GRANNY BALL
Sisters of Charity take the court in Granny basketball fundraiser
By John Sorce john.sorce@theleaven.org
LEAVENWORTH — University of Saint Mary president Sister Diane Steele, SCL, hadn’t laced up her basketball shoes since high school. But that didn’t stop her, or her fellow Sisters of Charity, from holding a fundraiser — Granny Basketball-style — for the Leavenworth school’s Guardian Angel Fund on Nov. 3.
Sister Diane said the idea came from a member of the Kansas Meadowlarks, Elaine Alexander, who is a USM alumna herself (class of 1979) and served as the Sisters’ opponent for the event. But Alexander said the idea initially came from the team’s head coach, Holly Jessen, who is a 1998 graduate and played for the school’s Spires from 1994-98.
“Our coach initially said it would be cool if the Sisters of Charity had a team,” Alexander said. “I liked that idea, too, but I didn’t know what we would play them for. Then, I went to the reunion a few years ago and that’s when I found out about the Guardian Angel Fund they had started. I knew that would be the perfect opportunity to get a Granny Basketball game together.”
A total of $4,826 was raised for the fund, which is an earnings-matching program of up to $2,500 a semester to help students with financial need bridge the gap to achieve their educational dreams. Most of the funds were raised the day of through donations and the 50/50 drawing. People were also able to donate online if they were not able to attend in person.
Alexander said she proposed the idea to Sister Diane a year ago, but it took some time to agree on details. Sister Diane noted that one of the hurdles was getting the Sisters into the gym to learn the rules of Granny Basketball, since many of them had never played before.
“We’ve been working on it for a year because it was a challenge to agree on dates,” Sister Diane said. “A lot of it was learning the rules because they are very different. Then, it was also about figuring out when we could get everybody in the gym.”
s Sister Rosie Kolich, SCL, puts up a shot over a defender from the Kansas Meadowlarks team. Rules allowed for two dribbles per possession and no physical contact. Women under 50 need not apply.
u Sister Paula Rose Jauernig, SCL, celebrates nailing a shot and the crowd behind her erupts in appreciation.
There was a lot of excitement going into the game according to Sister Eileen Haynes, who happened to miss the team’s only practice due to a prior commitment.
“It’s wonderful,” she said. “We Sisters of Charity have been talking about it. I had lunch at our motherhouse and they were all talking about it and collecting money to support the cause.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Sister Diane Steele, SCL, president of the University of Saint Mary in Leavenworth, gets set for a non-jump shot. There’s no running or jumping in Granny Basketball.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Sister Melissa Camardo, SCL, delivers a Granny-style free throw during the inaugural Granny Basketball game at the University of St. Mary in Leavenworth.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
The Sisters of Charity kazoo band made for fun entertainment during the game. From left are: Sisters of Charity Marie Noël Bruch, Rita McGinnis, Peg Johnson, Mary Lex Smith and Elizabeth Skalicky.
Sister Trinity makes final vows at home parish
By John Sorce john.sorce@theleaven.org
TOPEKA — For Sister Mary Delight of the Holy Trinity, SSVM, the profession of her final vows were a homecoming of sorts.
Born Anna Hall, the Topeka native professed her final vows on Oct. 1 at her home parish of Mater Dei.
She is a member of the Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matará, which was founded in Argentina and sends missionaries across the world. This allows her to use her Spanish on a daily basis.
She grew up a member of Mater Dei and a student at the school, though it was still known as Holy Name at the time.
She graduated from Hayden High School in Topeka before studying Spanish and psychology at Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Missouri, where she graduated in 2012. She then became a Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) missionary.
By age 17, she had already begun thinking about serving. And while she wasn’t sure what that was going to look like, there was a moment that stood out as God’s way of calling her.
“I was invited to a final profession of a Sister in Concordia, Kansas, with the Sisters of St. Joseph,” Sister Trinity said. “There was a moment where she was giving thanks to everyone for their presence there, and God has his ways of choosing a specific time to put new inspirations in our minds.
“That was the moment where I had the thought of, ‘What if that were me up there in her place?’ And it has always been in the back of my mind ever since.”
Sister Trinity completed her time with FOCUS in May 2014 and entered the convent a month later.
Homecoming
When it came time to take her final vows, it was a joyful moment for Sister Trinity.
“It was a moment that I have been waiting for,” she said. “It was full of anticipation and just confirmation that this is what God had been calling me to for so long and it was my opportunity to make that response.
“To be able to make it at my home parish was a very special experience and something that doesn’t always happen. But by God’s grace, I was able to be there surrounded with people from all stages of my life.
“It was a very joyful day.”
The Mass was celebrated by Father Andrew White of the Institute of the In-
carnate Word, which is the male branch of Sister Trinity’s community.
Father Matthew Nagle, pastor of Mater Dei, called it a blessing to be a part of her experience even though he has only been at the church for a few months.
“It’s an inspiration to young women in the parish to see someone who went to school in the same building and attended Mass in the same pews choose this vocation and is very happy and fulfilled in doing so,” Father Nagle said.
“It’s also very appropriate and fitting to be able to host this Mass at her home parish where she made her solemn vows,” he continued, “because it’s the church where she was baptized and received her sacraments, and now made these perpetual vows.”
Back to Iceland
Sister Trinity will soon be heading back to Iceland, where she has been
serving for the last five-and-a-half years. She noted serving in that country has come with its fair share of adjustments, such as immersing herself in a new culture and the Icelandic language (which she is still learning), but also adapting to months at a time with either constant daylight or darkness.
But her drive to serve God who has called her there for a reason is what keeps her going every day.
“I have grown a lot over the years as a missionary,” Sister Trinity said. “I know that God has called me to Iceland for a specific purpose and to this specific group of people. Icelandic is a language that is only spoken in one country by about 400,000 people. So when you think about it that way, God is very specific in the missions that he calls us to.”
“Remembering that in the difficult moments is what keeps my missionary zeal alive.”
Remember veterans with Christmas wreaths
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Members of the Holy Trinity Knights of Columbus in Lenexa invite individuals, businesses and organizations to remember and honor veterans this Christmas by sponsoring “Remembrance Wreaths” to be placed on the graves of fallen heroes laid to rest at Resurrection Cemetery and St. John Cemetery, both in Lenexa.
The cost to sponsor a Remembrance Wreath is $17 per wreath. Sponsorships must be received by Dec. 2, so that wreaths can be
purchased in advance of a ceremony on Dec. 14, National Wreaths Across
Nov. 22
Divine Winefest — Cascade Hotel, Kansas City, Missouri
Nov. 24
Baptism of third or more child — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas
Nov. 25
Archdiocesan Finance Council board meeting — chancery
Nov, 26
Visit to Santa Marta assisted living facility – Olathe
Nov. 27
Staff Mass of thanksgiving and brunch — Savior Pastoral Center
Dec. 1 Mass — Christ the King, Topeka
Dec. 2
Confirmation — Sacred Heart, Ottawa
Dec. 3
Administrative Team meeting — chancery
Crosier Society 50th anniversary of ACTS Mass — Most Pure Heart of Mary, Topeka
Dec. 4
Divine Fulfillment online conference
Catholic Health Care Leadership Alliance Episcopal Advisory Board meeting
Staff Christmas open house — residence
Dec. 5
Religious Alliance Against Pornography board meeting
CFNEK annual board meeting — Savior
Icon to visit the archdiocese in Advent
The Jesus, King of All Nations icon will be visiting several churches in the northern part of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas during the first week of Advent.
Everyone is invited to view the icon at any of the churches listed below and learn and reflect on the devotion to Jesus, King of All Nations.
The schedule is as follows:
America Day. The 30-minute program at Resurrection Cemetery, located at 83rd and Quivira Road, will recognize veterans and will be followed by wreath placement.
The goal this year is 900-950 wreath sponsorships. Donors can sponsor wreaths on the website at: www.wreathsacrossamerica.org/ KS0155P.
Persons interested in volunteering at the Dec. 14 program and wreath placement can sign up online at: htlenexa.flocknote.com/ signup/143138.
Dec. 1: Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Seneca, 2 p.m. — adoration along with a healing service
Dec. 2: St. Mary Church, St. Benedict, 6 p.m. — adoration and rosary
Dec. 3: Annunciation Church, Frankfort, 6 p.m. — Mass
Dec. 4: Sacred Heart Church, Baileyville, 8:30 a.m. — Mass and adoration
Dec. 4: St. Michael Church, Axtell, 6 p.m. — adoration
Dec. 5: St. Gregory the Great Church, Marysville, 6:30 a.m. — Mass with adoration before and afterwards
To learn more about Jesus, King of All Nations, go to the website at: jkmi. com/jesus-king-of-all-nations.
COURTESY PHOTO
Sister Mary Delight of the Holy Trinity, formerly Anna Hall, a native of Topeka, who grew up in Holy Name Parish there, professed her final vows on Oct. 1.
OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE
Authors to highlight the appearance that converted millions
By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
KANSAS CITY, Kan.
— When most Catholics think of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the image that miraculously appeared on St. Juan Diego’s tilma comes to mind.
“You see the image, you know the story — it’s a beautiful story,” said Father Nick Blaha. “But most of the people that converted to Catholicism and got baptized [during that time] never saw the tilma.
“They converted and were baptized because they heard the message that Our Lady delivered through Juan Diego.”
Since he’s been pastor of Blessed Sacrament and Christ the King parishes in Kansas City, Kansas, Father Blaha has learned more about the devotions that his parishioners, many of whom are Hispanic, cherish.
What he’s discovered about the story of Our Lady of Guadalupe is that it’s much more dramatic than he’d previously realized.
This December, Catholics in the archdiocese will have the opportunity to learn more about the appearance that converted millions of indigenous people to the Catholic faith some 500 years ago.
Joseph and Monique González, authors of “Guadalupe and the Flower World Prophecy: How God Prepared the Americas for Conversion Before the Lady Appeared,” will speak on the topic at five locations (see sidebar).
“This is a part of our common history as people who live in the ‘New World,’” said Father Blaha. “The fact that we are Catholic in the Americas — this is part of the story of how we got here.”
“This wasn’t just something for people of Hispanic descent,” he added. “Our Lady of Guadalupe is the mother of the Americas, and that’s us — all of us.”
Join Father Blaha on a pilgrimage to Mexico
Father Nick Blaha was connected with Joseph and Monique González through Dr. Ezekiel Stear, who completed his doctoral work in Spanish at the University of Kansas.
The pair led a bilingual trip to Mexico in May and are planning an English- speaking one this coming June.
The trip will begin in Teotihuacan, include visits to Puebla and Cholula and end at the site of the apparition of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico City.
A Spanish-speaking trip is being tentatively planned for 2026.
Father Blaha encourages those who are interested in learning more to email him at: revnb@pm.me.
‘Guadalupe
and the Flower World Prophecy’
Authors Joseph and Monique González will speak about the groundbreaking discoveries surrounding the culture and history of the indigenous people of the Americas that prepared them for the largest conversion event in history. Their talk will begin at 7 p.m. at the first four locations and 1:30 p.m. at the cathedral. (The talk is the same at each location.) Refreshments will follow, and signed books will be available for purchase. Register online at: ctkkcks.org/ prophecy.
Dec. 9
Donnelly College
618 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kansas
Dec. 10 (Spanish) Blessed Sacrament Parish 2203 Parallel Ave., Kansas City, Kansas
a people’
‘God’s providence prepares
The Gonzálezes were inspired to research Our Lady of Guadalupe after a period when they’d lost their faith, said Father Blaha, because people had convinced them the story was a myth.
“Many years later, they came back to their faith on different grounds,” he continued. “They became convicted Catholics, but then, they still had that question.”
The couple spent a decade researching the history of the appearance and its impact, the depth and details of which continue to be unearthed.
“They came to the sincere conviction, based on the evidence and the historical record, that there’s no way this could’ve been made up,” said Father Blaha.
Our Lady’s message was successful, he said, because it fulfilled the indigenous people’s longing for heaven by connecting them to Jesus, who is “the source of access to paradise.”
Her appearance transformed
the culture of death into a culture of life, added Father Blaha, which is relevant even now.
Msgr. Stuart Swetland, president of Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, is excited to bring this talk to Donnelly, where Our Lady of Guadalupe is one of the college’s patrons.
“She is very dear to many of the students and staff at Donnelly,” he said, “and her image is featured in the stained glass of our new chapel.”
Msgr. Swetland described the Gonzálezes’ book as “a wonderful story of how grace builds on nature and how God’s
providence prepares a people (and all of us) to receive the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”
Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe, which has a “twinning” relationship with Blessed Sacrament and Christ the King, will also host one of the talks.
“Our Lady is amazing,” said pastor Father Greg Hammes. “She caused one of the greatest occasions of conversion in world history through her appearance to St. Juan Diego, and it happened in the New World and not all that far from the United States.
“We need conversion today,
Dec. 11
Prince of Peace Parish 16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe
Dec. 12
Chesterton Academy 500 W. 40th St., Kansas City, Missouri
Dec. 15 (Spanish)
Cathedral of St. Peter 409 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kansas
and Our Mother has to be a huge part of that. I think there is so much we can learn.”
SNOW BALL: THE NEXT 50 YEARS
Continuing a legacy of love, gratitude
By Analisa Herndon Special to The Leaven
KANSAS CITY, Kan. —
This past January, Catholic Charities Foundation of Northeast Kansas celebrated a remarkable milestone: 50 years of giving through its annual Snow Ball to help those most in need.
In honor of the golden anniversary, the popular gala raised over $5 million, with 91 cents of every dollar directly supporting the agency’s 30-plus programs that stabilize and strengthen individuals and families of all faiths through help, hope and hospitality.
That legacy continues as the 51st annual Snow Ball on Jan. 18, 2025, kicks off the next five decades of impact by introducing another milestone for the event: Two couples — Chris and Angie Dierks and Doug and Kara Ciocca — will serve as presidents, leading the fundraising efforts together.
“We were overwhelmed by the goodwill flowing through the banquet hall at last year’s Snow Ball that we were motivated to engage more with the event,” said Doug Ciocca.
Both couples have been actively engaged with Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas — and Snow Ball — for nearly 20 years. Chris Dierks’ parents, Bernie and Sue, were a founding Snow Ball couple, which made a lasting impression on Chris and Angie.
“My parents loved Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas and attending Snow Ball. I have memories of them attending from when I was a child, when they would get all dressed up,” said Chris Dierks. “My parents attended the first 40 Snow Balls and they both set a wonderful
example that we continue today.”
The Cioccas, meanwhile, helped establish the tradition of parish parties, which have become annual celebrations in the lead-up to the January festivities. Each fall, parish party gatherings raise awareness and funds.
“We wanted to help people understand Catholic Charities’ mission, so we invited some of our best friends from our home parish, Church of the Nativity [in Leawood], to gather together to learn a little bit more about the undertaking of the organization,” said Kara Ciocca.
Both Doug and Chris have also served on Catholic Charities’ board of directors, giving them insight into the impact of Snow Ball’s funding.
“The funding from Snow Ball is so important to invest in the programs that help so many in our community. The anticipation of the amount raised [each year] validates the ability of the organization to help so many people through their various programming,” said Chris Dierks.
The couples, along with their children, volunteer regularly within Catholic Charities’ programs, including sorting clothes at TurnStyles Thrift Store, helping distribute food at the agency’s annual Kids Summer Food program and handing out Thanksgiving meals at Hope Distribution Center.
They have also visited residents at Shalom House Men’s Transitional Living Program and volunteered at New Roots’ training farm, Juniper Gardens, both in Kansas City, Kansas. The couples credit their deeper understanding of Catholic Charities’ work to the agency’s bus tour, which introduces people to the nonprofit’s variety of programs and services.
“It has been incredible to learn
and impact
how the money raised from Snow Ball is used by Catholic Charities,” said Angie Dierks. “I have learned so much about the organization and how great the need is.”
Last fiscal year, Catholic Charities served over 70,000 individuals, an increase of nearly 20% from the previous year. The need continues to grow each year and Snow Ball funds are critical to the agency making an impact. All donations raised through Snow Ball, known as patron gifts, are unrestricted, allowing Catholic Charities to support the areas of greatest need within the agency.
“One of the most memorable Snow Ball events we participated in was in 2001, the year donations exceeded one million dollars for the very first time. It was such a monumental milestone and the excitement in the room was infectious,” said Doug Ciocca. “It has been amazing to watch the donations continue to ‘snowball’ since that night into over five times that once unimaginable level.”
This year, the Dierks and Ciocca families are eager to encourage more people to get involved, especially young adults and individuals from all faith backgrounds, to ensure Snow Ball’s legacy continues to advance.
“Everyone should come to Snow Ball to see the impact for themselves and who this event serves. The hope stories and program information that will be shared throughout the night will definitely inspire,” said Angie Dierks.
Visit the website at: snowballgala. org and help families break the cycle of poverty once and for all. Purchase individual tickets or a table, or make a meaningful gift. Funds raised will help Catholic Charities move those they serve from a place of needing help to one of having hope.
Deborah Nearmyer wins major education award
HOUSTON — Deborah Nearmyer, vice president of faith and mission at St. James Academy in Lenexa, was awarded this year’s Duc in Altum Schools Collaborative (DIA) Luke 5:4 award.
She received the award during DIA’s 10th annual Schools Summit, which took place from Oct. 21-23 in Houston, Texas.
“Receiving this award is incredibly humbling,” said Nearmyer. “To be counted among the workers of the vineyard from St. James Academy, Camp Tekakwitha and our collaborating schools from around the country is an honor and a joy.”
Nearmyer, with her husband Deacon Dana Nearmyer, cofounded Camp Tekakwitha in 1998. The camp continues to flourish, welcoming some 1,700 youth each summer.
She has also been active in youth ministry and confirmation preparation in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.
Nearmyer got involved with the DIA during its inception around 10 years ago.
“It is a wonderful, growing group of schools, educators and formators who are looking to continue to connect young people with the Sacred Heart of Jesus,” she said.
According to its website, DIA “seeks to share the collective wisdom and resources of its like-minded, faith-filled school members for the betterment of each institution, the growth and support of passionately Catholic education at-large and the transformation of the culture of our society.”
For Nearmyer, it’s been a place to share best practices and focus on the unique mission of Catholic schools.
“The collaboration is a gift to me in my work and as a daughter of God,” she said. “Its mission in the church landscape today is very important.”
To learn more about DIA, visit the website at: diaschools.org.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CATHOLIC CHARITIES
Pictured from left are Snow Ball presidents Doug and Kara Ciocca, parishioners at Church of the Nativity in Leawood, and Angie and Chris Dierks, parishioners at St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood.
Deborah Nearmyer
Parish celebrates 110th, retirement of activity center debt
By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org
TOPEKA — He had one true love: the church. And if there was one place you could find him, it was at Our Lady of Guadalupe Church in Topeka.
Fellow parishioners referred to him as a pillar of the community, saying there wasn’t anything he wouldn’t do for the parish. Whether it was volunteering in the kitchen, serving enchiladas during the parish’s weeklong Fiesta Mexicana every summer or preparing the vessels used for Mass while serving as sacristan, he was there.
At the end of the 5 p.m. Mass Nov. 16, a standing-room crowd learned he had left one last gift to his beloved parish.
The parish’s loan to build its activity center, announced pastor Father Daniel Coronado, had finally been paid in full, thanks to a gift from Louis Torrez, a man known to nearly everyone as “Uncle Louie.”
The Mass also served as the official kickoff for the parish’s yearlong celebration of its 110th anniversary. Celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and concelebrated by Father Coronado along with former pastors and other priests who have provided some form of priestly ministry there, including Father Jerry Arano-Ponce, pastor of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Bucyrus-Wea, and Father Joe Chontos, chaplain to the Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex in Topeka. Father Anthony Saiki, rector of the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Kansas City, Kansas, served as master of ceremonies.
Father Coronado also expressed his personal gratitude to parishioners, fiesta volunteers, benefactors, parish staff, the finance council and countless others who helped to make the Marlo Cuevas-Balandran Activity Center a reality in 2006. As he made public the debt’s retirement, applause broke out in the church not once but twice as he read the following announcement to the congregation in English and Spanish.
“It has been a long while — several years — since we have been paying our loan to the archdiocese. And I am
thrilled today to share with all of you wonderful news: We have fully paid off our loan to the archdiocese.”
Profile in faith
As part of his remarks, Father Coronado called Torrez’s great-niece Lisa Hubbard to the front of the church to receive a plaque, saying, “I would like to recognize ‘Uncle Louis’ and thank Lisa. Even though he has passed we can still experience today the fruits of his faith. Uncle Louis’ house was sold, and we received a $100,000 donation for the loan purpose.”
That donation, Hubbard said, inspires the entire Torrez family.
When Uncle Louie died in 2020, he left his home to the parish. Meant as a guest house for visiting priests, missionaries and guest speakers, the home had been used infrequently for that purpose. So, when Hubbard was approached about
selling it, she quickly agreed.
“Uncle Louis loved his church,” Hubbard said. “He couldn’t leave his estate to his family. We have such a large family, and it wouldn’t have been fair to anybody. He gave it to his one love.”
Hubbard’s cousin Ignacio Torrez agreed.
When his great-uncle retired in 1980, Torrez said that at first Uncle Louie, who was single his entire life, didn’t have anything to do and just laid in bed.
“‘I don’t got nothing to do. I’m retired. So, what should I do?’ Torrez recalls his Uncle Louie saying. Then, the church bells rang.
“He got up. He got dressed. And from then on, he knew his job was to serve the church,” said Torrez. “And that’s what he did. . . . He had so much honor for Jesus Christ, Mother Mary and Our Father in heaven.”
Hubbard agreed.
“I feel like I accepted [the plaque] on behalf of the Torrez family,” she said.
“We are large, and many of us work day in, day out, to help where we can. To see Uncle Louie’s example of faith and charity means the world. I’m glad I was able to carry out his wishes.”
While Uncle Louie’s gift might have been the one that officially retired the debt on the $2.3 million project, perhaps no one in attendance was more emotional than Art Balandran, whose son Thomas was married to Marlo Cuevas. Both killed in 1996 in the crash of Value Jet Flight 592 in the Florida Everglades, the couple’s memory lives on through the generosity of their families, who provided some of the initial funds.
“When I heard Father say it was finally paid for,” Balandran said, his eyes filling up with tears, “it just hit me like a ton of bricks. I just couldn’t believe it. I’m glad.
“When I say my prayers tonight, I’m going to pray for Tommy and tell him it’s finally paid for.”
Advent concert with Steve Angrisano kicks off holiday season
By Catherine Halbmaier Special to The Leaven
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Families can get their Advent season off to the right start by finding their way to this year’s Advent Concert Tour.
For the third year in a row, the archdiocese is hosting concerts to kick off the Advent season; this year’s features Steve Angrisano. The concerts will be held during the first week in Advent in Scranton and Marysville.
The veteran of 10 World Youth Days, three National Catholic Youth Conferences, and countless other retreats and concerts, Angrisano is a renowned Catholic musician and performer. He is also a husband and father with three children, and, more recently, four grandchildren.
This year’s concert series is sure to be special, according to Angie Bittner, who is the archdiocese’s rural youth outreach coordinator.
“I think it’s a really good opportunity early in Advent,” Bittner said. “The First Sunday will just have happened. It’s a great opportunity for families and parish youth groups to start the season
with their hearts and priorities in the right place.”
Bittner emphasized the prayerful nature of these concerts.
“You will not ever regret having changed plans or made plans to spend your evening listening to Steve and praying with him,” she said.
“Steve is an authentic, really good-hearted guy who loves the Lord and loves Catholics,” Bittner continued. “He can tell stories and convey the beauty of our faith just so well. He appeals to every audience, from the very young to the very old.
“Time spent with him is never ever a waste. You will always come away with you heart so much fuller than it started.”
According to Bittner, Angrisano will perform some seasonal favorites as well as worship songs.
“The concert is a good mix of praise and worship, as well as some beautiful songs of the season,” Bittner said. “Steve has a lifetime of stories just perfect to set our hearts in the right place.”
The locations of the two concerts were chosen to provide one opportunity in the northwest region of the archdiocese and one farther south. One or the other will hopefully be drivable to families across the archdiocese.
The southern concert will be in Scranton on Dec. 3 at Eleanor’s White Barn (336 W. 189th St.).
The northwestern concert will be held in Marysville on Dec. 4 at St. Gregory Parish (1310 Carolina St.).
For both locations, doors will open at 6 p.m. and the concert will run from 6:30 to 8 p.m.
“We realize that during the week it’s maybe not as easy to travel,” Bittner said, “but clear your schedule to travel for this. It will really help to have a holier Advent. If you want to prioritize and prepare for Christmas, this is a great start.”
There is no cost to attend the concerts and tickets are not required, although freewill donations are accepted. The concert will include light snacks and drinks.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann celebrates a 110th anniversary Mass at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Topeka Nov. 16. Father Jerry Arano-Ponce (second from left) and Father Daniel Coronado, pastor (fourth from left), were concelebrants. Deacon Tom Doyle (left) assisted and Father Anthony Saiki (right) was master of ceremonies.
Steve Angrisano
Gaudeamus honors Archbishop Naumann
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The dramatic beats of Topeka’s Mater Dei School drumline filled the Overland Park Convention Center on Oct. 12, welcoming over 1,200 guests to the Catholic Education Foundation’s (CEF) Gaudeamus gala. The night was alive with community, celebration and gratitude as CEF raised a record-breaking $3.5 million to provide scholarships for students in need across the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.
One of the evening’s highlights was a heartfelt tribute to Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, recipient of the CEF Lifetime Achievement Award.
“There has been no greater supporter of CEF than our honoree,” said CEF board chair RJ Gildea. He went on to praise Archbishop Naumann’s impact beyond academics: “Even more important are the results of his leadership on faith formation, community and lifelong evangelization — these truly differentiate our schools, students and families.”
In his acceptance speech, Archbishop Naumann reflected on his firsthand experience as the son of a Catholic educator. He told guests how parents would approach him when he was a bishop in St. Louis to tell him the impact his mother had made on their lives.
“They wanted to tell me how she had influenced them — not just as a teacher, but as a witness to the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” he said.
The archbishop thanked the audience for their support and commitment to CEF, emphasizing how their contributions help ensure Catholic schools remain accessible.
“Together, we’re making friends for Jesus Christ, disciples who are going to help change the world, our culture and society, and be leaders in our church for tomorrow,” he said.
The evening also featured the
presentation of the 2024 Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann CEF School of Excellence Award to St. Benedict School in Atchison and inspiring testimonials from students and families who have directly benefited from CEF scholarships.
Jaime Vega, a senior at Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas, and a scholarship recipient, shared how CEF’s support helped him to deepen his faith and pursue his dreams, including a summer internship at Burns and McDonnell that fueled his passion for mechanical engineering.
“This is the opportunity my parents dreamed of for their children when they immigrated to the United States,” Vega said. “I want to thank you and the Catholic Education Foundation for giving me the chance to reach my educational goals.”
Gildea reminded the audience that Vega is one of 2,000 students in the archdiocese whose lives have been transformed through CEF scholarships. He emphasized the growing need, noting that this year 225 additional students require
scholarship assistance to access Catholic education.
“We are facing the greatest need in our organization’s history, by both number of families and total dollars,” said Gildea.
To address this need, Gildea announced the establishment of the Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Legacy Scholarship Fund, which will further expand CEF’s reach to more families in need.
“This new scholarship gives CEF the opportunity to expand our reach as an organization to those families whose voice is oftentimes overlooked in our world,” Gildea said.
With more than 80% of CEF’s annual funding for scholarships generated by the Gaudeamus gala, the event serves as a crucial source of support for students and families who otherwise wouldn’t have access to Catholic education.
To contribute to CEF scholarships or the new Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Legacy Scholarship Fund, visit the website at: cefgala.org. All donations go directly to scholarships.
Jean (Kerwin) and John Poppelreiter, members of Immaculate Conception Parish in St. Marys, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Nov. 30 with a Mass of thanksgiving, followed with a family dinner. The couple was married on Nov. 16, 1974, at Immaculate Conception Church. Their children are: Bryan Poppelreiter, Heidi Wells and Bruce Poppelreiter. They also have 10 grandchildren.
Alberta (Lierz) and Larry Tanking, members of St. Dominic Parish in Holton, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Nov. 28. The couple was married on Nov. 28, 1964, at St. James Church, Wetmore. They will celebrate with family on Nov. 30. Their children are: Tony Tanking, Greg Tanking, Andy Tanking and Audra Steiner. They also have 12 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.
John and Sandy Tinsley, members of Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary with at Mass of thanksgiving at 4 p.m. on Nov. 23 at Mother Teresa, followed by a family dinner. The couple was married on Nov. 21, 1964, at St. Joseph Church, Everest. Their children are: Kim Culliss and Kevin Tinsley. They also have two granddaughters.
PHOTO COURTESY OF CEF
This year’s Gaudeamus chairs Mel (left) and Pat McAnany (right) presented Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann with the CEF Lifetime Achievement Award.
GRATITUDE IN ACTION:
How Thankfulness Blossoms into Generosity
Dear Friends,
Because of the service by which you have proved yourselves, others will praise God for the obedience that accompanies your confession of the gospel of Christ, and for your generosity in sharing with them and with everyone else.
— 2 Cor. 9:13
I am filled with gratitude for the blessings we have received as an archdiocese. Gratitude, when nurtured, grows into something beautiful — it bears the fruit of generosity. Through this spirit of generosity, we become instruments of God’s love in our world, turning thanksgiving into tangible action.
This past year, your generosity has produced many fruits, including the ordination of several deacons and a priest, the strengthening of marriages and the domestic church through programs promoted through our marriage and family life office like the Communio ministry, the participation of thousands of students in our Catholic schools and religious education classes, the growth of many college campus ministries enabling students to grow in their faith and discern their vocations, and many other operational successes allowing several of our ministries to continue their needed and good work throughout the archdiocese.
The outpouring of the spirit: A call to generous living
As Catholics, we are blessed beyond what our intellect is able to comprehend! At our baptism, and strengthened in the sacrament of confirmation, we each receive an outpouring of gifts from the Holy Spirit. These supernatural gifts allow us to obey supernatural inspirations from which the Holy Spirit produces fruit. These fruits are perfections that when formed within us, lead to eternal glory and make God’s presence known to the world.
Charity, kindness, and generosity are fruits of the Spirit. By showing charity to our neighbors, we are reflecting our love of God. As St. Paul describes in Colossians, this virtue “binds everything together in perfect harmony.”
In our archdiocese, these fruits are visible through the generosity of our community, which has allowed us to expand our outreach and evangelization efforts. A recent example is the creation of the office of communications. This ministry helps us to more effectively communicate the Good News and deepen our connection with one another, becoming a true vessel for the Holy Spirit.
Nurturing the fruits of the Spirit
The Holy Spirit rains down graces upon us that allow us to live a life in conformity to Christ. The question is, are we soaking them in or holding an umbrella? If we are allowing grace to take root, then it will be apparent by our fruits.
Galatians 5:22 states, “The fruit of the Spirit is love, joy, peace, patience, kindness, generosity, faithfulness, gentleness, self-control. Against such, there is no law.” A good question for a self-examination is, “How abundant is my fruit?”
For example, let us take a closer look at the fruit of the Spirit, which Scripture calls generosity. The biblical understanding of generosity is to be kind with one’s material belongings or to give beyond what is required by justice.
The generous fruit of this past year’s Archbishop’s Call to Share campaign has supported over 40 ministries across our archdiocese, sustaining life from ‘womb to tomb’ and beyond. Your gifts provide countless opportunities for children and youth to grow in their faith, including active campus ministries at five colleges. This year, we also welcomed Kyle Kuckelman as our new consultant for youth ministry, dedicated to fostering the spiritual growth of our young people. I am aware from my conversations with other bishops that many dioceses throughout the United States are not blessed with such generosity. Your consistent stewardship is so appreciated by the many ministries which extend the reach of our church.
REPORT 2024
Growing in generosity: The heart of our faith
Another word for generosity is magnanimity. Magnanimity comes from the Latin words magnus (great) and anima (soul). Practicing generosity can actually enlarge our souls and give us a greater capacity to love.
This reminds me of the story of “The Grinch Who Stole Christmas.” At the end of the story, having learned that stealing all the presents in Whoville does not diminish the Who’s Christmas joy, the story goes on to say, “that the Grinch’s small heart grew three sizes that day. And then – the true meaning of Christmas came through, and the Grinch found the strength of ten Grinches, plus two!”
Our own hearts grow through acts of generosity, too. Recently, our archdiocese has seen the fruit of magnanimity in many ways. We celebrated the ordination of 15 deacons and welcomed 20 deacon aspirants. Currently, we are blessed to have 26 seminarians in formation. Their service reminds us of the call to be generous with our lives, as Jesus Christ was generous with his.
Programs like the Communio ministry help parishes to strengthen marriages and families, providing couples with the tools to deepen their love for one another and live out the generosity of spirit to which the sacrament of marriage calls them. By nurturing the domestic church, this ministry fosters love and generosity that radiates into our wider community.
So, what is this source of Christmas joy? What is the true meaning of Christmas? 2 Corinthians 8:9 tells us, “For you know the grace of our Lord Jesus Christ, that though he was rich, yet for your sake he became poor so that you through his poverty might become rich.” God chose to embrace the poverty of our humanity so that we might share in the richness of his divinity. This is our true example of generosity, and it goes beyond what our human understanding can grasp.
The generosity of Christ: Our model and mission
When we practice generosity, we imitate how God bestows gifts on his creatures without limit, even though we have done nothing to earn or deserve them. We have no way to repay God for all he has given us. This spirit of generosity is alive in ministries like our foster care ministry, where Kathy White, our newly appointed consultant, leads efforts to support vulnerable children, allowing us to continue Christ’s mission to nurture and guide each soul.
Stewardship: Returning God’s gifts
Our Catholic understanding of stewardship reminds us that everything we have and everything we are belongs to God. When we give of our time, talent, and treasure, we are just sharing what already belongs to God with our brothers and sisters. He has made us stewards over these goods so that they may be used to further the Kingdom of God on earth.
Many of our organizations like Savior Pastoral Center, the Catholic Education Foundation, Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, and Catholic Community Health provide essential services to our community. Your continued generosity and stewardship gives
operational support, helping their ministries fulfill the mission of the church by providing education, health services, necessities (like shelter, food, and clothing), and pastoral support.
The path to generosity: Small acts, great love
How can we cultivate the fruits of the Holy Spirit and grow in generosity? Like everything, growing in generosity takes practice. St. Teresa of Calcutta said, “Not all of us can do great things, but we can do small things with great love.” Look for opportunities to be generous in small ways, but with love. Soon, like the Grinch, your heart will increase its capacity for love and you will find yourself making your whole life a gift back to God who loved you into existence.
My commitment to you remains steadfast. I will strive to be a better shepherd and servant leader to the people of God. I also renew my promise to be transparent in sharing how your sacrificial gifts are being used to strengthen God’s Kingdom in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Together, we can continue bringing the fruits of the Holy Spirit and joy of the Gospel of Jesus to the people of Northeast Kansas!
Gratefully yours in Jesus, the Lord of Life, + Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann ARCHDIOCESAN
FROM THE CHIEF FINANCIAL OFFICER Transparency
The financial information you see on these pages shows you the sources (revenue) 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% are provided. This statement agrees in total to the audited annual financial report which is posted on the archdiocesan website under https://archkck.org/administration/finance-office/ 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 JanuaryMarch 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 the archbishop for the allocation of funds. Assessments and Collections: Includes amounts assessed to parishes or regions for Savior Pastoral Center and Youth Formation, as well as the Catholic Charities Christmas Collection and the Good Shepherd Collection. Cathedraticum: Annual tax as provided under Canon Law Section 1263 for the bishop to fund the administrative costs of the diocese. The amount and method vary 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 are used only for the purpose the donor intends.
The results
Overall, fiscal year 2024 yielded an improved bottom line as revenues increased by 7%, largely due to positive investment performance and interest income, while expenses increased only 3%. The result is a 146% improvement in the bottom line for 2024 as compared to 2023.
Additional information
In addition to the operating statement presented, there are funds, including National Collections and Special Emergency Collections, we call “pass-through funds” which 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.
The sidebar on Transparency is included to shed light on the funds used in our efforts to protect children and vulnerable adults through background checks and training all employees and volunteers in the archdiocese who have interactions with children in the scope of their duties. When an allegation of abuse is made, there are also costs associated with victim assistance and canonicallyrequired assistance for the priest.
Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas
The commission that Jesus gave to the church was to go and make disciples of all nations. The
EDUCATION
An
of
Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas REVENUE ACTUAL 2023 vs 2024
Archdiocesan assessments and collections
Archbishops
Net Investment Income
Bequests and contributions
Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas EXPENSES ACTUAL 2023 vs 2024
Kansas HELP FOR THE NEEDY & DISASTER RELIEF
Outreach: Serving those in need Stewardship
Administration
TRANSPARENCY
The Code of Canon Law section 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.
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
Granny Basketball is a throwback to 1920s-era rules
>> Continued from page 1
“My hope as I look out at the stands is that everyone will experience camaraderie and working together in support of the University of Saint Mary, and perhaps a different glimpse of who we Sisters are beyond our ministry.”
Granny Basketball is a milder form of the game and provides fun, competitive exercise for women over the age of 50. Players must follow 1920s-era rules and wear uniforms from that era: bloomers, middy blouses and knee-high stockings. Games consist of four 8-minute quarters and the clock is only stopped for timeouts, injuries, free throws and falls. Players are allowed two dribbles per possession and there is no running, jumping or physical contact allowed.
There is a Granny Basketball league that is a nonprofit corporation with more than 600 players on 47 teams across 10 states, including 10 in Kansas. While the Meadowlarks, Kansas Sunflowers and Tonics all play in that league, the primary purpose of Granny Basketball is to raise funds for greater causes at these kinds of events.
“You see our team and two others here as well,” Alexander said, with the Sunflowers and Tonics playing an abbreviated game prior to the main event. “We just love supporting charities and that’s what Granny Basketball is really all about.”
This was the first time a Granny Basketball event has been hosted at Saint Mary — Sister Diane said she had never seen it played before — but there is hope to host another event and they are al-
ready looking into dates for 2025.
“I think the day was a great success,” said Sister Diane. “Hosting an event like this exposes our Angel Fund at Saint Mary to a larger audience. One of our
challenges is that people don’t know what good work is happening here. Then, everyone seemed to have fun and enjoyed watching Granny Basketball.” Anyone wanting to learn more about
the Saint Mary Guardian Angel Fund, including ways to donate, can visit the website at: stmary.edu/scholarships/ angel-fund.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Sister Amy Willcott, SCL, does not like the call on the court. The game raised $4,826 for the Guardian Angel Fund, which is an earnings-matching program of up to $2,500 a semester to help students with financial need bridge the gap to achieve their educational dreams.
Missouri farmer’s faith drives him to innovate
By Jay Nies OSV News
FRANKENSTEIN, Mo. (OSV News) — The stone for the iconic Our Lady Help of Christians Church here came from Russ Kremer’s family farm. Now, this fifth-generation parishioner and curator of the soil assembles the teachings of the church into a more sustainable, God-oriented way of farming.
“People call me rogue, renegade and rebellious,” said Kremer. “That’s OK. Everything I think and try to do is because of my Catholic faith and upbringing.
“When things are not right, I question it. When I counter those things, I sometimes get resistance.”
The Missouri Catholic Conference recently honored Kremer — an internationally renowned advocate for sustainable agricultural and livestockraising techniques that benefit farmers and consumers throughout the world — with its 2024 Citizen Recognition Award for the Jefferson City Diocese.
The conference, public policy agency of the state’s four Catholic dioceses, presents the award each year to a Catholic from each diocese who has exemplified good citizenship in promoting the church’s values in the public-policy arena and in their local communities and parishes.
Bishop W. Shawn McKnight of Jefferson City presented the award at the diocese’s inaugural Rural Life Mass Sept. 8 in Vienna, Missouri.
“Russell exemplifies a Catholic who has studied ‘the signs of the times’ and embraced his vocation as a prophetic farmer,” said Bishop McKnight.
“A diversified family farmer who cofounded and manages Heritage Foods
— which is a 125-producer network for processing, marketing and distributing natural and organic protein products — Russell’s farming enterprises include humanely and sustainably raised hogs and cattle as well as chemical-free vegetables, crops, hay and timber,” the bishop stated.
Kremer has also taken part in successful efforts to improve farming policy, such as convincing lawmakers to restrict antibiotic use in healthy livestock.
He grew up helping to work the farm that’s been in his family for five generations.
He attended St. Mary School in Frankenstein and Fatima High School in Westphalia, Missouri, before graduating summa cum laude from the
University of Missouri in Columbia with degrees in animal husbandry and agriculture education.
Kremer said he aspires to be a teacher and evangelizer, “but I also want to be one who puts models of hope into place and into practice.”
Through biblical teachings and his Catholic upbringing, he’s come to embrace the concept that all people are involved in agriculture.
“We all eat,” he noted, “and God gave us all these resources to nourish us. Seen in this light, eating and food production are spiritual acts.”
His older brother, the late Robert Kremer, was a professor of microbiology at the University of Missouri. He carried out extensive, meticulous research and let his work do the talking.
His research and testimony helped convince the FDA to reject genetically modified wheat. Robert Kremer died this year of cancer.
“Whenever I receive the precious body of Christ at Mass,” the younger Kremer stated, “I remember how my brother helped make sure the wheat for this bread is the closest to what God intended it to be.”
Kremer believes reestablishing local, natural, organic food systems will be a major key to keeping the food supply chain safe and healthy and these rural areas remain vibrant and robust for future generations.
Sustainable farming practices and locally owned processing and distribution systems can help create better food security, he said.
In 2020, Kremer cofounded the World AgroEcology Alliance as a vehicle to heal a broken food system.
Traveling throughout Europe, he noticed that most of the food there has remarkably fewer preservatives and chemically manipulated ingredients.
And “they have more of a regional food system that’s very equitable — where most of the middle men are cut out, where most farmers receive more of a living wage and you don’t see huge trucks and big box stores,” he said. “What you see are local markets that are very effective.”
Kremer helped create a system called “ecovillages.”
“These are based on agro-ecological practices,” said Kremer. “Not just organic farming techniques but also a lot of social aspects, including helping disadvantaged farmers, making sure all communities have some sort of food security, that workers are paid a living wage and given a chance to get into an artisan field.”
Martin Scorsese’s new saints docuseries opens with Joan of Arc
By Katie Yoder OSV News
Award-winning filmmaker Martin Scorsese is debuting his latest work on Fox Nation: A new docudrama exploring the lives of the saints.
“I’ve lived with the stories of the saints for most of my life, thinking about their words and actions, imagining the worlds they inhabited, the choices they faced, the examples they set,” Scorsese said of “Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints” in a press release. “These are stories of eight very different men and women, each of them living through vastly different periods of history and struggling to follow the way of love revealed to them and to us by Jesus’ words in the Gospels.”
Scorsese serves as the executive producer, host and narrator of the docuseries that premiered on Nov. 17, his 82nd birthday. The eight-episode show
reaches across time and space to follow heroic men and women who dedicated their lives to God no matter the cost.
Each hourlong episode focuses on a different saint, beginning with Joan of Arc. Other episodes will feature St.
John the Baptist, St. Sebastian, St. Maximilian Kolbe, St. Francis of Assisi, St. Mary Magdalene, St. Moses the Black and St. Thomas Becket.
The docudrama will be released in two parts by Fox Nation, a subscription streaming service by Fox News Media. The first four episodes air weekly beginning on Nov. 17 and the last four episodes will become available in spring 2025.
Each episode invites viewers to travel back in time and watch the saints come to life, with Scorsese narrating between scenes. The first episode stars Liah O’Prey as Joan of Arc, a French saint who fought in the Hundred Years’ War against the English while guided by the voices and visions of saints. The young peasant woman, celebrated for liberating Orléans and leading Charles VII of France to the throne, died at the stake in 1431 after being convicted of heresy. She was 19 years old.
In the episode, Joan appears as a determined, confident woman even while
she is dragged into court and put on trial. She’s a human who makes mistakes, but always strives for heaven. Flashbacks reveal her humble background and her journey to become a saint. Along the way, viewers will hear lines taken directly from St. Joan of Arc’s trial and examinations.
This series is one that Scorsese has wanted to create for more than four decades.
His fascination with the saints dates back to his childhood when he spent time in St. Patrick’s Old Cathedral in New York City, which was a sanctuary for him, he told the AP while speaking about the new series. He became curious about the saints after seeing statues of them.
“If a saint is something that is designated as special, for many of us as children, we thought that therefore the saints must be superhuman,” he commented in a recent interview with The New York Times. “But no. The whole point is that it’s human.”
OSV NEWS PHOTO/JAY NIES, THE CATHOLIC MISSOURIAN
Standing with Bishop W. Shawn McKnight, Russ Kremer, a member of Our Lady Help of Christians Parish in Frankenstein, Missouri, displays the Missouri Catholic Conference’s 2024 Citizen Recognition Award for the Jefferson City Diocese. Bishop McKnight presented the award during the diocese’s inaugural Rural Life Mass Sept. 8 in Vienna, Missouri.
OSV NEWS PHOTO/COURTESY FOX NATION
Milivoje Obradovic portrays St. Maximilian Kolbe in “Martin Scorsese Presents: The Saints.”
EMPLOYMENT
Liturgy coordinator – St. Michael the Archangel in Leawood is seeking a full-time liturgy coordinator to prepare for the celebration of the Mass and other sacred mysteries. Applicants must be practicing Catholics familiar with the Roman Catholic liturgical tradition. The position requires strong organizational, administrative and communication skills as well as initiative and responsibility. Hours include weekend and some evening hours. Includes full benefits options. Go to: stmichaelcp. org/employment for a full job description. Send cover letter and resume to: kevin.vogt@stmichaelcp.org.
Front office secretary - St. Ann School in Prairie Village is seeking a full-time front office secretary. This position provides daily support to school families, students and teachers, and includes performing a variety of tasks for both the school and parish offices. Applicants must have strong written and verbal communication skills, be detail-oriented and possess the ability to manage multiple tasks simultaneously. Experience with Microsoft and Google is required. Benefits are included. Position starts Jan. 6, 2025. To apply or for more information, please mail a cover letter and resume to: susielutz@stannpv.org.
Business manager - Have you had a successful business career and are now looking for a more fulfilling position? Are you tired of travel and interested in moving out of the corporate rat race? Are you searching for a position that is more conducive to cultivating a better family life? Do you possess a strong Catholic faith and are looking for a way to express your gratitude and give back to God? If so, this may be the ideal opportunity for you. St. Ann Parish in Prairie Village is seeking a full-time business manager to be a key member of the parish management team. The position will have responsibilities for budgeting, financial reporting and cash flow management, as well as oversee other operational functions of the parish. The individual will work collaboratively with the pastor, school principal and young child care director and interact positively with volunteers and parishioners in fulfilling the parish mission. The preferred candidate will be a practicing Catholic with a business-related degree, a working knowledge of accounting practices and at least five years of demonstrated management experience. The ideal candidate will also be a proactive, team-oriented leader and possess strong communication and interpersonal skills. A complete job description can be found at: https://stannpv.org/jobs. Interested candidates should email a cover letter and resume to Father Mitchel Zimmerman at: frmitchel@stannpv.org.
Bookkeeper - The bookkeeper performs clerical tasks in support of Advice & Aid’s mission. Under the direction of the operations director and the accountant, the bookkeeper is responsible for accounts payable, payroll and recordkeeping. The bookkeeper makes entries in QuickBooks in support of Advice & Aid’s accounting activities. The successful candidate needs to be efficient and accurate, completing tasks in a timely manner and proficient in QuickBooks. Must be a committed Christian with a personal relationship with Jesus who actively participates in a local Bible-believing church, demonstrates a consistently life-affirming philosophy, and subscribes to and supports the vision, mission, statement of faith, and policies and procedures of Advice & Aid. Please send a cover letter and resume to Ryan at: rbogard@adviceandaid.com.
Liturgical musicians - Christ the King Parish and Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, are searching for liturgical musicians that can play at English and Spanish Masses on the weekends and holy days, as well as being available for funerals and other special occasions. Organists will enjoy the chance to play our beautiful, recently installed Tracher organ. All musicians are welcome to inquire. Cantors with the ability to sing in English, Spanish or both are also needed. Part-time employment is also available. Visit: ctkkcks.org for more information, or contact Father Nick Blaha to apply at (913) 287-8823 or email: pastor@ ctkkck.org.
Music director - St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee invites applications for the position of full-time director of music. St. Joseph is a large suburban parish which boasts a renovated church featuring an Allen 3-manual organ and Steinway piano. The director of music will oversee all musical aspects of parish liturgical events, including five weekend Masses, solemnities, feasts and special occasions. Responsibilities encompass directing four choirs, supervising four paid organists and scheduling all music ministers. Candidates should demonstrate a strong Roman Catholic faith, deep knowledge of liturgy, and exceptional proficiency in keyboard playing, conducting and voice development. This role requires proactive leadership, effective communication and a passion for nurturing spiritual growth through music. Interested applicants are encouraged to send their resume to: mthomas@stjoeshawnee. org or call (913) 248-4562.
Bilingual financial empowerment specialist - Catholic Charities of N.E. Kansas is seeking a bilingual financial empowerment specialist. This position will pilot a financial program for bilingual individuals and families. This position is based in Wyandotte County and will provide culturally relevant financial education and empowerment to Latino communities within Wyandotte and Johnson counties, as well as serving the general population in Wyandotte County. The caseworker will provide wraparound strength-based case management, which includes completing assessments, developing a spending plan with families, and assisting clients in identifying and monitoring measurable and achievable goals with appropriate action steps. For more information about this position, please visit: catholiccharitiesks.org.
Catholic financial planners - The Knights of Columbus Mahon Agency has openings in NE Kansas and western Missouri, covering areas in and around KCK, KCMO, Topeka and Atchison. We have much to offer determined, disciplined and high-expectation professionals who would like to share needed life insurance, disability income, long-term care and annuity products with other Catholic individuals and families. This is a full-time position with excellent, multi-tiered training and benefits, allowing the successful field agent to earn a professional-level income. This is an exciting career opportunity that may be the right fit at the right time for you, or someone you know. For further information, contact John Mahon at (785) 408-8800.
Caregivers needed - Daughter & Company is looking for compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide sitter services, light housekeeping and light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team.
Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served, has the following staff job openings available — Financial aid director, director of nursing, human resources generalist, director of development. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.
Faculty and adjunct faculty job openings - Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas, is a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not other wise be served Faculty job openings - none. Adjunct faculty job openings - psychology adjunct, adjunct instructor for nursing and clinical nursing adjunct. Adjunct faculty Lansing Correctional Campus - English adjunct and math adjunct and psychology adjunct. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.
Now hiring - drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students in Johnson and Wyandotte counties, in company vans. Drivers earn $16 - $20 per hour. Aides earn $15.50 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees are encouraged to apply. Make a difference in your community by helping those in need! Call (913) 521-4955 or visit: assistedtransportation.com for more information. EEO.
Preschool assistant teacher - St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Preschool in Leawood is seeking a parttime assistant teacher for a classroom for 4-year-olds. This position is Monday - Thursday from 11:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. The assistant teacher will help the lead teacher in conducting daily activities, carrying out licensure rules and regulations, and maintaining principles of sound Catholic education. See full job description at: stmichaelcp.org/employment. Send cover letter and resume to the preschool director at: jennie.wente@st michaelcp.org.
Facilities assistant - St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood is seeking a full-time facilities assistant. Hours will vary but will be primarily daytime, including one weekend day and occasional evenings. Responsibilities include setup and tear-down for events, janitorial services, maintenance projects and coordinating/ inspecting contractor tasks. This position earns full benefits, including health, dental, vision, 401(k) and more. Go online to: stmichaelcp.org/employment for a full description. Please submit resume and cover letter to: denise.greene@stmichaelcp.org.
Administrative assistant - Come join our team! A small family-owned company located in Lenexa is looking for an assistant to answer phones; invoicing; product ordering; some shipping/receiving and to assist the owner. We need a team member who is organized; detail oriented; self-motivated; trustworthy; has a positive attitude and above all else, gives excellent customer service. Schedule flexibility. Send your resume to: YourCareer101@gmail.com
Technician Needed ASAP - Do you like to tinker? Are you detail-oriented? Then this is the job for you! A locally owned family business is currently seeking candidates to provide preventive maintenance (cleaning) and repair service on microscopes. No previous experience necessary, on-the-job training provided. Good communication, time management and customer service skills necessary. Expenses paid, out in the field majority of time and each day is different! Some travel is required. Please contact us at: techneeded23@ gmail.com.
Parish secretary - Christ the King Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, is searching for a part-time parish secretary, approximately 15 hours per week. Applicants must be fluent in spoken and written Spanish. Visit: ctkkcks.org for more information, or contact Father Nick Blaha to apply at (913) 287-8823 or email: pastor@ctkkck.org.
Catholic elementary school principal - Holy Name School in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking a dynamic and visionary leader with a passion for Catholic education. The principal will continue the school’s tradition of forming disciples, pursuing academic excellence and spiritual growth. The principal will lead by example and inspire a team of dedicated faculty and staff. Applicants must have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Apply online at: arch kckcs.org/apply. For more information, contact Father Anthony at: aouellette@archkck.org.
SERVICES
Garage door repair expert
New Garage Doors Garage Floor Coatings
A Total Door Inc., Since ’83. Leaven discount joe@atotaldoor.com; (913) 236-6440.
Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor, at (913) 909-2002.
Tree trimming and landscaping - We provide free estimates and recent references. Five years of experience and fully insured. Call Charly at (913) 405-8123.
Free estimates - We do all things home improvement! Services include: interior/exterior painting, flooring, drywall, windows, kitchen/bathroom remodel, decks, etc. You name it, we can help. At Stone Painting, we put the customer first. We ensure a professional quality job at a competitive price. Call today for a free estimate. (913) 963-6465.
MIKE HAMMER MOVING - A full-service mover. Local and long-distance moving. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload. In-home moving and office moves. No job too small. Serving the KC metro since 1987. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, parishioner. Call the office at (913) 927-4347 or email: mike@mikehammermoving.com.
Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; secondgeneration bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 271-0362.
AKC Pros roofing, siding, gutters, insulation - Did you get tired of the door-knocking and constant calls from different roofing companies after the storms this year? Now that the dust has settled, let’s talk. If it’s new damage or old damage, just give me a call. I’ll walk your roof and we will decide together whether to file a claim. Locally owned and operated, licensed and insured. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.
Rios drywall - I offer services of frame, sheetrock, drywall finish, knockdown textures, popcorn ceilings, flat, smooth, skim, sand, paint, patches and demolition. You can send me a text message at (432) 307-4667 or find me on social networks like Facebook at Rios Drywall. Free estimates.
Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footing, 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.
Double A’s Lawn Service
Lawn mowing, Mulching, Gutters, Leaf Removal Brush Removal & Hedge Trimming Free Estimates & Insured Alex Spoerre (913) 488-5195
Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.
Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your T-shirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704.
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 - Three plots, side by side, at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 38th and State in Kansas City, Kansas. One opening and closing and grave liner included. Foundation fee and maintenance paid. Must have two plots adjacent to have a standing headstone. This is the last in the original cemetery. Big selling point. Located in Section 4, lot 188, spaces 7 and 8 and lot 187, space 3. I’ll pay the $250 conveyance fee. Today’s cost for all of this is $11,306. I’m selling for $7,500. Call Denise at (913) 420-2668.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Local handyman - Painting, int. and ext., wood rot, mason repair, gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior), honey-do list, window cleaning and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-8123.
EL SOL Y LA TIERRA
*COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL
*LAWN RENOVATION *MOWING
*CLEANUP AND HAULING
*DIRT GRADING/INSTALLATION
*LANDSCAPE DESIGN* FREE ESTIMATES HABLAMOS Y ESCRIBIMOS INGLES!! CALL LUPE AT (816) 252-1391
Haus To Home Remodeling - Let’s give that room a nice face-lift! Specializing in affordable room remodeling. From small projects to bathrooms and basements. Tile, paint, carpentry, wood rot, decks, drywall, etc. Free estimates. Call Cole at (913) 544-7352.
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) 5791835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.
Father and Son Home Remodeling - We specialize in kitchen/bathroom and basement remodeling, from start to finish. We also do decks, covered decks, porches, sun-rooms and room additions! If you’re not sure we do it, just call. From my family to yours, thank you for supporting my small business. To contact me, call (913) 709-7230 and ask for Josh.
Popcorn ceiling texture removal Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Interior painting specialist. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. Garage renovations - Married couple from St. Paul Parish in Olathe. Haul off, clean-out, floor coatings, shelving/painting. Experienced, references available, insured. Call (913) 405-8123.
Pilgrimages - Medjugorje is approved by the Vatican, receiving “nihil obstat” and encouraging people to go. The next pilgrimage date with visionary Mirjana Soldo as our hostess is March 12-20 and April 16-23, 2025. I am also available to speak to groups about Medjugorje. Call Grace at (913) 449-1806.
CAREGIVING
Family member with dementia or need help at home? - We specialize in helping seniors live SAFELY at home, where they want to live! We also offer free dementia training and resources for families and caregivers. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www. Benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.
Caring Christian companion - I’m a retired licensed practical nurse with 20-plus years of nursing experience caring for those facing medical challenges. I will work for you, in home, assisted living or nursing home. Qualified to transport to and from physicians or therapy and personal trips. References from past employers are available. I am someone who is caring, honest and dependable. Call Barbara at (913) 645-3779.
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.
Home care - CMA, 15 years’ experience, background check available from past employers. Call (913) 9994340.
REAL ESTATE
We are local people who can buy your house - Big companies from all over the nation come here buying houses, but that’s not us. We are parishioners of Holy Trinity Parish and we enjoy giving you personalized service. We can offer you a fair price and are flexible to your needs. If I can help, call me, Mark Edmondson, at (913) 980-4905.
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 has never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer, (913) 599-5000.
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
Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME! I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.
Wanted to buy - Antiques & Collectibles: jewelry, military items, railroad, sterling, OLD holiday/toys and more. Renee Maderak (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
Wanted to buy Vintage baseball & sport cards Cash for cards Holy Trinity parishioner Call Matt at (913) 522-4938
$$PAYING CASH$$ Antique furniture, crocks, tin and cast iron toys, old tools, glassware, American coins, jewelry. Most anything old. Please call Patricia at (913) 515-2950.
Classified Advertising
Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter.
Email: beth.blankenship@theleaven.org
SPIRITUAL RENEWAL RETREAT
St. Joseph Parish 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Nov. 23 from 8:15 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.
The retreat beings with Mass at 8:15 a.m. and includes breakfast and lunch. Join us for this trans-formative retreat. There will be Mass, inspiring talks and guided prayer and meditation. Reserve your spot today as space is limited. To register, go online to: church.stjoeshawnee.org; call (913) 6315983; or send an email to: parishoffice@ stjoeshawnee.org.
KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS
POLKA DANCE
Father Dolan Hall 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Nov. 23 at 7 p.m.
The Brian McCarty band will be playing polka and timeless dance music. This event benefits priests and seminarians. The cost is $10 at the door. Food, drink and setups will be available for purchase. For table reservations and any questions, call (913) 406-8717. We will have a raffle and are accepting any raffle prize donations.
CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN
DIVORCE MINISTRY
Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish 5501 Monticello Rd., Shawnee Nov. 23 at 6 p.m.
Join us for conversation, meet new friends and learn tools to heal from this difficult situation and prepare for what’s next.
TURKEY BINGO
All Saints Parish (hall) 809 Vermont Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 23 from 5 - 9 p.m.
Get a bingo, win a frozen turkey. There will be four cash blackout games. A $15 donation includes a Polish sausage and kraut sandwich and drink. Food will be available from 5 - 6 p.m. with bingo at 6 p.m. Tickets are available at the parish office. Call (913) 371-1837 or Pam Cornelison at (913) 787-7869.
VOLUNTEER OPPORTUNITIES
THIS FALL
Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton Nov. 23 - Schedule a time to volunteer
We need volunteers for various fall projects, including raking leaves, collecting zinnia seeds and clearing brush along backwoods trails. Volunteers with chainsaw experience are especially helpful for this workday. These activities can be done at any time that suits you or your group. Send an email to: ChristsPeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.
Barrett Insurance Agency Inc
Erin Barrett CLU ChFC, Agent 13139 Shawnee Mission Parkway erin@insurewitherin.com Bus: 913-648-1100
St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner State Farm, Bloomington, IL 2001738
ANNUAL GOLUMBKI DINNER
St. Casimir Parish (hall)
719 Pennsylvania Ave., Leavenworth Nov. 24 from noon - 3 p.m.
The St. Casimir Men’s Society will host the event. Dinner will be served from noon - 3 p.m. Takeout will also be available. The cost for tickets is $13 for adults and $6 for kids ages 12 and under. Come join your friends in Leavenworth for this traditional Polish feast. Meatloaf will also be served.
GUIDED MEDITATION:
‘CHRISTMAS BIRTHING’
Sophia Spirituality Center
751 S. 8th St., Atchison (or by Zoom)
Dec. 4 from 10:30 - 11:30 a.m.
Join us (on-site or by Zoom) for a prayerful journey reflecting on the birth of the Messiah and the experiences of those at the manger. Discover how our relationship with Christ calls us to bring new life and growth into all areas of our lives. What changes or growth are birthing in you? You can attend in-person or by Zoom. The cost is $15.
ADVENT SILENT RETREAT
Christ’s Peace House of Prayer
22131 Meagher Rd., Easton
Dec. 6 - 8
The retreat at will begin at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 6 and end on Dec. 8 at 4:30 p.m. Prepare your hearts for the coming of the Lord this Advent as we explore the essence and promise of the Advent season and gain a new understanding of the coming of Christ. There will be conferences, spiritual direction, eucharistic adoration, Mass, confession, and time for private prayer, reflection and walking. Cabins/courtyard rooms: $180 single/$270 couple or single guest rooms $110 (meals included). To attend, fill out the individual retreat form online at: ChristsPeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.
CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN
ADVENT HEALING SERVICE
Holy Spirit Parish
11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park
Dec. 7 at 6 p.m.
Often, the most hurtful wounds are the ones you can’t see. If you are suffering from emotional pain, join us for an evening of eucharistic adoration, confession and a healing talk by Father Justin Hamilton. Send an email to: katie@thecall2love for more information.
BEREAVEMENT MEETING
Curé of Ars Parish
9405 Mission Rd., Leawood
Dec. 7 after the 8 a.m. Mass
The bereavement ministry will have a
grief support meeting after Mass. Father Richard Storey will speak on “Spirituality and Grief.” For more information, call (913) 649-2026.
ADVENT MORNING OF REFLECTION: ‘JOURNEY WITH JOSEPH’ Church of the Nativity 3800 West 119th St., Leawood Dec. 7 from 9 - 11:30 a.m.
An Ignatian morning of reflection, led by Joe Snyder and Lori Stevens, will prepare you to more fully receive the Advent and Christmas seasons. The morning will include reflections, personal prayer and spiritual conversation to prepare you to experience the fullness of the upcoming liturgical seasons. The morning will begin with light breakfast snacks and coffee.
ADVENT REFLECTION: ‘QUESTIONS FOR THE SEASON’ Precious Blood Renewal Center
2120 St. Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri
Dec. 7 from 10 - 11:30 a.m.
Dec. 10 from 6:30 - 8 a.m.
In-person or Zoom options are available. Father Timothy Armbruster, CPPS, will offer reflections on the stories of Zachariah, Mary and Elizabeth in Luke’s Gospel and will weave our stories with theirs, asking their questions of ourselves: “How will we know this is so?” and “Who am I that God calls me?” Register today online at: https://www.pbrenewalcenter.org
BREAKFAST WITH THE KNIGHTS
Divine Mercy Parish
555 W. Main St., Gardner
Dec. 8 from 8:30 - 10 a.m.
Breakfast will include eggs, sausage and gravy, pancakes and drinks. Join us for great food and fellowship. The cost is $6 for those over the age of 13 and free for ages 12 and under. Proceeds are used for charitable works, such as scholarships and other giving through the year.
‘GUADALUPE AND THE FLOWER WORLD PROPHECY’ Donnelly College
618 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 9 at 7 p.m.
Blessed Sacrament Parish (Spanish) 2203 Parallel Ave., Kansas City, Kansas
Dec. 11 at 7 p.m.
Prince of Peace Parish
16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe Dec. 12 at 7 p.m.
Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle (Spanish)
409 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kansas
Dec. 15 at 1:30 p.m.
Explore groundbreaking discoveries about the history and culture of the indigenous people of the Americas that prepared them for the largest conversion in history. Register online at: ctkkcks.org/prophecy.
ST. LUCY DAY CELEBRATION
Precious Blood Renewal Center
2120 St. Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri
Dec. 13 from 10 a.m. - noon
Prepare for Christmas by sharing stories, songs and poems while planting wheat. Join us for a traditional celebration of St. Lucy Day. If you are not familiar with this ancient tradition as part of your Christmas rituals, join us and learn more about it. Register online at: https://www.pbrenewalcenter.org.
ROSARY RALLY
St. Philippine Duchesne Church 5035 Rainbow Blvd., Mission Woods
Dec. 15 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.
Join us as we pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary followed by Benediction and the opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scapular. For driving instructions or future dates for the Kansas City monthly rosary rallies, visit the website at: www.rosaryrallieskc. org.
SNOW BALL
Overland Park Convention Center 6000 College Blvd., Leawood Jan. 18 at 6 p.m.
Support Catholic Charities’ mission of providing help, hope and hospitality to the most vulnerable. Ninety-one cents of every dollar raised through Snow Ball supports Catholic Charities’ 30-plus life-changing programs. This black-tie event includes a cocktail reception, sit-down dinner and dancing to music by The Crossroad Sound. There is no fundraising — just celebrating — the night of the event. To purchase a ticket, table or make a gift, visit the website at: snowballgala.org. For more information, call (913) 433-2068.
DIVORCE SUPPORT GROUP
‘HEALING THE DIVORCED HEART’ St. Michael the Archangel (Gabriel Room) 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood 1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month at 7 p.m.
Those who have experienced a divorce understand, as perhaps few others can. We were sad, lonely, scared and angry, but we have found that with God, time and the support of others, healing is possible. For more information, visit the website at: www.stmichaelcp.org/divorce-support.
DAILY READINGS
THIRTY-FOURTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME
Nov. 24
OUR LORD JESUS CHIRST, KING OF THE UNIVERSE
Dn 7: 13-14
Ps 93: 1-2, 5 Rv 1: 5-8
Jn 18: 33b-37
Nov. 25
Catherine of Alexandria, virgin, martyr
Rv 14: 1-3, 4b-5
Ps 24: 1-6
Lk 21: 1-4
Nov. 26
Tuesday
Rv 14: 14-19
Ps 96: 10-13
Lk 21: 5-11
Nov. 27
Wednesday
Rv 15: 1-4
Ps 98: 1-3, 7-9
Lk 21: 12-19
Nov. 28
Thanksgiving Day
Sir 50: 22-24
Ps 138: 1-5
1 Cor 1: 3-9
Lk 17: 11-19
Nov. 29
Rv 20: 1-4, 11 — 21:2
Ps 84: 3-6a, 8a
Lk 21: 29-33
Nov. 30
ANDREW, APOSTLE
Rom 10: 9-18
Ps 19: 8-11
Mt 4: 18-22
CATHERINE OF ALEXANDRIA
c. 287-305
Catherine is thought to have been born to a noble family in Alexandria, Egypt. Through a vision, this scholarly young woman converted to Christianity and began evangelizing others, including the wife of the pagan emperor who was persecuting Christians. According to legend, after she defied the emperor and refuted philosophers brought in to test her faith, she was imprisoned and tortured. She was put on a rotating spiked wheel; when it broke, she was beheaded. She is venerated as the Great Martyr St. Catherine in the Orthodox tradition and her voice was among those heard by St. Joan of Arc. She is the patron saint of wheelwrights, and also a patron of jurists, philosophers, students and teachers.
By the time you read these words, I’ll have celebrated another birthday. Although they seem to come faster and faster, I’m blessed to still be alive and kicking. I’ve been reflecting on some occasions when I realized I was getting older.
The first time was while playing tennis with friends during college. One of us smacked the ball over a fence and I was heading out to retrieve it. After just a few steps, a young voice called out, “Hey, sir, I’ll get it for you.”
My initial thought was, “Who is he calling ‘sir’?” When I realized it was me, I nearly vaulted the fence to prove I was young, fit and limber. Though tempted to say, “Don’t you ‘sir’ me, you little whippersnapper,” in the end, I meekly croaked, “Thanks, buddy!”
The next memorable time came when teaching theology at Marymount International School in Rome in 1980-
It can be a real trip to be a senior
MARK MY WORDS
FATHER MARK GOLDASICH
Father
81. While discussing “milestone moments,” I said, “For example, we all know exactly where we were when Kennedy was assassinated.” Blank looks from the students. I tried to prompt them, “President Kennedy? 1963?” It was then they gleefully informed me that was the year they were born!
Meeting engaged couples for marriage prep now is shocking when I ask the year they were born. It’s
O2000 or a few years later. (I don’t ask if they remember Y2K.)
It’s taking a bit more time, too, to retrieve things from the hard drive of my mind. Check out this story about an elderly couple enjoying dinner in another elderly couple’s home:
After eating, the wives went to chat in the kitchen while the men retired to the den.
One of the gentlemen said, “Last night, we went out to a new restaurant, and it was really good. I highly recommend it.”
The other said, “What was the name of the restaurant?”
The first man thought and thought and finally said,
“What’s the name of the flower that you give to someone you love? You know, the one that’s red and has thorns?”
“Do you mean a rose?” asked his friend.
“Yes, that’s the one,” said the first guy. He then turned toward the kitchen and yelled, “Hey, Rosey, what’s the name of the restaurant we went to last night?”
Can you relate?
Alas, there are other signs as well, among them:
• You try to straighten out the wrinkles in your socks and discover you aren’t wearing any.
• You wake up looking like your driver’s license picture.
• At the breakfast table, you hear snap, crackle and pop . . . and you’re not eating cereal.
• Your idea of weightlifting is standing up.
• Your contact list has mostly names that begin with Dr.
• You look for your cellphone for a halfhour before realizing you’ve been talking on
it the whole time.
But along with the foibles of growing older comes an appreciation of all of God’s blessings, especially the family and friends that love you.
There is, as well, wisdom that comes with age, as captured in this reflection:
Suppose life isn’t about finishing on top but knowing when to stop.
Suppose life isn’t about learning to live with stress but learning to live with less.
Suppose life isn’t about pushing yourself to the limit but embracing every minute. Suppose life isn’t about constant action but eliminating distraction.
Suppose life isn’t about what you chase but resting in God’s grace.
The above words aren’t mine — but typical for my age, I’ve forgotten the original source (and Google was no help).
Gee, I see that it’s now time for “Happy Hour,” better known to us seniors as nap time!
End of liturgical year is a time to take spiritual stock
ne thing is clear from this Sunday’s Gospel: Pontius Pilate is a man looking for answers. All of what he has to say in this passage from John is offered in the form of questions:
“Are you the King of the Jews?. . . I’m not a Jew, am I? . . . What have you done? . . . Then you are a king?” Pilate here is more prosecutor and inquisitor than governor, trying to gather evidence to decide what to do with the shackled man standing before him. But as we hear this interrogation, we can’t forget that this scene is unfolding in the final
DEACON GREG KANDRA
Deacon Greg Kandra is an award-winning author and journalist, and creator of the blog “The Deacon’s Bench.” He serves in the Diocese of Brooklyn, New York.
hours of Christ’s earthly life, and that the end
is near.
It carries multiple meanings for us on this last great solemnity of the liturgical year. Teetering at the threshold of Advent, we might use this Sunday as an opportunity to ask a few questions ourselves. As we will do in a few weeks on New Year’s Eve, we should take stock.
Where has the last year taken us? What have we learned? How have we changed?
And reflecting on the scene in this passage, we might also take time to reflect anew on Christ’s passion — and how this particular King gave all so that we could
share in his kingdom.
Ultimately, this solemnity of Christ the King is an occasion to assess what really matters — and why.
Our king is Christ. It’s just that simple. How easily we forget.
And how easily we let other kings, other distractions, rule over us — monarchs who demand our time and rule our days. They may be trivial — how many hours do we give to things that are petty, wasteful, hurtful or indulgent? — or they may be lethal, sins that can consume us with all kinds of cravings or addictions that can bludgeon us until we are broken.
This Sunday might move us to question what other sovereign rulers are sapping our loyalty, fealty or attention — and which ones may redirect our hearts. Like Pilate, we should seek answers. Do we give enough honor and fidelity to the only King who matters?
As this liturgical year comes to a close and we turn toward Advent and preparing the way for the Lord at Christmas, this is a moment to search, reflect and, like Pilate, to question. It is also a blessed opportunity to recommit our hearts to the King of Hearts, the one we know is the King of Love.
Pope: Church venerates Christian martyrs from all denominations
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Christian martyrs from across denominations hold a place of honor in the church, Pope Francis said, highlighting their examples of faith and courage that continue to inspire Christians today.
“Even today, in many parts of the world, there are many martyrs who give their lives for Christ,” he told participants in a conference on martyrs organized by the Dicastery for
the Causes of Saints. “In many cases,” the pope said, “Christians are persecuted because, pushed by their faith in God, they defend justice, truth, peace, human dignity.”
Meeting with conference participants Nov. 14, Pope Francis pointed to the enduring courage and sacrifice of modern-day martyrs, such as the 21 Coptic Christians who were kidnapped and beheaded in Libya in 2015. Although they were not Catholics, “they
were Christians, they are martyrs and the church venerates them as its own martyrs,” the pope said.
“With martyrdom there is equality. The same happens in Uganda with the Anglican martyrs,” he said, referring to the Uganda Martyrs, a group of 23 Anglican and 22 Catholic converts executed in the late 19th century for their faith. “They are martyrs, and the church receives them as martyrs.”
Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.
Listening can be a greater service than speaking
Blessing your family relationships with warm Catholic faith experiences will increase the likelihood that children will remain Catholic (Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate, 2024).
Warm Catholic/ Christian relationships can be fostered when we B.L.E.S.S. them:
• Begin in prayer (God is your guide)
• Listen (see below)
• Eat (cook and/or, at least, share meals)
• Serve (see a need/ fill a need)
• Story (build and share memories)
As families approach Thanksgiving and Christmas, listening is especially crucial.
SEEKING CHRIST’S HEART
DEACON DANA NEARMYER
Deacon Dana Nearmyer is the director of evangelization for the archdiocese.
In a July 2024 report by the National Center for Health Statistics, just over a quarter of teens said they always get the
Isocial and emotional support they need while parents were nearly three times more likely to think they did.
Overall, 93% of parents thought their children always or usually had the social and emotional support they need, but only about 59% of teens felt that was
true. Instead, 20% of teens said that they rarely or never had the support they need, compared with only about 3% of parents who thought the same. Dietrich Bonhoeffer, a German theologian who died in a Nazi prison, wrote this passage on listening:
“The first service that one owes to others . . . [is] listening to them. Just as love to God begins with listening to his Word, so the beginning of love for the brethren is learning to listen to them. It is God’s love for us that he not only gives us his Word but also lends us his ear.”
Bonhoeffer continued: “Christians,
especially ministers [and parents], so often think they must always contribute something when they are in the company of others, that this is the one service they have to render. They forget that listening can be a greater service than speaking. Many people are looking for an ear that will listen. They do not find it among Christians, because these Christians are talking where they should be listening. But he who can no longer listen to his brother will soon be no longer listening to God either; he will be doing nothing but prattling in the presence of God, too. This is the beginning of the
death of the spiritual life.”
2024 research from the Walton Family Foundation and Gallup, in partnership with psychologist Dr. Lisa Damour, reveals 62% of teens say they want their parents to listen to them when they are upset, and 56% want their parents to give them space.
Meanwhile, about half as many children (28%) want their parents to give them advice.
Listening and warm, generous faith sharing are especially important in building strong Catholic identity in our young people, and they will strengthen our marriages and all of our relationships.
May the Advent season draw us together in unity and love
n a world that too often seeks division, the holidays offer us a chance to be the hands and feet of Christ, extending his love and hospitality to everyone we encounter.
AT THE HEART OF HOSPITALITY
GREG MIES
— reminding us that God’s love and the gift of Christ are extended to all.
that too often prevails in society.
“Let us open our doors to all,” he says, “especially to those in need.”
The seasons of Advent and Christmas serve as a reminder to be intentional in our welcoming — both of others and of Christ himself. In the humble birth of Jesus, we see the ultimate example of God’s hospitality: He came not as a mighty king but as a vulnerable child, born in a manger, inviting us all into the joy of his love and the ocean of his mercy.
IGreg Mies is the director of Savior Pastoral and Retreat Center. He can be reached by email at: gmies@archkck.org.
The message of
Christmas invites everyone, regardless of background, status or identity, to come to the table. In the Nativity story, it was a diverse group who welcomed Jesus — shepherds, wise men, angels and even humble animals
One of the greatest gifts of hospitality is the way it unites us as a community of faith. In sharing with others, we participate in the body of Christ, a community that extends far beyond the walls of our church or home.
Every act of kindness or forgiveness is a small reflection of God’s infinite hospitality toward us.
As Pope Francis reminds us, hospitality is an antidote to the culture of indifference
What ultimately unites us is our shared humanity, our need for love and our capacity for grace. The Advent season calls us to lay down our differences, open our hearts and work toward reconciliation.
For Catholics, this can be a call to act as peacemakers, fostering dialogue, understanding and cooperation even in the face of estrangement or disagreement.
In this way, the Christmas season can serve as a timely reminder of the importance of healing, both personally and collectively, in a divided world. Let us take this message to heart as we prepare for this Advent season.
May our homes be filled with warmth, our tables with abundance and our hearts with the spirit of welcome.
In doing so, we will not only create a season of joy for others, but will also be transformed by the love we share.
The best family traditions look past the holiday season
t is hard to believe but as I write this we are only one Sunday away from the start of Advent.
We all know that Advent is a time of preparation for the coming of our King and Savior. Sometimes, I feel like I need time to prepare for the time of preparation. I need to make sure my heart, my mind and my priorities are in order so that I can be all in for the season.
I sometimes focus so much on myself that I forget that Advent and Christmas are a time we are meant to take the focus away from ourselves and love our neighbor in a special way.
LEARNING TO LOVE LIKE HIM
JOSHUA RUOFF
Joshua Ruoff is the lead consultant for the archdiocesan special-needs ministry. He can be reached by email at: jruoff@ archkck.org.
We give thanks to God during this season for all of his blessings he gives to us and we
respond by sharing those blessings and our joy with those around us, bringing them closer to him. Some of my favorite family traditions of sharing the Christmas joy is by buying, wrapping and giving gifts for those that can’t afford them.
Giving meals and warm clothes to the homeless. Ringing bells for the Salvation Army.
There are many ways you and your family can share the Christmas season. I encourage you this year to look past the Christmas season. How are you going to continue to share your joy beyond the season? Because that joy doesn’t just go away.
Make sure you are following the specialneeds ministry social media, Flocknotes and newsletters. We have some amazing opportunities in our BREATHE respite care
and our Fully Alive mental health ministry that will be coming in the end of 2024 and the new year.
We are planning to help new volunteers complete their Virtus training for BREATHE, and I’m so happy to announce that our Fully Alive mental health ministry is partnering with Benedictine College in Atchison to host monthly speakers on a variety of mental health topics.
If you have questions about any of these opportunities, please reach out to our office.
I hope and pray that you and your families have a blessed Advent and Christmas season, and that you take advantage of the many opportunities across the archdiocese to share the love of God with others.
Maybe then we will start to make the world feel like it is Christmas every day.
Not able to be inperson in Atchison? We will be livestreaming and recording our talks, and we encourage every parish to start taking the steps to host your parishioners inperson to have support groups. We will have materials available to help guide discussions and provide resources.
