THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 40, NO. 15 | NOVEMBER 16, 2018
MAN ON A MISSION
Former astronaut visits his alma mater Story by Olivia Martin | Photos by Doug Hesse
Ed Dwight was the first African American trained as an astronaut. He was also the first African-American male to graduate from Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas. Dwight returned to his alma mater on Nov. 7 to talk about his life’s journey.
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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — They say history is made every day. And for 8 5 - ye a r - o l d Ed Dwight, making history has defined much of his life. Though Dwight was the first African-American trained as an astronaut, one of his proudest accomplishments was being the first African American male to graduate from Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas. Dwight graduated in 1951 — three years before the desegregation of schools across the country was ordered by the Supreme Court’s Brown v. Board of Education decision in 1954. Dwight visited his alma mater on Nov. 7 to address Bishop Ward, as well as Wyandotte County Catholic grade school students in an assembly. “My sister and I had to go through a lot of stuff to make it through Bishop Ward,” said Dwight. “[But] this school was the best thing that happened to me.” Dwight’s parents were devout Catholics, and his mother worked
The mission
Rafael Zamora, a seventh-grader at Resurrection School in Kansas City, Kansas, listens as Ward alum and astronaut Ed Dwight shares his story at Bishop Ward High School. Students from Ward, as well as those from several Wyandotte County Catholic grade schools, attended the assembly. for three years to have her children accepted to Bishop Ward. His admittance there was the start of a new life for Dwight and his family. His younger sister, Sister Martin Mary, even became the first African-American nun with the Sisters of Charity in Leavenworth in 1957. Although Dwight was permit-
ted to attend Bishop Ward, traces of the mentality of the time remained. “They said I could not shower with white kids,” said Dwight, “so they had to build me a separate shower. “I did not let it bother me at all because I had a mission in my head.”
That mission mentality continued to lead Dwight beyond Bishop Ward and into a degree in aeronautical engineering and later as a pilot in the Air Force. “Anywhere I went, I was the only black officer,” said Dwight. “It was very fascinating how Bishop Ward came into play. “In my time [at Bishop Ward] listening and thinking, I learned how white people think.” Dwight was on a fast track to becoming a general when he received an unexpected invitation. In 1961, President John F. Kennedy wrote 28-year-old Dwight a letter, inviting him to become the first black astronaut trainee. “I just couldn’t resist it,” said Dwight. “I thought, ‘If I become an astronaut, that would really help my people.’” Though Dwight never made it to space, he made several highaltitude flights and completed astronaut training. That included centrifuge training, which is designed to prevent a loss >> See “DWIGHT” on page 5
NOVEMBER 16, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
ARCHBISHOP
Abuse crisis, pastoral on racism will be taken up at bishops’ meeting
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y brother and I shared a room while we were both in elementary school. For most of those years, sitting atop the chest of drawers was a statue of St. Martin de Porres. I won the statue as part of a classroom competition. The statue has a couple of chips from being collateral damage in a wrestling battle with my brother. I still have the statue today. For most of my elementary school years, the cause for the sainthood of Martin de Porres was being promoted. On May 6, 1962, when I was a seventh-grader, Pope John XXIII declared Martin de Porres a saint. Martin de Porres Velazquez was born on Dec. 9, 1579, in Lima, Peru. He was the illegitimate son of a Spanish nobleman, Don Juan de Porres, and of a freed Panamanian slave, Ana Velazquez, who was of African and possibly part Native American descent. His parents never married. When Martin was only 2 years old, shortly after the birth of his sister Juana, Martin’s father deserted the family. His mother took seriously her responsibility of forming her children in the Catholic faith. Martin
LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN as a child and a youth developed a strong prayer life. He grew up in poverty. His mother supported the family by taking in laundry. At a young age, Martin was apprenticed to a barber/surgeon where he learned the medical arts. Under Peruvian law, descendants of Africans and Native Americans were not permitted to become full members of religious communities. Martin, therefore, petitioned to serve as a volunteer performing menial tasks in Holy Rosary Dominican Priory in Lima, where he was allowed to wear the habit and reside. Martin labored in the kitchen and laundry. After eight years of outstanding service to the community, the prior chose to ignore the legal prohibitions and allowed
Martin to profess vows. In so doing, Martin became a Third Order Dominican. Sadly, even in religious life, Martin experienced racial bigotry. While others might have become embittered
Baptisms for children of larger families To show his personal support for those couples open to raising larger families, Archbishop Naumann has offered to celebrate the baptism of the third or greater child of any family interested. Please contact your parish office for more information. Additional information is also available from the archdiocesan office for liturgy and sacramental life at (913) 647-0330 or by email at: liturgy@ archkck.org.
and angry because of the hardships of racial discrimination, Martin was known instead for his prayer life and his remarkable compassion for others, especially the sick and the poor. In the homily at St. Martin’s canonization, Pope John XXIII observed: “He (Martin) did not blame others for their shortcomings.” Certain he deserved more severe punishment for his sins than others did, he would overlook their worst offenses. He was tireless in his efforts to reform the criminal, and he would sit up with the sick to bring them comfort. For the poor, he would provide food, clothing and medicine. He did all he could to care for poor farm hands, blacks and mulattoes who were looked down upon as slaves, the dregs of society in their time. Common people responded by calling him “Martin the Charitable.” The canonization of Martin de Porres occurred at the same time when the civil rights movement in the United States was bringing about significant legal and cultural reforms. Some have called racism the original sin of the United States. During my lifetime, there have been enormous changes in law and society. Yet, the vestiges of racism have not been completely
eliminated, as evidenced in recent years by racial strife in many cities. I write this column before the beginning of the meeting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in Baltimore. Obviously, the issue that will dominate our meetings is our response as bishops to the recent scandals of clergy misconduct. We will address the accountability of bishops and how to improve our response to victims of clergy misconduct, no matter how long ago the abuse occurred. At the same time, our agenda will include a few other urgent matters that the conference has been working on for some time. One of these will be the adoption of a pastoral letter against racism. Racial bigotry and discrimination are grave injustices and serious abuses of the God-given dignity of every human being. Our letter will acknowledge the historical reality of the sins of racism committed by Catholic clergy and laity. It will challenge us not to grow complacent with the progress that has been made, but to continue the important efforts to eradicate racism from the church, society and, most importantly, ourselves. St. Martin de Porres, pray for us!
Archbishop Naumann Nov. 15-16 Visit Pope St. John XXIII Seminary — Weston, Massachusetts Nov. 17 Rural Catholic Youth Conference Mass — Topeka Capital Plaza Nov. 18 Crosier Mass and brunch — Savior St. Rose Philippine Duchesne awards, Mass and reception — Sacred Heart, Mound City Nov. 19 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording “Trust One Greater” — Benedictine College, Atchison 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
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NOVEMBER 16, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE
Maureen Wall, executive director of the Olathe Pregnancy Clinic, guides Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann through the new facility as he blesses each room.
New pregnancy clinic in Olathe meets many needs By Susan Fotovich McCabe Special to The Leaven
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LATHE — Johnson County women in need of counseling and aid for an unplanned pregnancy have a new resource here: the Olathe Pregnancy Clinic recently opened at 1313 E. Santa Fe in the Twin Trails retail center. It’s a branch of the Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic in Kansas City, Kansas. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann attended the clinic’s Nov. 4 opening to offer a blessing before a crowd of supporters, donors and businesses that had volunteered time and talent to the clinic. “By the grace of your Holy Spirit,” prayed the archbishop, “make this pregnancy clinic a place of blessing and a center of love, where physicians practice wisely, nurses and aides serve with care, and where the faithful will come to assist Christ in the person of their brothers and sisters.” “Grant that all who are provided care and assistance by this clinic will embrace life in all its forms, and joyfully thank you for the blessings they have received,” he continued. According to clinic executive director Maureen Wall, the Olathe branch will offer many of the same services as the Wyandotte clinic, including free sonograms, pregnancy tests and prenatal classes. The classes provide opportunities to earn financial aid and baby
LEAVEN PHOTO BY MATT MCCABE
Archbishop Naumann, assisted by seminarian Keith Chadwick, blesses the new Olathe Pregnancy Clinic, located at 1313 E. Santa Fe. products. For example, a mother can earn “mommy dollars” for various activities: $50 in mommy dollars for every class she attends, $20 if she completes her homework and $20 if the father of the baby attends the classes. In all, she can earn up to $90 in mommy dollars per class to be used in the clinic store. A mom must attend three classes to be eligible to shop. The store will feature many basic baby and mom products, and new classes will be added to the lineup as the clinic expands.
President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann
Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)
Editor Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org
“The clinic offers hope and support for women facing unplanned pregnancies,” said Wall, who is a member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood. “In today’s throwaway culture, our clinic offers love, acceptance and resources to provide muchneeded assistance to both the mother and unborn child. All of our services are free and confidential in a safe environment.” A sonogram of an unborn baby, alone, can make a big difference for a woman facing an unplanned pregnan-
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
cy. It often shifts a woman’s mindset away from abortion and toward choosing life, Wall said. The clinic features a waiting room, office area, two counseling rooms, sonogram room and clinic store. Straub Construction completed the renovation of the offices and donated a portion of the costs and labor. Olathe is currently the fastest growing Johnson County city. At one time, Olathe was home to two pregnancy clinics, but both have closed. The new clinic will fill an immediate need, Wall said. The Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic does over 500 sonograms annually. Dr. Isaac Johnston has volunteered as its medical director. He will be assisted, as needed, by Dr. Melissa Yeats and Dr. Patrick Herrick. A current capital campaign has raised $475,000 of its $500,000 goal. The clinic is seeking additional funding to purchase a permanent sonogram machine and has applied to the Knights of Columbus for the equipment as well. Several individuals and groups from the community have volunteered to launch and help the clinic, including the St. Thomas Aquinas High School Teens for Life organization. For more information, visit the clinic website at: www.BabiesAtRisk. org. The website for women and families seeking help is: www.olathe pregnancyclinic.org. The clinic’s phone number is (913) 289-0100.
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 16, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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HAIR TODAY, GONE TOMORROW
Olathe fundraiser supports the men of Shalom House By Susan Fotovich McCabe Special to The Leaven
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LATHE — Don’t mind the scruff . . . it’s all for a good cause. The men of Prince of Peace Church in Olathe are taking “No Shave November” seriously, letting their facial hair grow to raise money for an area men’s shelter. Following the lead of pastor Father Jerry Volz and the parish Knights of Columbus, any man of the parish can “let it go” for a $1 a day, or a total of $25 for the month. But if you are a woman of the parish and just can’t stand the look, you can pay $2 per day to buy your man out and force him to shave. Either way, it’s a win-win proposition, as all proceeds will go to Shalom House, the men’s shelter in Kansas City, Kansas. The fundraiser began on Nov. 1. “I know my wife bought me out on day one, but I’m still growing for as long as I — or she — can deal with it!” said Dave Mulhall of this “fun but purposeful fundraiser.” Mulhall is Grand Knight of the Prince of Peace Knights of Columbus. Shalom House offers shelter and hospitality to homeless men. Originally started as a Catholic Worker house, Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas assumed operation of the house in 2008. Each day, Shalom House opens its doors to 24 men of all faiths in need of shelter, food and companionship. Services are provided at no charge and include a safe place to sleep, eat dinner and breakfast, shower (toiletries and other necessities are provided), do laundry and get clothing, as they develop a plan to successfully transition to permanent housing. “Prince of Peace has supported Shalom House in our annual Advent giving charity, and there have been some other groups to assist them in the past as well,” said Father Volz. “Our thought was there are many men who might want to shave if they could, but cannot afford the items,” he continued, “so we thought that this
LEAVEN PHOTO BY MATT MCCABE
Father Jerry Volz, pastor of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, tries on a fake mustache as Knights of Columbus member Brad Killeen looks on. As part of the parish’s “No Shave November” fundraiser, the Knights give out fake mustaches to those who cannot grow their own. might help in the charitable efforts.” Father Volz came up with the idea for the fundraiser, which brings together the men of the parish in a unique manner and forms of them a community that benefits charity. Knowing the popularity of “No Shave November,” he tied the idea to the needs of Shalom House. The slogan for the fundraiser is: “Grow What Your Father Gave You.” “Of course, the slogan gives reference to God as our father,” said Father Volz. To date, there are over 50 men participating and the church has received more than $2,000 in donations. Speculation is that the money raised so far
has been evenly split between men who like the idea of tossing the razor for a month and women who can no longer stand it. Not surprisingly, the fundraiser is provoking a lot of interesting discussion. “I’ve had a lot of men come up to me and we’ve been teasing each other about how the beard is looking,” said Father Volz. Several advised him to keep the beard through Christmas, when — combined with his white hair and cheery features — it would make for a good Santa look The charitable event will conclude with a 21-and-older men’s social the night before Thanksgiving. All men
RED MASS
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and Bishop James V. Johnston Jr., of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, celebrate the annual Red Mass Oct. 26 at the Church of the Nativity in Leawood. The Red Mass is held annually for all members of the legal profession — judges, lawyers, law school professors, law students and government officials — and marks the opening of the judicial year. CATHOLIC KEY PHOTO BY MARTY DENZER
of the parish are invited, whether they participated or not, and the event will feature food, drink and prizes. Those who bring a cold weather item to donate to Shalom House will receive a raffle ticket for prizes donated by Papa Murphy’s, Lowe’s, Scheels, etc. There’s also an opportunity to win a KU basketball signed by Coach Bill Self and the team. According to the rules of the fundraiser, the men are allowed to shave Thanksgiving Day . . . or not. “Speaking for my fellow Knights and myself, now being days into this event, we are having fun with it, but I don’t see the majority of us going beyond the end of the month,” Mulhall said.
Statement Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann has announced the return of Father Shawn Tunink to active priestly ministry. Father Tunink will be in residence at St. Michael the Archangel, serving both the St. Michael community and other parishes in the archdiocese on the weekends as needed. Father Tunink voluntarily withdrew from ministry in June when a complaint was made to the Linn County Sheriff’s Department regarding an allegation that the archdiocese had previously investigated in 2017. This allegation did not involve a claim of misconduct with a minor or financial misconduct. The Linn County Sheriff’s Department has now completed its own investigation, and no charges were brought against Father Tunink. Father Tunink is no longer the subject of any investigation and the Linn County matter is now closed.
NOVEMBER 16, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Catholic Formation Summit educates teachers for students By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org
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ENEXA — Too many parents have told Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann that their children are not practicing their faith — some even after their children have completed 12 years of Catholic education. That’s why, explained the archbishop in an address at St. James Academy in Lenexa Oct. 25, the archdiocese has invested so heavily in the formation of its educators — the very sorts of Catholic school principals, presidents, youth minsters and theology teachers that he was addressing at this second annual Catholic Formation Summit. “The formation of the staff and teachers is essential,” he said. The summit is an outreach of the Duc in Altum Schools Collaborative, an initiative in which St. James and five other Catholic schools from across the country pool resources to educate students both intellectually and spiritually. “Archbishop [Emeritus James P.] Keleher had a vision for St. James,” said Archbishop Naumann in his keynote address. “[He saw the school as] an opportunity to expand the vision of what our Catholic secondary schools could really be.” According to Archbishop Naumann, Archbishop Keleher’s top concern in the founding of the new academy was finding the leadership that would make disciples for Christ through education. “The most important formation would be the formation of our teachers, because they were forming our young people,” said Archbishop Naumann. But this foundation of well-formed teachers was not to be exclusive to St. James. Eventually, all Catholic schools within the archdiocese began to educate their teachers through catechetical programs such as the School of Faith. “This is not just for theology teachers,” said Archbishop Naumann. “But everybody on faculty in the Catholic
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Ben Akers, associate professor of theology at the Augustine Institute in Greenwood Village, Colorado, gives a breakout session entitled: “Teach Us to Pray: A Strategic Approach to Inspiring Active Participation in the Christian Life.” The session explored the church’s teaching on how to encourage student engagement in prayer. school has to be wrapped around the same mission of integrating into their disciplines elements of the faith. “The most important thing we can do is help [students] know how to pray and build a relationship with Jesus.” The summit, which ran from Oct. 24-26, included speeches and presentations ranging from the importance of mission to Catholic psychotherapy to transformational leadership. In one of the breakout sessions, headmaster Dr. Todd Flanders and upper school dean of students Josh Blonski of Providence Academy in Plymouth, Minnesota, gave a presentation entitled: “The High School ‘Symposium Club’: Toward Building a Culture of Solidarity.”
Founded two years ago in the midst of a divisive era, Flanders and Blonski shared how the symposium club gave students civil and unitive methods for engaging the modern world. During his first year as upper school dean, Blonski noticed that students had the desire to delve deeply into controversial topics but had no platform for doing so. “The beautiful thing,” said Blonski, “was that there was a desire for truth and to approach that truth as a community. “I saw a hunger among these students: a hunger to be heard, a hunger to listen to others and then a hunger to have an exchange.” The club is open to juniors and seniors
and is moderated by Blonski and Flanders. Parents and teachers are not allowed. “We want these emerging adults to feel like their emerging adulthood is being embraced and honored,” said Flanders. “That’s one of the reasons why we don’t allow faculty or parents.” Fundamentally, the club is a place where students can discover reality through dialogue and community. “We want to encounter the other as a person co-equally created in the image and likeness of God,” said Flanders. “The goal is to educate, expand and prepare young people to be the decision makers when we are old,” he added.
Dwight continued to break down barriers as sculptor >> Continued from page 1 of consciousness due to extreme levels of acceleration one might experience in rocket takeoff and landing. “They test you to see how many G’s you can take before you black out,” said Dwight. The force of acceleration is measured in G’s — one G being equivalent to the force of the earth’s gravity upon a body. “At 15 G’s, your tear ducts close, so the tears come over [the side of your face] and they hit your ear like a bullet,” recalled Dwight. But after President Kennedy’s assassination and seeing the rising number of deaths among his Air Force comrades, Dwight decided to retire and move into private life.
From astronaut to artist Dwight began the next phase of his working life in Colorado at IBM. He eventually went on to try a barbecue restaurant and then the construction business.
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“THERE IS SOMETHING MAGIC IN GOING [TO WARD], BECAUSE PEOPLE CARE. THAT’S THE MOST IMPORTANT THING YOU CAN POSSIBLY HAVE AT ANY SCHOOL.” All the while, the artistic talent he had carried since childhood was begging for an outlet. “At the construction sites at the end of every day, I would pile all of this metal in the back of my Mercedes-Benz and drive it home,” said Dwight. “On the weekend, I started making art out of it.” And it was good — so good that Colorado Lt. Gov. George Leslie Brown
took notice. Elected in the early 1970s, Brown was the first black to hold the position. And he insisted Dwight create the sculpture he planned for the Capitol building. Brown pointed out to Dwight that though African-Americans have been in the United States for 350 years, there were no images of a black person in any city park, museum or public square. “He told me, ‘You’re going to change that,’” said Dwight. And he did. At the age of 45, Dwight pursued his childhood dream of becoming an artist and went on to earn his MFA in sculpture from the University of Denver. Since that time, Dwight has created hundreds of public monuments and sculptures across the country celebrating African-Americans, including the Mother of Africa Chapel at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington; the memorial to Rosa Parks in Grand Rapids, Michigan; the inaugural sculpture of President Barack Obama; and the Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. memorial in Houston.
And it all comes back to Bishop Ward. “There is something magic in going here, because people care,” Dwight told his student audience. “That’s the most important thing you can possibly have at any school,” he added. The assembly concluded with a student awards ceremony and the announcement of Wyandotte County’s official recognition of Nov. 7 as Ed Dwight Day. Daniela Gonzalez was the Ed Dwight STEAM award recipient for art. Gonzalez, a Bishop Ward senior and parishioner of Christ the King Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, plans to join the Navy after graduation, with hopes of one day becoming a pediatrician — hopes that were bolstered after hearing Dwight’s story. “[He] showed us that even though he was in the lower system during the ’50s,” said Gonzalez, “he still overcame everything — all of the challenges. “It shows us that anyone can overcome challenges.”
NOVEMBER 16, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
FAMILY LIFE
‘Use your words’ to guide children young and grown
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wo groups ask me often what they can do to help their children grow in faith: parents of toddlers and parents of young adults. Surprised? While their ages and stages of life may differ, the two groups are closer than you might think. When I write about faith at home, I often hear from new parents. They want to know what prayers or books they can use to make sure their child learns the faith. Their enthusiasm and anxiety are evident: They want to get it right. When I speak in parishes, I always hear from parents whose adult children have stopped going to church. They want to know why their children left and how they could encourage them to come back. Their faith and grief is clear: They want to know where things went wrong. Empathy makes my heart reach out to both groups, though there are no easy answers. I sympathize with parents of young ones. It’s the beginning of family life at home. The stakes for faith feel high. And I ache for
LAURA KELLY FANUCCI Fanucci is a mother, writer and director of a project on vocation at the Collegeville Institute in Collegeville, Minnesota. She is the author of several books, and blogs at: www.motheringspirit.com.
the parents of adults who have left the church. It’s beyond the years of family life at home. The stakes feel even higher. I want to tell the first group: Don’t worry. You’re doing more than you realize. God is at work in ways you can’t see. It’s not all up to you. I want to tell the second group the same. But encouragement is not enough. We want to act, especially when our children and their faith is concerned. So what can we do? Take our own advice: “Use your words.” Just as parents coach and coax
toddlers to practice their language skills (rather than throw a tantrum), we can encourage each other to use our conversations, witness and prayers for the children we love. First, use your words to share your faith. Remember the power of example. How often do you talk about God, prayer or the church with the children or young adults in your life? Have you ever spoken about your own faith journey, struggles or questions? If you share what brings you joy, purpose, peace and truth, young people will notice. Even if they don’t always agree or understand, they are paying attention to the way you live your life and how your faith shows up in everyday conversations.
Second, use your words to bear witness to your faith. Remember the importance of integrity. How do your children hear you talk about other people? Politicians you disagree with? Individuals or groups you don’t like? Children are listening from their earliest days. Despite the influence of friends, media and culture, parents still have significant influence on the beliefs and morals of their children. Think about the language and tone you use in conversation with your children. Do your words and tone reflect your values, no matter the topic? Finally, use your words to pray for young people. Ultimately our children’s faith —
like every part of their lives — is out of our control. But prayer reminds us that each child belongs to God. Remember the words we believe, the Word that matters most: “Be not afraid. I am with you.” If we start a daily habit of entrusting the children we love to God, we can find comfort, hope and guidance in God’s care. At the recent Synod of Bishops on young people, the faith and vocational discernment, the Vatican’s preparatory document read: “The church wants again to state her desire to encounter, accompany and care for every young person, without exception.” We can do the same for the children in our lives. We can use our words for good.
Parish dedicates addition to Topeka rosary garden Eric and Shannon Nichol Special to The Leaven
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OPEKA — More than 30 gathered on Oct. 16 at Aubry’s Angels rosary garden on the grounds of Christ the King Church here to celebrate the garden’s fifth anniversary. As part of the celebration, pastor Father Matthew Schiffelbein dedicated a holy spring and water course known as Dominic’s Spring. Designed by Christ the King parishioner Dominic D’Attilio for his Eagle Scout project, the spring was named in honor of St. Dominic. According to church tradition, the saint devised the rosary as it is known today after receiving a vision of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the early 1200s. He promoted the praying of the rosary as a way to combat the Albigensian heresy, which maintained that all material creation was evil. In addition to the spring, the rosary garden includes a large statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary, plaques featuring
the mysteries of the rosary, granite stones which serve as the rosary beads, benches and a variety of plants and shrubs. First conceived as an idea by the late Aubry Williams, the daughter of parishioner Dr. Mary Franz, work began on the rosary garden in 2011. Officially dedicated in 2013, it offers a place for parishioners and the community at large to pray and reflect amid nature. The garden is named in honor of Williams because she shared the idea of such a space at the parish with her mother as she underwent treatment for a rare brain tumor known as anaplastic ependymoma. Williams died on Oct. 6, 2009, just one day before the feast of Our Lady of the Rosary, which the universal church celebrates on Oct. 7. Aubry’s Angels, a nonprofit organization, was formed before Williams died and has committed itself to seeing the rosary garden to completion as well as promoting and encouraging parishioners to pray the rosary frequently.
The Aubry’s Angels rosary garden on the grounds of Christ the King Church in Topeka celebrated its fifth anniversary on Oct. 16.
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Aloysius “Al” and Linda (Colvin) Funk, members of St. Joseph Parish, Nortonville, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 23 with a family dinner. The couple was married Nov. 23, 1968, at Holy Name Church, Topeka. Their children are: Anthony Funk, Amy Fleischer, Louis Funk and Laura Zachgo. They also have 13 grandchildren. Pat (Schoenfelder) and Charlie Meers, members of St. Joseph Parish, Wathena, will celebrate their 60th anniversary on Nov. 22. The couple was married on Nov. 22, 1958, at St. Charles Church, Troy. Their children are: Ron Meers, Don Meers, Randy Meers and Cindy Richardson. They also have seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Dorothy and Rex Polter, members of M ot h e r Te r e s a Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Nov. 24 at 4 p.m. Mass. The couple was married on Nov. 22, 1958, at St. James Church, Vancouver, Washington. Their children are: Pat Kuckelman, H.R. Polter and Dennis Polter. They also have six grandchildren. Robert and Kathryn (Remesch) Sarnecki, members of Queen of the Holy R o s a r y Parish, Wea, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 16. The couple was married on Nov. 16, 1968, at St. Patrick Church, Urbana, Illinois. They celebrated in August with family in Branson, Missouri. Their children are: R. Philip Sarnecki, Todd M. Sarnecki and Katie Kazyak. They also have 10 grandchildren. Carol (Caenen) and Dennis Wheeler, members of St. Paul Parish, Olathe, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 16 with friends and a renewal of their vows. The couple was married on Nov. 16, 1968, at Sacred Heart Church, Tonganoxie. Their children are: Kim Rapue and Jill Iveson. They also have four grandchildren. Joan (Weber) and Raymond Schmitz, members of St. Mary Parish, St. Benedict, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary with their family the weekend of Nov. 25. The couple was married on Nov. 26, 1958. Their children are: Ray Lee Schmitz, Gary Schmitz, Sharon Burger, Bryan Schmitz and Dona Ratliff. They also have 12 grandchildren.
ARCHDIOCESAN ANNUAL REPORT 2018 Archbishop pledges transparency and fiscal responsibility Dear Friends,
Scripture reflection Thomas Fuller, an English theologian and historian, is credited with the first print attribution of the saying: “It is always darkest before the dawn.” The meaning of this phrase is that there is hope, even in the worst of circumstances. This Sunday’s first reading from the Book of Daniel describes dark times and distress, and then escape where the wise shall shine brightly and lead many to justice. The Gospel of Mark tells of the tribulation and the coming of the Son of Man in the clouds. It also cautions us that we do not know the day or the hour that this will happen. Every year during Advent, we hear of the end times and our need to be prepared. Jesus tells us we do not know the day or the hour and neither does he. Only the Father knows. Preparation is a continuous process, not a goal that can be achieved. There is no real point in time where we can declare that we are fully prepared, but we must continually strive to prepare ourselves to weather storms without despair and to embrace joy without hubris. We must be alert to the signs in our lives that our preparation is lacking and strive to become more generous, understanding, forgiving and Christ-like.
The mission of the church As members of the body of Christ, we all have a moral obligation to treat others with dignity and respect. This is true whether they agree with us or not. This is true regardless of our differences in political affiliations or even sports team allegiances. We are more alike than we are different. We were all created out of the love of God. God is boundless, unceasing, unconditional love, and his mercy arises out of this superabundance. God loves us as much as he has loved anyone in the history of time and he will forgive us anything. We have only to be sorry, ask for forgiveness and try to do better. We are called to help each other, not seek to win at any cost. If our fellow human beings have basic needs, we should help them meet those needs. These are a few of the beautiful messages and examples of the life of Jesus Christ. He has shown us the way to a glorious and eternal life. The message is simple. The will to resist the current culture is hard. The reward is fantastic! Sharing this message with friends, families and temporary strangers is the Great Commission Jesus gave us in the Gospel: “Go, therefore, and make disciples of all nations, baptizing them in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit, teaching them to observe all that I have commanded you” (Mt 28:19:20). This is the mission of the Catholic Church. This church, which over its history has made life-altering changes to the world in which we live, continues to embrace the simple and basic tenants of Christianity taught to us by Jesus, “who, though he was in the form of God, did not regard equality with God something to be grasped. Rather, he emptied himself, taking the form of a slave, coming in human likeness; and found human in appearance, he humbled himself, becoming obedient to death, even death on a cross” (Phil 2:6-8). This absolute humility brought to life a church responsible for institutionalizing the care of widows,
WE ARE CALLED TO HELP EACH OTHER, NOT SEEK TO WIN AT ANY COST. IF OUR FELLOW HUMAN BEINGS HAVE BASIC NEEDS, WE SHOULD HELP THEM MEET THOSE NEEDS.
orphans, the sick and the poor. People who had been cast away and left to die were now cared for by Christians as beloved children of God. This spirit of Catholic charity created hospital systems, the legal system and the university system, and made extraordinary contributions to art, architecture and music, modern economic theory, seismology and countless other scientific advances from astronomy (including the Big Bang theory!) to philosophy.
Transparency As a church, we invest in church life at the parochial, archdiocesan, national and international levels. We contribute to our local parish to provide for our sacramental life and perhaps a child’s education. We contribute at an archdiocesan level to provide help for the elderly poor, the refugee and the ability to march for life in Washington, D.C. We contribute nationally to help mission dioceses with few resources, and we contribute internationally to alleviate suffering from hurricanes, tsunamis and famines. The financial information you see on these pages shows you the sources (income) and uses (expense) of the funds at the archdiocese for the most recent fiscal year and the year prior. A comparison of the two years and explanations of differences over $100,000 and 10 percent are provided. This statement agrees in total to the audited annual financial report which is posted on the archdiocesan website at: www.archkck. org/Finance. Some category amounts may differ due to updates in presentation. There are essentially four classifications of sources of funds: Fees and Other Income, ACTS (Archbishop’s Call to Share annual appeal), Assessments and Collections, and Cathedraticum. Following is a brief description of each. Fees and other income: Some offices charge fees for services, such as school fees to cover administration, youth camp registration fees, rental fees at Savior Pastoral Center, The Leaven. Additionally, investment earnings, contributions and campaign donations are recorded here. By far, the largest source is health and dental premiums for all covered employees of the archdiocese. ACTS: This annual appeal is conducted each January-March to raise funds for the following fiscal year. Based on analysis and information produced by a committee of laity and priests, the Presbyteral Council makes a recommendation to me for the allocation of funds. Assessments and collections: This includes amounts assessed to parishes or regions for Savior Pastoral Center and youth formation, as well as the Catholic Charities Christmas collection and Priesthood Present and Future collection. Cathedraticum: Annual tax as provided under the Code of Canon Law, Canon 1263, for the bishop to fund the administrative costs of the diocese. The amount and method varies by diocese. The uses of the above funds are listed down the page and are divided by categories which correspond to the five pastoral priorities of the archbishop. A short explanation of each priority is provided under each heading. Additionally, use of funds for each line item is broken down between columns based on the origin of the funds received to pay for the spending. For example: Under the pastoral priority of education is Communications. Communications received funding from restricted funds (Fees/Other Income), ACTS and Cathedraticum. The total spending for the office of communications is found in the Total Column. The bottom line is the net of the income sources and uses. In cases where the net is negative, balances saved from previous years are used. It is also important to know that all funds received with donor restrictions are accounted for to ensure that those funds
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>> Continued from previous page are used only for the purpose the donor intends. What to take away? Fifty percent of the expense dollars are health and dental claims and administration for all covered employees of the archdiocese. This is certainly a worthwhile program that is administered centrally in the archdiocese to take advantage of economies of scale, and it does take a fair bit of effort to administer. However, because the plans are selfinsured, the claims show as expense and the premiums as income on the chancery books and this does skew the picture a bit. The pie charts restate the same data but move the health and dental programs out of the totals to show the same picture in a different way. Overall, the archdiocese had a positive operating income for the year ended June 30, 2018, which was a nice turnaround from the loss in 2017. That loss was caused by some one-time events including: the gift of land made to start a new parish; the use of reserves to fund the implementation of new systems; the distribution of private appeal funds received; and the support of Immaculata High School in its final days. The positive result in 2018 is due to the recording of campaign pledges received for the One Faith, One Family, One Future in Christ capital campaign. In addition to the operating statement presented, there are funds, including national collections and special emergency collections, we call “pass-through funds” that are collected at each parish, sent to the archdiocese and then forwarded on to their final destination. This schedule shows the reach of our collective generosity beyond the boundaries of our parishes and our archdiocese.
Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas OPERATING STATEMENT Funded by: ------------------> Income Expenses
CONVERSION At the heart of the church’s ministry is facilitating for its members an encounter with the person of Jesus Christ. Central to what it means to be Catholic is the development of a frendship with Jesus through prayer and reflection.
Conclusion I am continually blessed and humbled by the generosity I witness every day in the church of northeast Kansas. Your generosity is a testament to the deepness of your faith in Jesus Christ and your commitment to follow him through this life and into the next. My commitment to you is to continue to speak his truth in love and to provide to you the transparency required to ensure that the blessings you have received and shared are used well in the building up of God’s kingdom. Gratefully yours in Jesus, the Lord of Life, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann
Vicar for Clergy and Clergy Support Programs 768,746 4 Savior Pastoral Center 820,308 856,943 113,772 97,812 260,000 300,000 Christ Peace House of Prayer 60,000 60,105 Totus Tuus 9,000 44,325 8,661 7,208 Liturgy and Sacramental Life 870 207 166,448 156,410 Office of Hispanic Ministry 10,900 11,875 379,214 329,406 Emporia-Hispanic Ministry 25,000 25,000 Campus Ministry Donnelly College KCK 45,000 45,000 Lawrence Center-KU Lawrence 130,000 132,500 Didde Center-Emporia 84,000 84,000 Catholic Center-Washburn Topeka 76,000 76,000 Catholic Center-Haskell Lawrence 10,000 61,000 72,000 Other 40,178 15,824 30,650 2,978 5,000 Total Conversion
891,256
929,173
1,179,745
1,088,419
260,000
300,000
773,746
4
EVANGELIZATION The commission that Jesus gave to the church was to go and make disciples of all nations, The church can never be content with itself as it is currently constituted. We must always be guided by a missionary impulse to share the gift of our faith with others.
EDUCATION An essential component of the church’s ministry is the education of the next generation of disciples, as well as the continuing formation of all its members.
One Faith, One Family, One Future in Christ In early 2018, we embarked upon the One Faith, One Family, One Future in Christ campaign by reaching out to Catholic families across the archdiocese and sharing our vision for the future of the church in northeast Kansas. We continue to receive many generous gifts, and I am pleased to report that midway through the first of three phases, we have secured more than 30 percent of our $65 million goal. I remain grateful to all who support this historic initiative, especially the volunteers who are helping to invite their fellow parishioners to participate in this important undertaking for the Catholic community in northeast Kansas. We will all share in this wonderful outpouring of generosity: retired priests through funding for the priests’ pension and a creation of a priests’ retirement residence; parishes and parish schools through funding for local needs, addressing of excess buildings and property, and building on our culture of evangelization; the elderly through the purchase of and capital investments in Villa St. Francis Catholic Care Center; and those who attain spiritual growth at Savior Pastoral Center through many improvements to those buildings.
Fees/Other Income Archbishop’s Call to Share Assessments and Collections Cathedratic $33,462,191 $38,863,616 $6,381,447 $6,548,898 $3,931,833 $3,849,877 $3,185,945 $3,3 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017 2018 2017
Evang & Catholic Formation-Youth Ranch & Camps 1,481,224 1,425,016 401,247 482,034 Rural Youth Outreach Programs 25864 31,962 149,892 125,659 Urban Youth Outreach Programs 9,819 14,000 127,683 125,418 Urban Youth Outreach Capital Needs 50,000 50,000 Evangelization 3,405 3,360 225,540 305,213 Digital Resource Center 49,827 4,893 44,887 112,828 Propagation of the Faith 6,906 7,240 Native American Evangelization Fund 3,600 3,600 Other 31,587 40,000 1,200 Total Evangelization
1,608,632
1,486,471
715,273
903,675
327,575
301,076
1,200
Safe Environment 114 287,005 Leaven Newspaper 1,078,713 1,111,097 Archdiocesan Education Office 367,850 375,057 209,201 248,583 Perfect Wings Program 12,640 5,696 80,771 88,078 Children’s Catechesis 1,500 59,331 89,171 Vocations 45,034 36,879 143,854 145,845 Seminarians 647,483 483,748 525,183 687,695 Permanent Diaconate Office and Program 8,047 4,471 287,675 213,451 Continuing Education for Priests 102,364 172,855 Marriage and Family Life 48,107 55,565 277,754 279,871 Communications 13,000 43,240 75,000 75,000 43,534 School of Faith - Grant 327,000 327,000 High School Tuition Assistance 225,000 225,000 Catholic Education Foundation 300,000 330,000 Bishop Ward Operations Assistance 125,000 125,000 Ward H.S. Capital Improvements 100,000 100,000 Donnelly College Scholarships 200,000 200,000 Donnelly College Capital Needs 200,000 200,000 Elizabeth Ann Seton Tuition Assistance 105,000 416,118 403,703 Other 247,205 19,316 30,000 156,000 40,336 Total Education
2,468,194
2,241,569
2,110,585
2,176,998
1,543,665
1,920,253
370,875
3
OUTREACH: Serving Those in Need The church is called to make the love of Jesus real and tangible in the world today, especially to the poor, the vulnerable and those on the peripheries.
Archdiocesan Tribunal 18,530 6,645 254,695 My House Initiative 16,327 20,249 94,004 92,192 Social Justice 850 95,697 98,058 Special Needs 13,976 21,611 172,129 184,700 Pro Life 28,112 23,885 182,882 203,841 Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas 80,000 450,000 450,000 500,631 488,288 Villa St. Francis-Geriatric Assistance 100,000 100,000 170,000 170,000 El Centro - Kansas City 40,000 41,000 El Centro-Topeka 40,000 40,000 Other 72,073 70,245 1,750 101,500 Total Outreach
STEWARDSHIP Catholic spirituality begins with profound gratitude resulting from the realization that everything, including life itself, is God’s gift. Thus, the question for every Christian is: What is God calling me to do with all that he has entrusted to me?
329,018
243,485
1,246,462
1,279,791
500,631
488,288
356,195
3
Stewardship/Development 78,118 42,344 311,499 325,988 34,233 358,306 3 Campaign Distributions and Bad Debt 1,625,965 1,564,139 108,326 106,710 (70,431) 47,102 Cor Christi Grants and fees 757,382 480,203 School/Parish Emergency Fund 81,564 75,620 Urban Core Operations Support 241,498 241,167 Urban Core Capital Support 100,000 100,000 Priest Retirement Fund 195,000 195,000 595,000 595,000 Mission Strategy 42 2 111,866 Archives 16,513 Finance 276,318 2 Human Resources 198,577 120,227 271,253 Accounting 59,552 65,184 478,523 5 Financial and Controls Auditor 107,514 Real Estate/Construction 330 147,497 Other Property Expenses 44,211 35,722 Depreciation of physical assets 625,540 Other 16,996 30,000 630,157 Total Stewardship
2,764,177
2,307,819
1,054,884
1,074,485
558,802
642,102
Total Pastoral Priorities
8,061,276
7,208,518
6,306,949
6,523,368
3,190,672
3,651,720
3,023,487
2,
4,525,503 3,8
ARCHDIOCESAN ADMINISTRATION & INSURANCE
Archbishop Office and Home 8,171 1,456 317,637 Archbishop Emeritus Office and Home 91,907 Administrative Services (Chancellor/VG IT etc) 15,126 23,697 273,977 Chancery 335,247 324,531 General Expenses of the Archdiocese 21,938 10,012 158,206 2 USCCB KS Catholic Conference & Legal 495,665 Deposit and Loan 882,271 519,429 Property and Liability Insurance Claims 1,275,595 1,047,409 Health and Dental Claims and Bad Debt 23,666,875 24,602,182 Other 4,405 Total Administration and Insurance
$26,205,222 $26,528,715
$-
$-
$-
$- $1,341,796 $1,
Total Expenses Net
$34,266,498 $33,737,233 $6,306,949 $6,523,368 $804,301 $5,126,383 $74,498 $25,530
$3,190,672 $741,161
$3,651,720 $5,867,300 $5, $198,158 $(2,681,355) $(1,9
T FOR 2017 AND 2018
Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas REVENUE Actual 2017 vs 2018
Actual Actual Revenues Revenues Year Ended Year Ended 2017 2018 Archdiocesan Assessments and Collections 7,117,778 29.3% 7,240,867 25.9% Archbishop’s Call To Share Annual Appeal 6,381,447 26.3% 6,548,898 23.4% Fees Generated by Offices and Other 7,031,755 28.9% 6,096,569 21.8% Net Investment Income 3,178,680 13.1% 2,649,703 9.5% Bequests and Contributions 573,185 2.4% 843,890 3.0% One Faith, One Family, One Future in Christ & Private Appeal 27,309 0.1% 4,571,335 16.4%
cum Total Year over Year Change 390,990 $46,961,416 $52,653,381 1 $5,691,965 12% 2018 2017 2018 $ % $768,746 1,194,080 60,000 17,661 167,318 390,114 25,000
47,500
45,000 130,000 84,000 76,000 71,000 75,828
450,136
$3,104,746
$402,636 2 $(366,109) -48% 1,254,755 60,676 5% 60,105 105 0% 51,533 33,872 192% 156,616 (10,702) -6% 341,281 (48,833) -13% 25,000 - 0% 45,000 132,500 84,000 76,000 72,000 66,302 $2,767,728
- 0% 2,500 2% - 0% - 0% 1,000 1% (9,527) -13%
$1,882,471 $1,907,050 175,756 157,621 137,502 139,418 50,000 50,000 228,944 308,573 94,714 117,721 6,906 7,240 3,600 3,600 1,200 72,787 1,200 1,200
313,307 22,040 46,300
381,647
329,711 56,620
386,331
$2,652,679 $2,692,423
$287,118 1,078,713 577,051 93,411 59,331 188,888 1,172,666 295,722 102,364 325,861 131,534 327,000 225,000 300,000 125,000 100,000 200,000 200,000 416,118 287,541
$313,307 1,111,097 623,640 93,773 90,671 182,723 1,171,443 217,922 172,855 335,436 140,280 327,000 225,000 330,000 125,000 100,000 200,000 200,000 508,703 251,617
$6,493,319 $6,720,467
$273,225 110,331 95,697 186,105 210,994 1,030,631 270,000 40,000 40,000 175,323
$336,356 112,441 98,908 206,310 227,726 938,288 270,000 41,000 40,000 126,865
$2,432,306 $2,397,896
383,899 113,807 17,140 278,495 297,483 584,556 105,602 156,657 639,734 54,133
$782,156 1,663,860 757,382 81,564 241,498 100,000 790,000 111,908 16,513 276,318 469,830 538,075 107,514 147,827 44,211 625,540 647,153
$752,231 1,717,951 480,203 3 75,620 241,167 100,000 790,000 113,809 17,140 278,495 417,710 649,740 4 105,602 156,657 35,722 639,734 84,133 5
,631,506
$7,401,349
$6,655,912
850,820 $22,084,400 $21,234,425
326,198 92,769 277,354 16,727 206,725 601,167 4,303
$325,807 91,907 289,103 335,247 180,144 495,665 882,271 1,275,595 23,666,875 4,405
$327,654 92,769 301,051 341,258 216,736 601,167 519,429 6 1,047,409 7 24,602,182 4,303
,525,241 $27,547,019 $28,053,956
$(337,018)
Not included in pie chart:Health and Dental Insurance Premiums
1%
Not included in pie chart: Health and Dental Insurance Claims
22,651,262
48%
24,702,120
50%
-1%
$(29,925) 54,091 (277,179) (5,944) (331) - - 1,900 627 2,177 (52,120) 111,665 (1,912) 8,829 (8,489) 14,194 (563,020)
-4% 3% -37% -7% 0% 0% 0% 2% 4% 1% -11% 21% -2% 6% -19% 2% -87%
$1,846 1% 861 1% 11,948 4% 6,010 2% 36,593 20% 105,502 21% (362,842) -41% (228,186) -18% 935,307 4% (102) -2% 2%
,376,061 $49,631,418 $49,288,382 $(343,037) -1% 985, 071) $(2,670.002) $3,365,000 $6,035,002 226%
100%
24,686,199
100%
23,666,875
44%
24,602,182
47%
HELP FOR THE NEEDY & DISASTER RELIEF for the year ended June 30, 2018
National Collections: Propagation of the Faith Black and Indian Missions Church in Latin America American Bishops’ Overseas Appeal Operation Rice Bowl Holy Land Peter’s Pence Catholic Campaign for Human Development Catholic Communication Campaign Aid to Church in Central and Eastern Europe Retirement Fund for Religious Catholic Home Mission Appeal Catholic University of America Military Archdiocese Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
$691,224 $51,207 $46,497 $66,490 $64,904 ¹ $109,614 $53,884 $43,524 1 $18,410 1 $46,787 $112,742 $49,524 $39,554 $6,849 $1,728
Special Emergency Collections: Disaster Relief - 2017 Hurricane Harvey 434,659 Disaster Relief - 2017 Hurricane Irma 76,976 Disaster Relief - 2017 Hurricane Maria 15,804 Other 28,016
$1,933,608
Program Services Provided by Catholic Charities of NE Kansas $24,111,762 Tuition Assistance Provided by Catholic Education Foundation $2,288,045
(745,438) -10% -4%
$25,964,544
Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas
3%
$(34,410)
$506,937
100%
Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas EXPENSES Actual 2017 vs 2018
$63,131 23% 2,110 2% 3,211 3% 20,205 11% 16,733 8% (92,342) -9% - 0% 1,000 3% - 0% (48,458) -28%
$(849,974)
27,951,261
Actual Actual Expenses Expenses Year Ended Year Ended 2017 2018 Conversion 3,104,746 12.0% 2,767,728 11.2% Evangelization 2,652,679 10.2% 2,692,423 10.9% Education 6,493,319 25.0% 6,720,467 27.2% Outreach: Serving those in need 2,432,306 9.4% 2,397,896 9.7% Stewardship 7,401,349 28.5% 6,655,912 27.0% Administrative 3,880,144 14.9% 3,451,774 14.0%
$26,188 9% 32,384 3% 46,589 8% 362 0% 31,339 53% (6,165) -3% (1,223) 0% (77,799) -26% 70,491 69% 9,575 3% 8,746 7% - 0% - 0% 30,000 10% - 0% - 0% - 0% - 0% 92,585 22% (35,925) -12% $227,148
100%
-11%
$24,579 1% (18,135) -10% 1,916 1% - 0% 79,628 35% 23,007 24% 334 5% - 0% (71,587) -98% $39,743
$24,310,154
s 1 Archdiocese remits 75% of Operation Rice Bowl, 75% of Catholic Campaign for Human Development and 50% of Catholic Communication Campaign The amounts retained in the archdiocese are used to fund archdiocesan programs.
s
402,636
FOOTNOTES: 1. Income increased $4.6M from One Faith capital campaign pledges and $2M from Health & Dental premiums. 2. Vicar General for Clergy decreased $366K due to the moving of health related costs to the Health & Dental Fund. 3. Cor Christi Grants & Fees decreased $277K due to a grant of $200K made in 2017 only and a reduction in grants to Bishop Ward High School. 4. Accounting increased $111K due to the addition of one staff position and new payroll outsourcing expense. 5. Other Stewardship decreased $563K because of a gift of property made in 2017 to form a new parish. 6. Deposit & Loan expenses were down $363K due to a positive reversal of bad debt expense. 7. Property & Liability Insurance claims were down $228K due to fewer claims paid.
TRANSPARENCY Amount spent to assist victims with healing Counseling to aid in healing is offered to all victims. A Healing Assistance Coordinator works with victims to receive assistance. Victim Settlement Priests Pay benefits and retirement contribution Education Mental Health Counseling
2017 2018 $9,292 $5,106
$-
$25,000
$26,054 $51,372 $- $1,555 $111,367 $164,211
Canon 384 payments to credibly accused priests $137,421 # of Priests 1
$217,138 2
These priests have credible accusations but have not been tried and convicted in a court of law as the legal process is still pending. The Code of Canon Law, Canon 384, requires the diocesan bishop to provide for the priest’s financial support and social assistance including daily living expenses health insurance and retirement. Normally that is facilitated through the parish via Canon 222.1 where the Christian faithful are obliged to provide for the decent support of its ministers. However, in the case where a diocesan priest is not assigned to a parish the responsibility falls back to his bishop. In the cases of these priests the amounts also include mental health counseling. Child Protection efforts $280,201 $311,892 All archdiocesan employees and volunteers who have substantial contact with children and youth are required to complete on-going training for the protection of minors. Additionally the archdiocese conducts criminal background checks on each person undergoing this training. Compliance with this program is checked by the archdiocesan internal auditor on a rotational basis as well as United States Conference of Catholic Bishops auditors on an annual basis. This office also provides for an investigator. For additional information please go to: https://www.archkck.org/virtusinfo
NOVEMBER 16, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
NATION/WORLD
National Review Board expects to push bishops on abuse accountability By Dennis Sadowski Catholic News Service
B
ALTIMORE (CNS) — Members of the National Review Board see their work as one way to continue challenging the U.S. bishops “not to back down” from efforts to improve accountability in responding to clergy sexual abuse, said board chairman Francesco Cesareo. “This is a moment of opportunity and it is not a moment to be wasted. If we don’t get it right this time we may not get a third chance to really grapple with this issue,” Cesareo told Catholic News Service after delivering a report from the board Nov. 13 during the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ fall general assembly in Baltimore. “They see this as a moment whereby we can potentially have a cultural shift and change,” he said of the all-lay board, which the bishops established in 2002 to oversee compliance with the “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.” The report offered a series of recommendations, including a call to review diocesan and seminary files, archives and clergy personnel records dating to at least 1950 and to make the findings public when possible. It also backed the USCCB proposals for a code of conduct for bishops and the formation of a special commission for reviewing complaints against bishops for violating the standards. Cesareo expressed regret that the USCCB would not be voting on the proposals during the fall assembly as originally planned. On the eve of the fall assembly, the Vatican Congregation for Bishops asked the USCCB to not take a vote on the protocols until the presidents of the bishops’ conferences around the world meet in Rome in February. While crediting the bishops for efforts to reduce child sexual abuse and to implement the charter, Cesareo said their response to the abuse crisis “has been incomplete.” “Specifically, current events reveal a continued lack of transparency about past cases of abuse and the way they were handled, as well as a lack of accountability for bishops,” he said. Cesareo cited media reports and the August Pennsylvania grand jury report that revealed how some bishops have not been “sufficiently open and transparent” about abuse by
V
ATICAN CITY (CNS) — As workers were getting St. Peter’s Square ready for this year’s Nativity scene, nearby a large mobile health care facility was set up and running to serve the city’s homeless and poor. About two dozen men and a few women were sitting or standing in a spacious area, quietly waiting their turn or filling out basic paperwork before being called for their free checkups.
Pope names Archbishop Scicluna adjunct secretary of CDF By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service
V CNS PHOTO/BOB ROLLER
Francesco Cesareo, chair of the National Review Board, speaks Nov. 13 at the fall general assembly. He was critical of how bishops have responded to the abuse crisis. clergy and church workers occurring in their dioceses since the 1940s. “It is shameful that the sin of abuse was hidden and allowed to fester until uncovered by the secular world,” Cesareo said. “Even more unbearable is the fact that so many innocent children and young people suffered because of the inaction and silence of some bishops.” He encouraged bishops to prioritize the needs of abuse survivors and their families, asking, “How many souls have been lost because of this crisis?” “Today, the faithful and the clergy do not trust many of you. They are angry and frustrated, no longer satisfied with words and even with prayer. They seek action that signals a cultural change from the leadership of the church. Their distrust will remain until you truly embrace the principles of openness and transparency listed in the charter,” the president of Assumption College told the bishops. “There cannot be reconciliation without full acknowledgement of the truth,” he said. The NRB chairman said full accountability for bishops requires steps to investigate allegations involving prelates and ensuring consequences for bishops who have not protected children and vulnerable adults. He cited a Nov. 4 report by The Boston Globe and The Philadelphia Inquirer that outlined that bishops
have been unable to police themselves when it comes to responding to abuse reports. “At present, the NRB is unaware of any mechanism that has been utilized by the USCCB to hold culpable bishops accountable for their past action or inaction,” Cesareo said. He said possible actions the USCCB could take would be barring guilty bishops from conference membership or attendance at national meetings. “The NRB is also unaware of any sense of meaningful fraternal correction among U.S. bishops regarding matters of abuse. The NRB calls for a revision of the Statement of Episcopal Commitment (that accompanies the charter) to include a concrete approach to fraternal correction,” he said. The report urged a thorough review of the charter and revisions in the annual audits of dioceses that measure charter compliance. After Cesareo’s presentation, bishops discussed it with him for nearly an hour, asking about the recommendations and offering suggestions to fellow bishops how they have been able to implement some aspects of the report in their diocese. Several bishops agreed that the audit process could be improved and that they must cooperate with law enforcement investigations into how abuse was handled in dioceses.
Mobile health clinic for the poor opens in St. Peter’s Square By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service
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Doctors volunteering from Rome hospitals or other health clinics and nurses from the Italian Red Cross took shifts running laboratory tests and seeing patients from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. each day. For the second time, the Pontifical Council for Promoting New Evangelization organized the free health care initiative in conjunction with Pope Francis’ celebration of the World Day of the Poor, which was to be celebrated Nov. 18. But this year, the clinic offered extended morning and evening hours. Anyone in need could find general and specialist care, including cardiology,
dermatology, gynecology and ophthalmology. Roberta Capparella, a Red Cross nurse, told reporters Nov. 13 that she and many others took part in last year’s initiative and found it “very gratifying.” She said they were so happy to hear Pope Francis wanted to offer the free health services again this year that they jumped at the chance to serve again. “Just by being here all day, volunteers realize that they aren’t giving of themselves, but that they are receiving” from the people they serve, she said.
ATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis named Archbishop Charles Scicluna of Malta, arguably the Catholic Church’s most respected abuse investigator, to be adjunct secretary of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. Announcing the appointment Nov. 13, the Vatican press office said the archbishop would continue to serve simultaneously as head of the Malta Archdiocese. “To fulfill the duties entrusted to him by Pope Francis, Archbishop Scicluna will travel to Rome on a regular basis,” said a note on the archdiocese’s website. Archbishop Scicluna is expected to have a key role in the organization of a meeting in February on child protection that Pope Francis has asked all presidents of national bishops’ conferences to attend. The 59-year-old archbishop, who holds a doctorate in canon law, worked at the doctrinal congregation for 10 years as the “promoter of justice” — a position similar to prosecuting attorney — dealing with cases of alleged clerical sexual abuse. But even after being named auxiliary bishop of Malta in 2012, he continued to be the person the pope would call on to investigate high-profile cases of abuse, consolidating a reputation for treating victims with compassion and respect, and for insisting church officials respond to allegations clearly. He generally is credited with consolidating the cases against Legionaries of Christ founder Father Marcial Maciel Degollado and Scottish Cardinal Keith O’Brien and, most recently, for convincing Pope Francis to take measures against several bishops in Chile. Archbishop Scicluna also serves as president of the doctrinal congregation board that reviews appeals filed by priests laicized or otherwise disciplined in sexual abuse or other serious cases. The crisis caused by ongoing revelations and allegations “is a very important moment” for everyone in the church because “it is going to make us really, really humble,” the archbishop told reporters. “There is no other way to humility except through humiliation, and it is a big humiliation, and it is going to make us humble, I hope.”
NOVEMBER 16, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CLASSIFIEDS
EMPLOYMENT Drivers - Ready for the summers off? Join our school transportation division and live like a kid again! Our drivers have the opportunity to serve our community and still get those precious summer breaks. Assisted Transportation seeks caring and reliable drivers to transport K - 12 students in Johnson and Wyandotte counties in our minivans. CDL not required. $12 per hour. Retirees encouraged to apply. Learn more or apply online at: assistedtransportation.com or call (913) 262-5190 for more information. EOE. Sales position – Do you have sales experience? Are you well networked in the local community? J.S. Paluch Company, national publisher of church bulletins, has full- and part-time positions available. Excellent earning potential; medical benefits; 401(k); life and AD&D insurance available; excellent commission; compensation program. Interested? Call Kay Leane at (800) 621-5197, ext. 2823, or email resume to: Recruiting@jspaluch.com. Payroll/bookkeeper - Part time, 15 hours per week at $13 - $15 per hour, long-term opportunity. Call Bruce J.Putman, A-1 Careers, at (816) 392-2730. DRIVERS NEEDED Seeking caring and reliable drivers. Work up to 40 hours per week. Transport elderly and disabled individuals to and from medical appointments. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Competitive wages and benefits. EOE. Learn more or apply online at: www.assistedtransportation.com (913) 262-5190 School office manager - Holy Spirit School is currently seeking a full-time temporary school office manager due to an upcoming maternity leave. This position would begin in January 2019. Hours are 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Friday. This position requires an extremely organized, friendly, flexible face/voice for our school office. The office manager provides complex and confidential administrative and clerical support for the principal and the school office; conveys information regarding school functions and procedures; ensures efficient operation of support functions; coordinates projects and site activities; and handles any and all other duties as assigned. A college degree is preferred, along with a good working knowledge of Excel, Word and strong keyboarding skills. Virtus training is required. If interested, submit your resume and cover letter to: mwatson@hscatholic.org. Resource center teacher - Holy Spirit School is seeking a part-time teacher in our resource center, Monday – Friday, 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. This candidate’s primary function is teaching K – 6th-grade small groups reading and math instruction and will also take on other duties as assigned. A college degree is required and a Kansas teaching certification is preferred. Virtus training is required. If interested, submit resume and cover letter to: mwatson@hscatholic. org. Superintendent of schools - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking to fill the role of superintendent of Catholic schools. This position serves as the archbishop’s delegate for Catholic education and guards the catholicity and academic excellence of Catholic schools operating within the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. The superintendent must serve as a spiritual leader for the archdiocesan school community and is responsible for overseeing the ongoing faith formation of presidents, principals, administrators, faculty and school staffs. The role oversees the archdiocese’s school office which provides programmatic support and strategic guidance for 42 schools and approximately 1,200 staff members across 12,500 sq. miles in more than 30 public school districts. The superintendent is responsible for developing and maintaining, in collaboration with archdiocesan leaders, pastors, school leaders and others: a safe environment in schools; a coherent vision for Catholic schools in the archdiocese; and for offering curriculum, policies and procedures that help schools realize the vision. The superintendent serves on various boards and advises the archbishop in matters related to schools and Catholic education. A complete job description can be found online at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Qualified individuals should submit a cover letter, resume and application (available on website) to: jobs@archkck.org, title Superintendent. Deadline is Nov. 16. Enjoy working with children? - Curé of Ars Catholic School would like you to join our after-school care program. The hours are 3 - 6 p.m. and can be flexible based on your schedule. Contact after-school care director Rhiannon Mendez at: Rhiannon.Mendez@cureofars.com for more information.
Music director - Employment opportunity at Mother Teresa Church, Topeka. If you are interested in this part-time, paid position, submit your resume to: office@mtcctopeka.org or mail to: 2014 NW 46th St., Topeka, KS 66618, attn: Music Director Position. Full job description and position qualifications are available online at: www.mtcctopeka.org. 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. Volunteers needed - Want to make a difference? The human rights office prison ministry program in the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph is looking for volunteers to help with various projects at the Catholic Center, located in downtown Kansas City at 20 W. 9th St. Grab a friend, pick the hours and day. Free coffee and parking; nice people. You will be touching lives every day! For more information, call program coordinator Laurie Jo Holmes at (816) 714-2364. 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. 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.
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: dandeeconst@aol.com. 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. 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. 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 Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor, at (913) 909-2002. Tree Trimming Tree Trimming/Landscaping Insured/References Free Estimates/Local Parishioner Tony (913) 620-6063 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. HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com 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. 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. Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, mulching, Hedge trimming, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002 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.
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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 - Two adjoining plots at Mount Olivet Cemetery in the Crucifixion area, close to the road. Original cost $1825 per lot. Will sell both lots for $2500 or separately for $1250 each. Call Lesley at (913) 908-2162.
CAREGIVING 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. 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. 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. 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. Will buy - Antique signs, old pocket- and wristwatches, vintage and Native American jewelry, postcard collections, .22 rifles and oil paintings. Call (913) 593-7507.
VACATION Beech-front condo - One bedroom, fully furnished condo in Freeport, Grand Bahamas Island. Sleeps four. Wi-Fi, fully furnished kitchen, great beaches, local owner. More information and photos online at: www.coralbeach1602.com.
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®
NOVEMBER 16, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CALENDAR HISTORIC HOMES CHRISTMAS TOUR Atchison Nov. 17 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
PENITENTIAL RETREAT Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton Nov. 30 - Dec. 2
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.
CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP FOR MEN AND WOMEN Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 1:30 - 3 p.m.
Caring for a loved one is very difficult. Support helps. These sessions are facilitated by Jackie Tigges, MSW, LSCSW.
POLKA DANCE Knights of Columbus Hall 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Nov. 17 at 7:30 p.m.
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.
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.
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.
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.
TURKEY BINGO All Saints Parish (hall) 809 Vermont, Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 17 at 5 p.m.
WOMEN’S SELF DEFENSE Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 21 from 10 - 11 a.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 (cross-country 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 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.
Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co.
Specializing in Foundation Repairs Mud-jacking and Waterproofing. Serving Lawrence, Topeka and surrounding areas. Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696 In business since 1963 www.foundationrepairks.com
Kansas City Tsuruoka Karate will help you learn ways to defend yourself and others. The class will be facilitated by Sidney Thompson.
DIVORCED: CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN Church of the Ascension (St. Luke Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park 2nd and 4th Sundays from 7 - 8:30 p.m.
What’s next after divorce/annulment? Join us for a formation series on the gift of self, which helps us fulfill the call to love again. Various topics will be discussed. Visit our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/ giftofself143 or send an email to: calledto love143@gmail.com.
‘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.
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.
‘SPLENDORIBUS’ Bales Organ Recital Hall 1600 Stewart Dr., Lawrence Nov. 30 at 8 p.m.
The Bales Chorale will present a concert entitled “Splendoribus,” featuring music from ancient and modern times. The music will include organ and trumpet. All are welcome to attend and there is no charge.
‘SURVIVING THE HOLIDAY WHILE GRIEVING’ Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison Dec. 6 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.
Hear about the value of deepening spiritual practices to find new hope and discover one’s own path to the God of grace and compassion. For more information or to register, call (913) 360-6173 or visit the website at: www. sophiaspiritualitycenter.org. Appropriate for ages 18 and older. An $80 fee includes lunch.
CELTIC CHRISTMAS St. Columbkille Parish (hall) 13311 Hwy. 16, Blaine Dec. 8 from 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
Come spend the day shopping holiday vendors. Purchase holiday cookies and candies by the pound. There will also be homemade cinnamon rolls, kolaches, breakfast burritos, homemade soups and pies, ham sandwiches and chili dogs.
SINGLES OF NATIVITY DANCE Church of the Nativity 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood Dec. 8 from 7 - 11 p.m.
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recommendation is semiformal. The Loose Change Band will be playing.
CHRISTMAS SHOPPE Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park Dec. 8 from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m. Dec. 9 from 7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Do all your Christmas shopping in one place. Stay for lunch and take home a casserole for dinner. Some items available for sale are: books, Pampered Chef, Bethlehem wood carvings, honey, candy, breads, coffee, pottery, wreathes, jewelry, Christmas decor and much more. Santa will visit on Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.
CHRISTMAS IN KOLOGRAD DANCE St. John’s Auditorium 420 Barnett, Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 15 from 6:30 - 10:30 p.m.
Admission is $10 for adults; kids 12 and younger get in for free. There will be sausage sandwiches, beer, soda and water available for sale all evening. The Kolograd band will be playing dance music. To purchase tickets, call Kenny at (913) 371-9690, Phil Ashley at (816) 210-9035 or Jim Baric at (913) 563-0625.
BREAKFAST WITH ST. NICHOLAS Holy Family Parish 513 Ohio Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 15 from 8 - 11 a.m.
Resurrection School invites you to Breakfast with St. Nicholas. The cost is $6 per person and includes all-you-can-eat pancakes, hot and cold beverages, and sausages catered by Chris Cakes. Takeout orders will be available.
BREATHE RESPITE CARE PROGRAM Holy Cross School 8101 W. 95th St., Overland Park Dec. 15 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, lead consultant of the special needs ministry, 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/specialneeds and complete the online form.
CALENDARsubmissions submissions CALENDAR DEADLINE: Noon, Thursday, 10 days before the desired publication date. INCLUDE: time and date of event; street address; description of event. SEND SUBMISSIONS TO: blankenship@theleaven.org.
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The cost for a ticket is $20 and may be purchased at the door. Food and drinks are provided. Dress
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NOVEMBER 16, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY
I bet I get the last laugh
THIRTY-THIRD WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Nov. 18 THIRTY-THIRD SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Dn 12: 1-3 Ps 16: 5, 8-11 Heb 10: 11-14, 18 Mk 13: 24-32 Nov. 19 Monday Rv 1: 1-4; 2: 1-5 Ps 1: 1-4, 6 Lk 18: 35-43 Nov. 20 Tuesday Rv 3: 1-6, 14-22 Ps 15: 2-5 Lk 19: 1-10 Nov. 21 Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Rv 4: 1-11 Ps 150: 1-6 Lk 19: 11-28 Nov. 22 Thanksgiving Day Sir 50: 22-24 Ps 138: 1-5 1 Cor 1: 3-9 Lk 17: 11-19 Nov. 23 Clement I, pope, martyr; Columban, abbot; Blessed Miguel Agustín Pro, priest, martyr Rv 10: 8-11 Ps 119: 14, 24, 72, 103, 111, 131 Lk 19: 45-48 Nov. 24 Andrew Dung-Lac, priest, and companions, martyrs Rv 11: 4-12 Ps 114: 1-2, 9-10 Lk 20: 27-40
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R
eady? OK! Gimme a C . . . R...A...B... another B . . . Y! What’s that spell? Father Mark! What? Faaaa-theeer Maaaaaaark! Woo! Over the past few weeks, that’s the cheer The Leaven staff has probably had rolling around in their minds. That they didn’t do it out loud (at least to my knowledge) is a tribute to their restraint and thick skins. One of the triggers for my crabbiness is not eating. Since that’s not been the case, it’s got to be another major trigger: I’ve lost perspective and, consequently, my sense of humor. It’s been especially busy at the parish with five funerals, a wedding and confirmation in addition to all of the usual happenings. When I catch myself coming and going, stress takes the upper hand and patience takes a vacation. The best way to restore my equilibrium is through humor. As the holiday season creeps up on us, maybe we could all use a good laugh or
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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.
two to get us prepared. Laughter really is therapeutic, according to the Mayo Clinic. Here are some of its benefits: 1. Laughter increases your oxygen intake, stimulating organs and muscles. 2. It releases endorphins, making you feel happier. 3. Laughing can help build your immune system by releasing stress-fighting neuropeptides. 4. It stimulates circulation, easing tension in
the muscles. With these benefits in mind, and just in time for Thanksgiving next week, let me prescribe these stories: • A slew of kids lined up in a Catholic elementary school for lunch. At the front end of a table was a large pile of apples. The principal wrote a note and posted it on the apple tray: “Please take only ONE. Remember: God is watching.” At the back end of the table was a huge pile of chocolate chip cookies. There, one of the kids secretly scrawled this note: “Grab all you want! God’s watching the apples!” • The second story finds an atheist walking through the woods,
blissfully admiring all of the beauty of the trees, rivers and wildlife. Suddenly, he hears a rustling behind him. He spins around to see a seven-foot grizzly bear charging toward him. He runs as fast as he can up a path. Looking over his shoulder, though, he sees the bear closing in on him. He continues to run, but the bear gains more ground. As the guy tries an evasive maneuver, he trips and falls on the ground. Before he can pick himself up, the bear is right on top of him. One paw reaches for the man, while the other is ready to claw him. “Oh, my God!” the atheist cries. Time stops. The bear freezes. The whole forest goes silent. Out of the sky comes a bright light and a voice booms, “You deny my existence, teach others that I don’t exist and even credit creation to a cosmic accident. Do you expect me to help you out of this predicament? Have you become a believer?” The atheist, with head bowed, replies, “It would
be hypocritical of me to suddenly ask you to treat me as a believer. But perhaps you could make the bear a Christian?” “Very well,” says the voice. The light goes out; the sounds of the forest return. Instantly, the bear drops to its knees, presses his paws together and prays: “Bless us, O Lord, and these thy gifts . . .” And finally: A father was teaching his son to admire the wonders of nature. “Look, son,” he said, “isn’t that sunset a beautiful picture that God has painted?” “It sure is, Dad,” replied the kid enthusiastically, “especially since God had to paint it with his left hand.” The father was baffled. “What do you mean?” he asked. “Why his left hand?” “Well,” answered the boy, “my religious ed teacher told us last Sunday that Jesus was sitting on God’s right hand!” I can hear your groaning at this last one . . . and that’s really making me laugh!
Predictions confuse, but Jesus’ promise is clear
t’s a bird! It’s a plane! It’s Superman! This shout used to greet the popular fantasy hero in movies and TV shows. It echoes the prediction that we hear in Sunday’s Gospel reading, Mk 13:24-32: “And then they will see the ‘Son of Man coming in the clouds’ with great power and glory, and then he will send out the angels and gather his elect from the four winds, from the end of the earth to the end of the sky.” The resemblance goes beyond the appearance of this mysterious figure in the sky. It extends to the promise of salvation that he brings. Like the Son of Man, Superman is arriving to come to our help. Of course, there is a big difference. Superman is a fictional character, while Jesus is the Son of
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.
Man, the Messiah. That is why, when Jesus is being questioned before the Sanhedrin who will condemn him to death, he answers as he does:
“Again, the high priest asked him and said to him, ‘Are you the Messiah, the son of the Blessed One?’ Then Jesus answered, ‘I am; and “you will see the Son of Man seated at the right hand of the Power and coming with the clouds of heaven” (Mk 14: 61b-62).” Jesus is really set on making this prediction about the Son of Man coming in glory to our aid. At the same time, the
prediction in Sunday’s Gospel comes in the midst of predictions about the destruction of the Jerusalem Temple, about the persecutions that Jesus’ disciples will suffer, about the end of the world. It is difficult to sort out all these predictions. To add to the confusion, Jesus makes another promise: “This generation will not pass away until all these things have taken place.” At the same time, Jesus qualifies his prediction: “But of that day or hour, no one knows, neither the angels in heaven, nor the Son, but only the Father.” That seems to throw timing out of the window. We should keep in mind that Jesus may not have made these predictions in the sequence that the Gospel presents them.
The Gospel writer collected these sayings of Jesus and put them together in the written form that they now appear. These predictions share a common element: the distress that Jesus’ disciples will experience. This is the link that perhaps inspired the Gospel writer to join them together. In the midst of the distress that the disciples of Jesus will experience, though, he assures them that he will come to their aid. That is the meaning of the prediction about the Son of Man coming on the clouds. He will appear when they least expect. That is his firm promise: “Heaven and earth will pass away, but my words will not pass away.”
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World peace must begin in individuals’ hearts and in their families by saying “no” to pride and rivalry, Pope Francis said. “When we read news about wars — think about the starvation of children in Yemen, which is a fruit of war — ‘it’s far away, poor babies,’ but why don’t they have anything to eat?” the pope asked during his homily Nov. 5 during Mass in the chapel of his residence. The Mass was celebrated just days after news
media reported the death of 7-year-old Amal Hussain, a Yemeni girl, whose photo by Tyler Hicks in the New York Times in mid-October brought renewed attention to the devastating impact the war in Yemen is having on innocent civilians. “The same war that we make in our homes, in our institutions” by engaging in rivalry and gossip grows exponentially and leads to real wars that kill people, the pope said at his morning Mass. “So,” he said, “peace must begin there — in the family, in the parish, in institutions, at the workplace — by always seeking unanimity and agreement and not one’s own interests.” — CNS
NOVEMBER 16, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY
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Faith plus reason equals the Catholic school difference!
D
ear friends of Catholic schools, Often, Catholic school educators are asked, “What’s the difference in Catholic schools other than religion class and Mass during the week?” Recently, one of our teachers reported to the parish community what was happening so far in the fourth grade in the parish school. She described the Catholic school difference beautifully, though that was not her intent. Here is what she wrote: “The fourth-graders began the year pondering creation and the Creator. They read the creation stories in Genesis and
I
FROM THE SUPER
KATHY O’HARA Kathy O’Hara is the superintendent of archdiocesan schools.
used these to explore text structures, sequence events, and compare and contrast. The BIG IDEA they discovered is that
there is ONE loving God who created ONE human family and we are connected to ALL peoples of the world. After reading a story titled ‘God’s Eyes,’ the [students] created images of themselves with mirror eyes that would enable them to see past differences and divisions and find the
reflection of God in every person. “Reflecting on their relationship with God and one another led to a study of prayer. They learned to praise, give thanks, love, ask and express sorrow. “As they studied the writing process, they incorporated these into original prayers to be read each morning and afternoon. “Reading ‘The Discovery of Mexico,’ an ancient Aztec myth, helped students develop an appreciation of cultures as they celebrate Hispanic Heritage Month. . . . “That God is a God of order, pattern and infinite possibility was a theme discovered in math as students studied the
base-ten system, place value, and that 10 digits can be arranged in periods to create an infinite list of numbers. “Social studies was spent practicing map and globe skills, which will make it easy for the [students] to put the GPS away and explore Earth the ‘old school’ way! Students summed up their study of atoms, matter and the scientific method by decorating keys that said: Creation is a gift, and science is the key. “The [students] are excited to use the scientific method to conduct an experiment with the two white rats that arrived last week. These furry friends will help them understand the
important roles nutrition, sleep and exercise play in keeping the holy temples of their bodies healthy. “God is so good!” While it is true that students in Catholic schools study religion and pray daily and celebrate Mass during the week, there is much more that contributes to the Catholic school difference. This teacher’s update illustrates that, in Catholic schools, the teaching and learning of each subject and skill is grounded in the lens of our faith in a way that shows that faith and reason are necessary ingredients of a truly excellent education. ¡Vaya con Dios!
‘End times’ readings challenge us to be our best selves
magine, if you will, being on retreat. It has been a long day. You have reflected on many areas of your marriage and family life. How much time do you have left? Before retiring, the priest reads a prayer for your bedtime reflection. The prayer is a poem/ prayer written by Father Michael Quoist, “Story: Lord, I Have Time.” Although it sounds promising at the start, the prayer makes it abundantly clear that we don’t have time. The words, “too late . . . they have no more time . . . The hours are too short. The days are too short. Our lives are too short. We must not lose time,
FAMILY MATTERS
DEACON TONY ZIMMERMAN Deacon Tony Zimmerman is the lead archdiocesan consultant for the office of marriage and family life.
waste time, kill time, for time is a gift you give
us, but a perishable gift that does not keep.” Your response might be, “Thanks, Father! How do you expect me to rest or sleep with this on my mind!” Why would this priest share this? Because he knew that the last thing we think of before going
to sleep rolls around in our brains. Surprise! The next morning you awaken with an urgency to re-evaluate all the areas of your life that you reflected on the day before. You wonder, “What changes do I have to make to be a better spouse, parent, grandparent or family member?” The prayer’s closing line sums it up best: “I am not asking you, Lord, for the time to do this and then that, but your grace to do conscientiously, in the time you give me, what you want me to do.” The upcoming Sunday’s readings focus on the “end times” and of “being on guard” for the coming of Our Lord. This
doesn’t mean we have to be gloomy. Instead, all this should challenge us to consider what changes we can make so that in the time God has given us, we might be a better spouse, parent, grandparent or family member. • Spend time in quiet prayer listening to God’s desire for you. • Choose one thing that is doable to answer and follow God’s lead. • Be accountable. Share the one act you chose with your spouse or loved ones, asking them to support you with prayer. • Begin your day focused on that one thing; examine your efforts
before bed in prayer. • Visit the Joyful Marriage Project on Facebook for ideas, inspiration and support. • Visit the website at: www.archkck.org and click on “For Your Marriage” for daily tips, blogs and ideas. • Visit the website at: www.archkck.org/ mfl2015 and click the “Catholic Parenting Newsletter” link. • Sign up for marriage enrichment such as “Living in Love” or Worldwide Marriage Encounter to give your New Year a boost. Does this sound like I am heaping more things to do into your busy schedule? Not at all! Choose one thing.
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NOVEMBER 16, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
16
Seminarians undergo thorough screening process By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org
Process for seminary acceptance
K
ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Some elements of the current abuse crisis in the Catholic Church are very similar to the crisis in 2002. But a new twist is the part seminaries have played in some of the accounts. What kind of screening do men undergo for admission to the seminary for the archdiocese? And once admitted, do they feel free to report concerns about their life in the seminary to the men that sent them there? For answers to these and other questions, The Leaven went to vocations director Father Dan Morris, as well as two men currently studying for the priesthood for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.
‘There was nothing hidden’ Deacon Nicholas Ashmore, of St. Francis Xavier Parish in Burlington, is in his final year of studies at KenrickGlennon Seminary in St. Louis. Though it’s been nine years since his seminarian screening began, the intensity of the process has stuck with him. “I was in contact with the vocations director for about two years before I actually entered [the] seminary,” he said. “There was no part of my life that was left unencountered. “From the beginning, our conversations were substantial . . . [and] sexuality was a conversation that I had with my formators. There was nothing hidden. “They truly wanted a process of discernment.” There are four phases to the seminarian screening, involving multiple interviews, written essays, full psychological and physical evaluations and a meeting with the archbishop. Seminarian Colm Larkin, a member of Holy Cross Church in Overland Park, is in his second year of pre-theology at St. John Vianney Theological Seminary in Denver. He has found the psychological evaluation to be one of the most daunting aspects of his application. “It’s five or six hours long — all at once,” he said. “It’s a very thorough process.” The desire is to make sure that both the applicant and the seminary are a good fit for each other. “The thing to remember is that [the seminary] is a two-way relationship,” said Father Morris. “It’s like dating: The man is discerning the church and the church discerns the man as a spouse.” Father Morris said he seriously thinks about if a man is going to be a bridge or a barrier when considering him for seminary studies. In addition to a man’s spiritual and intellectual development, his social
• Informal meeting with Father Dan Morris, vocations director • Phase 1: Four written essays; formal interview with Father Morris, including detailed review of applicant’s background, family history and sexual history; full psychological evaluation • Phase 2: Interviews with other priests, each focusing on a different aspect of the applicant’s formation • Phase 3: Physical evaluation • Phase 4: Formal meeting with the archbishop • Separate application process with the seminary • KBI investigation during year prior to ordination to the diaconate LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
Deacon Nicholas Ashmore, who is in his final year of studies at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, said the seminarian screening process was extensive and “there was no part of my life that was left unencountered.”
“
“THEY TOOK MY FINGERPRINTS, MY RECORDS WERE CHECKED AGAINST NATIONAL DATABASES AND I WAS INTERVIEWED ABOUT ANY POSSIBLE ISSUES THAT MIGHT ARISE AS PART OF IT. IT WAS SURPRISING, BUT I WAS EDIFIED BY IT.” skills, personal hygiene and grooming, timeliness and maturity are all among the things considered as indicators of fitness to the seminary. The archdiocese also requires that men undergo a full investigation by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation prior to ordination to the diaconate. “They took my fingerprints, my records were checked against national databases and I was interviewed about any possible issues that might arise as part of it,” said Deacon Ashmore. “It was surprising, but I was edified by it.”
Intense formation At St. John Vianney Seminary in Denver, another layer of formation is added to the traditional four to six years of theology studies. “We live in a very noisy, distracted, secular, Godless world,” said Larkin. “And in order for young men to adequately be able to discern or grow in relationship with Christ, they need to take time to step out of the world and enter deeper into Christian life.” That entails no phones, internet, laptops or newspapers for one whole year — except one weekly email check and a phone call home. “It sounds intimidating, but it’s one of the things I’m most thankful for and cherish,” said Larkin. According to Father Morris, every seminary incorporates a similar aspect
of formation that focuses on helping men to be purged of the negative effects of the culture. “This is where the world is,” he said. “For the good of the church as well as each individual man, it’s better to take that extra time than have things go unaddressed only to come up later.”
A great sadness, a great hope “My time in the seminary has been marked by the fact that the [sex abuse] crisis has been a shadow that covers everything we do here,” said Deacon Ashmore. “For most of August, when all of [the sex abuse scandal] was starting to break,” he said, “I remember a great heaviness hung over me.” From the intensity of the screening, his Virtus training and the frank conversations he’s had with others about clergy sexual abuse, Deacon Ashmore is grateful for the way the seminary is helping him face the hard fact of abuse. “It’s not a topic that has been swept under the rug,” he said. “Our first day after summer was centered around the recent scandal and how the church should respond to it.” With the guidance of his fellow seminarians, Deacon Ashmore has been increasingly discovering that a vigor for the Gospel is replacing the heaviness he felt in the face of the horror of the abuse crisis. “I want to be the best priest possible, so I can serve the people of God,” he said. “The only thing that will heal us right now is sainthood.”
Safe in the seminary today? For Father Morris, safety of seminarians is the Formation Team’s top priority. If a seminarian comes to any one of them with an issue, they communicate that concern to the proper authorities. This includes civil authorities, the archbishop, the rector at the complainant’s seminary, the seminary’s board of directors or all of the above.
Where we send our men 2
• Mundelein Seminary, Chicago:
• Kenrick-Glennon Seminary, St. Louis: 19 • Conception Seminary College, Conception, Missouri: 3 • Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary, Boston: 1 • St. John Vianney Theological Seminary, Denver: 5 • Pastoral Year, Lenexa: 1
“I’m going to listen to any one of our seminarians and take their report seriously, totally standing with the seminarian until all is proven otherwise,” said Father Morris. “We’re on the seminarian’s side before we’re on the seminary’s.” When asked if he felt comfortable going to the archbishop or any other authority with a complaint or accusation, Deacon Ashmore did not hesitate to respond. “Not only do I feel comfortable,” he said. “I believe it is a duty.” Larkin said he has never had cause for any concern at St. John Vianney. “I don’t have a single bit of fear about anything about the seminary here,” said Larkin. “It’s a completely safe place forming men in virtue.” As a method of accompaniment and accountability, each seminarian is required to meet with his spiritual director once every two weeks at the seminary. And twice a year, Msgr. Michael Mullen or Father Scott Wallisch, the co-directors of seminarians for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, visit each of the five seminaries that are home to one or more of the 31 seminarians of the archdiocese. Larkin said that he and the four other archdiocesan seminarians in Denver meet frequently to check in with each other. “We are responding [to this crisis] by committing to fraternity,” he said. “Looking across the board,” said Father Morris, “there is no more thorough process of accepting a man for studies and accountability throughout than the seminary.”