11-12-10 Vol. 32 No. 15

www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 32, No. 15 NOVEMBER 12, 2010

Greg Bole, immigration clinic attorney for La Luz Center for Immigration Legal Assistance, goes over paperwork with Father Pat Murphy, CS, animator for the archdiocesan Hispanic ministry program.

A shining light

I

La Luz Center provides legal aid to would-be citizens

mmigration. The issue has been a controLa Luz, which is Spanish for “the light,” provides versial one in almost every recent election. low-cost legal services related to immigration for But there is so much sound and fury the foreign-born population. These services inover illegal immigration, that there is little clude consultations on immigrants’ rights, the oxygen left in the room for a naturalization process, and various sane discussion of its counother immigration services.

Story by terpart — the legal process “We already have a list of clients, Kara Hansen by which an immigrant to this counso it’s exciting to be off and going,” try may become a resident, and evensaid Greg Bole, immigration clinic attually a citizen. torney for La Luz Center.

Photo by Catholic Charities of Northeast The name for the program was Susan McSpadden Kansas is trying to change all that. carefully chosen to reflect the unique On Oct. 1, it opened the doors of its needs of the immigrant population, newest offering — La Luz Center for Immigration said Bole, who, as new residents of the United Legal Assistance — at 2220 Central Avenue in KanStates, may feel as though they are living in the sas City, Kan. shadows.

“These are people who wanted a better life for their children and now they’re forced to live in the shadows,” said Bole. “Anything we can do to make their daily lives better, to bring them to light, is extremely important.”

Bole said many of the referrals the clinic receives are by word of mouth from members of the immigrant community, though social services agencies are aware of the program and can refer people to it as well.

Other referrals will come from the animator for the archdiocesan Hispanic ministry program, Father Pat Murphy, CS. “I think Greg Bole’s presence at La Luz Center Turn to “they deserve” on page 5

2 archbishop

THE LEAVEN • november 12, 2010

THE LEAVEN • November 12, 2010

Witness to Sainthood

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

When borne with faith and love, suffering can be redemptive

R

ecently, I was asked by a relative for some advice regarding the language for a Durable Power of Attorney for Health Care Decisions and an advance directives document.

Specifically, she wanted to know, according to Catholic moral principles, what is permissible and not permissible regarding the issue of assisted feeding.

My relative’s question is an ethical decision that confronts many individuals and families today.

The church teaches that the provision of food and water (nutrition and hydration), no matter how it is provided, should be considered basic comfort care and not a medical intervention. One is not always necessarily required to have a feeding tube surgically inserted, although it is a very simple medical procedure. But once a feeding tube is in place, it is not morally permissible to stop feeding a person — thus starving or dehydrating a person to death.

Actually, spoon-feeding a person, when this is possible, is in many ways preferable to tube-feeding. First of all, spoon feeding allows much more human interaction with the person being fed and the one who assists them. Oftentimes, tube-feeding is used because it is easier and less time consuming for the care providers, not because the individual can no longer be fed orally.

There are conditions where an individual can no longer swallow or take food by mouth, but will do quite well with tube-feeding. Unless there is some other reason why tube-feeding creates a true burden for the individual, the minor surgery required to insert the tube is outweighed by the good provided by assisted feeding. On the other hand, there are also conditions — e.g., the body is no longer able to assimilate food — when continuing to feed the person either orally or by tube actually adds to the person’s discomfort and no longer pro-

vides a benefit. In these instances, the person should be kept as comfortable as possible, but they should obviously not be fed.

Sometimes individuals lose the desire to eat — not because of a medical issue, but because of depression. In such instances, the causes of the depression — e.g., loneliness, loss of independence, grief, etc. — need to be addressed. In the case of an elderly person, whose bodily systems are shutting down, it may not be advisable or necessary to admit them to a hospital in order to have a feeding tube inserted, which may only add to their confusion and bodily burdens at this time. However, every effort must be made to continue to feed them by mouth and to surround them with love and care.

In the case of a cancer patient, who is experiencing severe pain, every effort should be made to provide them with the best pain management care possible.

In most cases, pain can be greatly alleviated. It is even permissible to hasten death unintentionally by providing adequate pain medication. However, it is never permissible to kill a person intentionally by overdosing them with pain medication. Nor is it permissible to kill a person by starvation or dehydration as a “means” for alleviating pain.

In ancient Rome, suicide was viewed as actually a “noble act” in the face of dishonor or ignoble suffering at the hands of an enemy. The early Christians, while exalting martyrs as true heroes who bore suffering bravely and were fearless in the face of death, drew a bright line of separation between martyrdom and the taking of one’s own life.

Christianity has always rejected suicide as an act of fortitude, but has

K E AT I N G Mud Jacking

always understood it to be an act of injustice against God who is the author of life. Though suicide must have been tempting as a means to avoid the cruel tortures devised by the persecutors of the early Christians, it was always rejected as a moral option. In fact, these early heroes of Christianity rejoiced to be found worthy to suffer for the name of Jesus. They saw suffering as means to unite themselves in some way with the Passion of Jesus.

Christians have always understood suffering, whether inflicted by an enemy of the faith or by illness, as having redemptive power when borne with faith and love. The Catechism of the Catholic Church, in its treatment of the meaning of the sacrament of the sick, speaks to the matter of redemptive suffering: “By the grace of this sacrament the sick person receives the strength and the gift of uniting himself more closely to Christ’s Passion: in a certain way he is consecrated to bear fruit by configuration to the Savior’s redemptive Passion. Suffering, a consequence of original sin, acquires a new meaning; it becomes a participation in the saving work of Jesus.” (no. 1521) In many living wills, advance directives instruments and/or Durable Power of Attorney documents, assisted feeding is treated like a medical intervention that a patient can decline for any reason.

This is not consistent with Catholic moral teaching.

Many, if not all of us, do not want to become a “burden” for others. Yet, our natural instinct to avoid suffering and our admirable desire not to make the lives of our children or others difficult by our physical care are not morally acceptable reasons to end our lives by refusing normal comfort care. Our acceptance of physical limitations and the sufferings they impose can be a powerful witness to others about the sanctity of all human life as well as a powerful means of intercessory prayer for the good of others.

Just as a parent would never consider it an undue burden to feed an infant or

Archbishop Naumann’s weekly calendar

Nov. 12-13 Conference on exorcism — Baltimore Nov. 14 U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities meeting USCCB Life and Dignity of the Human Person bishops’ working group meeting Nov. 15-18 USCCB general meetings Nov. 15 Region IX bishops meeting Co-host reception and dinner sponsored Cardinal Newman Society’s Center for the Advancement of Catholic Higher Education Nov. 18 National Committee for the Human Life Amendment meeting Nov. 19-20 Wedding in St. Louis

Archbishop Keleher’s weekly calendar

Nov. 13 To Baltimore for USCCB meetings Nov. 14 USCCB Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception meeting Nov. 15-18 USCCB general meetings

young child, who is incapable of feeding himself, then an adult child can never rightfully consider the care of an aged or infirmed parent as a burden.

Through the eyes of faith, we see both circumstances as precious opportunities to love and to serve another. Rather than seeing our infirmity as an unjust burden imposed on another, we need to pray for the humility to allow our physical weakness to be used as an opportunity for holiness and grace for those whom we love.

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On the flight over, they were delighted to find they were with a group from Sacred Heart Church in Shawnee also traveling to the event.

The couple arrived in Rome on Oct. 15 and stayed in a hotel where a large group of Josephite Sisters welcomed them. The Petersons were invited to share breakfast and dinner with the group.

One evening, Bishop Justin Joseph Bianchini of the Diocese of Geraldton, Australia, was at the table. The Sisters asked Peterson again to share his story.

“And my comment to him was, ‘I don’t think this is my story,’” Peterson said.

“This is God’s story, and Mary and I are players in it.”

God is always at the center of Peterson’s tale. He considers the saints his holy mentors, and he makes it clear that he did not pray to Sister Mary MacKillop, but asked her to pray with him.

On the evening of Oct. 16, the Petersons attended a presentation on the life of Sister Mary MacKillop. At 7:15 the next morning, they were waiting in line to get into St. Peter’s Square.

In addition to Mary MacKillop, there were five other candidates for canonization. Each candidate received 100 tickets for the seats closest to the pope.

The Petersons were overwhelmed when they realized two of the Australian saint’s tickets were reserved for them.

“There were so many Australians there,” said Peterson. “I couldn’t believe we were two of the people selected to be up there.”

In total, 8,000 Australians helped make up the crowd of 50,000 present for the canonizations.

“It was the Catholic Church in all its traditions and elegance and beauty,” said Maura Peterson. “And that was great.”

“One of the neat things is it was a traditional Latin Mass,” said Peterson. “And it had been a long time since I had seen a traditional Latin Mass.”

“So you didn’t really understand much of what [Pope Benedict] said,” said his wife. “But the joy of the people responding to him was fun to watch.”

Joy was definitely the emotion of the day.

“The canonization was very brief,” said Peterson. “The pope said this prayer

By Jill Ragar Esfeld

“I

Special to The Leaven

probably told that story 40 times the first day I was there,” said St. Patrick, Kansas City, Kan., parishioner Rick Peterson.

Peterson was referring to his recent visit to Rome, where he and his wife Maura witnessed the canonization of St. Mary MacKillop, and gave thanks for the disappearance of his Parkinson’s symptoms, which he believes to have been granted through her intercession.

Peterson’s case has been documented by the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart, the order co-founded by Sister Mary, ever since the trembling in his hands disappeared after he prayed at her tomb during the 2008 World Youth Day in Sydney, Australia.

His wife never tires of hearing the story.

“It is an awesome story,” she said. “The World Youth Day theme was ‘Call to witness’ and so there really is that feel of being called to witness God’s love, God’s presence. And this is one way he can do it.”

Officially, the cessation of Peterson’s symptoms is called a significant favor.

It has not gone through the rigorous investigation process required to label it a miracle.

Last December, the pope approved the church’s recognition of a second miracle attributed to the intercession of Sister Mary, signaling the final step in her canonization process.

“If this latest [miracle] had not gone through and been approved, mine was one of two or three others that would have gone forward,” said Peterson. “It will never go forward now; the sheer cost of doing it is prohibitive.”

Shortly after the second miracle was approved, the Petersons got a phone call from Sister Maria Casey, postulator for the cause of Sister Mary MacKillop, inviting them to come to Rome for the canonization.

Because the couple’s wedding anniversary was in September, they decided to make the trip a gift to one another as a celebration of their 30 years of marriage.

“It was Rick’s hope,” said Maura Peterson. “As his wife, I wanted to support him, and it was a chance of a lifetime to observe a canonization.”

Rick Peterson and his wife Maura stand below a tapestry of St. Mary MacKillop hanging in St. Peter’s Square before the canonization ceremony of the saint.

Turn to ‘Favor’ on page 6

Rick Peterson’s significant favor

Saint Mary of the Cross MacKillop Sister Mary MacKillop became eligible for sainthood in December 2009, after the Vatican approved a second miracle attributed to her intercession — that of Kathleen Evans, who was cured of lung and brain cancer in 1993.

Veronica Hopson, 72, was Sister Mary’s first miracle; she was cured of leukemia in 1961.

Born in 1842, MacKillop grew up in poverty as the first of eight children of Scottish immigrants. She moved to southern Australia to become

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a teacher, inviting the poor and local aborigines to attend free classes in a six-room stable.

In 1866, she co-founded the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart (the Josephites) with Father Julian Tenison Woods.

The order is still active today serving those in the country’s poorest areas.

To learn more about the Sisters of St. Joseph of the Sacred Heart, visit the Web site at: www.sosj.org.au.

In October 2007, Rick Peterson first found a Web site about Sister Mary MacKillop.

Because she was from Australia, he began praying that she would act as a tour guide and intercede for the safety of those traveling to Australia for World Youth Day 2008.

When he visited the tomb of the nun in Australia, Peterson said a different prayer.

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark@theleaven.com

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe@theleaven.com

Advertising Representative Jennifer Siebes jennifer@theleaven.com

President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita@theleaven.com

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd@theleaven.com

Reporter Kara Hansen kara@theleaven.com

“I knelt at her tomb [one] night and I said, ‘Lord, I’ve asked Mary to pray with me here again tonight, and I would love nothing more than to leave this Parkinson’s and the tremor buried in the soil right here, but only if it’s your will; and I’m going to go out and praise your name for whatever,’” he said.

“And I stood up and I walked away,” he continued. “And that

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) 7211570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com.

was the only prayer I said that night. I look back and I can’t believe I didn’t pray for my family or anything else. It’s what the Spirit moved me to do.”

As he left the site, Peterson paused to say another prayer of thanks.

“And about 10 minutes later, on the train, I looked down and the tremor was gone,” he said.

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4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • november 12, 2010

THE LEAVEN • november 12, 2010

Archdiocese to observe vigil for early human life

An angel’s assistance

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

Photo by Donna Kelsey

A sign in front of Holy Cross School in Overland Park promotes the Gabriel Project, a national ministry that supports women in crisis pregnancies and includes a hot line staffed by volunteers 24 hours a day.

Holy Cross makes effort to help crisis pregnancies

By Kara Hansen Leaven staff

OVERLAND PARK — A lot of people like to talk about helping women in crisis pregnancies.

Members of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park are just doing it.

“The Gabriel Project gives people the ability to make a difference in someone’s life,” explained Leah Conner, a Holy Cross parishioner. “People really like this because it’s action-driven. It’s a chance to put our beliefs into action.”

The Gabriel Project is a national, parish-based ministry that exists to support women in crisis pregnancies. At Holy Cross, the sign posted on the parish grounds is simple: “Pregnant? Need Help?” It then includes the name of the ministry and contact information.

The sign is located on 95th Street in Overland Park, by Holy Cross School.

The area is well-traveled, and the sign is easily visible to anyone passing by the property.

“This is an incredible opportunity for us to show the heart of our parish and to see the gift of each child,” said Father Bob Conroy, MC. “This is a chance for our church to open our arms to embrace women who are pregnant, especially under difficult or even painful circumstances.”

The Gabriel Project includes a hot

line staffed by a volunteer 24 hours a day. Volunteers take down basic intake information over the phone, offer support, and ultimately connect the caller with the Gabriel Project if she desires.

Once a woman calls the hot line and gets involved with the ministry, she is assigned one of the volunteers, a “Gabriel angel.” The volunteer offers friendship and support, at first focusing on assuring the pregnant woman that she is not alone.

“Each woman’s needs are different, but the volunteer’s job is to walk with her,” said Conner. “How long that relationship lasts is up to the mother-to-be.”

Father Bob said the Gabriel Project offers something social service organizations, however well-meaning and helpful, cannot touch.

“The beautiful thing about the Gabriel Project is that it’s not help from someone in an office,” said Father Bob. “It’s a relational, mother-to-mother ministry with a person who understands and has lived that experience.

They can walk with the mom-to-be in a relational ministry.”

Ron Kelsey, archdiocesan consultant for the pro-life office, said Project Gabriel will work hand in hand with area crisis pregnancy centers.

“The Gabriel Project doesn’t offer pregnancy tests or sonograms like a crisis pregnancy center would,” he said. “Volunteers with the Gabriel Proj-

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ect can collaborate and refer clients to pregnancy centers as needed.”

The Gabriel Project exists primarily to offer spiritual and emotional support to a pregnant woman, though material support is part of the ministry as well.

Volunteers can also refer a woman to other agencies that can help with baby items an expectant mother might need, or request items through potential parish donors.

“This outreach to women facing unplanned pregnancies is a wonderful way for a parish to serve as a public witness to the community,” said Kelsey.

The Gabriel Project is still new to Holy Cross, but Conner said the hot line has received several phone calls from women in need. Fifteen trained volunteers are ready to assist women directly, and there is a large team of parishioners dedicated to praying for the ministry’s success.

“We are grateful we have the chance to help women under these circumstances,” said Father Bob. “It’s a blessing and honor to extend the gift of welcome to women in need.”

The Gabriel Project’s hot line phone number at Holy Cross is (913) 6020306. For more information on the Gabriel Project or how to bring it to your parish, visit the Web site at: www. gabrielproject.com/help.htm or contact the archdiocesan pro-life office at (913) 647-0350.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — In the face of unrelenting attacks on human life, Pope Benedict XVI has called for an unprecedented worldwide vigil for all nascent human life on Nov. 27.

“The pope is calling for every diocese in the world to participate in this vigil for early human life on the first Saturday before Advent,” said Ron Kelsey, archdiocesan consultant for pro-life ministry. “Through the incarnation, God has demonstrated the value of human life, so Pope Benedict is using this as a very appropriate occasion to call attention to early human life.”

Parishes in the archdiocese may choose to hold their own vigil, but archdiocesan vigils will be held at 7 p.m. at Mater Dei-Holy Name Parish in Topeka and St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee.

The vigils in the archdiocese will last approximately one hour, said Kelsey. Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher will lead the vigil in Shawnee; Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will lead the vigil in Topeka. The vigil will include eucharistic adoration, vespers, supplications for life, Scripture readings, a rosary, and homily.

Cardinal Daniel DiNardo of the Archdiocese of GalvestonHouston and chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, said nascent (early or developing) human life is particularly at risk now, not only because of abortion, but also from researchers seeking to destroy developing humans in the embryonic stage.

The universal vigil, coming on the weekend after Thanksgiving Day, should lead all to thank God for the gift of life, he said.

“I heartily encourage all Catholics, whether at home or travelling over the Thanksgiving holidays, to take part in this special prayer, whose purpose, according to the Holy See,” he said, “is to ‘thank the Lord for his total self-giving to the world and for his incarnation, which gave every human life its real worth and dignity,’ and to ‘invoke the Lord’s protection over every human being called into existence.’”

For more information, contact Kelsey at (913) 647-0350, or by e-mail at: prolife@archkck.org.

LOCAL NEWS 5

Ongoing maintenance takes the despair out of repair

By Joe Bollig Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Do you worry about your house? Then consider the worries of Father Dan Gardner, pastor of All Saints Church here.

Father Gardner has 11 structures to worry about — all of them brick, and all of them aging. He knows all about building maintenance issues.

“The main concern would be the church towers at Sts. Cyril and Methodius,” said Father Gardner. “There are [steel] I-beams up there that are rusting.

And one tower up there has a bell in it. If we don’t take care of that, probably in the next few years it won’t be there.”

Father Gardner is not alone, according to Leon Roberts, archdiocesan director of real estate and construction.

“We’ve got numerous facilities in the archdiocese — churches and schools — that are of masonry construction, and that are well in excess of 40 years old,” said Roberts. “They are approaching a period of time when they’ll need tuck pointing and repair work to keep moisture out and keep them in good, sound condition.”

The many brick and stone buildings of Catholic churches, schools, and rectories were built to last. But Mother Nature is cruel and Father Time is unrelenting. It’s not a matter of if all these buildings will need maintenance; it’s a matter of when.

With these concerns in mind, the archdiocese sponsored a “lunch-andlearn” seminar on Oct. 27 at Savior Pas-

Leaven photo by Joe Bollig

Jim Dolby, a technical representative from the firm PROSOCO, points to places where water caused significant damage to a building’s masonry over time. Dolby was a presenter at a seminar on building maintenance and restoration at Savior Pastoral Center on Oct. 27. some very old church buildings. toral Center in Kansas City, Kan. The “[Parishioners like them] for their hissession was attended by pastors, parish administrators, and directors of parish toric value, family connections and their beauty,” said John Wood, who representmaintenance.

The main focus of the one-hour ed St. Charles Parish in Troy, St. Joseph Parish in Wathena, and St. Benedict Parseminar was masonry restoration and maintenance. It was conducted by rep- ish in Bendena.

But without ongoing maintenance resentatives of Building Restoration Corand repair, even relatively recent buildporation, which specializes in masonry, and PROSOCO, which specializes in ings are at risk.

“It can be expensive. But when repairs building cleaning, water repellents and are done right, they will last a very long protectorants. time,” said Wood. “The foundation of St. Generations of Catholics have made Benedict Church is well over 100 years great sacrifices to build beautiful and enduring structures in the archdiocese, old. When a building like that is built so soundly with good craftsmanship, the reand a lot of sentiment is attached to even

pairs we make today will make the building last longer than a newer building.”

Scott Porter, parish administrator at St. Agnes Parish in Roeland Park, thought the most beneficial part of the seminar for him was the discussion on cleaning stone. This is particularly relevant to St. Agnes Parish, where all the buildings are limestone.

“I know for a fact that our finance council and pastor are aware of [the need for] care and upkeep of a parish this old,” said Porter. “There’s always something that needs to be done.”

Building maintenance can be expensive, but it’s a matter of pay now or pay a whole lot more later, according to Porter.

“Absolutely, you have to stay ahead of the game,” he said. “If you think it costs too much to fix now, wait until it really gets broken. The costs will be overwhelming — not can be, will be.”

Building maintenance and inspection are good investments for a parish or school, said Roberts.

“Here’s an example,” he said. “If a parish spends $500 for an annual roof inspection and another $1,000 to fix the flashing and sealants, you could extend the life of the roof five to seven years.

Deferring the cost of $12 to $15 a square foot [for repair or replacement] is pretty significant.”

For assistance with choosing contractors, getting bids, or securing a building inspection, pastors and other parish leaders should contact Roberts at (913) 6470322.

‘They deserve to know what their rights are’ Continued from page 1 will be seen as a breath of fresh air that gives hope to people,” said Father Pat. “ I know he cannot do miracles, but he will be honest and just with the people he serves. I have already begun to send people to La Luz and they are extremely happy with the services they have received.”

But no special referral is needed for an immigrant to access the services of the new Charities program. Every Wednesday, La Luz Center is open from 9 a.m. to noon for free consultations — no appointment necessary.

“They deserve to know what their rights are and what options they have, because there are people out there looking to take advantage of them,” said Bole.

Father Pat said the services offered through La Luz were unique to the community and very much needed by the people it is intended to serve.

“The office of Hispanic ministry looks forward to having a long and fruitful relationship with La Luz,” said Father Pat. “I find this to be a great moment to see Catholic Charities making a commitment to the people of the community by providing the service of a Catholic immigration lawyer that people can trust.”

A La Luz success story

‘He gave me options I didn’t know I had’

By Kara Hansen Leaven staff

Sarah Jones* was one of the first to receive services through the new La Luz Center for Immigration Legal Assistance.

When she contacted the program, she did so as a last resort. Since she believed she was out of options, she couldn’t imagine La Luz could be of any help. But she had no other place to turn — and nothing to lose.

Jones, 20, had met her husband in high school. Once the two were married, she said, everything started going downhill pretty quickly. He abused her, physically and verbally.

“When things turned ugly, I didn’t know where to go or what help I needed,” she said.

Jones sought supportive help and resources from El Centro in Kansas City, Kan. But what she really needed, the staff advised her, was legal assistance.

“The staff at El Centro directed me to La Luz Center because I had a domestic violence case,” said Jones. “When I met with Greg [Bole], he gave me an interview right away. He was able to help me out, and I was able to apply for residence. He gave me options I didn’t know I had.”

In her circumstances, Bole explained, Jones could apply for lawful permanent residency in the United States. Although generally the husband or wife who is a legal resident of the United States must apply for a visa on behalf of their spouse or child, the federal Violence Against Women Act allows for a survivor of domestic violence to self-petition for lawful residency in the United States.

That information was news to Jones, who was desperate to escape the cycle of abuse — but would have no way to provide for her children if she were forced to return to her homeland. She had also been told, incorrectly, before

meeting with Boles at La Luz Center, that she needed numerous police reports to document any domestic violence claim.

“This has given me a lot of hope because one of the main things I was worried about was providing for my kids,” said Jones. “I didn’t think I had a chance of a case until I met with Greg. Now I’m able to see this working out.”

Every situation is different and people will walk through the doors at La Luz Center with different needs, said Bole. But the emphasis is still the same.

“It’s great to see someone who says, ‘My life is back in my hands, and I have options,’” he said.

For more information on the La Luz Center, contact Bole at (913) 621-5255, ext. 1106, or by e-mail at: gbole@ catholicharitiesks.org.

* Client’s real name withheld for reasons of confidentiality.

6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • november 12, 2010

THE LEAVEN • november 12, 2010

‘Favor’ leaves local Catholic witness to the world Continued from page 3 and, as he said the prayer, he listed each one as saint.”

When each saint’s name was announced, Peterson said audience members cheered and applauded. He particularly remembered a group of nuns in the choir who broke out in cheers.

“And when they did that,” he said, “[the pope] just turned and kind of smiled and waved at them, and then went on with the Mass.

“That we were able to be that close and that much a part of it was just really special.”

The Josephites were not to be outdone in their expression of joy.

“They were absolutely thrilled,” said Maura Peterson. “They were so much fun to watch because this was the result of many years of work for them, so they were very, very happy.”

On Oct. 18, the Petersons attended a thanksgiving Mass for Sister Mary’s canonization. It was the 27-month anniversary of the end of Rick’s symptoms.

Before returning to the United States, the couple took a side trip to Assisi, where they found a nice contrast to the excitement of the canonization.

“That to me was as enjoyable and prayerful as the canonization Mass — to do the contemplative, prayerful walk of Francis,” said Maura Peterson. “They were both equally rewarding in our faith.”

Reflecting on his experience, Peterson recalled sharing the story of his favor with archdiocesan vocation director, Father Mitchel Zimmerman.

“When I told him what happened, he looked to heaven and said, ‘Praise God. “Then he looked right back at me and

CNS photo/Tony Gentile, Reuters

A tapestry showing Australia’s first saint is seen as Pope Benedict XVI celebrates a Mass of canonization in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Oct. 17. St. Mary MacKillop was one of six new saints proclaimed by the pope.

Declaration of sainthood At 10:42 a.m. on Oct. 17, Pope Benedict XVI declared: “In honor of the most holy Trinity, in exultation of the Catholic faith and the development of our Christian life, with the authority of Our Lord Jesus Christ, of the Apostles Peter and Paul and after long reflection, invoking divine help and listening to many of our brothers in the episcopate, we declare and define [as] saints the Blessed Stanlisaw Kazimiercyk, Andre Bessette, Candida Maria de Jesus Cipitria y Barriola, Mary of the Cross MacKillop, Giulia Salzano and Battista da Varano.”

said, ‘Do you know how strongly you’ve been called to the second half of this theme? You need to go out and shout this from the mountaintops!’”

Peterson said his prayer now is that

he might be a holy mentor to others.

“I believe through the grace of the Holy Spirit, we each are called to be just that,” he said.

Catholics can ‘Share in the Care’ of elderly religious Catholics in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas will have the opportunity to “Share in the Care” of senior religious by participating in the annual collection for the Retirement Fund for Religious, to be held Dec. 11-12.

The collection is coordinated by the National Religious Retirement Office in Washington and provides financial support for the day-to-day care of thousands of elderly Catholic Sisters, Brothers, and religious order priests.

Last year, the archdiocese contributed $87,615.57 to this collection. In 2010, the Sisters, Servants of Mary, Benedictine Sisters, and St. Benedict’s Abbey received a combined total of $180,233.03 in financial assistance made possible by the RFR. Since 1988, Catholics in the United States have donated $617 million to this initiative. Nearly 95 cents of every dollar is used to aid senior religious.

Despite the overwhelming generosity to this fund, many religious communities continue to lack resources sufficient to support retirement and elder care. Of 573 communities submitting data to the NRRO in 2009, fewer than seven percent were fully funded for retirement.

Traditionally, religious served for small stipends that did not include retirement benefits. Their sacrifices now leave their religious communities without adequate savings for retirement.

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Leo and Delores (Ryser) Vertin, members of St. Joseph Parish, Wathena, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Nov. 18. They were married Nov. 18, 1950, at St. Joseph.

Their children are: Anniversary Pam Boyd, Denise Coursen and Paula Bahr, all of St. Joseph, Mo.; Karla Root and Kevin Vertin of Wathena; Alan Vertin, Platte City, Mo.; Rich Vertin, Troy; and Brent Vertin, Westminster, Colo. They also have 15 grandchildren, three stepgrandchildren and nine great-grandchildren. Cards may be sent to the honorees at P.O. Box 523, Wathena KS 66090.

TOPEKA — Daniel Shuford, a member of Boy Scout Troop 46, sponsored by Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish here, was awarded the rank of Eagle Scout in a Court of Honor at Most Pure Heart on Oct. 17.

For his Eagle project, Shuford landEagle scout scaped, painted, and placed landscape timbers in a fire lane in the west parking lot of Most Pure Heart of Mary to prevent parking on the grass and in the fire lane.

A day of boundless joy Clockwise from top, Sister Anne Bryan Smollin, CSJ, Susan Carroll, and Vickie Broxterman were three of the keynote speakers at “A Day of Boundless Joy,” a retreat for women held Oct. 23 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kan. More than 150 women from around the archdiocese attended the daylong retreat.

LOCAL NEWS 7

Matt Bristow/ Emporia Gazette

Plastic sheeting is draped over the framework of the new high tunnel greenhouse being constructed at Sacred Heart Elementary School in Emporia. The project is being funded by a grant from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment.

Give peas a chance Community helps Emporia students veg out MPORIA — Concerned nutritionists have been pleading for years: Give peas a chance. One school is doing

this . . . and more. Canned? Frozen? Fuggedaboutit. They’re growing their own veggies.

Broccoli and school spirit, anyone?

And what began as a simple proposal for a little garden at Sacred Heart School in Emporia has grown into a project to promote learning, healthy eating, parish unity and community involvement.

“I started asking questions about how we could improve our lunch program by getting more fresh, locally grown, organic and sustainable food in the school,” said Father Richard Warsnak, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish. “We started with discussions about that, and it moved into reaching out into the community.”

Originally, the idea was to build a raised bed garden, but the idea grew into the creation of a type of greenhouse called a “high tunnel,” also sometimes called a “hoop house.” These are long, semicircular structures that feature a frame of plastic covered with plastic sheeting. It works by trapping solar heat and thus extending the growing season.

Critical to the launch of the project has been Bill Hanlon, director of Green Building & Sustainable Development Center at the Flint Hills Technical College in Emporia.

“I called [Bill Hanlon] one day and asked if I could meet with him,” said Father Warsnak. “He’s an area expert in sustainable living. So I set up a meeting with him and Linda Glaser, a fifth- and

sixth-grade teacher [at Sacred Heart School], who is very passionate about these things.”

Hanlon offered his technical expertise and more. He helped the school pay for the high tunnel greenhouse by getting a grant from the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and procuring the materials to build the structure.

“Our cost [of the project] was in getting the volunteers to help build and run it,” said Theresa Lein, principal of Sacred Heart School. “We have no major out-of-pocket expenses for this project.”

The school began building the 20-foot-by-60-foot tunnel, located on the school’s south side, in mid-October.

The first workers were Father Warsnak, Hanlon, Glaser, and other teachers, parents, and community volunteers.

Another person who has helped quite a bit is Gary Janssen, a retired organic farmer.

“We got a great response from people in our community, almost immediately, wanting to help us,” said Father Warsnak. “They understand the impact we have on our local community and the environment through our eating.”

“And it seems to fit very well with our Catholic theology and understanding that we are tied very closely togeth-

er with God’s creation,” he continued.

“There’s a moral imperative that we do better with these things.”

The school’s 63 students helped put up the sheet plastic in early November.

The remaining work will be building the “ends” to the structure, the raised beds, and the planting tables. Planting could begin as early as February of next year.

“What I have been told is that we can grow produce 10 months out of the year,” said Lein. “We’ll begin planning cold weather vegetables in late February — lettuces, peas, radishes. As spring comes, we’ll put in summer crops. Apparently, we’ll have produce almost up into December.”

The food grown in the high tunnel will be used in the school’s kitchen.

Good nutrition, however, is not the only benefit from the garden.

“The students are very excited about it,” said Glaser. “They’ll help choose what kinds of plants we’ll grow. They’ll help plant, weed, water and harvest, and hopefully get involved in some of the food preparation.”

The children will help make the organic soil for the high tunnel by making their own compost. By growing and composting, the students will get a scientific education about how plants grow and about soil, she said.

“The students love it,” said Father Warsnak. “They’re very, very excited.

It’s cool that they’re excited about fruit and vegetables. They very much want to be part of this.”

It’s still too early to say whether the community will enjoy any long-term benefits from the efforts of the Sacred Heart program.

But Father Warsnak’s betting that it’s at least a step in the right direction.

“When kids have a hand in growing the food, they want to eat it, too,” he said.

“It tastes better to them.”

Students at Sacred Heart Elementary School in Emporia prepare to cover the new high tunnel being constructed at the school.

Father Richard Warsnak helps Sacred Heart parent Amanda Barrager glue PVC pipe together to create the hoops that form the frame of the high tunnel.

Linda Glaser/Sacred Heart Matt Bristow/ Emporia Gazette

E

Story By Joe Bollig

Theresa Lein, principal of Sacred Heart Elementary School in Emporia, fastens plastic sheeting to the new high tunnel being constructed at the school on Nov. 4.

10 nation

THE LEAVEN • November 12, 2010

U.S., world food systems called unsustainable for people WASHINGTON (CNS) — The growing adoption of U.S.-style industrial farming practices worldwide puts too much stress on the planet and deceives people into thinking that the world will be able to keep feeding a growing population, currently 6.8 billion. That was one of the main points raised at an Oct. 27 forum titled “Are We Eating Ourselves to Death?”

It was sponsored by the Woodstock Center and held at Georgetown University.

Those reading the forum’s title might think it was a symposium on eating disorders, said Franciscan Sister Ilia Delio, the program’s moderator and a Woodstock Center senior research fellow. And in a sense it is, she added. “We have an eating disorder that is affecting us nationally and internationally,” Sister Ilia said. “The saying ‘You are what you eat’ has never had a more profound meaning than it has today.” Creating a more sustainable agricultural system poses a huge challenge, according to the forum’s panelists, especially given all of the mechanized and monetized developments of recent generations. Holy Cross Brother David Andrews, a senior representative for Food and Water Watch and for 13 years prior the executive director of the National Catholic Rural Life Conference, said other nations are adopting U.S-style farming practices not because they want to, but because they have to.

Michigan religious order set to buy Pope John Paul II Center WASHINGTON (CNS) — A Michigan religious order experiencing rapid growth since its formation in 1997 is planning to buy the 10-year-old Pope John Paul II Cultural Center across the street from The Catholic University of America. The Ann Arbor-based Dominican Sisters of Mary, Mother of the Eucharist signed a purchase agreement with the Archdiocese of Detroit to buy the 100,000-squarefoot center in Washington and use it as a house of study for its members. No purchase price for the 12-acre property was disclosed. The property was valued at $37.3 million for the 2011 tax year during the most recent real estate appraisal. Its proximity to the well-established Dominican House of Studies and the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception makes it an attractive site, said a spokeswoman for the order. Sister Maria Gemma Martek, superior of the motherhouse in Ann Arbor, said the hope is that the center can be developed into a house of studies for Sisters. “This is an exciting possibility,” she said.

Leaders decry attack on Baghdad cathedral

CCHD fund fights poverty, defends dignity WASHINGTON (CNS) — Human dignity can be defended by fighting poverty, said the leaders of the Catholic Campaign for Human Development as they prepared for the program’s 2010 annual collection, which will be taken up in most parishes Nov. 20-21.

“At this time of great economic suffering, it is more important than ever for the church in the United States, through the Catholic Campaign for Human Development, to carry out the mission of Jesus Christ ‘to bring good news to the poor, liberty to captives, new sight to the blind and to set the downtrodden free,’” Bishop Roger P. Morin of Biloxi, Miss., chairman of the U.S. bishops’ CCHD subcommittee said in a statement.

“CCHD is a unique and essential part of the much broader Catholic commitment to overcome poverty. CCHD pursues ‘the institutional path . . . of charity, no less excellent and effective than the kind of charity that encounters the neighbor directly,’” Bishop Morin added, quoting from Pope Benedict XVI’s 2009 encyclical, “Caritas in Veritate” (“Charity in Truth”).

He made the comments in a letter to parishes asking Catholics to be as generous as possible during the annual collection that is the primary source of support for the U.S. bishops’ domestic anti-poverty program.

For 2009, the U.S. Census Bureau reported a 9.6 percent spike in poverty.

Overall, there were 43.6 million people in poverty — 14.3 percent of the population.

For 40 years, CCHD has funded community groups that create affordable housing, obtain fair wages and provide job training, as well as organizing projects led by low-income individuals to help people and resolve problems in their communities.

CCHD-funded programs “empower the poor and marginalized to make decisions, seek solutions to local problems and find ways to improve their lives and neighborhoods,” according to the agency. CCHD also has educational programs to teach Catholics about poverty and creates opportunities for them to interact with the poor and reflect on a faith response to poverty.

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STUDENT DECORATES TABLE FOR DAY OF THE DEAD — Angie Santiago, a senior at the University of Rochester in New York and a member of the Spanish and Latino Students’ Association, decorates a table during a Day of the Dead (“el dia de los muertos”) celebration at the school on Nov. 1. “El dia de los muertos” is an ancient tradition from pre-Columbian times and is celebrated throughout Mexico and by those of Latino heritage, honoring the lives of deceased loved ones.

School Sisters of Notre Dame score big with baseball card BALTIMORE (CNS) — An incredibly rare T206 Honus Wagner baseball card, one of the most valuable pieces of sports memorabilia in the world, brought an unexpected blessing to the Baltimorebased School Sisters of Notre Dame Nov. 4, when it sold to an unspecified bidder for $262,900 at Heritage Auctions in Dallas.

According to a news release issued by the auction house, the price includes a 19.5 percent buyer’s premium, an additional charge the buyer pays on top of the winning bid.

The card, graded authentic though in poor condition, was left to the School Sisters of Notre Dame’s Atlantic-Midwest province by a relative of one of the Sisters, who died in 1999.

Her brother, who died earlier this year, left everything he had to the congregation, including the card, which beat initial estimates of its auction price by $162,900.

The School Sisters of Notre Dame, an international congregation, will realize $220,000 from the auction. They intend to use the money to fund their charitable work.

“We’re very grateful to have the extra funds to help the School Sisters of Notre Dame where we minister in more than

30 countries,” said Sister Virginia Muller, treasurer for the Atlantic-Midwest province, in a news release.

“We may not have known who Honus Wagner was before this,” she added, “but his name is blessed to us now, and we’re thankful for the outpouring of support that we’ve seen from people across the nation since the story broke.

Now we’re ready to go back to doing our work.”

According to the news release, the winner of the card is Doug Walton, managing partner of Walton Sports & Collectibles.

“For many years I have been in the hunt for an original T206 Wagner in any condition and the back story on this card makes it that much more special,” Walton said. “We will proudly display this card throughout our seven card shops in Tennessee, South Carolina and Florida in the coming months.”

According the news release, only about 50 of the T206 Wagner cards are known, with this one being new to the census of known examples. This card was in the collection of the donor since 1936, and caused a major stir in the sports collectibles hobby when its existence was revealed earlier this summer.

(CNS photo/Desmond Boylan, Reuters)

STATUE SEEN OUTSIDE NEW SEMINARY — A statue of Christ is seen outside the new national Catholic seminary on the outskirts of Havana Nov. 3. Cuban President Raul Castro joined Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski of Miami and other Catholic leaders to open the seminary, the first Catholic construction on the island in more than a half century.

Castro joins church leaders to open new seminary in Havana HAVANA (CNS) — In a ceremony joined by President Raul Castro, Cuba’s Catholic bishops inaugurated the San Carlos and San Ambrosio Seminary Nov. 3, the country’s first major churchrelated construction in the half century since the revolution led by Fidel Castro.

Joined by Cuba’s bishops and representatives of the Vatican and of the Catholic Church in the United States, Mexico, Italy and the Bahamas, Havana Cardinal Jaime Ortega Alamino noted that the late Pope John Paul II blessed the first stone of the new seminary at a Mass during his January 1998 visit to the island.

At that point, then-President Fidel Castro pledged his support for the project, the cardinal said.

“That promise has been faithfully completed,” he said, adding his thanks to the Castros, “that this work was completed properly with the help of the state.”

Among the 300 guests attending the official opening were Miami Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski and Carl Anderson, supreme knight of the Knights of Columbus.

A message sent in the name of Pope Benedict XVI said he hoped the seminary’s inauguration would be “a sign and a stimulus for a renewed commitment to strive for careful human, spiritual and academic preparation” for priestly ministry.

The seminary, which can house 100

people, will open to students next year on 54 acres of former farmland southeast of Havana.

The Mexican newspaper La Jornada explained that in 1966, in the early days of the Castro regime when tensions with the church were high, the church was forced to turn over to the government the previous San Carlos and San Ambrosio Seminary, built in 1948.

Classes were moved to a classic colonial cloister in Havana’s historic district, where they have been located ever since. That building will become a cultural center and studio, housing a library and space for exhibitions, concerts, theater and film screenings.

The country’s only other Catholic seminary is in Santiago de Cuba, on the southeastern coast.

Construction of the new San Carlos and San Ambrosio Seminary began in 2006. The stone blessed by Pope John Paul rests in a glass case at the seminary’s entrance.

The church covered the total cost of the work with donations from individuals, communities and international Catholic institutions. Cardinal Ortega specifically thanked donors, including the bishops’ conferences of the United States, Italy and Germany; the Pontifical Commission for Latin America; the Knights of Columbus; and Catholics in the United States, France, Spain and several Latin American countries.

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The world’s Christian leaders expressed outrage after an attack on the Syrian Catholic cathedral in Baghdad left 58 people dead and 75 injured. They also called on the international community and Iraqi officials to do more to protect Iraq’s Christian minority.

Syrian Catholic Archbishop Georges Casmoussa of Mosul, Iraq, who concelebrated the funeral of some of the victims Nov. 2, said the United Nations needed to step in to protect the Catholic community.

“For our community it is a true human and religious catastrophe,” he told Vatican Radio Nov. 2. “This will cause panic.

We continue to hold out our hand for dialogue, to work together, to forget the past, to overcome our pain, but then when we see that there is not an adequate response above all from [government] authorities, we feel without any protection.”

The archbishop said Iraqi political parties need to form a unity government.

“They need to make churches and Christian communities safe with laws and with a police presence until Christians can feel they can trust in their country and future again. The lovely words and nice speeches are not enough. ” he said.

Msgr. Philip Najim, the Chaldean Catholic Church’s representative to the Vatican, told Vatican Radio that the Oct. 31 attack was especially barbaric because it took place inside a place of worship when people were praying.

Armed militants wearing explosives stormed the cathedral during evening Mass, held Massgoers hostage and threatened to blow up the church. After a standoff of several hours, Iraqi forces stormed the cathedral.

“The extremists were condemned

by Muslims [who believe in an] Islam that knows God, that knows faith, that knows love and knows charity,” Msgr.

Najim said, adding that large numbers of Muslims lined up to donate blood for the victims.

world 11

Church in Caribbean works to help islands affected by Tomas PORT OF SPAIN, Trinidad (CNS) — The Caribbean arm of Caritas Internationalis has begun a damage and needs analysis to assist islands seriously affected by Hurricane Tomas. In addition, Archbishop Robert Rivas of Castries, St. Lucia, promised the church’s “solidarity, prayer and assistance.” Marcia Boxill, coordinator of Caritas Antilles, the local church’s relief and development agency, said that the island’s government had issued a disaster declaration until Nov. 14. She said the health, agriculture, tourism, education, infrastructure and economic sectors were all affected when the eye of Tomas passed between St. Vincent and St. Lucia the weekend of Oct. 30-31. Bridges were washed away, roads and streets were flooded, and high winds knocked down trees and utility poles.

Communications — land lines, mobile and Internet — were seriously affected and hampered emergency relief efforts. The roofs of hundreds of houses were blown off, and a few deaths were recorded on each island, with St. Lucia recording more than 10. St. Vincent and the Grenadines sustained significant damage, including to more than 500 houses. At least 40 schools were being used as shelters. Approximately 90 percent of the agricultural industry was also severely affected. On Nov. 1, the government requested regional and international support.

Officials investigate church donation from drug boss MEXICO CITY (CNS) — Catholic and federal officials have launched investigations into the possibility that a priest accepted donations from a drug cartel boss to build a new chapel in a marginalized neighborhood near Pachuca, north of Mexico City. The Archdiocese of Mexico City spokesman, Father Hugo Valdemar Romero, told local media Nov. 1 that investigations were under way and that the church would not tolerate anyone accepting donations known as “narcolimosnas,” or drug alms. The Archdiocese of Mexico City rebuked the expansive reach of the drug trade into all segments of Mexican society, while acknowledging in the same Oct. 31 editorial that some in the church had knowingly accepted the proceeds of an illegal enterprise responsible for the loss of more than 28,000 lives over the past four years. The editorial, published in the archdiocesan periodical Desde La Fe, acknowledged that drug money has built and renovated parishes and paid for activities such as patron saint festivities in Mexican towns.

12 CLASSIFIEDS Employment Associate consultant of programming and operations, Prairie Star Ranch - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas seeks a dynamic professional to oversee and be involved with all aspects of the Prairie Star Ranch facility, located in Williamsburg. Major duties include coordinating retreats throughout the year and managing many important aspects of the annual summer camp. Ideal candidate will have dynamic presentation skills, proven experience in the Catholic formation of youth K - 12, and a commitment to hospitality. Requires strong budgeting and record keeping skills. Requires a bachelor’s degree, preferably in theology, youth ministry or related field; master’s degree preferred. Background in camping, youth ministry, or religious education preferred. The individual must also be an active and practicing member of his/her parish. A complete job description and application are available on the archdiocese’s Web site at: www.archkck.org (click on the “Human Resources” tab). Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume, and application by Nov. 23 to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Camp Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send, via e-mail, to: kthomas@arch kck.org.

Community education specialist - For Catholic Community Hospice. Will be responsible for developing appropriate hospice referrals through the selection, acquisition, retention and growth of business partnerships with parishes, skilled nursing facilities, hospitals and physicians in Kansas and Missouri. Must have excellent communication, customer service and presentation skills. RN or bachelor’s degree in business, marketing or communications preferred; or a combination of education and experience.

Full time; great benefits. Send resume, via e-mail, to: hospiceresumes@ccsks.org. EEO. Carpet cleaning technician - Join one of the most respected, exciting and progressive service companies in the area. Earn top industry pay - $10/hour; $40K-plus potential. Retirement plan available. No experience necessary. Call Bock’s Steam Star at (913) 438-7767.

Secretary/bookkeeper - For St. Francis de Sales Parish, Lansing. Contact Father Bill McEvoy at (913) 727-3768 or send an e-mail to him at: Fr.Wm. McEvoy@gmail.com.

Part-time bowling machine mechanic - St. John’s Catholic Club, Kansas City, Kan., needs someone to maintain a six-lane house in the men’s club. All late model 1960s Brunswick equipment. Call Kenny at (913) 788-9758.

THE LEAVEN • NOVEMBER 12, 2010 Piano teacher - With over 30 years experience, accepting new students. Young beginners through advanced; three through 18 years of age. I provide a caring, creative, and positive learning environment.

To schedule a visit to my studio, call (913) 832-7079 or send an e-mail to: ainewendler@hotmail.com.

Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor.

Also, quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837.

Old-fashioned cleaning - Hand-mopping; a consistent, thorough job every time! Years of experience; excellent references. Special occasion, party and holiday cleaning. I make a great gift! Call Sharon at (816) 322-0006.

Housecleaning - Wyandotte and Johnson County areas. If you are looking for housecleaning, garage organizing or just a holiday cleanup — look no more. I am a member of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, and my son attends school there as well. For a free estimate, call Marcia at (913) 7077166.

Yard clean up Gutters and leaf removal Insured and bonded.

Local parishioner. Free estimates.

Call (913) 620-6063.

Tree service - Pruning trees for optimal growth and beauty and removal of hazardous limbs or problem trees. Free consultation and bid. Safe, insured, professional. Brad Grabs, Green Solutions of KC, (913) 244-5838. www.GreenSolutionsKC.com.

Foley’s Lawn Care Now scheduling fall cleanups.

Providing you with mowing, overseeding, aeration, verticutting, gutter cleaning and mulching.

Serving Johnson County for over 10 yrs.

St. Joseph parishioner. (913) 825-4353 www.foleyslawncare.com.

Caregiving Certified CNA – Available to give the very best care to your loved one. Excellent references and background check. Call (913) 999-4340.

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Sara or Gary.

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

Do you or your parents need help at home? For as little as $60/week, Benefits of Home-Senior Care can provide assistance with personal care, shopping and many other daily needs. For details, visit our Web site at: benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

Services

Woodbright - A very affordable alternative to refinishing, refacing or replacing stained cabinets and woodwork. The average kitchen only costs $500. 18 years experience. Call Woodbright at (913) 940-3020.

Mortgage rates have never been lower!!!

Considering a refinance or new home purchase?

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We make mortgage loans easy and hassle-free.

Evening and weekend appointments available.

Members of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa.

Call Kurt or Angie at Approved Mortgage Inc. (913) 599-0004 An equal housing lender.

KS mortgage number MC0002252 Need a ride? Where to? I am available to take you to your doctor’s appointment, hairdresser or shopping. Maybe you aren’t driving anymore or just prefer a chauffeur; I’ll get you there. I can also run errands for you or do the grocery shopping. Just give me a call to discuss your needs. Johnson County only.

Call (913) 469-6211 or (816) 806-0564.

Counseling - Topeka Marriage and family, child, teen, personal Shunga Creek Mental Health Call Ken Zweig, LSCSW at (785) 969-5308.

Concrete Work

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

Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

Home Improvement

Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing, Licensed and insured.

(913) 599-7998 Clutter getting you down?- Let us help you get organized! For a free consultation, contact Kevin, your professional organizer/handyman, at (913) 2715055. Insured/references. www.KOATindustries.com.

Clutter problems? Embarrassing garage, basement, attic or any room? Let me help you get organized! Items sorted, grouped, boxed and labeled; areas clean when finished. Great references and insured. Twenty years experience! Handyman repairs also available. To view “before” and “after” pictures, visit my Web site at: WWW.SWALMS.COM. Tillar Swalm (913) 375-9115.

THE LEAVEN • NOVEMBER 12, 2010 Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates.

JoCo and southern KC metro area. Call Pat at (913) 9639896.

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

The Drywall Doctor, Inc. - A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean!

Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655.

Detail construction and remodeling - We offer a full line of home remodeling services. Don’t move — remodel! Johnson county area. Call for a free quote.

(913) 709-8401.

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

Masonry work – Quality, new or repair work.

Brick, block, and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second generation bricklayer. Call (913) 829-4336.

Father-and-son team - These guys can do it all — exterior painting, decks, fences, retaining walls, metal buildings, patios, porches, and driveways. We’ll do your job for a reasonable price! Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation * Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!!

Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376

Fairway ranch - 2 BR, 1 BA. 4011 W. 62nd Terr.

LeafGuard, attached garage with extended driveway, newer roof, extra insulation, new windows, furnace and AC with programmable thermostat, appliances. $115,000. Visit: www.fsbo-kc.com, id 6018.

Wonderful true 5-bedroom home - Prince of Peace, Olathe. Only $175,000. Great updates; excellent condition. Fenced yard. Master with bath; laundry on main level. Motivated seller. 1430 E. Wells Fargo Dr. Minutes from Garmin and hwys. Call Rita Moley Dickey, Reece and Nichols, at (913) 269-4786.

Olathe home - Cozy up to a beautiful floor-toceiling, wood-burning, brick fireplace! 3 BR, 1-1/2 BA, finished lower level, two-car garage, raised ranch with wonderfully landscaped front yard. All new paint inside and out; new flooring and carpet; newer roof; new HVAC and dishwasher; new kitchen cabinets and countertops. Appliances stay — including washer and dryer. Large decks, fenced yard, shed and private backyard that backs to woods. Walk to schools.

Shopping minutes away. Seller is motivated; move in tomorrow! Best price in Olathe at $144,950. Located at 714 E. 125th Terr. Call (913) 825-4040 or send an e-mail to: becky@divateam.com.

Topeka home – 4 BR, 1-1/2 BA, colonial-style home. Desirable neighborhood, one mile from Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish. First-floor family room, hardwood floors, oversized double garage, unique architectural details, lovingly maintained. Pool membership. $169,000. Call (785) 633-2804.

Vacation Ski Winter Park, Colo., this spring break! 2/26/11 - 3/5/11. Pets are OK. Very nice condo. 2 BR, 2 BA, with kitchen and fireplace. Rent for $400 per week, or buy for $1200. To view, Google “Inn at Silver Creek.” Call (913) 649-7596.

Vacation rental - Marriott Frenchman’s Cove time share, St. Thomas, US Virgin Islands. Jan. 8 - 15, 2011. 1 BR, 1 BA, suite with two queen beds, private entrance, balcony and kitchenette. To view, visit the Web site at: www.marriottvacationclub.com. $1,000/ week. Call Amy at (816) 853-0307.

For Rent

For Sale

For rent - Very nice, 2 BA, 1 BA ranch-style home on a quiet cul-de-sac near Christ The King Church, Kansas City, Kan. Newly remodeled throughout, fenced backyard with deck, and front courtyard. Call Brad at (913) 530-6202.

Power chairs - One used MPV 4 Hoveround power chair, six years old, $600; and one brand-new MPV 5 Hoveround power chair, never used, $900. For information, contact (913) 631-4913.

Lenexa duplex - 3 BR, 1-1/2 BA, updated, fireplace, hardwoods, one-car garage. One year lease, $825/month. Call Traci or Greg at (913) 768-6447.

Living at its best on a budget! - 1 BR apt., with rent based on income; all utilities paid; no voucher needed. Section 8 assistance. Great location, only 5-10 minutes from The Legends in Kansas City, Kan. Edwardsville Court Apartments Highrise, 531 S. 4th St., Edwardsville. Call (913) 441-6007. EHO. Handicap accessible.

Real Estate Archie, Mo. - 47 wooded acres with two large ponds along the Grand River for sale. For information, call (913) 631-5644.

Westwood home FSBO - 3 BR, 2-1/2 BA ranch.

Low utilities; well-insulated; dry, partially fin. bsmt.; lots of storage; fenced backyard; hardwood floors.

SME school district; near St. Agnes Parish and Bishop Miege High School. $169,500. Call (913) 432-2287.

Ottawa home - 3 BR, 3 BA ranch. Full fin. walkout bsmt. Across from country club. Easy access to I-35. Next to park. $149,950. MLS#1692987. Call Betty Birzer, Reece & Nichols, at (785) 418-5701 or (785) 229-8890 or visit: www.betty birzer.com.

Walk to St. James Academy - 9621 Appleridge Lane, Lenexa.Beautiful 4 BR, 4-1/2 BA, plus main level office. Exquisite open floor plan with mud room, semi-finished basement, and more. On a cul-de-sac. For information, call Cynthia Sowle, Coldwell Banker, at (913) 240-3263.

5’ round brome hay bales - I have 83 bales of this summer’s hay for sale. Hay is located between Greeley and Lane, Kan. $25 each. Contact Leon at (913) 491-1272 (evenings) or (913) 441-2888 (during the day).

Nov. 13

St. Stanislaus Parish, Rossville, will host “Abundant Blessings,” a dinner and auction, on Nov. 13 at the Potawatomi Center. Doors open at 5:30 p.m., followed by dinner at 6:30 p.m. The evening will include music, entertainment, and live and silent auctions. Proceeds will benefit the parish building fund. For information or to purchase tickets, contact Angie at (785) 221-2644 or Bridget at (785) 220-4082.

The Mothers of Young Children group of Curé of Ars Parish, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood, will host its annual gift gallery from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Nov. 13 in the school gym. Over 45 vendors will be selling unique items for the home, for yourself or for gifts. Proceeds will benefit local children’s charities. Admission is $3. For information, visit the Web site at: www.giftgallerykc.com.

The Altar Society of Holy Family Church, 513 Ohio, Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual chili supper and turkey bingo on Nov. 13. Doors open at 5:30

p.m.; dinner will be served at 6:15 p.m.; bingo will follow at 7:30 p.m. A suggested donation of $15 includes a chili dinner, dessert, beverages, and a bingo card. To purchase advance tickets, contact Margaret at (913) 481-1227, Patty at (913) 721-1452, Bernadette at (816) 891-7247, or Sandy at (913) 492-2612.

13-14 The will be held from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.

John Paul II holiday

shoppe

on Nov. 13 and from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Nov. 14 at St. Pius X Parish, 5500 Woodson, Mission. There will be over 40 tables of crafts, jewelry and baked goods available for purchase.

13-15

The archdiocesan vocation office will sponsor “Encounter With God’s Call,” a campus visit to Conception Seminary College, on Nov. 13 - 15. Young

Heirloom quality, solid wood doll furniture - For the 16” to 18” doll, such as the American Girl doll. Beds, bunk beds, canopy beds, daybeds, cradles, tables and chairs, school desk, and more. Custommade bedding. Order or purchase early for Christmas. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. There will be an open house from noon - 5 p.m. on Nov. 13 and 14 at 5619 Widmer Rd., Shawnee. Call (913) 631-4060.

men age 16 and older are invited to attend with Father Mitchel Zimmerman to sample college seminary life. There is no charge. For information or to register, visit the Web site at: kcvocations.com.

Residential lifts - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood. Call Silver Cross KC at (913) 393-2042.

ish, 615 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host a parish mission from Nov. 13 - 17.

Father MacPherson, OSA, of the Augustinian healing ministry will conduct the sessions nightly. For a complete schedule, contact the parish offices at (913) 371-1561 or (913) 371-1408 respectively.

Wanted to buy ***WANTED*** I buy coins, older watches, silverware, slot machines, old rifles and shotguns, stoneware crocks and jugs, old furniture from basement or attic.

Call Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269 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.

Larmer & Elstun LLC

For all your financial needs Doug Elstun (913) 451-8370 | doug@larmer-elstun.com www.larmer-elstun.com Member of Holy Trinity Parish

13-17 Orchard, and

Holy Family Parish, 274 St. Mary - St. Anthony Par-

14 The of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, will host a Knights of Columbus

pancakes and more breakfast from 7:30 a.m.

- noon on Nov. 14 in their hall located at 11221 Johnson Drive. A freewill donation will be collected.

St. Louis Church, Good Intent, 11321 Morton Rd., Atchison, will host a pancake dinner from 11:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m. on Nov. 14 in the church basement (handicap accessible). Proceeds will benefit the CCD program. A freewill offering will be collected.

16

The Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will host

a Thanksgiving prayer service in the Taizé tradition with Scripture and song from 6 - 7 p.m. on Nov. 16. For information, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www. mountosb.org/kwc.

17

The Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will present “Managing Stress in the Midst of Family, Work and the Holidays,” a presentation by Chiquita Miller, from 1 - 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 17. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

18

A healing Mass, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Nov. 18 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. Father Tom Kearns will preside; fellowship follows.

For more information, call (913) 6492026.

19-20

The Church of the Ascension, 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park, will host its annual marketplace

from 7 - 10 p.m. on Nov. 19 and from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Nov. 20 in the parish hall.

Vendors from the community will offer a variety of products — ranging from jewelry, handbags and accessories to health and beauty products, gourmet foods and children’s books and toys. Enjoy early Christmas shopping!

19-21

Enrich you life, enrich your love, and enrich your marriage by spending time with your spouse and learning the tools to a great marriage! The next Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend will be held from Nov. 19-21. For information or to register, call (913) 400-7173 in the Kansas City metro area, (785) 843-9274 in Lawrence, (785) 357-5000 in Topeka, or visit the Web site at: www.neksme.org.

19

The eighth-grade class at Holy Cross School, 8101 W. 95th St., Overland Park, will host a Friday family fun night

on Nov. 19 in Pflumm Hall. A taco dinner will be served from 5 - 7 p.m., followed by bingo from 7 - 9 p.m. The cost for dinner is $5 for adults, advance purchase; $7 if purchased at door; $3 for children ages 4 to 10 years. Bingo is 50¢ a game. For information, call Cathy Buchanan at (913) 579-2385 or Marcia Wassenburg (913) 649-7634.

The University of Saint Mary’s Ancilla Center for Children will celebrate its 30th anniversary on Nov. 19 with an open house and party at 7 p.m. at the Leavenworth campus, 4100 S. 4th St. All past and present children, teachers, and parents are invited to share memories and pictures or simply join in the celebration.

For information, call Sharon Dedeke at (913) 758-6113. The center’s annual birthday party and Thanksgiving celebration will occur at the same time. These events are free and open to the public.

20

The eighth-grade class of St. Patrick Parish, 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kan., will sponsor a craft fair from 9

a.m. - 4 p.m. on Nov. 20 in the parish hall.

For information, call the church office at (913) 299-3370.

The Knights of Columbus of Wheaton and Onaga will host a soup day on Nov. 20 at the Wheaton Community Center from 4 - 8 p.m. A freewill donation will be collected.

The Shawnee Knights of Columbus will

CALENDAR 13

host a polka dance, featuring the Brian McCarty ensemble, at 6:30 p.m. on Nov. 20 at their hall, located at 11221 Johnson Dr. The cost of $10 includes beverages and sauerkraut and sausage sandwiches.

For information or to reserve a table, contact Dan Nicks at (913) 631-4933.

There will be an Irish hooley benefit — featuring Brigid’s Cross, Eddie Delahunt, Rob Gavin and more musicians — from 7:30 - 11 p.m. on Nov. 20 at the Lenexa Community Center, 92nd and Pflumm, Overland Park.

Doors open at 6 p.m. Beverage and food will be available for purchase. The cost is $10 in advance; $15 at the door. Tickets are available at Browne’s Irish Market, Sheehan’s Irish Imports, or Eddie Delahunt’s Café. All proceeds will benefit the St. Thomas Aquinas High School Rugby Club. For information, call (913) 731-9945 or (913) 438-9222.

The Knights of Columbus, Council No. 10834 of St. Francis de Sales Parish, 900 Ida St., Lansing, will host a parish garage sale from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Nov. 20 in the parish basement. Items may be donated after Mass or during the week prior to the sale by contacting the church office at (913) 727-3742. Proceeds will benefit the kitchen fund.

A memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones will be held at 8 a.m. on Nov. 20 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood.

The bereavement ministry will have its monthly meeting following Mass in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be: “Lessons From Lincoln on Grieving.” For information, call (913) 649-2026.

Father Tom Hesse will celebrate the archdiocesan monthly pro-life Mass at 8 a.m. on Nov. 20 at Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church, 44 N. Mill, Kansas City, Kan., followed by a rosary procession to an abortion clinic four blocks away. Eucharistic adoration is available for those not processing; Benediction concludes services at 9:45 a.m.

21

Do you have high ideals? Are you willing to make a difference in the world? The Sisters, Servants of Mary invite young women to come and have a personal encounter with Christ from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Nov. 21 at their motherhouse, located at 800 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kan. For information, contact Sister Lucero at (913) 371-3424 or send an email to her at: vocservantsmkc@yahoo. com.

The Daughters of Isabella, Little Flower Circle No. 503, will have a memorial Mass for deceased members at 12:30 p.m. on Nov. 21 at Mater Dei-Assumption Parish, 204 S.W. 8th, Topeka. A business meeting and fellowship will follow in Rossiter Hall.

27

The worldwide vigil celebration for all nascent (early) human life will be

held at 7 p.m. on Nov. 27. Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher will celebrate the vigil for the Kansas City area at St. Joseph Church, 5901 Flint, Shawnee. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will celebrate the vigil for the Topeka area at Mater Dei-Holy Name Church, 1114 S.W. 10th St., Topeka.

Dec. 1

An Advent retreat for women, presented by Benedictine Sister Bridget Dickason, entitled “Advent: A Season to Prepare Our Hearts,” will be offered from 6:30 - 9 p.m. on Dec. 1 at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

The Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will offer “Would

You Hire You?” from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Dec. 1. Deb Foster will lead a crash course for job seekers that will incorporate job readiness and life skills for women who are looking for an entry-level job or who are experiencing difficulty in keeping a job. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www. mountosb.org/kwc.

3-5

The choir students of St. James Academy, 24505 Prairie Star

Pkwy., Lenexa, will host their annual madrigal dinner at 6 p.m. on Dec. 3 - 5.

Prepare to be transported back to medieval times to enjoy an evening of dinner, Christmas music and theater. For information or to purchase tickets, visit the Web site at: www.sjakeepingfaith.org.

4

The Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host “Qualities of a Healthy Spirituality,” presented by Benedictine Sister Marcia Ziska, from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Dec. 4. The cost is $50. Registration by Nov. 20 is appreciated. For more information or

to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/sophia. html.

Misc.

The Ignatian Spirituality Center of Kansas City will offer an Advent guided prayer program beginning the week of

Nov. 28. Each participant prays daily with selected Scripture, then meets weekly with a prayer guide. Space is limited; application deadline is Nov. 12. The cost is $20; scholarships are available. For information and application details, visit the Web site at: www.ignatiancenterkc. org; call (816) 523-5115, ext. 212; or send an e-mail to: khodel@ignatiancenterkc. org.

The Singles of Nativity, for all singles 35 and better, welcomes newcomers to its weekly Bible study on Sundays at 9 a.m. in the Nativity conference room, 119th and Mission Rd., Leawood, followed by 10:30 a.m. Mass. For

information, send an e-mail to Randall Stevenson at: gaelwynn@yahoo.com.

28

Shop for the holidays and support Keeler Women’s Center from 1 - 5 p.m. on Nov. 28 at Ten Thousand Villages, 7947 Santa Fe, Overland Park, where 15% of all sales will be donated to help the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica fulfill their mission of empowering women in the urban core of Kansas City, Kan., through education, advocacy, and personal and spiritual development.

Calendar items must be received nine days before the publication date.

E-mail submissions are preferred; send to: jennifer@theleaven.com. Submissions may be mailed to: 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • November 12, 2010

Mark my words

Catholic Press Association Award Winner 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010

Quote Week

of the

“These are people who wanted a better life for their children and now they’re forced to live in the shadows. Anything we can do to make their daily lives better, to bring them to light, is extremely important.”

Greg Bole, immigration clinic attorney for La Luz Center.

See story on page 1

thirty-THIRD WEEK IN ordinary time Nov. 14 Thirty-third SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Mal 3: 19-20a; Ps 98: 5-9; 2 Thes 3: 7-12; Lk 21: 5-19 Nov. 15 Albert the Great, bishop, doctor Rv 1: 1-4; 2: 1-5; Ps 1: 1-4, 6; Lk 18: 35-43 Nov. 16 Margaret of Scotland; Gertrude, virgin Rv 3: 1-6, 14-22; Ps 15: 2-4b, 5; Lk 19: 1-10 Nov. 17 Elizabeth of Hungary, religious Rv 4: 1-11; Ps 150: 1b-6; Lk 19: 11-28 Nov. 18 The Dedication of the Basilicas of St. Peter and St. Paul in Rome, apostles; Rose Philippine Duchesne, virgin Rv 5: 1-10; Ps 149: 1b-6a, 9b; Lk 19: 41-44 Nov. 19 Friday Rv 10: 8-11; Ps 119: 14, 24, 72, 103, 111, 131; Lk 19: 45-48 Nov. 20 Saturday Rv 11: 4-12; Ps 144: 1-2, 9-10; Lk 20: 27-40

D

Hear! Hear! I celebrate another year

id you hear about the three sisters who were well up in years and were starting to slip a little bit? They all lived together in a cozy little house.

One day, one sister called downstairs from the bathroom: “Emilie, I’ve got one leg in the bathtub and the other on the floor. Am I getting in or getting out?”

“Oh, for crying out loud,” said Emilie, as she hobbled up the stairs. She suddenly paused on the landing and said, “Hm, am I going up or coming down?”

The third sister, hearing all of this, said to herself, “Thank goodness, I’m not dingy like those two old birds; knock on wood” — which is just what she did. At that point, she looked up and called out loudly, “Is that the front door or the back door?” (Adapted from a story found in William J. Bausch’s “A World of Stories for Preachers and Teachers.”)

OK, I’m not quite where those three sisters are, but with another birthday looming, I’m gaining on them! Last year, I begged and pleaded my way out of a party. This year, I’m not so lucky. The date for the party is already set . . . and it’s right on my birthday.

I usually prepare for my special day by digging up some of the more memorable greetings from years past. Here are a few I unearthed: • You kept your nose to the grindstone and worked your fingers to the bone . . . (inside) Hope there’s enough of you left to celebrate your birthday.

• At your age, you’re a national treasure . . . (inside) Sadly, Congress has allocated no funds for your maintenance.

• Happy Birthday! When they made you, they broke the mold . . . (inside) Something about “damage control.”

• Well, you’re not exactly young, and you’re not exactly old . . . (inside) You’re just somewhere in that gray area.

• Do you realize that when you were a kid . . . Remote meant a secluded spot off the beaten path; A Video Game was trying to make out what the fuzzy images were on a snowy, blank-and-white 10-inch TV screen; A Cell Phone was what you used to make your one phone call from jail; Digital Computing was counting on your fingers; High Speed Access was an on-ramp to the freeway . . . And a Birthday was something you actually looked forward to!

Honestly, I still do look forward to my birthday. For me, it’s the start of the holiday season because it always hits close to Thanksgiving (but never on it) and it slides me into this “most wonderful time of the year.”

And what’s so wonderful about turning a year older? Well, for one thing, it means getting an early morning phone call from my mom and hearing her sing “Happy Birthday” to me in Croatian.

A birthday also means there’s a lot more life history to look back on and ponder. When I celebrated my 25th anniversary of ordination a few years back, I received a sort of “This Is Your Life” DVD. I watch that near my birthday to remind me of the many people who loved me, mentored me, inspired me, and encouraged me over these years.

A birthday is a time for gratitude: First of all, that you’re alive to celebrate another year and, secondly, that you

have good people around who want to celebrate it with you. Even the sad memories, though, contain a lesson and make me grateful: for obstacles crossed, challenges faced, strengths discovered, and wisdom gained.

A birthday is an excellent excuse to invite friends out for a meal — not only to savor tasty food, but especially to strengthen bonds, catch up on life, discuss dreams and goals, and plan for gatherings in the future.

The older I get, the more determined I am to become more resilient. That means coming to accept and appreciate all of me — my talents and my flaws, my insights and my blind spots, my successes and my failures, my serious and my goofy sides.

And, with this birthday, there is one more very important thing to look forward to: I will now be eligible to order off of the senior menu at IHOP! Birthdays are a time for song, laughter, play and prayer. It’s a time to step back for a bit and see how God has brought me — often through unexpected twists and turns — to this point in life.

I’ll conclude with a little story told by the preacher Vance Havner about a 90-year-old man who decided to travel around the world. A buddy came to him with great concern and said, “You shouldn’t try a trip like this. I might not see you again.”

“Maybe not,” replied the old guy, suitcase in hand. “You may be dead when I get back!”

Now, that’s the spirit I want to have — knock on wood!

Oh, excuse me, I think someone’s at my door!

the gospel truth

Conversion, not catastrophe, brings the kingdom

“W

ars and insurrections . . . powerful earthquakes, famines and plagues.”

overlook the biblical promise of the “sun of justice with its healing rays” to those who fear the name of the Sound familiar?

Lord.

Jesus’ words in this week’s Gospel Jesus warns us not to be depict a scenario that could just as aceasily deceived by speculacurately describe many of the contemtion but to seek the wisdom porary phenomena portrayed on our that comes from trusting in television screens and in our newspaGod. pers. The destruction of the Thirty-third Many Christians in World Trade Center towers SUNDAY the late first century on Sept. 11, 2001, and the IN ORDINARY TIME had a similar probHaitian earthquake in JanuLk 21: 5-19 lem. They expected ary 2010 are but two examples the Lord to return any of these kinds of events. And day. Based on this assumption, Hollywood films — I’m thinking of one some even stopped working for I saw recently about the total destructheir living and instead became tion of the earth in 2012 — use fan“busybodies,” causing unrest in the tastic special effects to illustrate these community and setting a bad example. phenomena at their most extreme.

The second reading reminds them — By connecting the Gospel with and us — that followers of Jesus are present-day news reports, some people to persevere in works of justice and perceive these events and natural peace, even when it is difficult or undisasters to be a warning that the popular to do so. biblical “day of the Lord” must be very The practice of peace and justice in near indeed. They focus on doomsday our relationships and our daily occupaprophecies with emotions ranging tions doesn’t lend itself to Hollywood from anticipation to fear to panic, yet

“By your perseverance you will secure your lives.”

—Lk 21:19

special effects. It’s hard, often unglamorous work that doesn’t register on the Richter scale. But this — and not a major earthquake — is the unmistakable sign that the Lord has come.

16 local news

THE LEAVEN • november 12, 2010 Photos by

Susan McSpadden

the power of 7 “Seven” was the theme of the high school youth rally held Nov. 6 at St. James Academy in Lenexa. The theme was based on the Scripture verses where Jesus tells Peter he must forgive not seven times, but 77 times.

More that 250 high school students attended the daylong event. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and Father Rob Spaulding were the day’s featured speakers.

Father Spaulding focused his talk around forgiveness. There was also music by the Mikey Needleman Band, as well as the opportunity for the sacrament of reconciliation and personal prayer. Mass with the archbishop ended the day.

Gotta dance

Hundreds of students from around the archdiocese take part in the high school youth rally held Nov. 6 at St. James Academy in Lenexa.

band on the run

Tim Ning (left) and Mikey Needleman of the Mikey Needleman Band entertain some 250 teens with a high-energy musical performance.

Forgiveness sacraments

Father Bill Porter, pastor of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood, offers the sacrament of reconciliation to a participant at the Seven youth rally at St. James Academy on Nov. 6.

Father Rob Spaulding, a priest of the Diocese of Cheyenne, Wyo., speaks to the youth about forgiveness. Father Spaulding was the driver in an accident that killed archdiocesan seminarians Jared Cheek and Matty Molnar in 2005.