11-21-08 Vol. 30 No. 16 by The Leaven

WWW.THELEAVEN.COM | NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF KANSAS CITY IN KANSAS | VOL. 30, NO. 16 NOVEMBER 21, 2008

150 years young Sisters of Charity close jubilee with eyes to future

Leaven photos by Elaina Generally

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann celebrates the closing of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth’s 150 jubilee celebration on Nov. 14. Below left, Sister Mary Julitta Doerhoff, SCL, joins in praying the Our Father.

EAVENWORTH — For the “grand finale” of the 150th jubilee celebration of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth Nov. 14, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann took the opportunity to tip his miter to a grand old man who knew a little something about the Sisters. At the dinner following the closing Mass at the motherhouse, the archbishop raised his glass and repeated words first uttered by Bishop John Baptist Miege more than 100 years ago. “When I received them, I did one of the very few good things I ever did for Kansas,” he quoted. The toast capped off a year of observances that included celebrations from Leavenworth to Peru. The big events in Leavenworth included a community pancake breakfast on Founder’s Day, Nov. 11, 2007; the grand reunion for current and former Sisters and associates on July 4; and the closing Mass and dinner. In commemoration of the year, Sister Marie Brinkman wrote a history of the order, entitled, “Emerging

Sister Diane Steel, president of the University of Saint Mary, lifts her glass in response to Archbishop Naumann’s toast to the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth at a 150th anniversary event Nov. 14. Frontiers: Renewal in the Life of now resting on their 150 years of laurels, they chose as the theme: “From Women Religious: Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth 1955-2005,” which filled Founding to Future: In Gratitude and Joy.” in the gaps left by earlier accounts. Lest anyone think the Sisters are

DO YOU KNOW THIS MAN?

GOING GLOBAL Sisters, Servants of Mary Mother Alfonsa Bellido has been elected superior general of the order’s entire congregation.

ON THE WEB

Check out our latest videos featuring the Our Lady and St. Rose Gospel choir at: www.theleaven.com.

Tell us your favorite Archbishop Keleher story in honor of his upcoming double anniversary. But keep it short and send it to: anita@theleaven.com.

ARCHBISHOP

THE LEAVEN • NOVEMBER 21, 2008

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

Prayer: Our last, best gift to loved ones who have died

he church’s teaching on purgatory has not been given sufficient emphasis in our catechesis in recent years. This teaching has its roots in the Old Testament and was evident in the practice of the Christian community from its earliest days. The Catechism of the Catholic Church provides the following succinct description of this ancient belief: “All who die in God’s grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven” (no. 1030). Sometimes at funerals today, there is a tendency to “canonize” the one who has died. Certainly it is good, at the time of the death of a loved one, to reflect upon the many ways in which we saw God’s reflection in the life of our deceased relative or friend. At the same time, we know that our loved one was not perfect. Despite their many good qualities, they also had their weaknesses and vulnerabilities. In his writings, Pope Benedict describes the three possibilities for each one of us at the time of death: “There can be people who have totally destroyed their desire for truth and readiness to love, people for whom everything has become a lie, people who have lived for hatred, and have suppressed all love within themselves. . . . In such people all would be beyond remedy and the de-

struction of good would be irrevocable: This is what we mean by the word Hell. On the other hand there can be people who are utterly pure, completely permeated by God, and thus fully open to their neighbors — people for whom communion with God even now gives direction to their entire being and whose journey towards God only brings to fulfillment what they already are. Yet, we know from experience that neither case is normal human life. For the great majority of people –— we may suppose — there remains in the depths of their being an ultimate interior openness to truth, to love, to God. In the concrete choices of life, however, it is covered over by ever new compromises with evil — much filth covers purity, but the thirst for purity remains and it still constantly re-emerges from all that is base and remains present in the soul.” Permit me to personalize this teaching. I believe in the triune God with all my heart. I have given my life to proclaiming the truth of the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Daily I strive to imitate Jesus by trying to live a virtuous life. Yet, I know that if I should die tonight, there is still much selfishness, pride, and deceit residing in my heart. When I die, I would prefer that people

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not attempt to canonize me with kind words of praise, but instead I hope that many will pray for me. Purgatory is a beautiful element of our Catholic faith. It is an acknowledgment that God’s mercy for us reaches beyond the grave. God desires to purify our hearts — not to punish us, but to prepare us to be able to experience the fullness of life he desires for us. Purgatory is an expression of the mercy of God removing from us our lingering vices and, at the same time, increasing the capacity of our hearts, preparing us to enjoy the abundant life the Lord has prepared for us. Pope Benedict describes the importance and the need for our teaching on purgatory in this way: “I would go so far as to say that if there was no purgatory, then we would have to invent it, for who would dare say of himself that he was able to stand directly before God. And yet we don’t want to be, to use an image from Scripture, ‘a pot that turned out wrong,’ that has to be thrown away; we want to be able to be put right. Purgatory basically means that God can put the pieces back together again. That he can cleanse us in such a way that we are able to be with him and can stand there in the fullness of life. Purgatory strips off from one person what is unbearable and from another the inability to bear certain things, so that in each of them a pure heart is revealed, and we can see that we all belong together in one enormous symphony of being.” What is more, we believe that while we are on earth, God makes it possible for us to assist with our prayers those whom he is liberating from disordered attachments and selfishness after death.

The exact nature of this purification, we do not know. Yet, we know that such purifications in this world do not happen without some pain and strife. In our prayers for the dead, God allows us to love, in a meaningful way, those who have died. In prayer we can accompany them during this process of purification and in God’s economy somehow we are able to lighten their burden. We might compare it, in this world, to a friend helping us do some laborious and tedious task. Not only does our friend lessen our amount of labor, but their presence is a comfort and a joy. Sometimes, particularly when a friend or family member dies very suddenly, we can regret that we failed to communicate fully our love and affection for them. One of the great comforts of our Christian faith is that death is not an absolute barrier between those of us living in this world and those who have passed from this world. In prayer, our lives and their lives can continue to touch. Our prayers for our friends and relatives who have died are the most beautiful and powerful expression of love that we are able to give to them. There are many good ways to keep the memory of those who have died. Displaying photos or cherishing mementos of those who have died are common ways that we attempt to concretize the ties that bind us beyond death. Imitating the virtues and maintaining family traditions associated with our loved ones are also beautiful ways of keeping their memory. Yet, the most important single act we can do for those who have died is to pray for them.

CNS photo/Nancy Wiechec

U.S. bishops go about their work Nov. 11 at the annual fall meeting of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in Baltimore. At top (from left) is conference vice president Bishop Gerald F. Kicanas of Tucson, Ariz., president Cardinal Francis E. George of Chicago, and Msgr. David Malloy, USCCB general secretary. Henry M. Robert III, the meeting’s parliamentarian, is at right.

Bishops acknowledge historic transition but warn of potential obstacles

ALTIMORE — Cardinal Francis George of Chicago, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), voiced hope for the Obama Administration but pointed to possible obstacles to our desired unity, in a Nov. 12 statement at the end of the annual fall assembly of the USCCB. “The bishops of the Catholic Church in the United States welcome this moment of historic transition and look forward to working with President-elect Obama and the members of the new Congress for the common good of all,” he said. He said that “the unity desired by President-elect Obama and all Americans at this moment of crisis will be impossible to achieve,” if the administration’s policies increase abortions. “Aggressive pro-abortion policies, legislation and executive orders will per manently alienate tens of millions of Americans,” he wrote, “and would be seen by many as an attack on the free exercise of their religion.” “We express again our great desire to work with all those who cherish the common good of our nation,” he added. “The common good is not the sum total of individual interests: It is achieved in the working out of a common life based upon good reason and good will for all.” Cardinal George’s complete remarks follow:

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STATEMENT of the president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops “If the Lord does not build the house, in vain do its builders labor; if the Lord does not watch over the city, in vain does the watchman keep vigil” (Ps 127:1). The bishops of the Catholic Church in the United States welcome this moment of historic transition and look forward to working with Presidentelect Obama and the members of the new Congress for the common good of all. Because of the church’s history and the scope of her ministries in this country, we want to continue our

work for economic justice and opportunity for all; our efforts to reform laws around immigration and the situation of the undocumented; our provision of better education and adequate health care for all, especially for women and children; our desire to safeguard religious freedom and foster peace at home and abroad. The church is intent on doing good and will continue to cooperate gladly with the government and all others working for these goods. The fundamental good is life itself, a gift from God and our parents. A good state protects the lives of all. Legal protection for those members of the human family waiting to be born in this country was removed when the Supreme Court decided Roe v. Wade

in 1973. This was bad law. The danger the bishops see at this moment is that a bad court decision will be enshrined in bad legislation that is more radical than the 1973 Supreme Court decision itself. In the last Congress, a Freedom of Choice Act (FOCA) was introduced that would, if brought forward in the same form today, outlaw any “interference” in providing abortion at will. It would deprive the American people in all fifty states of the freedom they now have to enact modest restraints and regulations on the abortion industry. FOCA would coerce all Americans into subsidizing and promoting abortion with their tax dollars. It would counteract any and all sincere efforts by government and others of good will to reduce the number of abortions in our country. Parental notification and informed consent precautions would be outlawed, as would be laws banning procedures such as partial-birth abortion and protecting infants born alive after a failed abortion. Abortion clinics would be deregulated. The Hyde Amendment restricting the federal funding of abortions would be abrogated. FOCA would have lethal consequences for prenatal human life. FOCA would have an equally destructive effect on the freedom of conscience of doctors, nurses and health care workers whose personal convictions do not permit them to cooperate in the private killing of unborn children. It would threaten Catholic health care institutions and Catholic Charities. It would be an evil law that would further divide our country, and the church should be intent on opposing evil. On this issue, the legal protection of the unborn, the bishops are of one mind with Catholics and others of good will. They are also pastors who have listened to women whose lives have been diminished because they believed they had no choice but to

abort a baby. Abortion is a medical procedure that kills, and the psychological and spiritual consequences are written in the sorrow and depression of many women and men. The bishops are single-minded because they are, first of all, single-hearted. The recent election was principally decided out of concern for the economy, for the loss of jobs and homes and financial security for families, here and around the world. If the election is misinterpreted ideologically as a referendum on abortion, the unity desired by President-elect Obama and all Americans at this moment of crisis will be impossible to achieve. Abortion kills not only unborn children; it destroys constitutional order and the common good, which is assured only when the life of every human being is legally protected. Aggressively pro-abortion policies, legislation and executive orders will permanently alienate tens of millions of Americans, and would be seen by many as an attack on the free exercise of their religion. This statement is written at the request and direction of all the bishops, who also want to thank all those in politics who work with good will to protect the lives of the most vulnerable among us. Those in public life do so, sometimes, at the cost of great sacrifice to themselves and their families; and we are grateful. We express again our great desire to work with all those who cherish the common good of our nation. The common good is not the sum total of individual desires and interests; it is achieved in the working out of a common life based upon good reason and good will for all. Our prayers accompany Presidentelect Obama and his family and those who are cooperating with him to assure a smooth transition in government. Many issues demand immediate attention on the part of our elected “watchman” (Ps 127). May God bless him and our country.

4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • NOVEMBER 21, 2008

Come one, come all Archbishop Keleher to celebrate ordination anniversaries By JOE BOLLIG

Advice to a retiring bishop

Leaven staff KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The task of a priest — or a bishop — can be stated very simply, according to Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher. “What a priest or bishop does is simply share God’s gift with the faithful,” he said. And that’s exactly what Archbishop Keleher would like to do with the people of the archdiocese next month. Catholics of the archdiocese are invited to a Mass celebrating the golden anniversary of Archbishop Keleher’s priestly ordination and the silver anniversary of his ordination as a bishop. It will be held at 5 p.m. on Dec. 12 at Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood. There will be a reception in the parish hall immediately after Mass. “I was ordained for the people of God 50 years ago, and a bishop for them almost 25 years ago,” he said. “I know how much folks appreciate us priests and bishops. “So it seemed appropriate to have a Mass and reception for all those who might want to personally thank the Lord for the gift of priesthood and what it has meant to them . . . and perhaps to extend their best wishes to me.” Archbishop Keleher was almost 27 years old when he was ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Chicago on April 12, 1958. He was 53 when he was ordained bishop of the Diocese of Belleville, Ill. The archbishop is actually ending his golden anniversary year and beginning his silver anniversary year, but he is observing the two milestones together for convenience, as well as for sentimental reasons. “The Mass that day is the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, to whom I have a great devotion,” said the archbishop. “I actually wanted to be consecrated a bishop on her feast, but [Cardinal Joseph Bernardin] had to do so the day before, so this time I can celebrate her kindness to me over the years on her special day.” Archbishop Keleher said he’s anticipating these anniversaries with a heart filled with joy and gratitude. Looking back over his many years of ministry, he

• Help your successor as he would like you to do. • Spend more quality time in prayer. • Take all the opportunities available to celebrate Eucharist and the sacraments for the people of God as long as God gives one the health to do so. • Support and help your brother priests. • Depend on the mercy of God as one considers not only his known faults but the myriad of things he failed to do in the active years of his ministry.

feels a great sense of satisfaction about what it has been like to be the spiritual shepherd of so many. And he’s also grateful for the opportunity to become a son of Kansas. “I have been often asked what it means to have made my home in Kansas,” he said. “I guess I’m an adopted

son, but a son nonetheless. You can live in many houses, but it is something special to find a home.” “I’ve always said that a home is wherever you feel loved and accepted, and know you can make a contribution to your family,” he added. “That is why I feel more at home in Kansas than anywhere else.”

Political and business leaders strive for earthly notions of success, but priests and bishops are called to a higher standard. “You know, Mother Teresa once said that we are not called to be successful, but we are called to be faithful, and to do something beautiful for God and his poor world,” he said. “I think most priests and bishops find their greatest satisfaction in feeling that they are doing something truly important,” he continued, “and truly beautiful — touching human hearts with the good news of Jesus; bringing his forgiveness wherever it is sought; nourishing souls with the Eucharist.” Although he resigned on Jan. 15, 2005, Archbishop Keleher has been quite busy. He has taught at Mundelein Seminary in Illinois and continues to assist Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann in any way he can, such as conferring the sacrament of confirmation in archdiocesan parishes. Some of the important work a retired bishop must do concerns his own soul. “Retired priests and bishops live in what I would call ‘Advent time,’” said Archbishop Keleher. “It is a time when one is closer to meeting the Just Judge before whom all of us will one day appear. But St.Augustine’s comment should keep us at peace within ourselves. “He suggested that if we can come to know Jesus ever more intimately in our Advent years, he will also recognize us with affection. He will show us great kindness and understanding, and he will welcome us as our merciful judge.”

LOCAL NEWS

Retrouvaille offers hope for hurting marriages By JOE BOLLIG

Pope offers encouragement

Leaven staff KANSAS CITY, Kan. — If you’re in a struggling, hurting marriage, Joe and Danette Searle would like to tell you three things. You’re not alone. Don’t give up. There is hope. The Searles, members of Ascension Parish in OverPark, land For more learned these three things information from personal Three Retrouvaille experience. weekends in the Their marriage Archdiocese of Kansas was strugCity in Kansas and the gling, too, Diocese of Kansas Citywhen they St. Joseph have been found help in scheduled: Retrouvaille, a • Feb. 27, 2009 peer-to-peer • July 17, 2009 program. • Nov. 13, 2009 RetrouFor information about vaille (proRetrouvaille or to attend nounced “reha weekend, call trow-vie”) is a Retrouvaille of Kansas French word City, Inc., at 1 (800) 470meaning “re2230, or go to the discovery.” Retrouvaille Web site at: This program www.retrouvaille.org. helps couples rediscover the love in their marriage. Retrouvaille is international and Catholic in origin, but welcomes married couples of all faith traditions. “Retrouvaille is for couples that are struggling, don’t have the [needed] communications skills, and keep dealing with the same issues over and over and can’t seem to get past them,” said Danette. Joe and Danette are Retrouvaille community coordinators, responsible for leading the program in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph. They made their first Retrouvaille in October 1998. “We wanted to get involved because of what it did for us and what we saw it did for other couples,” said Joe. The Searles agreed to become one of the three presenting couples and wrote their own talk, giving their first in 2001. Couples begin their participation in Retrouvaille with a three-day, two-night weekend. During this weekend, they attend presentations by three married couples and a priest.

Every year Retrouvaille leaders gather for an international conference. This year, the meeting was held from Sept. 25-29 in Rome. Joe and Danette Searle were among the American delegates at the conference. “It’s a way to ensure there is consistency in the program,” said Joe, “and it’s a way to share [with others] what’s working and what’s not working.” Like previous conferences, the Rome conference featured an opening Mass, a business session, keynote speakers, and opportunities for personal enrichment. Since it was held in Rome, the conference offered a bonus: a private audience with Pope Benedict XVI on Sept. 26 at Castel Gandolfo. The pope called the delegates “guardians of hope” for couples who had no more hope in their hurting marriages. “You could definitely feel the Holy Spirit in that room,” said Joe.

Leaven photo by Joe Bollig

Joe and Danette Searle, members of Ascension Parish in Overland Park, are the community coordinators responsible for Retrouvaille in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph. The topics of these presentations include: listening, values, conflict, God’s place in the marriage, the decision to love, forgiveness, sexuality, trust, intimacy, how to begin again, and the sacramental nature of marriage. The couples also learn how to communicate. “People sometimes wonder if they’ll have to share their own issues,” said Danette. “No couple is asked to share their problems with anyone else. It is private between that couple.” “If they handle it in the structure that is provided, it’s a safe environment to be able to work through their issues,” she

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continued. “We find a lot of couples appreciate that structure, because it allows them to share their feelings, maybe for the first time in years.” After the weekend, the couples participate in six or more post-weekend sessions over the period of three months. Not all couples choose to attend a local session. Whether for privacy or convenience, many couples travel to other cities for their weekend and return home for the ongoing post-weekend sessions. For participating couples, Retrouvaille is a healthy dose of both

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hope and reality. “We tend to believe that we are the only ones having these problems at this level, and it seems hopeless,” said Danette. “In reality . . . struggling marriages are the norm.” “What couples on these weekends see is hope, because they [hear] couples who are willing to share, who have already walked this path,” she continued. “They’ve already passed through these issues and they’re on the others side. [They say] if you trust us and take this walk with us, we will show you how we got through it.” If there is one mistake that couples make, it is waiting too long before they seek to address the problems in their marriages, she said. The earlier they work on their marriages, the easier it is for them to take up the means and methods of Retrouvaille. Even at a later stage, however, Retrouvaille can help. “Even in the darkest moments of your marriage, there is hope,” said Danette. “We know couples that . . . have come back from the most dire of situations, that some people would say are hopeless and society would tell them to give up. “Now, they have some of the strongest marriages we think we’ve ever witnessed.”

THE LEAVEN • NOVEMBER 21, 2008 Bill and Mildred (Nachbar) LeCluyse, members of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Nov. 25 with family. Their children and their spouses are: John and Kaye ANNIVERSARIES LeCluyse; Geri and Randy John; Patty and Bill Campbell; Mary and Hank Alston; and Bill Jr. and Kendra LeCluyse. They have 15 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

Dorothy and Rex Polter, members of Mother Teresa Parish, Topeka, will mark their 50th wedding anniversary at the parish Mass on Nov. 22 at 5 p.m. They will then celebrate with a reception at the parish center on Nov. 29 from 1-3 p.m. for family and friends. The couple was married on Nov. 22, 1958, at St. Joseph Church, Vancouver, Wash. Their children and their spouses are: Pat and Jerry Kuckelman; H.R. Polter; and Dennis Polter. They also have 6 grandchildren.

Joan (Weber) and Raymond Schmitz, members of St. Mary Parish, St. Benedict, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 30 with a 9:30 a.m. Mass at the church. Following Mass, there will be a dinner for family and friends at Valentino’s. A reception will follow from 12:30 to 3:30 p.m. The couple was married on Nov. 26, 1958, at St. Mary Church, St. Benedict. Their children and their spouses are: Raylee and Mary Schmitz, Baileyville; Gary and Anita Schmitz, Seneca; Sharon and Chris Burger, Sabetha; Bryan and Janet Schmitz, Baileyville; and Dona and Grady Ratliff, St. Marys. They also have 12 grandchildren.

LOCAL NEWS

Sister Vincent Clare McDonald, SCL LEAVENWORTH — Sister Vincent Clare McDonald, 79, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth, died Nov. 10 at St. John Hospital here. JoAnn Catherine McDonald was born on Oct. 29, 1929, in Denver, one of two children of William E. and Ann E. Martin McDonald. She graduated from St. Mary School in 1943 and from Leadville High Leadville, Colo., OBITUARY School, in 1947. She entered the religious community of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth on Aug. 19, 1948, and, as Sister Vincent Clare, made her profession of vows on Aug. 15, 1950. After profession, Sister Vincent Clare was missioned to schools which included: St. Patrick, Kansas City, Kan.; Our Lady of Guadalupe, Topeka; St. Rose of Lima, Kansas City, Kan.; St. Louis School, Kansas City, Mo.; Most Pure Heart of Mary, Topeka; St. Laurence, Laramie, Wyo.; Sts. Cyril and Methodius, Rock Springs, Wyo.; Blessed Sacrament, Kansas City, Kan.; and Xavier

Elementary School, Leavenworth. She served as principal at Our Lady of Perpetual Help School, Kansas City, Mo.; St. Mary School, Deer Lodge, Mont.; Sacred Heart School, Topeka; St. Therese School, Aurora, Colo. She was co-principal at St. Daniel the Prophet School, Chicago. Sister Vincent Clare also served as receptionist/ secretary to SCL Health Services in Leavenworth. She then was missioned to serve as an assistant in the archives at the motherhouse, where she later retired. Sister Vincent Clare received a bachelor’s degree in elementary education and a master’s degree in elementary education administration from the University of Saint Mary, Leavenworth.

Ursulines to hold final Christmas boutique CCHD collection set for this weekend The Catholic Campaign for Human Development collection will be taken up the weekend of Nov. 22-23 in most parishes. The CCHD helps people rise above the

poverty line by funding programs that focus on the root causes of poverty. CCHD’s funding has resulted in long-term community improvements since 1970.

PAOLA — The Ursuline Sisters’ Christmas Boutique and Raffle will be held Dec. 6 at the Ursuline convent here. This will be the last year that the boutique will be held in Paola. There will be plenty of handcrafted gifts and goodies made by the Sisters, their associates, friends and families.

Lunch will be available. The doors will open at 9 a.m. Drawings for two raffles, including one for an Ursuline signature quilt, will be held at 2 p.m., at the close of the event. For more information, raffle tickets, or for directions, call Heather at (913) 557-2349 ext. 365.

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With a little help from our friends

Winner is the loser

Father Bill McEvoy, pastor of Christ the King Parish in Kansas City, Kan., takes a pie in the face from Christ the King principal Cathy Fithian for a good cause. Students who collected General Mills Box Tops for Education, which bring cash back to the school, could vote for either Father McEvoy or Fithian to get the pie. Votes were counted on election night, Nov. 4, and Father McEvoy won by fewer than 60 votes. Students collected over 1300 box tops in all. The monies raised will go toward classroom materials. Photo by Don Wolf

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When The Leaven asked for a little help from all you photographers out in the archdiocese, we expected to hear from somebody. What we didn’t expect was the high quality of all the photographs we received from the amateur photographers, or the generosity of some of the professionals who donated their shoots for free. Now, of course, I’m sure you’ve heard that the customary reward for doing good work is more work to do, but hopefully seeing your event in print will serve as a little encouragement. And for those of you who have yet to send us something, what are you waiting for? Visit The Leaven’s Web site at: www.theleaven.com, for how to submit, or ask any of the contributors on these two pages.

Honoring education

The Leavenworth regional Catholic schools celebrated the closing of their sesquicentennial year on Nov. 11, the actual day the Sisters of Charity arrived in Leavenworth, with a progressive celebration to various locations. All represented the rich heritage of Catholic education in the city in different ways. One of the stops was Immaculata High School, built in 1924, where the Imac Singers entertained the crowd with the Gospel message in song and prayer. Photo by Luisa Metivier

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Of God and marriage

Christopher West addressed more than 600 at St. Michael the Archangel in Leawood on Nov. 14, where he spoke about Pope John Paul II’s theology of the body. He spoke again on Nov. 15, this time to more than 300 people at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, at a day of enrichment for married couples.

▲ History lesson

Xavier preschooler Devyn Chaffee displays pictures of St. Vincent de Paul and St. Louise de Marillac, who inspired Mother Xavier Ross (middle photo), founder of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. In an interactive program tailored to the preschoolers, Charity Sisters Ann Barton and Rejane Cytacki recounted the history of the Sisters of Charity’s arrival at the Leavenworth Landing on the Missouri River in 1858.

Photo by Michele Gress

Photo by Luisa Metivier

▲ Soldier stories

Major Randy Gillespie points out where Iraq and Afghanistan are located to Lucas Love, Matthew Daly, and Emily Allen, students at St. Ann School in Prairie Village, while Major Steven Beaumont looks on. The soldiers spoke to Ann Thomas’ fifth-grade class about their military experiences. Major Beaumont has been stationed in Iraq while Major Gillespie will be doing a tour of duty there shortly. (He has been stationed at the Pentagon.) The class will be doing a service project of making Christmas packages for service men and women.

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A boost for science

The blessing and dedication of Maur Hill-Mount Academy’s new Penning Science Wing was held on Nov. 14 at the school in Atchison. The improvements have transformed the 47-year-old science area into a state-of-the-art science lab. The total project included the renovation of one classroom and the refurbishment of two others, along with the hallway. Photo by Mick Hundley

Pre-K student Dante Williams steps right up to ask a question of a visiting firefighter at St. Patrick School’s Early Education Center in Kansas City, Kan. Photo by Elaina Generally

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Photo by Kevin van der Does

▲ Hometown hero

Scary business

First-grader Megan Schleimer, left, enjoys spooking the little ones as she works the graveyard shift at St. Joseph Shawnee’s Trunk or Treat haunted house. The annual event, held Oct. 26, provides children a safe place to trick or treat. Photo by Matt Flickner

▲ Sing for the moment

Callie Agler performs “Jesus Take the Wheel” at the benefit concert for Catholic Charities in Emporia on Nov. 16 in the newly remodeled 1929 Emporia Granada Theatre. Agler performed for four years as a lead vocalist in Branson, Mo. Photo by Jennifer Speck of Specktacular Photos, Wichita

10 NATION

THE LEAVEN • NOVEMBER 21, 2008

Rising unemployment prompts more people to turn to Catholic Charities WASHINGTON (CNS) — Catholic Charities agencies BRIEFLY across the country are finding that the nation’s growing unemployment rate is one more factor in their efforts to provide food, clothing and shelter to those in need. In Michigan — where automobile giants General Motors, Ford and Chrysler are based — unemployment is a reality for thousands of people once employed in the car industry and for business owners hit hard by the collapsing economy. “People are being laid off continually,” said Chris Root, who heads the Lansing, Mich., Diocese’s Catholic Charities department. The agency’s offices around the diocese help people pay for rent and utilities, provide food and help the unemployed with a job training program. The demand for all these services is increasing significantly, Root said. Counseling for domestic abuse, substance abuse and for family and marriage problems all have been on the rise since the financial downturn, Root noted in a Nov. 12 interview with Catholic News Service.

FBI investigates powder mailed to Knights’ offices NEW HAVEN, Conn. (CNS) — A mailroom and printing plant at the Knights of Columbus headquarters in New Haven remained closed Nov. 14 while the local FBI office investigated a white powder contained in an envelope mailed from California. David Rhieu, chief division counsel at the FBI office in New Haven, said Nov. 14 that the testing of the powder will be completed within 48 hours and “the results will be released to the victim, the Knights of Columbus.” Rhieu said that while the investigation was ongoing he could not comment on whether the letter containing the powder could be linked to similar envelopes received at the national headquarters of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints in Salt Lake City and a Mormon temple in Los Angeles. Patrick Korten, Knights of Columbus vice president for communications, told Catholic News Service Nov. 14 that the letter was received in the Knights’ mailroom on the morning of Nov. 13 and “produced a white powder when opened.” Local police and fire officials were notified and eventually the FBI was brought in, he said. “Three individuals were decontaminated” following the incident, and the mailroom and printing plant were to remain closed until Nov. 17, Korten said.

U.S. bishops cover much ground at fall meeting By CHAZ MUTH Catholic News Service BALTIMORE (CNS) — At the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Nov. 10-12 fall general assembly in Baltimore, the bishops: — Heard their president, Chicago Cardinal Francis E. George, acknowledge the historic significance of the election of President-elect Barack Obama and pray that the incoming president will be able to succeed in his task for the good of all. — Warned the new administration and new Congress that lifting existing f e d era l abo rt ion re stri cti on s would permanently alienate tens of millions of Americans and could be seen as an attack on religious freedom. — Said the church will continue in a time of economic crisis to reach out to those in need, stand with those who are hurt, and work for more just and compassionate policies. — Approved another lengthy section of the English translation of the third edition of the Roman Missal, which must now be confirmed by the Vatican. — Chose the Revised Grail Psalter produced by the monks of Conception Abbey in Missouri over the Revised New American Bible translation of the Book of Psalms for liturgical use in the United States. — Overwhelmingly approved a liturgical service in English and Spanish for blessing children in the womb. — Elected Bishop George V. Murry of Youngstown, Ohio, as USCCB secretary-elect and chose chairmen-elect for five USCCB committees. — Approved a $144 million budget and a lengthy list of plans and programs for the USCCB in 2009. — Set a host of goals for five task forces on issues ranging from strengthening marriage to addressing cultural diversity in the church as priority initiatives through 2011. — Lea rn ed Th e C at h ol i c University of America in Washington has had a record-breaking year for freshman enrollment and for national fundraising, but lost millions in invest me nts in the 2008 eco nom i c meltdown.

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THE LEAVEN • NOVEMBER 21, 2008

Little Rock bishop defends rights of immigrants in pastoral letter week Advent study guide for smallgroup sharing. “The purpose of the pastoral letter is not to just go on record but rather to LITTLE ROCK, Ark. (CNS) — Five teach,” he said. “People learn not just months after being ordained the bishby reading a document but also by diop of Little Rock, Bishop Anthony B. Taylor has issued his first pastoral let- aloguing and sharing with others, ester in hopes of teaching his flock pecially if the concepts are new and about the human rights of undocu- are hard to get your mind around.” The pastoral letter will be distribmented immigrants. “I Was a Stranger and You uted to parishioners on the feast of Welcomed Me: A Pastoral Letter on Christ the King Nov. 23, when a the Human Rights of Immigrants” recorded homily by Bishop Taylor is to be played at all Masses. was introduced to the The study sessions are expriests of the state Nov. 5 pected to be held in during a study day. churches through Dec. 20. Diocesan employees gathThe season before ered at St. John Center for Christmas was chosen bea similar event Nov. 7. cause “Advent is a time of Bishop Taylor said he longing and expectation, a believes Catholics are not time of hope,” Bishop properly informed about Taylor wrote in his letter the human rights of immiintroducing the pastoral grants. letter. “What changes do “I hope that people will Bishop Anthony Taylor we need to make here in open their hearts to the call Arkansas in order to ensure of Jesus in our time,” he that today’s Marys and Josephs — tosaid in an interview with the Arkansas Marias and Joses — receive a day’s Catholic, Little Rock diocesan newswarm welcome truly worthy of the paper. “More than that, I hope it goes down from their head to their heart Savior whose birth we celebrate on and [they] see what the Lord is asking Christmas?” In the pastoral letter Bishop Taylor of us. . . . It is the biggest area where the teaching of the church is not well- did not suggest specific changes in the law he would like to see. known.” “My role is that of teaching faith Bishop Taylor, who is fluent in and morals,” he said. “It is for the Spanish and has worked in Hispanic laypeople to come up with ways to ministry for 28 years, said he believes being able to migrate to another implement that.” Copies of the pastoral letter will be country is an “intrinsic human right.” He said it is nearly impossible for sent to the state’s representatives and immigrants, predominantly from senators. “Hopefully they’ll learn from the Mexico, to come to the United States mistakes made in Oklahoma,” includlegally. ing the effect on the economy there, “They are here because there is no said the bishop, ordained as a priest of way to get documents, not because they don’t want documents,” he said. the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, “You can’t be obliged to do what you where he was a pastor when he was can’t do. Immigration laws should named Little Rock’s bishop in April. “If you think the [U.S.] economy is correspond to the reality.” The 30-page document includes in trouble now, do we need more disfive appendices with additional re- ruption in our economy now?” he sources, information on what the U.S. asked. Oklahoma legislators passed bishops’ conference has said and supporting Scripture references. The House Bill 1804, and it went into efbishop consulted with several priests fect Nov. 1, 2007. The law makes it a and laypeople over the past three felony to transport or shelter undocumented workers and requires employmonths when writing the letter. Booklets of the letter will be made ers to verify that all of their employees available in all parishes and missions are here legally. Many employees moved to Texas and Arkansas after ofin English and Spanish. To get parishioners to read and dis- ficials started enforcing the law, thus cuss the letter, Bishop Taylor asked hurting the agriculture and service inCackie Upchurch, director of Little dustries. Rock Scripture Study, to write a three-

By MALEA HARGETT

Catholic News Service

340 N. 6th • Kansas City, Kan. 66101 • (913) 371-1404

HONG KONG (CNS) — A local Catholic who identified himself only as Yau lost one-third of the value of his financial investments and real estate within a few months as part of the global financial crisis. However “money is not all our lives” and there is “something more meaningful,” he told the Asian church news agency UCA News in early November. The financial crisis gave him “a good chance to reflect on the values” that he used to hold, and his faith has given him strength, added the father of two children. Like many others in Hong Kong, an international financial hub hit hard by the global financial crisis, Yau is facing uncertainty. Several large corporations recently folded because the banking sector tightened loans and credit on businesses. Yiu, also identified only by one name, saw 20 percent of her threemember family’s wealth vanish in days. Facing investment losses “made me recognize that the more things we hold on to, the easier they vanish,” Yiu said. “What we should concern ourselves with is how to maintain our faith and belief.” Yiu said Catholics should pray more, spend more time with their families, share their unhappy feelings with friends and “thank God for their remaining assets” during the economic hard times. Father Stephen Tam Kwan, pastor of St. Francis of Assisi Church, told

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INVESTORS PROTEST IN HONG KONG — Investors who bought financial products relating to Lehman Brothers march to the government headquarters in Hong Kong in this Sept. 21 file photo. Hundreds of investors marched to demand greater transparency and government oversight of financial products after Lehman Brothers filed for bankruptcy Sept. 15. UCA News that a parishioner who lost a great deal of money investing in minibonds through Lehman Brothers asked if he should join the protests against the alleged misleading promotion of that financial product. Lehman Brothers is the U.S investment bank that filed for bankruptcy in September. Father Tam said he replied that the public should be concerned but investors also should bear the responsibility and risk of their investments. Minibonds are complex, high-risk derivatives.

Father Tam and Father Dominic Chan Chi-ming, vicar general of the Hong Kong Diocese and pastor of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception, said Sunday Mass collections have not dwindled during the crisis. “Most of the faithful in my parish are elderly, and some live on government subsidies, but they did not have failed investments, maybe [because] they could not afford to invest,” Father Tam said. His parish is located in a densely populated, low-income area.

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VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Sixty years after the adoption of BRIEFLY the Universal Declaration of Human Rights, the landmark U.N. document still is not respected fully around the world, said a top Vatican official. “Unfortunately nowhere in the world, even among [countries] that have embraced, promoted and highlighted this declaration,” are all Cardinal Martino its articles observed, said Cardinal Renato Martino, head of the Pontifical Council for Justice and Peace. The cardinal spoke Nov. 13 at a Vatican press conference detailing events the Vatican will sponsor Dec. 10 to commemorate the anniversary of the U.N. General Assembly's adoption of the declaration in 1948. He said the world's prisons display some of the worst violations of human rights and dignity. “When I visit these penal institutes . . . it’s as if the declaration never even existed,” he said. Some prisons in northern or central Italy are so overcrowded that prisoners must spend the day lying in their bunk beds because six people are living in a cell built for two and there is no place to stand, he said.

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12 CLASSIFIEDS ■ EMPLOYMENT P a r t - t i m e c o u n s e l o r - For Leavenworth Catholic Charities counseling office. Must be licensed by Kansas BSRB. This position is 10-15 hours per week; counseling children and adults. Send letter of interest and resume, via e-mail, to: mvorsten@ccsks.org, or fax to Mary Vorsten at (913) 262-0818. EOE. F i n a n c e of f i ce co or d i n a t o r - For Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, Topeka. Responsibilities include: coordinating the day-to-day operations of the finance office; providing an accurate filing, record keeping, and reporting system for all parish financial matters; processing of payroll and payroll taxes; and month-end reconciliations and financial reports. Preferred qualifications include a college degree in business administration, finance, or accounting, plus five years work-related experience. Pertinent work experience may be considered in lieu of college degree. Knowledge of accounting principles and practices is required. Knowledge and understanding of the Catholic Church and its mission are required. Send resume and cover letter to: Most Pure Heart of Mary Search Committee, 1800 S.W. Stone, Topeka, KS 66604. Financia l represent ativ e - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City Metro and Topeka areas. This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better-than-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For more information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton, KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450. W or k a t h om e - No selling, no inventory, no risk!!! For details, visit the Web site at: www.AtHomeFullTime.com.

■ SERVICES

Need a housecleaner? If so, two moms want to make your life easier. We also clean small businesses. Free estimates. Call Anatasia at (816) 254-3321 or Monique at (913) 449-6303. N e e d a n o c c a s i o n a l e x t e n d e d f a m i l y h e lp e r for bus y household s or s en iors ? Transportation, appointments, personal shopping, dinner party assistance, and/or house sitting. My personal care at each visit. Call Mrs. Daryl Duffy, Grand Activities LLC, at (816) 210-6757 (mobile). Serving JoCo area. C l e a n i n g l a d y – With 25 years experience. Reasonable rates; excellent references. Call Sandy Flanery at (913) 788-7676.

THE LEAVEN • NOVEMBER 21, 2008

Bankruptcy - When debt becomes overwhelming, seek professional help. Experienced, compassionate Catholic attorney Teresa Kidd. For a confidential, no obligation consultation, call (913) 4220610; or send an e-mail to: tkidd@kc.rr.com. Caregiver position wanted - Retired nurse with hospice experience is looking for full- or part-time work. Available nights and weekends. Will consider child care. Call (913) 579-5276. C aregi v in g - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Andrea, Sara or Gary. Eldercare support - Are you struggling to find the right support option for an elderly family member? We are providing families with consultation from our licensed social worker as a FREE community service. We can provide valuable information related to: nursing home and assisted living selection; Medicare and Medicaid coverage; home safety and fall prevention; safety assessments; home care options; and more. To get answers to your questions, simply contact B en e fi t s of H o me at (913) 422-1591 to coordinate a phone or in-home consultation. Is money tight because of int eres t rates this yea r? If you want a better return on your money, consider a gift annuity with the C a t h o l i c Foundation of Northeast Kansas. Effective interest rates can be higher than 10 percent. You may designate your parish or another Catholic organization to receive the remainder gift. For a free consultation, call the foundation at (913) 647-0365, or visit the Web site at: www.cfnek.org.

■ HOME IMPROVEMENT

L a wn a n d l a n ds ca p e w ork - College student looking for landscaping and mowing work. Four years experience. Will do trees, mulching, deck refurbishment and landscape design and install. Johnson County. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230. L e a f re m ov a l - Commercial and residential. Vacuum, blow and haul away. Also ask about our monthly-average snow removal plan which can save you up to 30% off of all seasonal work. Licensed, bonded, insured; references. Call now for a free estimate. (913) 620-6063. Damaged sheetrock repaired – WyCo and JoCo areas. Ceilings, painted or textured. 25 yrs. experience; insured and reliable. Call (913) 631-5241.

Piano tuning - Touch-up and full chromatic piano tuning for residential and business clients in the KC metro area. Call Bob at (816) 510-3125.

Granite countertops No obligation quote and consultation Turnkey service available Removal, installation and plumbing Member of St. Agnes – Call Tim (913) 626-5020

Mountain Mov ers I nc. - Big or small, we move it all. Insured movers specializing in antiques. Call Dennis Higgins, owner, at (913) 285-3399.

House painting - Interior and exterior; wallpaper removal. 20 years experience. Reasonable rates. References. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.

Machine quilting by Lyn - I also do T-shirt, photo, and memorial quilts too. Located in Overland Park. Call Lyn at (913) 492-8877.

STA ( Su re T hi ng A l w ay s) Ho me Re p ai r Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Call for free estimates. Cell: (913) 579-1835; phone: (913) 491-5837; e-mail: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa.

Granite, Cambria and Silestone countertops See our new showroom at 5820 Barton, in the heart of beautiful downtown Shawnee. Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 898-8685 or (913) 962-5058. Pres erv e y ou r memori es by t el l in g y ou r li fe story! I can type your memoirs from handwritten or recorded notes. Also provide secretarial services. Call All About Words at (913) 438-5922.

Cus tom-kit chen coun tertops - Laminate tops manufactured and installed within 5 days. Competitive prices, dependable work. St. Joseph Parish member. Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 898-8685 or (913) 962-5058.

THE LEAVEN • NOVEMBER 21, 2008 Organizing & handyman services - Basements, garages, attics and shop spaces organized! Your items sorted, boxed & labeled; areas cleaned when finished! Wall repair, interior painting, tile work, handicap bars and ramps. Great references and insured. For pictures of current projects, view my Web site at: www.swalms.com. Call Tillar Swalm at (913) 375-9115. T o p s o i l a n d f i l l d i r t d e l i v e r e d - Southern Johnson County area. Other landscape materials and hauling services available. Aquinas alumnus. Call (913) 626- 9500. Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates. JoCo and southern KC metro area. Call Pat at (913) 963-9896. Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts! Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing. Licensed and insured. (913) 599-7998 Ma sonry work - Quality, new or repair work. Brick, block, and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second generation bricklayer. Call (913) 829-4336. Ti m t he Ha n dy ma n - Insured; free estimates. Carpentry: new and repair deck, doors, windows, siding, screens. Plumbing: faucet, garbage disposals, toilets. Electrical: switches, outlets, ceiling fans, light fixtures. Light landscape: fill dirt, trimming, planting, garden tilling and mulching. Serving Johnson County. Call Tim at (913) 859-0471. H om e s ec u ri t y s y st e m s on ly $ 9 9 ! - Protect your family and property. Monitor existing system for $16 per month. Call Mike at (913) 269-1394. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Overland Park. El sol y la tierra *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation * Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376.

■ REAL ESTATE

L a k e h o u s e f or s a l e - Beautiful and private Lake Kahola, less than 2 hours from the KC area. Only 10 miles off I-35 at the Emporia exit. This home sleeps 10+ with a 2-car garage, plus a private boat ramp and dock. Located at the water’s edge on a quiet cove with great neighbors. Call Cy at (316) 262-0888. Kans as Ci ty, Kan. hous es for sa le - For information on any of the great opportunities listed below, call Ann with Reece & Nichols at (913) 3028413. 5001 Rowland – 2 BR, 1 BA ranch w/ hardwoods, large eat-in kitchen and a one-car garage. $45K. 2 1 2 8 N . 4 4 t h St . – 2 BR, 1BA ranch w/ hardwoods, sunroom, new paint, one-car garage, and a large lot. $70K. 336 N. 14th St. – 3 BR, 1 BA, two-story w/ hardwoods, new paint, and off-street parking. $72,500. 1508 N. 21st St. – Westheight Manor two-story. 3 BR, 1-1/2 BA, LR & DR, large family room. $183K. 1600 N. 21st St. – Westheight Manor colonial. 4 BR, 3 BA, French doors, hrdwds and more. $173K. 12604 Donahoo Rd. – Piper. Custom-built ranch on 1+ acres. 3 BR, 3 BA, open floor plan, walkout basement. $239,950.

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■ VACATION Bahamas beachfront condo - Enjoy the crystal clear waters, beachfront pool or the beautiful sunrises from our newly remodeled condo that sleeps four. $125/night; $750/week. Local owner will rent to mature adults and families. Visit the Web site at: www.coralbeach1602.com, or send an e-mail to: coralbeach1602@gmail.com. Ski cabin in Winter Park, Colo. – 2 BR, 1 BA, on free ski shuttle route. $110/night. Call (913) 6423027. For pictures, visit the Web site at: cabin. forcadeassociates.com.

Nov. 21

Join the Singles of Nativity to celebrate all November birthdays at 6 p.m. on Nov. 21 at Kansas City Public House, 12030 Blue Valley Pkwy., Overland Park. We will meet in the back (game) room. Come and celebrate your birthday with us!

S k i v a c a t i o n - Winter Park, Colo. 2 BR, 1BA, sleeps 6. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec. center with pool & hot tub. $125/night; $750/week. Call Joe Frederick at (913) 385-5589. Lake of th e Oza rks rent al - Osage Beach, million-dollar view, fully furnished; 2 BR, 2 BA; sleeps six. No smoking, no pets. For special rates, call Steve or Sheryl Roederer at (913) 244-2022, or take a visual tour at: www.visualtour.com/shownp. asp?T=338261.

■ MISCELLANEOUS

H el p s t ock u p C a t h ol i c C h a r i t i e s ’ d ec l i n i n g food pantry - Bring in a nonperishable food donation anytime during the month of November and receive a one-week membership free. Fitness Plus, 4500 W. 107th St. (off Roe), Overland Park.

■ FOR SALE

F o r s a l e - Three plots at Mount Calvary Cemetery, Kansas City, Kan. Section 8; lot 84; spaces 4 & 7, side by side; $2000 for both. Section 8; lot 83; space 8; $900. Call Rita at (816) 3588596.

■ WANTED

Live-in companion/housekeeper - For elderly lady in Tonganoxie. Room and board, plus salary. Flexible time off. References requested. Call Jenell at (913) 724-1837 or Linda, after 4:30 p.m., at (913) 244-7721.

■ CHILD CARE

L i t t le R a s c a l s C h r i s t i a n D a y c a r e - Over 20 years experience! Opening soon at 16550 W. 129th St., Olathe. Care provided for children 6 wks to 5 years. Limited enrollment. For information, contact Colleen or Donna at (913) 397-7100.

■ WANTED TO BUY

***Wanted to Buy*** Antique/Vintage Costume Jewelry Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179 ***ANTIQUES WANTED*** Postcards, old photos, military items, trains, coins, watches jewelry, political buttons, old toys and banks, Red Wing crocks, Indian rugs, signs and sterling silverware. Call Chris (913) 642-8269.

■ ENTERTAINMENT

D isc j ockey - For your wedding, kolos, nightclubs, corporate parties, teenage celebrations, holiday parties, sock-hops, ethnic, birthdays, holiday parties, hip-hop/rap, golden oldies. Member of St. Therese Parish, KCMO. Call Zepster’s A to Z Party DJ’s at (816) 741-4777.

“How to Discipline Without Yelling, Threatening or Putting Down,” a two-part program, will be offered from 1 - 2:30 p.m. on Nov. 18 and 25 at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central, Kansas City, Kan. Reservations are required; there is no cost for the class. For information or to register, call (913) 9068990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc/ All are invited to a night of shopping from 5 - 8 p.m. on Nov. 25 at Ten Thousand Villages, 7947 Santa Fe Dr., Overland Park. Fifteen percent of the proceeds will be donated to the Keeler Women’s Center, a ministry of the Benedictine Sisters, whose mission is to empower women in the urban core through education, advocacy, personal and spiritual development.

21-22

The Mardi Gras committee at ▲ Ascension Parish, 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park, will host its annual holiday bazaar from 7 - 10 p.m. on Nov. 21 and from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. on Nov. 22 in the lower level of the church. Community vendors will share their products, including jewelry, personalized children’s gifts, religious items, bath and beauty products, home décor, scrapbooking supplies, food items, health services, unique Christmas gifts and more. Friday is ladies night; light appetizers and wine will be served. There is no admission charge. For information, call Rhonda Kelly at (913) 851-2816 or send an e-mail to her at: rlkelly@kc.rr.com. The Benedictine Sisters at Mount St. Scholastica, Atchison, will host a comeand-see weekend from 7 p.m. on Nov. 21 through noon on Nov. 22 for single women, ages 18 to 45, to spend time with the Sisters and with others in discernment of their vocation. For information or to register, contact Sister Suzanne Fitzmaurice, OSB, vocation director, at (913) 360-6219, or send an e-mail to her at: vocations@mountosb.org.

Join the Singles of Nativity for happy hour, beginning at 6 p.m. on Nov. 26, at Trolley’s Bar & Grille, 9100 W. 135th St., Overland Park. Look for the yellow balloon and our greeters who will be at the table until 7:30 p.m. Questions? Send an e-mail to: social@son-ministry.org.

St. Rose School, 530 E. 4th Ave., Garnett, will host its annual holiday craft show and bierock sale from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Nov. 29. Santa will visit from 1 3 p.m. for pictures. Admission is free. Vendor booths cost $30. For information, contact Sue at (785) 448-3168 or Sandie at (785) 448-3301. The Johnson County Unos will gather for 4:30 p.m. Mass on Nov. 29 at St. Pius X Church, 5601 Woodson, Mission. Dinner will follow at On the Border Mexican Restaurant, 11851 W. 95th St., Overland Park.

Christ the King Parish, 5972 S.W. 25th St., Topeka, will host a fall festival on Nov. 23. A turkey dinner will be served from 11:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. The cost is: $6 for adults; $3 for children ages 3 - 11; children under 3 eat free. There will be a Christmas craft shop, a silent auction, a drawing, and several carnival games. Blessed Sacrament Parish will host a fall dinner from 1 - 4 p.m. on Nov. 23 at the Blessed Sacrament Family Center cafeteria, 2215 Parallel Ave., Kansas City, Kan. The cost is $8 for adults; $5 for children 12 and under. Super bingo will begin at 3 p.m. The Singles of Nativity will gather for round-robin-style tennis at 3:30 p.m. on Nov. 16 at the Indian Creek Recreational Center, 103rd St. and Marty, Overland Park. Jane Zaccardi will lead the team this season. Beginners are welcome. We have room for everybody! Join us for fun, tennis, and good company. We may go out for a light dinner afterwards. For information, send an e-mail to Zaccardi at: service@son-ministry.org.

Tom Jacobs will perform his 20th anniversary concert “Advent into Christmas” at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 5 at the Unity Temple on the Plaza, 707 W. 47th St., Kansas City, Mo. Tickets cost $15 if purchased before Dec. 1; $20 afterwards. For information or to purchase tickets, visit the Web site at: www.tomjacobs.com. The Johnson County Unos will hold their monthly meeting and catered turkey dinner with all the trimmings at 6 p.m. on Dec. 5 at St. Pius X Church, 5601 Woodson, Mission. The cost is $8 per person. Mail your check, payable to Johnson County Unos, before Nov. 24, to: Peg Dowling, 11925 Slater, Overland Park, KS 66213. There will also be a gift exchange. Everyone is asked to bring a $5 wrapped gift appropriate for a man or woman. A course in the sympto-thermal method of natural family planning will begin at 7 p.m. on Dec. 5 at Queen of the Holy Rosary-Wea, 22779 Metcalf, Bucyrus. A reasonable course fee will be charged. For information or to register, call Christine or Dave Downey at (913) 8373182, the Couple to Couple League of Kansas City at (913) 894-3558, or visit the Web site at: www.cclkc.org.

The Ursuline Sisters will host their final Christmas boutique and raffle from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Dec. 6 at the Ursuline convent in Paola. In addition to handcrafted gifts and goodies, there will be two raffles, including one for an Ursuline signature quilt. Lunch will also be served. For information or directions, call Heather at (913) 557-2349, ext. 365.

The Men’s Society at St. Casimir Church, 719 Pennsylvania Ave., Leavenworth, will host its annual golumbki dinner from noon - 3 p.m. on Nov. 23 in the parish hall. Carryouts will be available beginning at 10 a.m. The cost is $8 for adults; $4 for children.

will include music and mirth with a medieval flair. Tickets cost $30. To purchase tickets, call (913) 254-4219, or visit the Web site at: www.sjakeepingfaith.org/ store.

▲ St. Joseph Parish, 5901 Flint, Shawnee, will host a presentation, entitled, “A Christmas Story for Grievers: Comforting Lessons from the Birth of Jesus,” from 1 - 3 p.m. on Nov. 30. For information, call the Catholic Community Healthcare office at (913) 621-5090.

The Ladies Altar Society of the Cathedral of St. Peter, 416 N. 14th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host a Christmas homes tour from noon - 4 p.m. on Dec. 7. Tickets cost: $6 for adults in advance, or $7 at the door; $4 for children in kindergarten through eighth grade. Tickets can be purchased at Michael’s Heritage Florist or by calling Diane Hinkle at (913) 3711891.

4,6-7

Misc. Kick off the holidays with one of Kansas City’s most beloved holiday traditions, Marillac’s Enchanted Forest. Experience the magic of the season as you view over 100 beautifully decorated trees and wreaths, available for purchase, at Union Station. Enchanted Forest is free and open to the public for bidding from Nov. 19 - Dec. 6. All proceeds benefit children with special emotional and behavioral needs in our community.

▲ Were you injured while on active duty in the military? Do you have combat related nightmares or are you bothered by remembrances of combat? A “veterans helping veterans” support group is forming in this area. If you are in need of help, or are available to help, call John at (913) 909-3368. The Serra Club invites all men of the archdiocese to pray with them to increase vocations to the priesthood and religious life. Meetings are held at noon on every second and fourth Wednesday of the month at the Hilton Garden Inn, 520 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information, contact Jim Conrad at (913) 432-4162, John Muehlberger at (913) 4415061, or Bill Peters at (913) 894-6967. Freedom from pornography. Sam Meier, MA, LPC provides counseling and men’s groups for sexual integrity. Call (913) 647-0378, or send an e-mail to: mhmg@archkck.org. Women, contact Beth Meier for information on our group for spouses and loved ones at (913) 647-0379, or send an e-mail to: bmeier@archkck.org. Support is confidential and from a Catholic perspective. To listen to live testimonials, visit the Web site at; www.archkck. org/myhouse.

Spiritual direction helps us notice God’s action in our daily lives. By meeting monthly with a skilled spiritual director, we become more conscious of God’s presence and love. For information or to schedule a free appointment, call the Keeler Women’s Center at (913) 621-8749.

1-4

St. James Academy, 24505 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa, will serve three Madrigal dinners at 6 p.m. on Dec. 4, 6 and 7. During dinner, the St. James Academy performing arts students will entertain with a presentation of “The Prince Finds His Peace.” The performance

“Kids Voice” is grief support for children ages 5 - 12 who are in families experiencing the pain of separation or divorce. For information, call Jean at (913) 2629037.

Dec. Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, 2552 Gilham Rd., Kansas City, Mo., will host a parish mission on Dec. 1 - 4 at 7 p.m. each evening. American Sign Language interpreters are provided; transportation and child care will be available. For information, contact Betty Wood at (913) 757-3051 or John Pileggi at (816) 453-3020.

CALENDAR

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▲ The Kansas City Guadalupana Society will host a novena in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe at 7 p.m. on Dec. 3 - 11 at 901 Avenida Cesar Chavez, Kansas City, Mo. On Dec. 12, the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, they will host Las Mañanitas at 5:30 a.m., followed by a 6 a.m. Mass and a reception.

Catholic Charities is sponsoring Mother to Mother, a program that provides emotional support for mothers. Meetings, with speakers on various topics, are held once a month in Olathe. Mothers are also paired with a support/mentor mother. For more information, contact Carla Golden at (913) 782-4077, or send an e-mail to her at: cgolden@ccsks.org.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • NOVEMBER 21, 2008

FAMILY MATTERS

MARK MY WORDS

Take five, and call me in the morning

President MOST REVEREND JOSEPH F. NAUMANN Editor REVEREND MARK GOLDASICH, STL frmark@theleaven.com Managing Editor ANITA McSORLEY anita@theleaven.com Senior Reporter JOE BOLLIG joe@theleaven.com Production Manager TODD HABIGER todd@theleaven.com Advertising Representative JENNIFER SIEBES jennifer@theleaven.com Reporter KARA HANSEN kara@theleaven.com Circulation sub@theleaven.com Intern Seán T.D. Kane

Catholic Press Association Award Winner 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 Archbishop Edward O’Meara Award Winner 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003 Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) 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) 7215276; 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 $18/ year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

SCRIPTURE READINGS THIRTY-FOURTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Nov. 23 OUR LORD JESUS CHRIST THE KING Ez 34: 11-12, 15-17; Ps 23: 1-3, 5-6; 1 Cor 15: 20-26, 28; Mt 25: 31-46 Nov. 24 Andrew Dung-Lac, priest, martyr, and his companions, martyrs Rv 14: 1-3, 4b-5; Ps 24: 1b-4b, 5-6; Lk 21: 1-4 Nov. 25 Catherine of Alexandria, virgin, martyr Rv 14: 14-19; Ps 96: 10-13; Lk 21: 5-11 Nov. 26 Wednesday Rv 15: 1-4; Ps 98: 1-3b, 7-9; Lk 21: 12-19 Nov. 27 Thanksgiving Day Sir 50: 22-24; Ps 138: 1-5; 1 Cor 1: 3-9; Lk 17: 11-19 Nov. 28 Friday Rv 20:1-4, 11 — 21:2; Ps 84: 3-6a, 8a; Lk 21: 29-33 Nov. 29 Rv 22: 1-7; Ps 95: 1-7b; Lk 21: 34-36

few years ago a man went to his doctor, complaining of constant headaches. The doc examined the man and then asked whether he drank, smoked, got enough rest, or did anything for fun.

The patient replied that he didn’t drink, didn’t smoke, was in bed by 10 every night and was way too busy for recreation. “My dear fellow,” the doctor replied, “my diagnosis is simple: Your halo’s on too tight!” (Adapted from a story by spiritual writer Brennan Manning, found in the Oct. 31 Weekday Homily Helps by St. Anthony Messenger Press.) I bet this diagnosis would apply to a lot of folks, judging from the conversations I’ve heard lately. Happily, the situation is not terminal: There’s a cure for tight halos and, best of all, it’s free! Because of the potential extra stressors that the holiday season brings, the time for preventive medicine is now. In addition to a flu shot, I would prescribe massive doses of rest and laughter. One of the most effective ways to rest is by celebrating National Game and Puzzle Week from Nov. 23-29. Nothing takes a person’s mind off of

his or her immediate problems faster than a good crossword or jigsaw puzzle, a rousing round of Uno, or some good old-fashioned board games. With Thanksgiving gatherings, you should have no problem finding players. For even more fun, create your own Word Search, Cryptogram, or other puzzle by visiting the Web site: http:// puzzlemaker. discoveryeducation.com. To boost the free flow of laughter, I’d recommend “The Book of Catholic Jokes,” by Tom Sheridan (Skokie, Ill.: ACTA Publications, 2008; 95 pgs.; $10.95). Though most of the jokes in the book were familiar to me, it’s nice to have them collected in one place. And, lest someone think it’s irreverent to link religion and humor, the author observes: “If Jesus was as dreary as we sometimes seem to consider him, he’d hardly have been invited to as many parties as he was.” So if your family holidays are less like a Norman Rockwell painting and more like a docudrama, try out these smiles from Sheridan’s book: A little girl was sitting on her grandfather’s lap as he read her a story. From time to time, she would take her

eyes off the book and reach up to touch his wrinkled cheek. She was alternately stroking her own cheek, then his again. Finally she said, “Grandpa, did God make you?” “Yes,” he answered, “God made me a long time ago.” “Did God make me, too?” she asked. “Yes, indeed, honey,” Grandpa said. “God made you just a little while ago.” Feeling their respective faces again, the sweet child observed, “God’s getting better at it, isn’t he?” * * * * * * * * * * * * * A priest was asked by a politician, “Name one thing the government can do to help the church.” The priest replied, “Quit making $1 bills!” * * * * * * * * * * * * * After the baptism of his baby brother, Little Johnny cried all the way home in the back seat of the car. His dad asked what was wrong and finally the boy sobbed, “That priest said he wanted us brought up in a Christian home, but I want to stay with you guys!”

Answered prayers are not always easily recognized

ong ago, when our granddaughter Beth was in grade school, she was hurt by something a classmate said. Her wounded feelings deflated her usually cheerful approach to life. After praying for her and the ongoing situation, I went a step further in prayer. I asked God to please give me the words to say to her that might help her to see the beauty that was intrinsically hers. With no response forthcoming, I took the issue into my own hands and began telling her at the end of many conversations what I knew to be true. I told her that she was a child of God, that she was precious in his sight and that he loved her more perfectly than I loved her, because he was the author of love. Years went by and the need for that little reminder continued to arise. But

soon after she left for college, the call came in. “Grandma, there’s no one here to tell me that I am a child of God,” said Beth, “and I need to hear it.” I immediately realized that God had indeed given me words that had sustained her when the road got rough. I immediately apologized to God and thanked him for the gentle words that had given her dignity. Years later, a call came in from Beth. She and her husband Patrick were anxiously awaiting their first child and she had a request: “Grandma, will you find a quote or a Scripture verse that will direct our new baby’s life?” Everything in me knew that I had to return to the God I had taken 18 years to thank. But I told her, “Sure,” trusting

How cold was it the other day? It was so cold the diocesan director of stewardship and development had his hands in his own pockets. Bet you can feel your halo loosening up already!

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

What matters is not what we know, but what we do

That can easily happen with a discussion about the Bible. How can hisidentification with the human race. torical details about a document writEven though he is the Son of God, he is ten 2,000 years ago make any differalso one of us. This interpretation is the ence to us? Sunday’s Gospel reading, most popular. Whoever you hear preach Mt 25:31-46, offers a good example of this Sunday will most likely follow it. that. The second school of thought holds The principal controversy among instead that “least brothers of scholars concerning our mine” refers more narrowly to Gospel reading revolves OUR LORD believers only, to members of around the identity of the JESUS CHRIST the church. Those arguing in “least brothers of mine” who THE KING favor of this position point out are alternately either neglectMt 25: 31-46 that this phrase resembles othed or cared for by those er phrases in Matthew’s Gospel judged by the Son of Man, with this more restricted meaning. Christ the King. This interpretation would result in There are two schools of thought. the Gospel passage offering encourThe first holds that the “least brothers agement to believers who face a potenof mine” refers to all humanity in need. tially hostile crowd of outsiders. The This universalizing approach correbelievers can take comfort in the sponds well to the broad scope of the thought that those outsiders will be scene of the Last Judgment, in which judged on the basis of how they have all persons receive the verdict of retreated the believers. Believe me, this ward or punishment for their deeds of interpretation does not lend itself to a mercy or sins of omission. homily. Nonetheless, many exegetes By the words, “least brothers of prefer it. mine,” Jesus Christ then reaffirms his

that our loving and merciful God would forgive my tardy acknowledgement of his gift of words, which I had claimed as my own for many years. So, humbly I went to him again and asked for help. A week before we needed the words that this precious little one could claim as his beacon in life, I attended a regional conference . . . and there it was, spoken by a friend. As she laid the words before us as if they were golden, I knew they were the words that could guide and ennoble our first greatgrandchild. The words were imprinted on his birth announcement and they are destined to be framed and reside in his room as he grows strong in the grace of God’s love. As we hold him close, our hearts whisper: “Go, Patrick Thomas, and become who you are.” “You are the unique, irreplaceable unrepeatable presentation of the face of God for the people of your lifetime.” — Pope John Paul II Jacki Corrigan is the archdiocesan consultant for the office of family life.

* * * * * * * * * * * * *

WORD OF LIFE

A new Pentecost for northeast Kansas have come to repeat the urgent call to conversion and the forgiveness of sins, and to implore from the Lord a new outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the church in this country.”

“I ometimes, academic discussion can look too arcane to serve any practical purpose.

COMMENTARY 15

Both positions can claim significant arguments in their favor. An easy resolution of the dilemma does not appear forthcoming. At the same time, does it really matter? Consider this: Both those who have cared for the least brothers and those who have neglected them do so without knowing that it is Christ who they are dealing with. Presumably there are others not mentioned in the judgment scene who suspect that Christ might be embodied in the downtrodden of the world. We who have heard the Gospel reading should fit into that category. But that is not brought up, because it is beside the point. It does not matter if we realize that it is Christ. The only thing that matters is how we treat him. It does not matter if we know who the least brothers are. The only thing that matters is how we treat them. And since we do not know who they are, just as those in the Gospel reading did not know who Christ was, it behooves us to treat all people well. The bottom line is not knowing who the person is, but how we act toward them. We will be judged on the basis of that. Father Mike Stubbs is pastor of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lansing and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.

These words were spoken by Pope Benedict XVI at the opening Mass of his visit to the United States last April. In response to the Holy Father and at the request of Archbishop Naumann, the archdiocesan office of evangelization and catechesis is preparing an evangelization initiative, called Prairie Fire. As we listen to the church, our pope, priests, and laity, it has become clear that there can be no new evangelization without a new Pentecost; there can be no mission without the power of the Holy Spirit. Therefore, Prairie Fire begins where Pope Benedict began his visit to our country: by inviting the faithful to pray

for a new Pentecost in northeast Kansas. Each parish has received cards featuring a prayer for a new Pentecost by Blessed Pope John XXIII and the image of Mary, Star of Evangelization. It is our hope that every parish will offer the prayer at each Mass, and every family will pray the prayer together throughout this Year of St. Paul. We join the apostles in the upper room, praying and asking for the gift of the Holy Spirit. With an outpouring of the Spirit, the work of evangelizing and proclaiming the life and works of Jesus Christ will be fruitful! As we pray for the new Pentecost, each of us is called to make a decision to turn away from sin and return to the Lord in the sacrament of reconciliation. Each parish will receive

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

Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

brochures to distribute to parishioners in preparation for Advent reconciliation services. The brochures teach about the sacrament and include an examination of conscience to help individuals prepare for reconciliation. In addition, our office is hosting a number of events to help develop evangelizing parishes. Already more than 15 parishes are beginning to raise up leaders for the new evangelization in our archdiocese. The Lord is opening a door for mission. I invite you to pray to the Lord for a new outpouring of the Spirit and the work of this new evangelization. I invite you to prayerfully recommit your life, family, and work to the Lord and be open to ways that he is calling you to participate in this mission. The Lord is not raising up an army of theologians, he is calling regular folks with regular jobs within our community to participate in the work of spreading the Gospel. Matt Karr is the consultant for the office of evangelization and catechesis. He can be reached at: ecat@archkck.org.

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16 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • NOVEMBER 21, 2008

MOVING ON TO SERVE THE WORLD By JILL RAGAR ESFELD Special to The Leaven

About the Sisters The Sisters, Servants of Mary, Ministers to the Sick, are a religious congregation founded in Madrid, Spain, in 1851 by Maria Soledad Torres Acosta, who was declared a saint by Pope Paul VI in 1970. From the Holy Spirit, Mother Soledad received the charism of compassionate care for the sick, poor and dying. Her main apostolate was meeting the physical, emotional and spiritual needs of these suffering children of God by going to their homes and being by their bedsides. Today, the Servants of Mary have communities in 20 countries in Europe, Africa, and Asia, as well as in North, Central and South America. They minister in six U.S. cities: Kansas City, Kan.; New Orleans; New York City; Los Angeles; Oxnard, and Newbury Park, Calif. For information on the local community, visit the Web site at: www.sisterservantsofmary.com.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — It was a heartwrenching sight: Ten Catholic nuns in full habit, standing at a window in the departure area of Kansas City International Airport, weeping and waving. Out on the runway, a plane was awaiting its clearance for departure. Through the plane’s windows, the Sisters, Servants of Mary caught sight of their dear friend and former provincial superior, Mother Alfonsa Bellido. She was waving, too. “And finally, the plane left,” said Mother Carmela Sanz, local superior. “It was very touching, and we were left there crying and very sad. We went home, almost saying nothing, because it was hard.”

A great honor Mother Alfonsa has been provincial superior of the United States Province of the Servants of Mary, Ministers of the Sick, for the past 15 years. This October, during the order’s XXIV General Chapter celebrated in Rome, she was elected superior general of the entire congregation — 1,700 Sisters in 115 communities throughout Europe, America, Africa and Asia. She will serve from Rome, directing congregation activities worldwide for the next six years. It is an awesome responsibility. “I will be stationed in Rome, but I will be traveling all over the world,” she explained. “One of my duties is to visit every single community where we have Sisters. It will be my responsibility to assure they have a solid formation so they can be good Sisters, good nurses, good missionaries and faithful to the magisterium of the church.” On her way to Rome, Mother Alfonsa will stop in Madrid, Spain, where the order has its motherhouse. There she will visit the tomb and remains of its foundress, St. Maria Soledad Torres Acosta, whom she has often turned to during her journey with the Sisters, Servants — a journey that began almost 50 years ago in Zaragoza, Spain.

Answering God’s call “When I finished high school, I went to a retreat,” recalls Mother Alfonsa. “I felt God calling me to do something. “I perused different congregations, and when I visited the Servants of Mary in Spain, I felt at home and said, ‘Well, I know this is my place.’ I entered the novitiate north of Spain in 1959 and professed my vows on July 4, 1962.” The young nun was sent to the United States in 1965, where she was assigned to the community of New Orleans. It was at this time that she met Mother Carmela. They made the journey from Spain to New Orleans together and have been close friends ever since. Mother Alfonsa has lived in the United

be a lot of work and traveling, and I hope her health stays well.” In addition to the prayers of her friends, Mother Alfonsa will be relying on her own spiritual strength, grounded in her devotion to Mary and trust in God. “I fell in love with God from the very beginning of my vocation,” she said. “He always strengthens me and gives me courage. I have a strong devotion to Mary and often repeat what our mother foundress said so many times, ‘I have placed all my confidence in Mary.’”

Until we meet again Leaven photo/Elaina Generally

Mother Alfonsa Bellido has served as provincial superior of the United States Province of the Servants of Mary for the past 15 years. This October she was elected superior general of the entire congregation — 1,700 Sisters in 115 communities throughout Europe, America, Africa and Asia. States and served her congregation in the formation capacities of auxiliary sister for the novitiate in Oxnard, Calif., and the juniorate in Kansas City, Kan. In 1976 she was appointed provincial secretary, an office she held for 12 years. In 1989 she served as local superior to the community in Kansas City, Kan., and in 1993 was appointed provincial superior of the United States Province. After almost 28 years of service as spiritual secretary and provincial, Mother Alfonsa wasn’t expecting to receive the honor of her new post.

No time for rest “She was hoping to be in one of the houses helping in the infirmary or doing some work that doesn’t require so much responsibility,” explained Mother Carmela. “But the Lord had a different plan.”

“When all the votes came in with her name,” continued Mother Carmela, “she was overwhelmed, and told the Sisters, ‘I’m very tired and I don’t know if I’m going to be what you need right now. “But for the love of God and the love of my congregation, I will say yes.’” Though the future is daunting, Mother Alfonsa said prayers from Kansas will sustain her. “I feel a little bit unworthy to assume this post. I feel a little bit afraid,” she said. “But I’ve got my Sisters and so many priests and so many good people in Kansas City that know me. They’re going to pray for me and that strengthens me and gives me courage.” Mother Carmela is confident her friend will handle the responsibility very well. “She has a lot of endurance for work and she has a lot of reassurance in what she decides,” she said. “But it is going to

It will take all of the next six years for Mother Alfonsa to visit each of the communities in the eight provinces, but at least one of the trips will bring her back to Kansas City, Kan. Mother Carmela and her Sisters look forward to that day. In the meantime, their friend will be deeply missed. “It is going to be hard for us,” Mother Carmela said. “We depend on her so much. She was very dedicated, very thoughtful. Everybody loved her here in Kansas.” On her way to Madrid, Mother Alfonsa had a layover in New York. While there, she decided to call her Sisters back in Kansas for one last goodbye. “We asked her, ‘Did you see us wave?’” said Mother Carmela. “And she said, ‘Yes, I did see you.’” Mother Alfonsa’s parting wish was to thank all her friends in Kansas City who support the Sisters, Servants of Mary. “I know so many people because of having been here so many years,” she said. “They’re wonderful; they’re so generous. I just want to express my gratitude and tell all of them that I will remember them in my prayers.”