media websites can enable us Christians to live by example online, just as we do offline. In a social media world that often features vitriol, we might consider how to proclaim and promote Christ’s own peace.

Jana Marguerite Bennett is professor of moral theology at the University of Dayton in Ohio. She is the author of “Aquinas on the Web? Doing Theology in an Internet Age” an co-edits the blog catholicmoraltheology. com.

NOVEMBER 9, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NATION

Catholic teaching shows hope for those hurt by suicide

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By Gina Christian Catholic News Service

HILADELPHIA (CNS) — On a November morning in 2008, Father Marc Capizzi had his rosary in hand when he left the rectory at St. Albert the Great Parish in the Philadelphia suburb of Huntingdon Valley. Having received an anguished call from a parishioner, he set out to comfort a family that had just lost a son to suicide. His heartbreaking mission was not out of the ordinary. “It’s probably more common than you would think,” Father Capizzi said. “A number of priests have had this experience.” According to a recently released report from the Centers for Disease Control, that experience is becoming more common. From 1999 to 2016, suicide rates increased by more than 30 percent in half of the nation’s states. Almost 45,000 Americans die by suicide each year, making it the 10th leading cause of death in the U.S. Recent celebrity suicides, such as those of fashion designer Kate Spade and celebrity chef Anthony Bourdain, also have highlighted the issue. Both the CDC and the American Foundation for Suicide Prevention emphasize that suicide has no single cause. Mental and physical health, relationship issues, sexual and substance abuse — along with financial, employment, legal and housing difficulties — have all been shown to contribute to a person’s decision to end his or her life. The complexities of mental, emotional and physical health are recognized by the Catholic Church in its stance on suicide. “Suicide itself is a gravely disordered act, an evil one,” said Father Bernard Taglianetti, a professor of moral theology at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Wynnewood. “However, the church also

“THE CHURCH . . . RECOGNIZES THAT STRONG EMOTIONAL EXPERIENCES, DEEP SUFFERING, AND DEEP DEPRESSION, CAN DIMINISH ONE’S CULPABILITY.” recognizes that strong emotional experiences — deep suffering, deep depression — can diminish one’s culpability.” Father Taglianetti noted that the church relies on the expertise of mental health professionals in evaluating and crafting a pastoral response to suicide. Priests cannot be regarded as mental health counselors unless they have received training and licensure as such, he said. However, clergy should be able to refer parishioners to appropriate treatment, and above all, priests can pray with and provide spiritual support for those contemplating suicide. “God is with you, and the church’s blessing is always available,” he told CatholicPhilly.com, the news outlet of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia. In addition, the sacraments -- particularly confession and the Eucharist — provide profound healing for those in despair. Through confession, an individual can be “relieved of spiritual anguish from bad decisions or thoughts,” said Father Taglianetti, while the holy Eucharist makes Christ’s love a tangible reality. Although some Christian denominations maintain that suicide results in automatic and eternal damnation, the Catholic faith does not despair of God’s mercy for those who take their own lives. “The Catholic Church doesn’t ever decide or declare that someone is in

CNS PHOTO/COURTESY ST. CHARLES BORROMEO SEMINARY

Father Bernard Taglianetti, a professor of moral theology at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Wynnewood, Pa., is pictured in a 2014 photo. hell,” said Father Taglianetti. “What’s important here is hope — hope in the love of God, and in his divine mercy.” That mercy can save a soul even in its final moments on earth, he added. “At the very last second of a person’s life, if they’ve done this terrible act to themselves, they can cry out to God, whose mercy is infinite,” said Father Taglianetti. Those who commit suicide are no longer necessarily refused a Christian burial, said Father Dennis Gill, director of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia’s Office for Divine Worship. Although suicide was once regarded as a denial of God’s mercy and power in a person’s life, modern research affirms that “a person who takes his or her life most likely did not make a rational decision,” said Father Gill in an emailed statement.

Catholic teaching also addresses the issues of euthanasia and end-of-life care. Direct euthanasia, defined as “an action or omission which of itself or by intention causes death” to eliminate suffering, is “morally unacceptable,” according to a 1980 Vatican declaration and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Physician-assisted suicide is considered a form of euthanasia. In cases of terminal illness, the church distinguishes between ordinary and extraordinary means of care. While ordinary care offers a reasonable hope for improvement without overburdening the patient, extraordinary means excessively burdening the patient without benefit and can be refused. Father Taglianetti observes that at whatever period it occurs in one’s life, suffering can be redemptive if viewed in the light of faith. “It allows others more deeply into your life,” he said, contrasting two high-profile cases of terminal brain cancer — that of Brittany Maynard, an outspoken physician-assisted suicide advocate who took her life in 2014; and Father Philip G. Johnson, a priest of the Diocese of Raleigh, North Carolina, who has fought his illness since being diagnosed in 2008 at age 24. While still a seminarian, Father Johnson wrote an open letter to Maynard detailing his own medical struggles and urging her to remain alive as “an example and inspiration.” “Suffering is not worthless, and our lives are not our own to take,” Father Johnson stated in his letter. “We do not seek pain for its own sake, but our suffering can have great meaning if we try to join it to the Passion of Christ and offer it for the conversion or intentions of others.” “It can be an act of prayer, an act of love,” he said. “And God’s love is not temporary, but eternal, which always give us hope.”

Pittsburgh parishes collect funds for Jewish congregations

ITTSBURGH (CNS) — Parishes throughout the Diocese of Pittsburgh will take up a special collection for the three Jewish congregations that worship at the Tree of Life Synagogue, which was attacked by a gunman. Pittsburgh Bishop David A. Zubik asked that the collection be taken at all Masses the weekend of Nov. 10-11. “This collection is a gift of love and solidarity from one religious community to another, to say that the Catholic people of southwestern Pennsylvania suffer with you and we are here to support you,” Bishop Zubik said in a statement Nov. 2. “The congregations at Tree of Life are free to use these donations in whatever way they believe is right, to help their members recover and to restore their house of worship.” In announcing the collection, the diocese said families of the 11 people who died and two others who were injured faced expenses. The synagogue also sustained damage that will require repair and renovation. A 46-year-old Pittsburgh man, Robert Bowers, has been charged with dozens of counts in federal court in connection with the Oct. 27 incident. He pleaded not guilty during a court appearance Nov. 1. Police said worshippers recounted that the suspect allegedly shouted that “all Jews must die” before entering the synagogue in the Squirrel Hill section of the city and opening fire. Police said he was armed with three handguns and an AR-15 “style” weapon. He is believed to have acted alone.

CNS PHOTO/JARED WICKERHAM, EPA

A man pauses at each of the memorials Oct. 29 with the names of the people who were killed at the Tree of Life Synagogue in Pittsburgh Oct. 27. At least 11 people were killed and six others wounded, including four police officers.

NOVEMBER 9, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

WORLD

Alarm sounds over humanitarian crisis in Yemen By Dale Gavlak Catholic News Service

MMAN, Jordan (CNS) — Aid agencies and Catholic officials are sounding the alarm on Yemen’s spiraling humanitarian crisis, calling on the combatants to end the war and make badly needed assistance available. Yemen is facing the largest humanitarian crisis of this time, according to the United Nations. The impoverished nation at the tip of the Arabian Peninsula is now the most food-insecure population in the world due to the 4-year-old conflict. “A war is ongoing in Yemen, but the big world does not seem to be very interested,” said Bishop Paul Hinder, apostolic vicar of Southern Arabia, which includes Yemen. “There are innumerable people internally displaced because they fled from the war,” he told Catholic News Service. “A wonderful nation with a cultural tradition [spanning millennia] is about to be destroyed,” warned Bishop Hinder, decrying the lack of international resolve to end the conflict tearing Yemen apart. Observers say Yemen has been caught up in a proxy war between Saudi Arabia and its regional archrival, Iran. More than 10,000 people have been killed, millions have been displaced and it has pushed Yemen to the verge of starvation. Nearly 21 million people in Yemen need humanitarian aid; two-thirds of the population is on the brink of starvation, without access to adequate food and clean water to survive each day. Some 1.8 million Yemeni children are malnourished, making them more vulnerable to disease, the U.N. children’s agency, UNICEF, reported. These children include nearly 400,000 whose lives are at risk from severe acute malnutrition. Some 68 percent of the population lacks access to basic health care. Johan Mooij, CARE International’s Yemen country director, said there is currently only enough food to sustain the country’s population for two months. Meanwhile, Yemen’s cholera outbreak

CNS PHOTO/KHALED ABDULLAH, REUTERS

A woman holds a malnourished child Oct. 6 at a hospital in Sanaa, Yemen. Aid agencies and Catholic officials are sounding the alarm on Yemen’s spiraling humanitarian crisis, calling on the combatants to end the war and make badly need assistance available. — the worst in the world — is accelerating again, with roughly 10,000 suspected cases now reported per week, according to the World Health Organization. Approximately 30 percent of all suspected cases are children under age 5, the agency added, saying that cholera can kill a child within hours, if left untreated. “The international community cannot ignore anymore the tragedy going on. The warring parties have to be pressured in order to sit around the table and to make humanitarian help possible for all people in need,” said Bishop Hinder. “The conspiratorial silence around this war has to be broken in order to force the warring parties to a cease-fire followed by serious peace talks,” Bishop

Hinder said. Aid “must not be stopped by the war parties under whatever pretext.” In June, escalating violence in and around Yemen’s port city of Hodeidah, the main humanitarian hub, led to hundreds of thousands more people being displaced and vital routes for aid and supplies being closed. Recently, there has been an increase again in airstrikes on Hodeidah, jeopardizing the lives of noncombatants. “It’s almost impossible to speak on the phone with my sister in Yemen because the constant bombing makes our conversations impossible,” a Yemeni refugee named Habiba, who sheltering in Amman, told CNS.

In June, Pope Francis urged the international community to end the severe humanitarian situation in Yemen. The United Nations has renewed its efforts to try to end Yemen’s war with a plan that calls on the Iranian-backed Houthi rebels and the internationally recognized government of President Abed Rabbo Mansour Hadi, supported by Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates, to agree a peace deal under a transitional governing body. “With the humanitarian crisis (in Yemen) plummeting to new depths, all efforts must be focused on securing a cease-fire,” said Frank McManus, the New York-based International Rescue Committee’s country director in Yemen.

‘Sand Nativity’ scene to display in St. Peter’s Square By Junno Arocho Esteves Catholic News Service

ATICAN CITY (CNS) — Although sand castles and sculptures usually conjure up images of hot summers on the beach, the Vatican will unveil a massive Nativity scene made entirely of sand during the cold Roman winter. According to the Vatican newspaper, L’Osservatore Romano, the Nativity scene displayed in St. Peter’s Square will feature a 52-foot wide sand sculpture from Jesolo, an Italian seaside resort town roughly 40 miles north of Venice. The intricate sculpture, along with a 42-foot-tall red spruce tree donated by the Diocese of ConcordiaPordenone in the northern Italian region of Veneto, will be unveiled at the Vatican’s annual tree lighting ceremony Dec. 7. Bas-relief sand sculptures, like the one that will be featured in St. Peter’s Square, are a tradition in Jesolo which, since 1998, has been the home of an annual sand sculpture festival.

CNS PHOTO/JESOLO TOURISM OFFICE

A depiction of Mary’s and Joseph’s journey to Bethlehem sculpted from sand is displayed in the Italian resort town of Jesolo in December 2017. Jesolo will donate a 52-foot wide Nativity scene made entirely of highly compressed sand to the Vatican. The sculpture will be unveiled during the Vatican’s annual tree lighting ceremony Dec. 7. At the helm of the sculpture project, dubbed the “Sand Nativity,” is U.S. sculptor Rich Varano from New

Smyrna Beach, Florida. According to the city’s website for the Nativity scene, Varano is an accomplished sand

sculptor with over 40 years’ experience and has organized various international sand sculpture festivals, including the annual event in Jesolo. Varano is joined by 11 artists from around the world, including Damon Farmer from Kentucky and Canadian artist David Ducharme, who are assisting in creating the massive “Sand Nativity” before its December unveiling. Jesolo mayor Valerio Zogga presented sketch designs of the project in December 2017 to Archbishop Francesco Moraglia of Venice. The process of creating the sculptures involves compressing sand and water into blocks that are then sculpted to life-size figures. Unlike the sand castles vacationers often see disintegrate by a single touch or the occasional passing wave, the compression allows for a more durable sculpture that is able to withstand light rain. The “Sand Nativity” scene and tree will remain in St. Peter’s Square until the feast of the Lord’s Baptism Jan. 13, L’Osservatore Romano reported.

NOVEMBER 9, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS

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DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time. Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com.

STREAM director/teacher - St. Ann School has an immediate opening for a STREAM director/teacher serving students in grades K-8. The qualified candidate will possess a passion for Catholic education, enthusiasm, and a strong knowledge, background and experience in the STREAM fields. The candidate must hold a current teaching license. Teachers who are interested in joining an innovative and faith-filled team of educators should email a resume to Mr. Michael Riley at: mriley@stannpv.org. Spanish teacher - St. Ann Catholic School has a parttime immediate opening for teaching K - 4 Spanish. The successful applicant will embody a love of lifelong learning and a joy in sharing their love of the Spanish language. Qualified candidates will possess a passion for Catholic education, hold a current Kansas teaching license and possess their world language certification. If interested in this position, submit a resume directly to Mr. Michael Riley by sending an email to: mriley@ stannpv.org. Keyboarding teacher - St. Ann Catholic School has a part-time immediate opening for teaching K - 4 keyboarding. Successful applicants will embody a love of lifelong learning and a joy in working with young people. Qualified candidates will possess a passion for Catholic education and hold a current Kansas teaching license. If interested in this position, please submit a resume directly to Mr. Michael Riley by sending an email to: mriley@stannpv.org.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Ceilings - Renew your old textured, yellowed ceilings! Interior painting. No mess. Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 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) 935-0176 Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 829-4336. STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa. NELSON CREATION’S L.L.C. Home makeovers, kitchen, bath. All interior and exterior remodeling and repairs. Family owned, experienced, licensed and insured. Member St. Joseph, Shawnee. Kirk Nelson. (913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net 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. Tree Trimming Tree Trimming/Landscaping Insured/References Free Estimates/Local Parishioner Tony (913) 620-6063

Father-and-son home exteriors and remodeling - Celebrating my 15th year in The Leaven as a small business owner! We do decks, siding, windows, doors, tile work, floors, wood rot, and interior and exterior painting. We can remodel bathrooms, kitchens or basements. We also reface cabinets and redo pesky popcorn ceilings. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230. Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., staining, wood rot, power wash, decks, doors and windows, masonry, hardwood floors, gutter cleaning, water heaters, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, ceiling fans, mowing and more!! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

SERVICES Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959.

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

FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) For sale - Two side-by-side crypts; tier B, 13 and 15, located in the St. Joseph Chapel at Mount Calvary Cemetery, the only two left in the chapel. Call (913) 269-6176 for pricing. For sale - Four adjoining roadside plots, section 8, lot 7, spaces 1 - 4, at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Kansas City, Kansas. Reasonably priced at $6400 with a value over $8500. Willing to divide plots. Call (785) 986-6480.

CAREGIVING

Tutoring - Available for grades K - 12. Also for test preparation for ACT, SAT, etc. For more information, call Kathleen at (913) 206-2151 or email: Klmamuric@yahoo.com.

Just like family - Let us care for your loved ones in their homes. Two ladies with over 50 years’ combined experience. Looking for night shift coverage, some days. Great price, great references. Both experienced with hospice care. Call Ophelia at (913) 570-7279 or Kara at (913) 3431602.

Speedy Guzman Moving and delivery Licensed and insured Anytime (816) 935-0176

CNA - Professional caregiver provides quality private home care assistance for the elderly in the comfort of your home. Part-time or full-time assignments. Will consider live-in arrangements. 25 years seasoned experience. Dedicated to clients. Call (816) 806-8104.

Water damage restoration - Framing, insulation, painting, Sheetrock, mold treatment and lead-safe certified. Insurance claims welcome. Serving Wyandotte and Johnson counties for 25 years. Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144.

Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.benefits ofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

Win disability benefits - Disabled and no longer able to work? Get help winning Social Security disability benefits. Free consultation. Eight years’ experience. No fee unless you win. Call (785) 331-6452 or send an email to: montemace2000@yahoo.com or visit montemacedisability.com. 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. HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install! “Kevin of all trades” your professional organizer and “Honey-do” specialist. Call or email me today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055 or KOATorganizing@ gmail.com. Insured. References. 8 to Your IdealWeight Get Real, Get Healthy, Get Empowered. Release your weight and restore your power in 8 weeks! Certified coach: kathioppold.8toyouridealweight.com.

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.

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.

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.

Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, mulching, Hedge trimming, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002

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.

REAL ESTATE Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it? We buy it all at once in as-is condition. Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com. We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family-owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000. I NEED HOUSES! - We are members of Holy Trinity Parish and we pay cash for any real estate without any realtor commissions or fees. We buy houses in any condition, including bad foundations. If you would like an easy, no-hassle sale at a fair price, please call me. We have 15 years of experience. Mark Edmondson, (913) 980-4905.

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 - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

NOVEMBER 9, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR GIFT GALLERY Curé of Ars School 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood Nov. 9 from 5:30 - 8:30 p.m. (preferential shopping evening. Tickets are $20 and include Saturday event) Nov. 10 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. (Tickets: $5)

This is a premiere shopping event that brings together more than 40 artisan and vendors selling unique and upscale items. This fundraising event is hosted by Curé of Ars Mothers of Young Children in partnership with Country Club Bank. Proceeds benefit local children’s charities and scholarship funds.

POTLUCK HOLIDAY LUNCHEON Most Pure Heart of Mary (Formation Room) 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Nov. 11 from 1 - 3 p.m.

The Christian widow and widowers organization will host the potluck dinner. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call (785) 233-7350.

ROSARY RALLY IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA Our Lady of Sorrows Parish 2552 Gillham Rd., Kansas City, Missouri Nov. 11 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.

LADIES NIGHT OUT Divine Mercy Parish 555 W. Main St., Gardner Nov. 16 from 6 - 8 p.m.

Enjoy a night out with friends and make a sign for your home for Christmas. Drink a glass of wine and have fun. Go online to: www.madedecor.com/events to register and choose a design. All proceeds will go to Just5Days mission trip for confirmation students and the Steubenville trip for Life Teen.

EVERYTHING CHRISTMAS GARAGE SALE Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 106 Exchange St., Emporia Nov. 9 from 4 - 7 p.m. Nov. 10 from 8 a.m. - noon

All proceeds from this Christmas garage sale benefit the youth group.

BREATHE RESPITE CARE PROGRAM Holy Cross School 8101 W. 95th St., Overland Park Nov. 10 from 4 - 8 p.m.

BREATHE respite care provides the gift of time away from caregiving for families who have a loved one with a disability age 5 years or older. If you have any questions, contact Tom Racunas at (913) 647-3054 or send an email to: tracunas@archkck.org. To register a loved one for the program or to volunteer, go to the website at: www.archkck.org/special needs and complete the online form.

Biagio Mazza will present a talk on the Gospel according to Luke. The suggested donation is $25. Register by Nov. 12 at: info@pb renewalcenter.org or call (816) 415-3745.

‘THE MASS’ St. Pius X Parish (Kelly Hall) 5500 Woodson, Mission Nov. 15 at 7 p.m.

This adult education class on the Mass is a six-week course using Bishop Robert Barron’s “The Mass” DVDs. The classes will continue for six weeks, with the exception of the week of Thanksgiving. There is no cost and baby-sitting will be available. For more information, call Cliff or Kathy at (913) 3417732.

A donation of $15 includes one bingo card, one chili supper, dessert and all the cold beverages you can drink until the games end. There will be three blackout games and a raffle. For tickets, call Sandy Cannon at (913) 396-1564 or Cathy Schneider at (913) 3711561. No one under 21 will be admitted.

EL SALVADOR CRAFT SALE Good Shepherd Parish 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee Nov. 10 after the 5 p.m. Mass Nov. 11 after the 8 a.m., 10 a.m., 12:15 p.m. and 5 p.m. Masses

‘YOUR LIFE SPEAKS’ Hayden High School 401 Gage Blvd., Topeka Nov. 15 at 7 p.m. (Doors open at 6 p.m.)

Nathan Harmon, a number-one-booked speaker for youth will be speaking at Hayden High School. He talks from real-life experiences about suicide, bullying, drugs and alcohol, and bad choices. Find out more online at: YourLifeSpeaks.org. For more information, call Jerry Hudgins at (785) 338-2965, or send an email to: Sole_Reason@yahoo.com. Kids are welcome. A freewill donation is welcome as well.

TAKE-A-LOOK THURSDAY Holy Spirit School 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park Nov. 15 from 9 - 11 a.m.

This sale will feature fair trade products made in El Salvador, including hand-sewn items from Good Shepherd’s twinning community (El Buen Pastor), art pieces, Christmas ornaments, painted crosses, locally grown coffee and more.

Come join us for information, tours of the school and refreshments. Choose a learning environment that’s welcoming and Christ-centered. For more information, call Anita Pauls at (913) 492-2582 or send an email to: apauls@hscatholic.org.

FALL MEAL St. Ann (parish hall) 301 Williams St., Effingham Nov. 11 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

HEALING MASS Curé of Ars Parish (Father Burak Room) 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood Nov. 15 at 7:30 p.m.

There will be a dinner of ham and beans or chicken and noodles for the cost of a freewill offering. Carryouts are available by calling (913) 833-2268.

Purchase Christmas gifts from the vendors and crafts people at St. Patrick’s holiday bazaar and craft fair.

HISTORIC HOMES CHRISTMAS TOUR Atchison Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

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

SUNDAY BREAKFAST Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 106 Exchange St., Emporia Nov. 18 from 8 - 11 a.m.

The Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus will be serving breakfast for a freewill offering.

Following a memorial Mass for deceased members, there will be a business meeting and social. If anyone knows of a member or family in need of the circle’s prayers, call Theresa Smith-Lawton at (785) 640-1403. If you are interested in or would like more information about the Daughters of Isabella, call Cindy Keen at (785) 228-9863.

WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 21 from 10 - 11 a.m.

Kansas City Tsuruoka Karate will help you learn ways to defend yourself and others. The class will be facilitated by Sidney Thompson.

The historic homes Christmas tour benefits St. Benedict School in Atchison. The ticket price includes a tour of five homes, two museums and lunch with a craft and bake sale at the school (201 Division St.). For ticket sales and information, call (913) 360-0342. A limited number of tickets are available.

MEMORIAL LITURGY Curé of Ars Parish 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood Nov. 17 at 8 a.m.

POLKA DANCE Knights of Columbus Hall 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m.

Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus will host bingo. There will be cash prizes, and concessions will be sold. For more information, call (913) 850-3348.

CHILI SUPPER/TURKEY BINGO Holy Family Parish (Mejak Hall) 513 Ohio Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 10 at 5 p.m.

HOLIDAY BAZAAR/CRAFT FAIR St. Patrick Parish 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 17 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

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

BINGO NIGHT Sacred Heart Parish 2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 10 at 7 p.m.

is a freewill offering. The proceeds will go to Divine Mercy middle school students who will attend Just5Days (a Catholic hands-on mission) in July 2019.

DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall) 5972 S.W. 25th St., Topeka Nov. 18 at 12:30 p.m.

We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary. Benediction will follow, as well as an opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scapular. For more information, visit the website at: www. rosaryrallieskc.org.

‘WELCOMING THE POOR, THE OUTCAST AND THE STRANGER’ Precious Blood Renewal Center 2120 St. Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri Nov. 14 from 6:45 - 8:30 p.m.

The Brian McCarty Band will play polka and timeless dance music. The cost to attend is $10. Purchase beer or BYOB with setups provided, along with snacks. Proceeds go toward the priests and seminarians fund. For table reservations of six or more, call Dan Nicks at (913) 406-8717.

TURKEY BINGO All Saints Parish (hall) 809 Vermont, Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 17 at 5 p.m.

A donation of $10 includes one card, a Polish sausage and kraut sandwich, and a drink. Food will be served at 5 p.m. and bingo begins at 6 p.m. For more information, call Pat Waliczek at (913) 371-4728.

HOLY SPIRIT HAWK HUSTLE 5K AND KIDS FUN RUN Johnson County Community College (crosscountry course) 12345 College Blvd., Overland Park Nov. 17 at 7:30 a.m.

Registration is from 7:30 - 9 a.m., the run begins at 9:30 a.m. It will be chip timed for runners. Prizes will be awarded by age group. Go online to register at: holyspirit. schoolauction.net/hawkhustle.

SPAGHETTI DINNER Divine Mercy Parish 555 W. Main St., Gardner Nov. 17 at 6 p.m.

The cost for this spaghetti dinner fundraiser

75TH ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION St. Agnes Parish 5250 Mission Rd., Roeland Park Nov. 25 at 3 p.m.

Celebrate the 75th anniversary of the dedication of St. Agnes. The celebration will begin with Mass followed by a reception in the parish center. Join in remembering the early years of St. Agnes and see the transformation of the parish center.

‘ADVENT WONDER AND HOPE’ Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison Nov. 29 from 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Take a day to reflect and prepare for the sacred season of Advent. Come to listen, share, create, pray and enjoy some much-needed sacred silence. The day will be facilitated by Mary Kay Whitacre, who is a staff member of the Sophia Center. The suggested donation is $25 and includes lunch. Call (913) 360-6173 or visit the website at: www.sophiaspiritualitycenter.org.

PENITENTIAL RETREAT Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton Nov. 30 - Dec. 2

The retreat begins at 6 p.m. on Nov. 30 and concludes on Sunday, Dec. 2, and is a response to the abuse crisis in the church. Friday evening begins with check-in at 6 p.m., orientation at 6:30 p.m., Mass, outdoor Stations of the Cross and the beginning of perpetual adoration for the weekend. Saturday begins with morning prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours at 8 a.m., Mass, Angelus, Divine Mercy chaplet, evening prayer from the Liturgy of the Hours and night prayer at various times throughout the day. Sunday will begin with morning prayer at 8 a.m. and Mass at 10 a.m. The retreat will feature silence and fasting on bread and water only. There is no charge for the retreat, but alms are requested to be given to an organization that helps abuse victims. People are welcome to come and go as they wish — stay for a day, a day and evening, the whole weekend. If interested, call (913) 7738255 or send an email to: info@christspeace. com.

NOVEMBER 9, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY THIRTY-SECOND WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Nov. 11 THIRTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME 1 Kgs 17: 10-16 Ps 146: 7-10 Heb 9: 24-28 Mk 12: 38-44 Nov. 12 Josaphat, bishop, martyr Ti 1: 1-9 Ps 24: 1-6 Lk 17: 1-6 Nov. 13 Frances Xavier Cabrini, virgin Ti 2: 1-8, 11-14 Ps 37: 3-4, 18, 23, 27, 29 Lk 17: 7-10 Nov. 14 Wednesday Ti 3: 1-7 Ps 23: 1-6 Lk 17: 11-19 Nov. 15 Albert the Great, bishop, doctor of the church Phlm 7-20 Ps 146: 7-10 Lk 17: 20-25 Nov. 16 Margaret of Scotland; Gertrude, virgin 2 Jn 4-9 Ps 119: 1-2, 10-11, 17-18 Lk 17: 26-37 Nov. 17 Elizabeth of Hungary, religious 3 Jn 5-8 Ps 112: 1-6 Lk 18: 1-8

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This definitely gets my stamp of approval

ooray for Scooby-Doo! For this chronic procrastinator, anything that can motivate me is a welcome friend. Although I use modern means of technology to communicate — like email, text and Snapchat — my favorite way to keep in touch with others is still good ol’ snail mail. I enjoy the feel of pen on paper. It’s nice to have to think before you write, because you can’t just move a cursor around and delete words as on a computer. And the fact that it takes time and effort to do reminds me that the person I’m corresponding with is worth it. So, what does Scooby-Doo have to do with all of this? Well, he’s now on a postage stamp — and he motivates me. I like to keep things fresh. In fact, I don’t think I’d write a single letter if the only stamps I had to use were those standard (boring) American flags. That’s why you’ll find me regularly at the post office checking

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.

out what’s new — as in, the latest commemorative stamps. Right now in my stash are the aforementioned Scooby-Doos, some beautiful reproductions of Andrew Wyeth’s art and even a few colorful stamps extoling the art of magic. But if you’ve not sampled what the U.S. Postal Service has come up with recently, you might be surprised to find circular stamps featuring the balls used in various sports. What makes these special is

that they’re textured. In other words, if you run your finger over them, you can feel the dimples on the golf ball or the stitching on the baseball. Even more innovative are the stamps called Frozen Treats, featuring popsicles and other ice cream goodies. The big deal about these is they’re scratch and sniff! Very cool, if you’ll excuse the pun. Having these stamps makes me want to share them with others. That means I find myself sitting down to write out a card or two, just so I can attach them to an envelope. Over the past couple of weeks, I’ve celebrated five funerals. At each

of them, I encouraged those in attendance to make time to keep in touch with people who are important to them, especially the ill or elderly. Sadly, once someone has died, that opportunity is gone. Given all the ways we have to communicate nowadays, we seem to be more neglectful of it than ever. So, my proposal is to revert to snail mail. Since a physical card is pretty rare to get in the mail anymore, it stands out amid all the junk. It’s something you can hold onto, display and enjoy over and over again. It has “personality.” This time of year is ideal for sending cards. Thanksgiving is a prime opportunity to let someone who has had an impact on your life know of your appreciation. And, of course, with Christmas sneaking ever closer, cards are a traditional way to celebrate the season. As I write this, I’m eagerly awaiting the last components of my Christmas writing kit. After all, if I’m going to spend 50 cents for a

stamp, then I’m jazzing up my correspondence with Christmas address labels, stamps and stickers. Due to arrive soon are the Christmas cards and prayer cards that I’ll insert into each one — along with a handwritten note, of course. By the way, I’m not getting a kickback from the post office or the Printery House of Conception Abbey (where I buy my cards) to write this! I’d love to write more, but there’s a note I’ve got to get to. A young man in Rossville named Declan send this wonderful, encouraging, handwritten note that truly made my day. I can’t not respond. This 14-year-old already understands the power of snail mail. We could learn something from him. Why not use these next few weeks to get or stay in touch with those you love and appreciate. Doing so will certainly earn you their stamp of approval.

Clericalism a concern even in Jesus’ time

n reaction to the Pennsylvania grand jury report on sexual abuse in the church, Pope Francis issued a letter “to the people of God.” In it, he wrote: “Clericalism, whether fostered by priests themselves or by laypersons, leads to an excision in the ecclesial body that supports and helps to perpetuate many of the evils that we are condemning today. To say ‘no’ to abuse is to say an emphatic ‘no’ to all forms of clericalism.” These words echo Sunday’s Gospel reading, Mk 12:38-44. Jesus singles out scribes who take advantage of their position. He warns against those who seek honors for themselves rather than glory for God: “Beware of the scribes, who like to go

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.

around in long robes and accept greetings in the marketplaces, seats of honor in synagogues, and places of honor at banquets.” He similarly condemns those who

prey on the vulnerable for financial gain: “They devour the houses of widows.” Both Jesus and Pope Francis condemn clericalism. It is an attitude of superiority that often manifests itself by its emphasis upon honorary titles and distinctive dress, as we see in the Gospel reading. At its heart, clericalism automatically assigns a higher degree of holiness to the ordained,

even though the Blessed Virgin Mary, the most important of all the saints, was not a priest. That both Jesus and Pope Francis find a need to condemn clericalism testifies to the persistence of this evil. Some things never change. We should note that Jesus does not condemn all scribes, but only those who take advantage of their status. Just last Sunday, we heard Jesus praise in the Gospel reading a scribe who had understood and approved his message. He told the scribe, “You are not far from the kingdom of God.” Jesus does not issue a universal condemnation. Instead, he warns about unscrupulous scribes. But, apart from preying upon the vulnerable for financial gain, what

harm can they do? Why the warning? What danger does clericalism lead to, whether among scribes or Catholic clergy? Are they only harming themselves? Pope Francis points to the specific harm of sexual abuse by clergy — and, more importantly, its cover-up — as a result of clericalism. Clergy can feel immune to criticism when they are elevated above the laity. If they belong to a privileged class, offenders may be insulated from the scrutiny of others. Others within the clergy may protect them, because “they’re just one of the boys.” In that way, clericalism can enable abuse and hide it, so that it escapes detection. That is why Jesus warns us against it.

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POPE FRANCIS

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How is it that God in heaven can hear the cries of the poor, but so many people watching or standing nearby either cannot or just do not care, Pope Francis asked. People must make “a serious examination of conscience to understand whether we are really capable of listening to the poor,” the pope said in a message for the World Day of the Poor. The recently established commemoration and the period of reflection and action preceding it are meant

to give Christians a chance to follow Christ’s example and concretely share a moment of love, hope and respect together with those in need in one’s community, the pope said in the message dated June 13, the feast of St. Anthony of Padua, patron saint of the poor. The Vatican released the message to the public June 14. The World Day of the Poor — to be marked each year on the 33rd Sunday of Ordinary Time — will be celebrated Nov. 18 this year and will focus on a verse from Psalm 34: “This poor one cried out, and the Lord heard.” — CNS

11/18

NOVEMBER 9, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Lay ministers burdened by crisis, too By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Educating children in their faith is never easy. But today’s parents, youth ministers and educators are trying to introduce Christ to young people in the midst of great turmoil in the church.

‘Difficult to evangelize’ “It worries my heart,” said Angie Bittner, rural youth outreach coordinator for the archdiocese, “because I think those who are on the fence easily grab onto stuff like [the abuse crisis] to jump a w a y from the church.” Doctor L u k e M u r r a y, the Berkel Chair of Theology at the St. Lawrence Campus Center at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, agreed. “In general, it’s made it more difficult to evangelize, at least with well-educated people on a university campus who dismiss you a little more easily,” he said. In her work as coordinator of youth ministry at Mother Teresa Parish in Topeka, Nancy Ruoff has found that recent events have generated some questions among some, and proved somewhat enlightening for others. “It was an ‘aha’ moment for some of the kids,” she said, “who now better understand what Virtus is about and why staff and volunteers at our parish are so committed to following Virtus guidelines.” But not all kids are asking questions about the crisis — even when ministers are prepared to answer them. Youth were encouraged to share their concerns at a recent youth gathering within the archdiocese, said Bittner, and ministers were prepared for a lot of questions about sex abuse in the church. “No one asked about it, even in an anonymous question-and-answer session,” said Bittner. “It’s just wasn’t on their radar.”

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Angie Bittner, rural youth outreach coordinator for the archdiocese, takes part in family camp at Prairie Star Ranch. Bittner worries that people on the fence about the Catholic faith will fall away because of the abuse crisis. At KU, Murray said he found questions and concern surrounding abuse in the church to emerge from postgraduate students rather than undergrads. “We brought in a canon lawyer to talk to the law student group about the actual details of what the church is supposed to do internally, how [the church] relates to civil laws, when [it] has to turn over an accuser and things like that,” said Murray. Affirming that the church is more than its leaders, Murray encourages his students to recognize the church as a more than human reality.

“I always affirm that our faith is not in fallible bishops or fallible human beings but in the Lord Jesus,” he said.

Steps toward safety and truth Eric White, principal of Most Pure Heart of Mary School in Topeka, has had a few — but not many — conversations with parents and youth about the sex abuse crisis. “Our parents at our school here know that their kids are safe,” he said.

“We take it very seriously.” White has worked in education since before the first wave of sex abuse crises hit the American church in 2002 in Boston and has noted considerable changes in safety procedure since. “When it happened in 2002, a lot of safety protocols were put in place,” he said. “Virtus was put in place and there was an awareness of needing to educate the community on how to keep kids safe. “With the background checks and the level of training everyone who works with kids [receives] on what to look for and how to protect kids, I just can’t believe there would be any place on the planet that would be safer for kids than a Catholic school today.” The intensity of Virtus training certainly leaves an impression. “The videos where actual abusers were talking about how they would prey on children,” said Murray, “was gross, but also informative.” For White, another difference he has seen between 2002 and the recent crisis is a shift in the way he himself has reacted. “I don’t remember having any sympathy for the pastors back then,” he said. “I’m at a much different phase in my life now. I feel sympathy or empathy for the pastors now [who have to deal with the fallout]. I pray for them.” “A lot of laypeople are angry, but they still love the church,” said Murray. “When people see action built up over time, I think people who love the church will trust again.”

SOURCE: CENTER FOR APPLIED RESEARCH IN THE APOSTOLATE

Virtus training teaches both adults, kids what to watch for By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Parents do a lot of things to protect their children: immunizations, bicycle helmets, car seats and smoke detectors — just to name a few. But not all dangers out there are material or situational. There are human dangers, too: predators who stalk and sexually abuse children. This scary truth has led many entities

— schools, sports clubs, outdoors clubs — to develop youth protection policies that include training for adults and education for youths. Revelations about sexual abuse of children in the Catholic Church led the U.S. bishops to meet in Dallas in 2002 and approve the “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.” All dioceses that signed on to the charter are required to have safe environment programs comprised of training for both adults and children. They

are also audited regularly to ensure compliance. The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas implemented the Virtus training program for adults in 2003. Anyone in the church who has substantial contact with minors — priests, deacons, religious, teachers, coaches, school staff, parish personnel and volunteers — is required to undergo a background check. They are also required to attend Virtus child protection and awareness training. Afterward, they are required to

undertake continued training through Virtus online bulletins. Additionally, the archdiocese has widely distributed blue-colored cards that have reporting phone numbers and procedures, as well as a brief summary of a plan of child protection. The cards must be posted visibly in various locations. Archdiocesan employees are also required to read and sign the archdiocesan Child Protection Policy, Code >> See “PROGRAMS” on page 4