THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 38, NO. 16 | NOVEMBER 25, 2016
LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
Catholic Charities volunteers — from left, Pat Clark of Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa and Gene Kalwei of Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park — load donated food onto the Catholic Charities truck. The two make the rounds to several grocery stores in the area collecting donated food.
Food rescue program tips the scales at
ONE MILLION POUNDS “
By Carol Cowdrey Special to The Leaven
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VERLAND PARK — One million pounds. That’s $1.7 m i l l i o n worth of perishable food that area grocery stores have donated to Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas’ food rescue program since its inception nearly two years ago. But it wouldn’t have been possible without the help of 48 volunteer drivers who have logged over 2,000 hours to bring the food to those in need. Originally, food rescue was a Harvesters’ program. It served as an outlet for grocery stores to give highly valued food such as milk, produce and meat to the food bank for distribution to pantries, rather than
throwing the items away. Accustomed to picking up much larger pallets of food donations, Harvesters recognized the program might be a better fit for one of its agency partners. So Catholic Charities took over a portion of the food rescue program in January 2015 with the help of warehouse manager Jeff Schmidt and Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, parishioner and longtime volunteer Jeff Bailey. Together, they started with just three grocery stores. After learning all the food safety rules and procedures, the recruitment for volunteers began. They needed someone who was comfortable driving one of Catholic Charities’ box trucks two halfdays a week, capable of lifting at least 50 pounds and available to make the weekly trips to the grocery stores. Several retirees, like Gene Kalwei of Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park, and Greg Jones, also of Ascension,
“WE LOVE THE VARIETY OF FOOD THAT WE NOW HAVE ACCESS TO, ESPECIALLY THE FRESH PRODUCE, THAT WE WEREN’T ABLE TO OFFER FAMILIES BEFORE.”
Rick Cekovsky, a parishioner of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe were already volunteering in Catholic Charities’ food pantries. They saw firsthand the shortage of fresh fruits, vegetables, eggs and other perishables. “I could see how much we needed this food rescue program, so I was happy to volunteer. The grocery stores have been very receptive,” said
Kalwei, who delivers to the Overland Park pantry. “The great thing about it,” said Jones, who volunteers with the Kansas City, Kansas, pantry, “is you go to these same grocery stores week after week and start building a relationship. As a result, they begin giving you more and more food as they better understand the real impact they’re having.” Today, food rescue drivers volunteer in Leavenworth, Olathe, Overland Park, Kansas City, Kansas, and Topeka. Altogether, they pick up from 19 stores, including Target, Walmart, HyVee, Price Chopper, Dillons, Natural Grocers and Sprouts. Volunteers work in pairs, loading the donated food from the markets and delivering it directly to their assigned food pantry. As the food is unloaded, it is weighed on the pantry’s scale and recorded. >> See “FRESH” on page 6
NOVEMBER 25, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Remember that we, too, are people of the promise
ne of my favorite places in the Holy Land is Ein Karem, the place in the hill country of Judea where the pregnant Mary came to visit her pregnant cousin Elizabeth. For those who wish to pretend that the Scriptures are silent regarding the dignity of human life in its earliest stages, this meeting of Elizabeth and Mary proves problematic. St. Luke tells us that when Elizabeth heard Mary’s greeting, the infant in her womb leapt for joy. This image of John the Baptist leaping in the womb of Elizabeth is reminiscent of the great King David dancing and leaping for joy as he brought the Ark of the Covenant from a place not far from Ein Karem to Jerusalem. The unborn John the Baptist leaps for joy in the presence of the new Ark of the Covenant, who carries in her womb something even more precious than the tablets upon which God inscribed the Ten Commandments. John in the womb of Elizabeth recognizes Jesus in the womb of Mary as the Word made flesh. Elizabeth is the first in the Bible to acknowledge Jesus. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, she cried out in a loud voice, in other words, screamed: “Blessed are you among women, and blessed is the fruit of your womb. And how does this happen to me, that the mother of my Lord should come to me?” Elizabeth then names what makes Mary so extraordinary as she says: “Blessed are you who believed that what was spoken to you by the Lord would be fulfilled.” Mary’s greatness was her absolute trust in the promises made to her by God. Even though from a human perspective
LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN what Gabriel said to her was impossible, Mary trusted that nothing is impossible with God. We sometimes trivialize the term “miracle.” We give the title “miracle” to events such as the U.S. hockey team beating Russia in 1980 or the Cubs winning the World Series or KU beating Texas in football. These are certainly improbable events, but they are not miracles. Mary was asked to believe in the greatest miracle in human history. Mary’s blessedness was that she believed in God’s promise to her. She believed the child being knit together in her womb — who was flesh of her flesh — was not just any child, but the Messiah, the long-awaited one. Mary trusted, despite what she described as her lowliness, that God was asking her to accept both an incredible dignity and mission, to be the Ark of the New Covenant, the bearer of the Son of God. Mary believed as truly as Jesus was her son, he was also the only begotten Son of God. Mary believed not in her own worthiness, but rather that all things were possible with God. Mary continued to believe in God’s promise even on Calvary where she witnessed the brutal execution of her son.
When from the cross Jesus entrusted John to be her son, Mary embraced this new dimension of her maternal mission to be the mother of the church, the mother of the body of Christ. In addition to being the mother of Jesus, Mary is also rightly called his first disciple. We are all called to follow her example by trusting that God’s promises to us will also be fulfilled. At the time of our baptism, we made promises, rejecting evil and professing our faith in the triune God and his church. If we were baptized as infants, then our parents and godparents made these promises on our behalf. At the time of our confirmation, we made these promises our own. Every Easter, we renew our baptismal vows. At our baptism, God also made some awesome commitments to us. First, God gave us a share in the very life of Jesus, making us his adopted sons and daughters. Essentially, God made us living tabernacles that carry his life within us. Through baptism and confirmation, we became the anointed of the Lord, sharing in the kingship, the priesthood and the prophecy of Jesus. As our baptismal candle was lit from the Easter candle, the church’s principal liturgical symbol of the risen Jesus, God gave us
an eternal destiny to live with him and the saints forever. Many Israelis from Jerusalem come to Ein Karem, not because of any religious significance, but because of its physical beauty as well as its popular cafes and restaurants. When I was walking out of the church revered as the birth place of John the Baptist, three young adults came up to me and asked me about the meaning of this place. It turned out they were three off-duty Israeli soldiers who had come to Ein Karem to enjoy the scenery and a good meal. They were intrigued by the steady flow of tour buses bringing pilgrims literally from every corner of the world. They were curious about the meaning of the two beautiful churches — the Basilica of the Visitation and the Church of the Nativity of John the Baptist. I attempted to share with them the miracle of God’s grace that had taken place there 2,000 years ago. They seemed genuinely interested in learning about Jesus, Mary, John the Baptist, Elizabeth and Zechariah. I wish that I could have spent more time with them. During the Thanksgiving, Advent and Christmas seasons, we will spend time visiting with family and friends. At Ein Karem, Mary and Elizabeth supported and encouraged each other as they embraced God’s will and their unique roles in human salvation. Despite what can be the hectic pace of these days, may we remember that we, too, are people of the promise. Let us ask Mary to protect us from an unbelieving world that seeks to sow seeds of doubt that the promises God has made to us will be fulfilled. Instead, may we radi-
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Dec. 12 Mass — Our Lady of Guadalupe, Topeka
Nov. 29 Hispanic priests meeting
“Shepherd’s Voice” recording
Retired priests meeting Vespers and dinner with priests ordained in the last five years Nov. 30 Topeka regional priests meeting — Our Lady of Guadalupe, Topeka Confirmation — St. Teresa, Westphalia; St. Patrick, Emerald; St. Francis Xavier, Burlington; and St. Joseph, Waverly Dec. 1 Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas board meeting Blessing — Advice & Aid Dec. 3 Mass and blessing of adoration chapel — Prince of Peace, Olathe Dec. 4 Pastoral visit — Sacred Heart, Ottawa Dec. 6 Installation of Most Rev. Michael Burbidge — Arlington, Virginia Dec. 7 CFNEK annual meeting St. Lawrence Campus Center board meeting Dec. 8 Mass and lunch — St. James Academy, Lenexa Catholic Education Foundation board meeting
ate the joy of someone who carries the life of God and the hope of heaven! May we encourage all those we encounter during these weeks to embrace God’s will and
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Our Lady of Guadalupe Mass — Our Lady of Unity, Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 13 Mass — Bishop Miege High School, Roeland Park Priest Personnel meeting Ethics Advisory Council meeting Dec. 14 Serra Club presidents’ meeting Donnelly College board meeting Mass and dinner with representatives of parents whose children are Catholic Education Foundation scholarship recipients
ARCHBISHOP KELEHER Dec. 1 Serra Club talk — Curé of Ars, Leawood Dec. 4 Mass — Federal camp Dec. 8 Mass — St. Joseph, Wilmette, Illinois Dec. 10 Mass — Federal camp Dec. 11-12 Labor Review Board — Chicago Dec. 11 Episcopal ordination anniversary
plan for them. May we help others to know the greatest miracle in human history and the promise of life and joy it offers to us and to them!
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LOCAL NEWS
YEAR of MERCY Msgr. Charles McGlinn reflects on the Year of Mercy while parishes and schools illustrate how they lived it out
NOVEMBER 25, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
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We Help You (WHY) program leaders — from left, John Root, Alex Scherzer, Mio Cregan and Annika Jaworski, of Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa — carry a treasure chest during the school’s March of Hope. WHY is a student-led program that promotes the parish’s Keys to the Kingdom (Caring, Humble, Respectful, Inclusive, Self-disciplined and Trustworthy). The chest included rosaries, prayer cards and other special items.
By Msgr. Charles McGlinn Special to The Leaven
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ast year on Dec. 8, Pope Francis inaugurated the Year of Mercy and opened the Holy Door in the Basilica of St. Peter in Rome. This Holy Door was an invitation for each of us to enter the year reflecting on the divine mercy of God in our lives and committing ourselves to grow in mercy for others in our thoughts and actions. This special jubilee year ended with the solemnity of Christ the King on Nov. 20. For the Year of Mercy, the Holy Father urged the whole church to engage in special programs and activities whereby we express the mercy of God to others. Our archbishop asked every Catholic and all of the parishes, schools and religious education programs in the archdiocese to participate and respond to this special call of Pope Francis. The special motto for this year is “Merciful like the Father.” God is infinitely merciful. Mercy is not an abstract idea, but a concrete reality revealed in God’s loving actions in each of our lives. Who can say that he has not been touched by the mercy of God when we see the multiple blessings we enjoy — Most Pure Heart of Mary School, Topeka, participated in a school-wide rosary during its annual May Crowning Day. The rosary intention on this day the blessings of life, faith, forgiveness, was specifically for Mia Miyamoto, a former Most Pure Heart of Mary student who was battling a rare form of cancer. Her cousins — students at Most health, family, work, leisure and the mulPure Heart of Mary — tethered the helium balloon rosary until the rosary was completed, then released it into the air. tiple spiritual and material blessings we receive each day of our lives? As we are from me? the recipients of the mercy of God, we Mercy is found in the heart. We all are to be dispensers of mercy to others. at times have negative feelings toward The Holy Father calls us to open our others, and sometimes for good reason. eyes to the misery of the world, to the But mercy is a decision we consciouswounds of our brothers and sisters who ly make. It is a rising above, the taking are denied their dignity. He calls us to of the high road, a decision to follow renew in our activities the corporal after Jesus despite our negativity. and spiritual works of mercy: to Jesus came to reveal the love feed the hungry, give drink to of the Father. Everything he See more photos the thirsty, clothe the naked, did or said — his teachings, welcome the stranger, heal from the his parables, his actions — the sick, visit the imprisYear of Mercy speak of his mercy. oned, bury the dead, counFrom his words to the on pages 8-9 sel the doubtful, instruct the woman caught in adultery, to ignorant, admonish sinners, the good thief hanging next to comfort the afflicted, forgive ofhim on Calvary, Jesus reveals the fenses, bear patiently those who do Father’s love for us in his own redeemus ill, and pray for the living and dead. ing love. His supreme act of love on the A good question to ask is: “How do I cross demonstrates the extent of the show mercy to others?” What is my attiFather’s love for us: “He did not spare tude toward the homeless, the poor, the his own Son, but gave him up for us all” immigrant, the imprisoned? How do I (Rom 8:32). react when I am offended by my neighAs Jesus was dying on the cross, he bor? looked down to those who put him there From left, Darrin Hermesch, Olivia Hermesch, Anna Hermesch and Emma Hermesch, members of St. In my home and family, do I always — and that included each of us because Bede Parish in Kelly, get a rubbing off of a family headstone. The Hermesches took part in a “Faith, show mercy in my words and actions, of our sins — and prayed, “Father, for- Family and Fun” 5K walk at St. Bede. Participants prayed a “Stations of the Cross” along the route. In or do I try to “get even” when my feelgive them, because they do not know between stations, they said a decade of the rosary. The “stations” included the cemetery, where they ings are hurt? Do my politics reflect an what they do” (Lk 23:34). could get a rubbing of a family member's tombstone, a water station, a flower station and a grotto openness and merciful attitude toward Our God is Divine Mercy. where they placed roses. The last leg of the walk was a scavenger hunt where religious items had others, or a selfishness and close-mindbeen placed along the way. edness toward others who are different
NOVEMBER 25, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Archbishop emeritus closes out Year of Mercy en Español
By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
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ARDNER — The end of the jubilee Year of Mercy was symbolized on Nov. 13 by the closing of the six Holy Doors in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. One door, at Divine Mercy Parish in Gardner, was reopened the evening of Nov. 19 to accommodate the sixth and final Jubilee Year pilgrimage sponsored by the archdiocesan Hispanic ministry. “The majority of our pilgrimages were in Kansas City, so we came south [to Gardner] to give a greater opportunity for people who live further south, like in Emporia,” said Father Gianantonio Baggio, CS, director of archdiocesan Hispanic ministry. Divine Mercy was not only chosen for geographical convenience, but also for the symbolism of the parish being named after the Divine Mercy devotion, he said. Pope Francis said Catholics could obtain a plenary indulgence during the Year of Mercy by passing through a Holy Door or performing one of the corporal or spiritual works of mercy. The pilgrim also had to meet certain conditions: possess an interior disposition of complete detachment from sin, receive the sacrament of reconciliation and the Eucharist, and pray for the intentions of the Holy Father. “I think it’s a positive thing,” said Nancy Gonzalez, a pilgrim from All Saints Parish in Kansas City, Kansas. “It’s been a rough year for everyone. What better way to put an end to it than with the gift of mercy?” “I feel like so much of today’s youth are so disconnected from God and the church,” she continued. “I feel like having a Year of Mercy could help bring the youth back. For people to attend church regularly — it’s a good reminder that God is mercy and love.” More than 250 pilgrims processed
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG
Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher, assisted by Father Gianantonio Baggio, CS, greets participants in the final Year of Mercy pilgrimage, held at Divine Mercy Church in Gardner, after celebrating Mass in Spanish for them. from the Divine Mercy Parish Christian Formation Center to the church. There, they had the opportunity to receive the sacrament of reconciliation and participate in eucharistic adoration. Next, Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher celebrated the Mass in Spanish, with Father Gianantonio concelebrating. In his homily, given in Spanish, Archbishop Keleher talked about mercy and the jubilee year. “Pope Francis, in one of his experiences as archbishop of Buenos Aires, said he could never forget the testimony
of a Capuchin friar who wondered if he was too lenient in the confessional,” said Archbishop Keleher. “Bishop Bergoglio, at the time, asked him what he did when such scruples arose,” the archbishop continued, “and the friar replied, ‘I go before the tabernacle to tell Jesus, ‘Lord, forgive me, because I have forgiven too much — but you were the one to give me the bad example!’” Although the Holy Year has come to a close, this does not mean that the Lord’s mercy is closed, added Archbishop Keleher. Nor does it mean that we have fin-
ished our task of doing the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. Rather, this Holy Year must inspire us to learn more about how to be merciful in imitation of the divine mercy, he said. After the dismissal, everyone exited the church through the Holy Door, after which it was solemnly closed. Archbishop Keleher led the people in prayer and blessed rosaries and posters of the Divine Mercy image, which were distributed to the pilgrims. A reception in the Christian Formation Center followed.
Villa St. Francis and St. Benedict’s Abbey team up to enrich lives By Kate McEnerney Special to The Leaven
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LATHE — Members of Villa St. Francis and St. Benedict’s Abbey families gathered at the Villa here on Nov. 10 to celebrate the dedication of the newly updated St. Benedict and St. Scholastica Memory Care Neighborhood. Abbot James Albers, OSB, made the trip from St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison to bless the neighborhood, which was renamed in honor of the partnership between the Villa and the abbey. The monks of the abbey donated framed prints of photography taken around their campus, which now adorn the walls of the neighborhood and serve as a constant reminder of faith and an opportunity for reflection and prayer. “St. Benedict’s Rule talks about the many individuals who come to us as Christ,” said Abbot James in his blessing, “but he says the ones that are most prominent to us as Christ are the sick and infirmed. “So as we dedicate this neighborhood, we recognize their dignity, and how Christ is present through the residents here.” “Our partnership with the abbey is meaningful to us in many ways,” said Villa St. Francis’ director of engagement Sarah McEnerney. “Anytime we can
Abbot James Albers, OSB, blesses the newly dedicated St. Benedict and St. Scholastica Memory Care Neighborhood at Villa St. Francis in Olathe. shine a light on the services available within the archdiocese and welcome another member of our Catholic family into our home, we’re bringing our mission of embracing Christ’s love to our residents.” Founded by the Sisters of Charity in 1944, Villa St. Francis is a nonprofit skilled nursing community in Olathe
sponsored by the archdiocese. With daily Mass, nuns from the Sisters of St. Joseph and St. Ann’s Convent on staff, and Msgr. Raymond Burger residing right on campus, the Villa’s dedication to providing faith-based service is prominent in the day-to-day life of the community. The St. Benedict and St. Scholastica Memory Care Neighbor-
hood is home to 46 of the Villa’s more than 160 residents, and recent updates have served as a testament to the community’s mission and its focus on creating a true home for those who live there. The group also celebrated Frank Purdome, a longtime volunteer and friend of the Villa, who passed away earlier this year. Joined by Purdome’s friends and family, Villa St. Francis CEO Rodney Whittington announced the “Frank Purdome Memorial Courtyard” in honor of his years of service and dedication to the community and its residents. The courtyard is securely situated between St. Benedict and St. Scholastica halls, and offers a peaceful and prayerful retreat for the Villa’s memory care residents. “We always want to ensure not only that our offerings are as up-to-date as possible, but that our community truly becomes a home for those who live here,” said Whittington. “Our memory care staff really exemplifies Christ’s love through their faith-based service, and has a unique and inspiring dedication to caring for our residents as they would their own families.” After the dedication ceremony, friends, family members and supporters of the Villa enjoyed a celebratory reception and tours of both the neighborhood and the courtyard.
NOVEMBER 25, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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DEATH: AN EMBRACEABLE FRIEND
Father Ric Storey finds burying the dead a beautiful gift By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org
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EAWOOD — For many years before he became a priest, Father Richard Storey, pastor of Curé of Ars here, was a funeral director. He knows death well. And through all his years of dealing with death up close, he has learned to view it as a journey to joy. He only wishes everyone could see it that way. “Death has never scared me,” he said. “It is an embraceable friend.” Father Storey encourages Catholics to bury the dead not only as a work of mercy, but as a way of experiencing the promise of life — because he believes every funeral Mass encapsulates the Easter Triduum. “Holy Thursday, Good Friday, Easter Saturday, it all comes together,” he said. “We’ve been through the suffering and now [God is] going to lead us to the resurrection. “The hope and the truth and the promise that a Catholic funeral Mass brings is incomparable. “Catholics bury the dead so well.” Father Storey also believes every funeral Mass is an opportunity for parishioners to come together as a loving community in Christ. When a Curé of Ars parishioner died recently, his family felt certain no one would attend his funeral. “He was a young gentleman, who lived in a group home,” said Father Storey. “His dad said, ‘I don’t think there will be anybody here — he didn’t even talk.’ “And so I put the word out and said, ‘Please come.’” This was not unusual for Father Storey. He sets up a calling tree at his parishes to let parishioners know about funerals they may want to attend as a supportive community. And members who think no one will show up to the funeral of their loved ones often find a church full of fellow parishioners. “It’s about us coming together as a parish,” said Father Storey. “I don’t need to know that person to know I’m still part of one body, and Christ is our head. “What a beautiful gift from God to say it’s a corporal work of mercy — to bury the dead.” This work of mercy has always had a special place in Father Storey’s heart. “Even when I was young,” he said, “I realized the world stopped when somebody died, and everyone gave due respect for that life.” Growing up in a large extended family, Father Storey attended many funerals and remembers them as occasions of joy. “You saw the fun in it because you would see family members,” he said. “And what I remember is celebrating more life than death.”
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Father Ric Storey, pastor of Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood, has performed the corporal work of mercy of burying the dead in two capacities — first as a funeral home director, and then as a priest. As a young man, Father Storey began working at a funeral home in Louisburg, answering phones and doing odd jobs, gradually taking on more responsibility. Eventually, he went to mortuary school in Kansas City, Kansas, and took over the business as funeral director. “I always thought about going to the seminary,” he said. “But this seemed like a pretty good alternative as well.” Looking back, he sees the Lord’s hand in it. “I think it was God’s way of saying, ‘Not now,’” he said. “For whatever he had going, he knew I needed this to get to where I am now.” Father Storey realized God was finally calling him to the priesthood one day while he attending a Baptist funeral. “I was in a very small town in Missouri,” he recalled. “And I can remember the talk started with: ‘We’re here to celebrate Larry’s life. But we must be warned that Larry never took on Christ as his personal savior. Do we want to be like that?’ “And I thought, ‘Well, there’s no hope
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“[FUNERALS ARE] ABOUT US COMING TOGETHER AS A PARISH. I DON’T NEED TO KNOW THAT PERSON TO KNOW I’M STILL PART OF ONE BODY, AND CHRIST IS OUR HEAD.
Father Ric Storey
in that.’” The attitude didn’t match his experience as a Catholic. “Working so many funeral Masses as a funeral director and serving them as an altar server,” he said, “[I felt] the whole Mass is hope — it is absolute, tremendous hope.”
Father Storey actually walked out of that Baptist service. “I wasn’t mad or anything,” he said. “But I thought I’m just going to go outside because this is not good, it’s not hopeful. “And exactly at that point — it was as good as the lights coming on in a dark room — [I felt God saying,] ‘I’m calling you!’” “I felt it always, I knew it then,” he added. “And I’ve always had a great love for the Baptists because of that.” On May 29, 2004, at the age of 33, Father Storey was ordained and immediately assigned as pastor to three parishes in Osage County. At that point, said Father Storey, he was then “at the front line” — taking care of all those who were dying and their funerals. “What was amazing to me was everything I learned in the funeral industry was the best lesson in how to be a good pastor,” he said. Father Storey sees funerals as an opportunity for evangelization. “You have people coming that maybe haven’t been to church for some time,” he said. “They lose a loved one, and coming back to the funeral Mass, they see how beautiful it is because it’s focused on the hope of resurrection.” And that often leads people to contemplate their own resurrection. “One thing that many people will ask in the dying process is: ‘How will I know that I’m going to get there?’” said Father Storey. “‘What do I need to do? I’m searching for that peace.’” “You’ve got to let it go and let God now lead you” is what he tells them. Father Storey has two favorite Scripture passages — one you hear at weddings all the time and the other you hear at funerals. To him, they go hand in hand. “And that is Corinthians (1 Cor 13:4, 8),” he said. “Love is patient, love is kind. . . . Love never fails.” “You never bury love,” he continued. “It goes with the soul. And then one day, all that love is going to reunite. “And that’s what gives me hope.” The second passage is from Chapter 14 of the Gospel of John. “[At] the Last Supper,” said Father Storey, “Christ says [to his apostles], ‘Do not let your hearts be troubled. You have faith in God, now have faith in me. In my Father’s house there are many dwelling places. If it were not true, would I have told you I’m going to prepare a place for you, and I’ll come back and take you to myself.’” “That is the most beautiful Scripture for a funeral as far as I’m concerned,” he said. “Life has changed, not ended,” he added. “None of us know when we’re going. “But Jesus says, ‘Do not be afraid,’ over and over and over.”
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NOVEMBER 25, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS TOOLS FOR FAMILIES Growing as Disciples of Jesus
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WORKERS thein VINEYARD
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Attitude of gratitude
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uring this time of Thanksgiving, it is helpful to be reminded of our abundant blessings. The fruit of gratitude is joy. Gratitude is also the best antidote to envy. Intentionally cultivating an attitude of gratitude in your family will make way for open and compassionate hearts.
ARTWORK BY NEILSON CARLIN, 2015 Encourage your family to include a litany of thanks during your evening examination of conscience. Create a paper chain of people your family is thankful for. Take off a link and pray for them in a particular way during Advent. Write a note to a family member, teacher, priest or neighbor and let them know what you appreciate about him or her. Take time after Communion to spend time with Jesus in thanksgiving. The saints tell us this is his favorite time with us!
— Jennie Punswick
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CHURCH OF THE WEEK
Curé of Ars, Leawood Address: 9401 Mission Rd., 66206 Phone: (913) 649-1337 Pastor: Father Richard Storey Mass Times: Saturday, 4 p.m.; Sunday, 7:30 a.m., 9 a.m., 10:30 a.m., noon, 6 p.m. Email: cureparish@cureofars.com Website: http://cureofars.com MORE PHOTOS AND A VIDEO TOUR of this church can be seen online at: www.theleaven.org
WEBSITE EXCLUSIVE
TEAM OF THE WEEK Team roundup
Maxine Wiechert checks the eucharistic adoration schedule at Christ the King Parish in Topeka. Wiechert and her husband started the ministry 23 years ago.
Pilgrimage provides spark for ministry
T
OPEKA — Promote eucharistic adoration. That’s the threeword description Maxine Wiechert uses to describe her particular ministry. In 1977, Wiechert’s family became one of the founding families of Christ the King Church in Topeka. Although the family always practiced their faith and participated in a few parish ministries, she said a trip brought her deeper into the Lord’s vineyard. “My family and I went on a pilgrimage in 1990,” she recalled. “One night, we walked several blocks at 10:30 p.m. to a large tent where the Blessed Sacrament was exposed. It was a peaceful and spiritual experience.” After returning home, the couple prayed about how to continue growing in their faith. They started going to Mass and praying the rosary, both on a daily basis. Yet, they wanted to do more. That’s when the memory of that night spent with the Lord in the Eucharist came to mind. “My husband and I approached the pastor to start
perpetual adoration in our parish,” she said. “We invited a missionary priest, Father Victor Warkulwiz, a member of the Missionaries of the Blessed Sacrament, to speak to our parish and ask people to sign up,” she added. After the missionary’s visit, 400 parishioners signed up, and the couple compiled a 24-hour schedule. “The rest is history,” she said. Wiechert has been coordinating the schedule for more than two decades. Perpetual eucharistic adoration at the parish celebrated its 23rd year on Nov. 7, and about 100 of the original 400 still participate in a regularly scheduled Holy Hour. Today, there are at least 350 parishioners who have a regularly scheduled weekly or monthly hour. Others either serve as substitutes or drop in after Mass for a few minutes of prayer. And Wiechert is always inviting others to try a Holy Hour. “There are many blessings for a parish. The individual grows in his knowledge and his personal relationship with the Lord,” she said. “Any parishioner can request prayers
anytime for their needs. It is a way that weaves the parish together. The individual becomes friends with his prayer partner, and also those before and after. He or she knows their joys and sorrows and shares them. “Eucharistic adoration brings the parish family together.” Wiechert said she knows of at least one couple who met at eucharistic adoration. Both parishioners had lost their spouses of several decades due to illness. Their shared Holy Hour led to a lunch date, and then another. The two eventually married and enjoyed several years of marriage together before he passed away. A more recent witness, Wiechert said, speaks volumes about people’s love for Christ in the Eucharist. A few weeks ago, a parishioner lost his wife of 59 years. “She died at 12:30. A few hours later, the gentleman took his four daughters to the Holy Hour to pray as a family,” she said. “People just couldn’t believe it.” Story and photo by Marc and Julie Anderson
Fresh produce supplements standard fare T
his week, we will take a look back to see how all the teams that we’ve featured so far have fared as their seasons came to an end. Those teams are: • Miege girls tennis • Maur Hill-Mount Academy football • Immaculata volleyball • Hayden girls golf • Bishop Ward boys soccer • Hayden football • St. James Academy volleyball • St. Thomas Aquinas cross country • Bishop Miege football All this and more can be found online at: www.theleaven.org.
>> Continued from page 1 Some days, food rescue volunteers pick up 3,000 pounds of food or more. “We love the variety of food that we now have access to, especially the fresh produce, that we weren’t able to offer families before,” said Rick Cekovsky, a parishioner of Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe and an Olathe food rescue volunteer. “That food is helping those in our community who can’t afford to go to the grocery store themselves
Volunteers are needed for Catholic Charities’ food rescue program, especially in Kansas City, Kansas. To learn more, contact Michelle Carlstedt, the director of volunteers, at: mcarl stedt@catholiccharitiesks.org or call (913) 433-2080.
and buy nutritious items,” said Bailey. “It makes you feel like you’re making a difference.” Kim Brabits, Catholic Charities’ vice president of program
operations, personally recruited Bailey for the food rescue program. She attributes its success and continued growth to his ongoing involvement and crew of hardworking volunteers, who share a real camaraderie. “During this past fiscal year, Catholic Charities provided food assistance 248,480 times. That’s an annual increase of 30 percent,” said Brabits. “We count on volunteer-driven programs like our food rescue to help us continue to meet the growing needs of hungry families in our communities.”
LIFE LESSONS IN HEALTH CARE LEADERSHIP a co-lecture and panel discussion with; DR. PILAR CALVA: professor of genetics and bioethics at Universidad Anahuac Medical School, former member of The Pontifical Academy for Life, and Chief Editor of Bioethics and Catholic Hispanics for Catholic.net. DR. MERCEDES WILSON: founding member of The Pontifical Academy for Life, former delegate to the United Nations for Guatemala, and founder and President of Family of the Americas Foundation.
Monday, December 5, 2016 – 7 p.m.
Auditorium ~ Arrupe Hall, Room 126 Rockhurst University, 1100 Rockhurst Road Kansas City, MO, 64110 The event is free and open to the public! RSVPs are appreciated at www.alumni.rockhurst.edu/healthcareleadership . Questions? Contact Dr. Morris at john.morris@rockhurst.edu. Sponsored by the Department of Philosophy and the Office of Catholic Health Care for the Diocese of Kansas City - St. Joseph, in conjunction with the Visiting Scholar Lecture Series.
Hurting from abortion?
MEMORIAL FOR UNBORN CHILDREN, MARTIN HUDACEK, 2010
Free, confidential, nonjudgmental help
www.ProjectRachelKC.com 913.621.2199 or projectrachelkc@archkck.org
MERCY in
ACTION
The Leaven asked parishes and schools to share photos of the things they did during this Year of Mercy. Here is a sampling of what we received.
St. Gregory Catholic School, Marysville, hosted a clothing drive to model the corporal works of mercy. Items collected included clothing, shoes, socks and jackets of all sizes which were donated to the Topeka Rescue Mission. Sorting through the donations are: (from left) Kaylee Farrell, Charlotte Crome, Cole Haefele, Eli Frese, Shea Kramer, Katelyn Schroedl, Ella Johnson and Aubree Vering. First-grade teacher Lisa Gustin helps keep things organized.
Father Michael Gaitley, author of several books including “33 Days to Morning Glory,” led a retreat at St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood, to kick off its “33 Days to Merciful Love” retreat for the Year of Mercy.
The Carmel the Anderso ner at St. Bo row, from le from left) K
Immaculata High School students create the word “MERCY!” used their bodies to kick off the Year of Mercy in the Leavenworth school system.
Kindergartners at Christ the King School in Topeka made saint shields for All Saints Day. Each student picked a saint and decorated the shield with pictures or information about that saint. Fifth-grade girls from Sacred Heart Church in Emporia prayed at the grave of a 2-year-old child. Students in fourth- through eighth-grade Catholic Faith Formation classes learned the works of mercy and went to the cemetery to pray for the deceased. Many students also made rubbings of gravestones so they could remember to pray for those people during the month of November. Pictured are: (standing, from left) Grace Coughlin and Darian Chadwick; (kneeling, from left) Bethany DeDonder, Addie Kirmer and Ella Fessler.
Parishioners of St. Paul Parish in Olathe took buses to Atchison to tour St. Benedict's Abbey and pass though the abbey church’s Holy Door.
Students from Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas, donated soap to Giving the Basics, an organization that provides basic items such as soap, deodorant, razors, combs, feminine products and more to those in need. Students are, clockwise from bottom left: Emma Sanders, Edgar Palos, Carlos Florez, Jacob Bramlet, Vincent Rodriguez, Jacob Meza, Nitxza Lagunes-Hernandez and Ana Pacheco.
Members of the St. Joseph, Shawnee, high school youth group took to the streets with the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ to minister to the homeless.
St. Matthew School in Topeka collected personal items to be distributed to residents at the Topeka VA Hospital. Student council members Yareli Aguilar-Castillo, Alyssa CortezBradberry, Kailynn Kolbek and Devany Shoff delivered the items and helped serve lunch on Nov. 11.
lite Stars youth group of St. Boniface Parish in Scipio walked in on County Fair parade in support of Roger Rockers, a parishiooniface who is battling cancer. Parade participants were: (back eft) Billy Miller, Hayden Hermann and James Miller; (front row, Kassidy Mader, Stephen Dorrell, Jo Dorrell and Layne Lutz.
Students from Prince of Peace School in Olathe brought in more than 12,000 nonperishable food items during this Year of Mercy, which were donated to Catholic Charities. Helping load the donations are, from left: Lissel Lizarraga, Bridget Schippers, Hannah Guzman, Danny Eckerberg, Caroline Zabroski and Zach Wurtneberger.
Students at Sacred Heart School in Ottawa formed the shape of a cross for an all-school picture kicking off The Year of Mercy.
Students at St. Joseph School in Shawnee collected donations as part of the parish’s Christ Child Shower. Donations went to Patty’s Closet at the Advice and Aid Pregnancy Center. Pictured with the donations are, from left: Tanner Meyer, Avery Kurt, Lily Klein and Garrett Fleenor.
The eighth-grade student council members at St. Patrick School in Kansas City, Kansas, made posters for a canned food drive to feed the hungry. Pictured clockwise from bottom left are: Tony Dordevic, Vanessa Otero, Stella Subasic, Emma Werner and Rachel Cisneros.
Grace Kreeger, an eighth-grader at Ascension School in Overland Park, kneels for the Litany of the Saints at All Saints’ Day Mass. The eighth-graders studied designated saints and dressed as those saints for the Mass. Kreeger was dressed as St. Catherine of Alexandria.
A friendly competition between the seventh- and eighth-grade students at Holy Spirit School in Overland Park saw the two grades collect more than 66,500 ounces of water for the people of Haiti devastated by the recent hurricane.
The Mater Dei Honor Guard stood at a parish funeral to pray for the living and the dead. The honor guard serves at all parish funerals that take place during school hours. It is made up of middle school students.
The youth group at St. Dominic Parish in Holton visited St. Mary Church in St. Benedict to pass through the Holy Door and tour the church. They are, clockwise from bottom left: Jorden Reith, Alexia Baumgartner, Angie McGuffin, Mathew Suico, Mathew Lierz, Heather Mandela, Bethany Baumgartner, Katalina McGuffin and Dallan Baumgartner.
NOVEMBER 25, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
NATION
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Veterans cook up new careers with help of Catholic Charities cafe By Ambria Hammel Catholic News Service
P
HOENIX (CNS) — The Refuge is an aptly named establishment in Phoenix’s Melrose District. For customers who frequent or occasionally visit the cafe, it’s a place to rest and recharge. That goes for customers who stop by for a morning coffee, meet a friend for lunch or hang out at night when The Refuge becomes a wine bar. For artists, it serves as part gallery — with paintings and other work on the wall — and part store that offers hope of a small income. A cooperative with Lutheran Social Services empowers individuals who have come to the U.S. as refugees to showcase and sell handcrafted jewelry, purses and other gift items. For a select number of young adult refugees and a growing number of veterans, The Refuge has served as a solid steppingstone to meaningful employment. Its third crop of interns is brewing now, thanks to Catholic Charities staff who invests in them. They’re learning the skills and gaining the confidence and work history they need to move toward self-sufficiency. The Refuge is a social enterprise of Catholic Charities Community Services in the Phoenix Diocese. All of its proceeds support the programs that strengthen its outreach, particularly the refugee, unaccompanied minors and veterans programs. John Strawn, general manager of The Refuge almost since its inception three years ago, called the advent of the veteran training program a perfect storm. He had already completed a 10week trial run training young adult refugees and youth who aged out of the foster care system and sorely needed workplace skills and soft work skills to support themselves. “The greatest message we tried to convey is: You control your future. It’s OK to stumble. It’s OK to make mistakes,” Strawn said, but it’s important to learn from them and move on. Shortly thereafter, Catholic Charities acquired the MANA House. The facility offers transitional housing for
CNS PHOTO/AMBRIA HAMMEL/THE CATHOLIC SUN
U.S. Army and Navy veteran Saleto Henderson poses for a photo at the Refuge Cafe and Wine Bar in Phoenix Oct. 26. He is one of 16 veterans learning work skills through a Catholic Charities program. Marine, Army, Navy and Air Force veterans, and Catholic Charities received a grant to pay part-time minimum wage for those interested in re-entering the work force. The Refuge expects to train 16 veterans this year. Some haven’t held a job in almost a decade. Following 12 weeks of budgeting, baking, tracking inventory, cleaning and serving as a barista, the veterans left transformed. One is now an assistant manager at a nearby restaurant and will be a peer mentor for a chemical abuse program at the Veterans Affairs hospital. Another now works for a catering company. Oscar Martinez went on to culinary school. Martinez, 56, began his third career at The Refuge. The Army veteran and former diesel mechanic turned telecommunication technician spent seven
months in and out of hospitals before coming to MANA House and The Refuge. Not all of them stick to the food industry. One graduate is working at MANA House. Another is drawing upon his information technology background to pursue a career at Cisco Systems and a third wants to open a bike shop. “They all have different desires and needs and we try to cater to them as individuals,” Strawn told The Catholic Sun, newspaper of the Phoenix Diocese. For Saleto Henderson, an Army and Navy veteran, continuing to work at The Refuge allows him to be part of a positive community. He hasn’t always had that in life. “It’s been a blessing to meet the
MANA House people and to meet these people,” Henderson said at the end of his shift at The Refuge. “This is a team here and I’m a member of a team and I appreciate that.” Strawn has seen Henderson take ownership of everything he does — even to the point of checking on how the clean dishes are arranged on his day off. The customers adore him. “He’s such a joy to be around. He’s gotten a second chance on life,” Strawn said. Whether they’re a veteran or a refugee, Strawn said building their selfesteem and ability to see that The Refuge is a group effort on everything are the bigger hurdles — obstacles that get smaller with time.
Cardinal Dolan urges stronger effort to stop physician-assisted suicide
W
ASHINGTON (CNS) — The chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities has called for increased efforts and “renewed vigor” to stop legalized physician-assisted suicide after the practice was approved by voters in Colorado and the District of Columbia City Council. Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan of New York urged Catholics to join medical professionals, disability rights groups and others “in fighting for the authentic care” of people facing terminal illness in a statement released Nov. 21. “The act of prescribing a fatal, poisonous dose, moreover, undermines the very heart of medicine,” Cardinal Dolan said. “Doctors vow to do no harm, and yet assisted suicide is the ultimate abandonment of their patients.” His concern comes after voters in Colorado passed a physician-assisted suicide measure that was on the ballot Nov. 8. The law also allows insurance
companies to refuse treatment of patients they consider terminal. Colorado became the sixth state in the nation with a so-called “right-todie law,” joining Washington, Oregon, California, Vermont and Montana. In Washington, D.C., City Council members in a second vote Nov. 15 approved the “Death with Dignity Act” that permits physicians in the district to legally prescribe the drugs to patients who have been deemed mentally competent and who have received a terminal diagnosis of six months or less. Under the measure, third parties are allowed to administer the drugs used in the procedure. The bill goes to Mayor Muriel Bowser to veto it, sign it or let it become law without any action on her part. If it becomes law, it would be subject to congressional review before it takes effect. Cardinal Dolan called the district’s measure “the most expansive and dangerous so far” because it opens “the door to even further coercion and abuse.”
CNS PHOTO/BOB ROLLER
New York Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan speaks Nov. 14 during the annual fall general assembly of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in Baltimore. “Every suicide is tragic, whether someone is young or old, healthy or sick,” the cardinal added. “But the
legalization of doctor-assisted suicide creates two classes of people: those whose suicides are to be prevented at any cost, and those whose suicides are deemed a positive good. “We remove weapons and drugs that can cause harm to one group, while handing deadly drugs to the other, setting up yet another kind of life-threatening discrimination,” he continued. “This is completely unjust. Our inherent human dignity does not wane with the onset of illness or incapacity, and so all are worthy of protection.” Seriously ill people require “authentic support, including doctors fully committed to their welfare and pain management as they enter their final days,” the statement said. “Patients need our assurance that they are not a burden — that it is a privilege to care for them as we ourselves hope to be cared for one day. A compassionate society devotes more attention, not less, to members facing the most vulnerable times in their lives.”
NOVEMBER 25, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Drivers - Special Beginnings Early Learning Center is seeking part-time drivers for its school-age program located in Lenexa. Candidates must be able to drive a 13-passenger minibus, similar to a 15-passenger van. CDL not required, but must have an excellent driving record. Candidates would pick up children from area schools and then work directly with them when arriving back at the center. Experience preferred. Must have strong work ethic and the ability to work with children. Insurance provided. Background check will be conducted. Great opportunity for retired persons or those seeking a second job. Job responsibilities include: ensuring safety and well-being of children who are being transported at all times, including loading and unloading. Driving short, round-trip routes to elementary schools in Lenexa/Olathe area. Summer only: Driving short, roundtrip routes to two Lenexa city pools. Maintaining mileage log. Keeping interior of vehicle clean. Apply by sending an email to: chris@specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215. Bus driver - The Goddard School, northwest Olathe, is currently accepting applications for a part-time before/ afterschool care bus driver. Applicant must be mature, responsible and professional. Applicant must have a clean driving record and enjoy working with young children. Driver will be responsible for transporting schoolage children to and from our facility each morning and afternoon to several local elementary schools. May consider a different driver for AM and PM if necessary. Great position for a retired “grandma/grandpa.” Minimum qualifications and requirements: valid Kansas or Missouri driver’s license without indication of criminal record; clear criminal background check; participates in reporting and implementation of the child abuse and neglect policy; participate in any professional development activities (i.e., CPR, first-aid training); previous teaching and/or driving experience preferred. CDL not required; 14-passenger bus. To apply, send an email to: olathe2ks@goddardschools.com. Teachers and assistant teacher - The Goddard School in Olathe is seeking a preschool teacher, a pre-kindergarten teacher and a toddler teacher - all full-time positions - as well as an assistant teacher for multiple classrooms. Lead and assistant teachers work together. Daily responsibilities are: developing lesson plans; meeting the individual needs of the children; communicating with parents; participation in staff and training meetings; designing appropriate room arrangement to support the goals and development level of the children in the classroom; interacting with the children to support play, exploration and learning; presenting expectations that are appropriate to the child’s age and developmental level; plan and implement activities that develop self-esteem and social skills; communicate appropriately and professionally with parents and fellow staff; building teamwork; use assessment tools; and commit to continuing education. To apply, email a resume and cover letter to: olathe2ks@goddardschools.com. Enrollment management consultant – The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is accepting applications for a full-time consultant for enrollment management for the Catholic schools office. Duties include assisting local Catholic schools with branding, core value development and marketing, recruitment and retention strategies. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing, possess a bachelor’s degree in marketing, sales, communication or related field, and have a minimum of three years of experience in marketing (particularly in using social media) and sales. A complete job description is available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume and application by Nov. 27 to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Enrollment Management Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: jobs@archkck.org. Parish secretary - Our Lady of Unity Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, has an immediate opening for a part-time parish secretary. Looking for a friendly, welcoming individual who is self-motivated and organized. Microsoft Office skills required. Two years office experience preferred. Proficiency in Spanish and English, both written and verbal, is required. Hours must be regular, but will consider adaptation to applicant needs. Email resume to Father Kent O’Connor at: oluparishkck@gmail.com or mail/hand deliver to the parish office: 2910 Strong Ave., Kansas City, KS 66106. Career opportunity - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City metro, Emporia and Topeka area. Ideal for a determined, high energy, high expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better than average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. This is a full-time position. Please contact John A. Mahon, general agent, for more information or an interview at 1275 Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS 66612 or call (785) 408-8806. You can also send an email to: john.mahon@kofc.org. Controller - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is currently looking for a controller. To find out more about this position, please go online to: www. catholiccharitiesks.org and click on “Careers” under “About Us.” EEO.
Parish life coordinator - St. Francis de Sales in Lansing is looking to hire a parish life coordinator. For more information, send an email to: Fr.Wm.McEvoy@gmail.com. Drivers needed - Medi Coach Transportation is looking for caring and reliable drivers for nonemergency transportation. CDL is not required. Contact Jeff at (913) 8251921. Administrative assistant – A local biomedical company is seeking a candidate who works well in a small environment; is a quick learner, self-motivated and organized; has a positive attitude; knowledge of Microsoft Windows/QuickBooks; communicates well; is able to multitask; is trustworthy, dependable, mature and a team player. Duties include answering phones, invoicing, tracking inventory, reporting state sales taxes, filing, collections, shipping/receiving (some heavy lifting involved), supporting/scheduling sales and service teams, and filling in wherever needed. If you are looking to be successful and recognized for your hard work, email your resume to: Yourcareer101@gmail.com. Clinical psychologist - A multispecialty, faith-based mental health practice is seeking a licensed psychologist who follows the teachings and authority of the magisterium of the Catholic Church. Flexible hours with offices located in both Leavenworth and Olathe. Populations served include: children, adolescents, adults and senior adults. Please visit the website at: www.professional associationphd.com for additional information regarding the practice. If interested, email cover letter and professional vita to: proassociates_o@sbcglobal.net. Accounts payable/payroll accountant - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has an immediate opening in the chancery accounting office for a full-time accounts payable/payroll accountant. The position is responsible for processing approved invoices utilizing the DocuWare software and accounting system. This position is also responsible for payroll for the chancery staff. One to three years of accounts payable and payroll experience required, accounting degree preferred. Candidate must have strong computing skills with proficiency in MS Office Suite; must demonstrate strong organizational skills, including attention to detail and accuracy. A complete job description and application are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck. org/jobs. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume and application by Dec. 2, 2016, to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Accounts Payable/Payroll, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: jobs@archkck.org. Teacher assistant - Special Beginnings, Lenexa, is seeking full- or part-time after school teacher assistants at all locations. We are looking for a teacher assistant candidate who has an excellent work ethic, heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. Experience and/or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Teacher assistants will work with the lead teacher to care for and educate the children. Primary responsibilities include assisting the lead teacher with: care and supervision of children, lesson plan implementation, parent communication, and cleanliness and organization of classroom. Starting hourly pay ranges based on experience and education. Pay increases are based on job performance. Opportunities for advancement are available, as the company prefers to promote from within. Apply by sending an email to: chris@specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215.
SERVICES Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@kc.rr. com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlawyer. com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress. Music lessons for all ages - Study piano, voice or songwriting with a certified, experienced instructor in south Kansas City/Prairie Village area. Contact Amy D. Gardner at (816) 518-0955. Member of Curé Ars Parish. Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload, and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com. Agua Fina Irrigation and Landscape The one-stop location for your project! Landscape and irrigation design, Installation and maintenance. Cleanup and grading services It’s time to repair your lawn. 20% discount on lawn renovations with mention of this ad. Visit the website at: www.goaguafina.com Call (913) 530-7260 or (913) 530-5661 EVERFIT fitness community - We provide a variety of classes designed to make fitness fun while challenging you to a higher level of performance. Classes include boxing, cycling, HIIT, weights, PiYo, TRX, our signature EverFit Tri, and more. EverFitKC.com. Save 10% with this ad or Promo Code LEAVEN.
Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting. Hedge trimming, mulch, leaf removal. Fully insured and free estimates. John Rodman (913) 548-3002 Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install! “Kevin of all trades” your professional organizer and “Honey-do” specialist. Call today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055. Insured. References. Visit our website at: www. KOATINDUSTRIES.com. Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959. Winter tutoring - Available for K - 12 and home-schoolers in music and academics. For more information, call/text Kathleen at (913) 206-1837 or email: klmamuric@yahoo. com. Quilted memories - Your Kansas City Longarm shop Nolting Longarm machines, quilting supplies and machine quilting services. We specialize in memorial quilts - custom designed memory quilts from your T-shirt collections, photos, baby clothes, college memorabilia, neckties, etc. For information or to schedule a free consultation, call (913) 649-2704. Visit the website at: www.quiltedmemoriesllc.com.
HOME IMPROVEMENT EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 252-1391 Local handyman and lawn care – Water heaters, garbage disposals, toilets, faucets, painting, power washing, doors, storm doors, gutter cleaning, wood rot, mowing, carpet, roofing, etc. Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118. Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. - We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful. Woodwork will glow. Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125. Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 8294336. The Drywall Doctor, Inc. - A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655 Swalms organizing - downsizing - cleanout service – Reduce clutter – Any space organized. Shelving built on-site. Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp.; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115. WWW. SWALMSORGANIZING.COM. Kansas City’s Premier Deck, Fence & Concrete - We repair, power wash and stain wood decks and fences. We power wash and seal concrete drives, walkways, pool decks and more. Call Brian at (913) 952-5965. Member of Holy Trinity Parish. House Painting Interior and exterior; wallpaper removal. Power washing, fences, decks. 30 years’ experience. References. Reasonable rates. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776. Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dan deeconst@aol.com. DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time. Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com
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NELSON CREATIONS L.L.C. Home remodeling, design/build, kitchens, baths, all interior and exterior work. Family owned and operated; over 25 years experience. Licensed and insured; commercial and residential. Kirk and Diane Nelson. (913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net Detail construction and remodeling - We offer a full line of home remodeling services. Don’t move — remodel! Johnson County area. Call for a free quote at (913) 709-8401. Thank you for another great year - Through your support, my family has been blessed and my business has grown. We do windows, trim, siding, doors, decks, interior and exterior painting, wood rot, bathroom renovations, tile and sheetrock. If you need work done around your home, we can do it. Josh (913) 709-7230. 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) 491-5837 or (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.
CAREGIVING Looking for high quality home care? - Whether you’re looking to introduce care for your family or simply looking to improve your current home care quality, we can help. Our unique approach to home care has earned us a 99% client satisfaction rating among the 1,000-plus families we have assisted. We are family-owned, with offices in Lenexa and Lawrence. Call Benefits of Home Senior Care, Lenexa: (913) 422-1591 or Lawrence: (785) 727-1816 or www.benefitsofhome.com. 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. Caregiving - For your loved one. Cheerful, experienced, empathetic. Excellent local references. Call Vivian at (913) 292-4829. Caregiving - Retired nurse, 30 years experience. Will do what needs to be done. $15 per hour, evenings/nights. References available. Call (913) 579-5276.
FOR SALE Residential lifts - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood. Call Silver Cross KC at (913) 327-5557.
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 - I’m Mark Edmondson, a local parishioner at Holy Trinity, and I buy and sell houses in any condition. If you have a house “situation,” call me. I might have a solution for you. (913) 980-4905. Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, lighters, fountain pens, post card collections, paintings/prints, pottery, sterling, china dinnerware. Renee Maderak, (913) 631-7179. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee
VACATION Branson Condo - Enjoy fall colors and Christmas programs. Condo sleeps 6. Fully furnished and close to entertainment. On golf course, has indoor pool, Wi-Fi and exercise room are available. Please call (913) 515-3044.
PILGRIMAGE Fatima/Medjugorje pilgrimage - Celebrate the 100th anniversary of apparitions in Fatima with a pilgrimage to Fatima and Medjugorje. Oct. 25 to Nov. 9, 2017. Call Grace at (913) 449-1806 for details. (Dates subject to change.)
WANTED TO RENT Wants to rent - 26-year-old Overland Park woman looking for a house or apartment to share rent with a woman who can dedicate a bedroom and bathroom to me and share common areas. Budget is around $450/ month. Needs to be less than 10 miles from the 135th St. and Metcalf area. I have a dog who is kennel and house trained, hypoallergenic and doesn’t shed. I work full time and am clean and considerate. Call or text Danielle (text is more reliable for me) at (913) 704-8647.
NOVEMBER 25, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CALENDAR OLD WORLD CHRISTMAS Strawberry Hill Museum 720 N. 4th St., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 25 - Jan. 29
The museum hours are Saturday and Sunday noon - 5 p.m. The Tea Room hours are 1 - 4 p.m. The cost is $7 for adults and $3 for kids ages 6 - 12. The museum will also be offering Friday nighttime tours and a variety of cooking classes through the holiday season. For more information about other events, go online to: www.strawberryhillmuseum.org.
THE SOUNDS OF STARKENBURG St. Martin Church 197 State Hwy. P, Rhineland, Missouri Nov. 26 at 1, 3:30 or 7 p.m.
Welcome the Christmas season with the annual Sounds of Starkenburg. Barry Bierwirth will perform on the historic Pfeffer organ. There will also be a handbell choir, vocalists and sing-along carols. A freewill offering is suggested. A soup supper and country store will be available in Valentine Hall from 2 - 6:30 p.m.
DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA, LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE 503 Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall) 5973 S.W. 25th St., Topeka Nov. 27 at 12:30 p.m.
There will be a memorial Mass for our deceased members, followed by a business meeting and social. All members are encouraged to attend.
Annie Wallace at (816) 510-4818 or visit the website at: www.bishopmiege.com.
TAIZE PRAYER Annunciation Chapel 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth Dec. 1 at 7 p.m.
Persons of all Christian traditions are invited to participate in Taize prayer, a meditative, candlelit service that includes simple chants, silence and prayers. Annunciation Chapel is on the campus of the motherhouse of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth.
Shopping will be from 5 - 8:30 p.m. Ladies Night Out begins at 6 p.m. and includes beer, wine and snacks at no charge. There will be over 40 vendors. All teachers that RSVP will receive a gift. Visit the website at: www. facebook.com/events/193849881069278/.
LINGER OVER COFFEE DURING ADVENT Marillac Center 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth Nov. 29, Dec. 6 and Dec. 13 from 10:30 a.m. - noon
You are invited to explore Advent 2016 themes during a series of prayer and sharing sessions offered by Marillac staff members. Come for one, two or all three sessions. A freewill offering is suggested. For more information, call (913) 758-7552 or visit the website at: www.marillaccenter.org.
AN ADVENT CELEBRATION Bishop Miege High School 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Roeland Park Dec. 1 at 6:30 p.m.
This annual event, sponsored by the Miege Mothers’ Club, begins in the chapel with a candlelight prayer service and then moves to the Commons for a reception. For more information and to make reservations, call
NATIVITY DISPLAY Cathedral of St. Peter 409 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 4 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m.
The Altar Society of St. Peter is sponsoring its annual Nativity display. Admission is free. There will also be a holiday bake sale, a raffle and refreshments in the parish center.
PRO-LIFE PHYSICIANS SPEAK Rockhurst University (Arrupe Hall) 1100 Rockhurst Rd., Kansas City, Missouri Dec. 5 from 7 - 9 p.m.
TEXAS HOLD ’EM POKER TOURNAMENT Sacred Heart (multipurpose center) 21801 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Dec. 2 from 6:30 - 11 p.m. This event is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. Check-in is at 6:30 p.m.; start time at 7 p.m. For registration and a nonrefundable donation cost of $35, go to the following website: http://shoj.wufoo.com/ forms/hold-em-2016/.
SINGLES OF NATIVITY CHRISTMAS DANCE Church of the Nativity Parish (hall) 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood Dec. 3 from 7 - 11 p.m. LADIES NIGHT OUT/CHRISTMAS BOUTIQUE St. James Academy 24505 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa Nov. 30 from 5 - 8:30 p.m.
readings from the Bible followed by choral music and Christmas carols. This event is free and open to all.
Tickets are $20 at the door. There will be food, drinks and a DJ. The dance is sponsored by Singles of Nativity (SON). For more information, call Maria at (913) 314-9844 or send an email to her at: mmeli62@gmail.com.
LESSONS AND CAROLS St. Lawrence Center 1631 Crescent Rd., Lawrence Dec. 3 at 7 p.m.
Prelude music will begin at 6:30 p.m. Lessons and carols is an evening of Scripture readings from both the Old and New Testaments followed by choral musical responses and Christmas carols. Admission is free; donations are welcome. A reception will follow. For more information, call Brian Nelson at (785) 218-9075.
Dr. Pilar Calva and Dr. Mercedes Wilson will speak about their experience with the Pontifical Academy for Life, as well as with international groups like the United Nations. Both physicians bring global leadership on pro-life causes and are international leaders in the fields of Catholic bioethics, natural family planning and fertility. All are welcome. RSVPs are appreciated at: www. alumni.rockhurst.edu/healthcareleadership.
ADVENT DAY OF REFLECTION Sanctuary of Hope 2601 Ridge Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 6 from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.
The theme of the day is: “Jesus the Healer.” There will be two presentations given by Father Dennis Wait, followed by personal reflection time, recitation of the rosary and the celebration of Mass. The day will finish with lunch. The suggested donation is $30 per person/$50 per couple. For more information or to register, call (913) 321-4673 or send an email to Julie at: Julie@sanctuaryofhope.org.
‘TRAVELING THE ROAD OF MERCY: A THOMAS MERTON RETREAT’ Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.
This retreat will explore events of our life to discover our experience of God’s mercy. The retreat will include talks, contemplative dialogue, contemplative prayer, shared prayer and a DVD. There will be time for silence and conversation. Lunch will be provided. For more information or to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the website at: www. sophiaspiritualitycenter.org.
LESSONS AND CAROLS St. Pius X Parish 5500 Woodson, Mission Dec. 4 at 7 p.m.
Lessons and carols is an evening of Scripture
HOPE: DAYS OF REFLECTION AND PRAYER Precious Blood Renewal Center 2130 St. Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri Dec. 3, 10 and 17 From 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.
The topics of prayer and reflection will be (in chronological order): “The Tender Compassion of God”; “Those Who Wait in Hope”; and “Finding Hope in Uncertainty.” To RSVP, call Lucia Ferrara at (816) 781-4344 or send an email to: Hospitalitycoordinatorpbc@gmail. com.
OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CELEBRATION Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish 7023 W. 71st. St., Overland Park Dec. 12 at 6 p.m.
Mass will begin at 6 p.m. Mariachi music will be provided by Beto Lopez. Following Mass, there will be a reception with Mexican pastries, hot chocolate and coffee in the church hall.
‘QUO VADIS’ RETREAT Savior Pastoral Center 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 17 at 5 p.m. - Dec. 19 at 11 a.m.
Single men ages 18 - 35 are invited to Archbishop Naumann’s “Quo Vadis” retreat. Retreat master Father Andrew Strobl will give several inspiring talks. Come meet priests and seminarians, pray together, and discover what God is calling you to be. To register, go to the website at: www.kckvocation. com by Dec. 14.
HEALTHY RELATIONSHIPS Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Tuesdays from 10 - 11 a.m.
This group meets weekly to discuss topics about healthy relationships and domestic violence education and support.
‘COPING WITH LIFE ALONE’ St. Thomas More Hall 11822 Holmes Rd., Kansas City, Missouri Sundays, Jan. 8 - Feb. 19 from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
ENKINDLE CONFIRMATION RETREAT Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg Dec. 3 from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.
All those preparing for confirmation or who missed confirmation preparation are invited to the general Enkindle confirmation retreat. This is a fully facilitated outdoor encounter with Christ in preparation for the sealing of the Holy Spirit. For details and registration, visit the website at: www.archkck.org/ranch or call (785) 746-5693.
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CELTIC CHRISTMAS St. Columbkille Parish (hall) 13311 Hwy. 16, Blaine Dec. 10 from 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.
There will be cookies and candies sold by the pound, breakfast burritos, homemade cinnamon rolls, kolaches, soups and pies. Ham sandwiches and chili dogs will also be available. There will be holiday vendors. For more information, call (785) 927-0282.
“Coping with Life Alone” is a Beginning Experience grief support program that meets each week for seven weeks. The program helps those who have lost a love relationship — due to death, divorce or separation — move through the experience of grief and loss into a future with renewed hope. For additional information or to register, call Donna at (816) 305-3760.
CALENDAR POLICY
Calendar notices are due eight days before the publication date. Because of space considerations, notices may only run two weeks before the event. Send notices to: beth.blankenship@ theleaven.org.
FIRST WEEK OF ADVENT Nov. 27 THE FIRST SUNDAY OF ADVENT Is 2: 1-5 Ps 122: 1-9 Rom 13: 11-14 Mt 24: 37-44 Nov. 28 Monday Is 4: 2-6 Ps 122: 1-9 Mt 8: 5-11 Nov.29 Tuesday Is 11: 1-10 Ps 72: 1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17 Lk 10: 21-24 Nov. 30 ANDREW, APOSTLE Rom 10: 9-18 Ps 19: 8-11 Mt 4: 18-22 Dec. 1 Thursday Is 26: 1-6 Ps 118: 1, 8-9, 19-21, 25-27a Mt 7: 21, 24-27 Dec. 2 Friday Is 29: 17-24 Ps 27: 1, 4, 13-14 Mt 9: 27-31 Dec. 3 Francis Xavier, priest Is 30: 19-21, 23-26 Ps 147: 1-6 Mt 9:35 – 10:1, 5a, 6-8 SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT Dec. 4 SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT Is 11: 1-10 Ps 72: 1-2, 7-8, 12-13, 17 Rom 15: 4-9 Mt 3: 1-12 Dec. 5 Monday Is 35: 1-10 Ps 85: 9-14 Lk 5: 17-26 Dec. 6 Nicholas, bishop Is 40: 1-11 Ps 96: 1-3, 10-13 Mt 18: 12-14 Dec. 7 Ambrose, bishop, doctor of the church Is 40: 25-31 Ps 103: 1-4, 8, 10 Mt 11: 28-30 Dec. 8 THE IMMACULATE CONCEPTION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY Gn 3: 9-15, 20 Ps 98: 1-4 Eph 1: 3-6, 11-12 Lk 1: 26-38 Dec. 9 Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin Is 48: 17-19 Ps 1: 1-4, 6 Mt 11: 16-19 Dec. 10 Saturday Sir 48: 1-4, 9-11 Ps 80: 2-3, 15-16, 18-19 Mt 17: 9a, 10-13
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NOVEMBER 25, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY
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Stuck between the ‘already’ and the ‘not yet’
l “già” e il “non ancora.” That phrase was burned into my brain during five-and-a-half years of theology classes at the Gregorian University in Rome. In fact, if I had a dollar for every time I heard it, I’d be a millionaire. But what does it mean? Translated, the Italian “già” means “already”; “non ancora” means “not yet.” When applied to faith, it signifies that we live in a tension: We’ve already been redeemed by Jesus, but our salvation is not yet fully realized. In other words, while we see glimpses of eternity while here on earth, it will only be fully complete in heaven. No other time of year is this more apparent than the season of Advent. While we’re singing, “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” the music outside of church ranges from “Silver Bells” to “I Saw Mommy Kissing Santa Claus.” Our churches display an Advent wreath, while stores, towns and shopping areas have already held “lighting ceremonies” for their Christmas trees. Our parishes hold reconciliation services, while our workplaces host Christmas parties.
MARK MY WORDS
FATHER MARK GOLDASICH Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.
So, while we Catholics say “not yet” to the “Christmas season,” the world acts as if it’s “already” here. Now, we could be Advent purists and look down our noses at all the “already Christmas” revelers, but that’s not very charitable. We need to rediscover what Father Ed Hays called the intersection between Bethlehem (the “non ancora”) and Broadway (the “già”). So, we keep our Advent preparation strong, but also look for God in the signs of Christmas that already surround us. There’s great wisdom in this creation story of
the Cherokees: When the plants and trees were first made, the Great Mystery set up a contest to determine which gift would be most useful to whom. “I want you to stay awake and keep watch over the earth for seven nights,” he told them. The young trees and plants were so excited to be entrusted with such an important job that the first night they didn’t find it difficult to stay awake. However, the second night was not so easy, and just before dawn, a few fell asleep. On the third night, the trees and plants whispered among themselves in the wind, trying to keep from dropping off, but it was too much work for some of them. Even more fell asleep on the fourth night. By the time the seventh night came, the only trees and plants still
awake were the cedar, pine, spruce, fir, holly and laurel. “What wonderful endurance you have,” said the Great Mystery. “You shall be given the gift of remaining green forever. You will be the guardians of the forest. Even in the seeming dead of winter, your brother and sister creatures will find life protected in your branches.” Ever since then, all the other trees and plants lose their leaves and sleep all winter, while the evergreens stay awake. (Adapted from William J. Bausch’s “A World of Stories for Preachers and Teachers.”) Father Bausch sees this as a perfect Advent tale because it reminds us to stay “green” and “awake” in the midst of the barrenness and sleepiness around us. He’s right. Many people sleepwalk through these days. They celebrate the ties of family and friends, good memories and good food, and gift giving. But a lot of it seems empty because they’ve forgotten the best thing about Christmas: Jesus, the God who loves us so much he became one of us to lead us to a fuller, more meaningful, true and eternal life. As Christians, we’re to wake people up to see:
the Light behind all the sparkling lights, the Gift beyond those under the tree, the Song underpinning all the harmonious carols of the season, the Shepherd leading the shepherds, and the Child without whom there would be no reason to celebrate. This big task has to come from prayer. The U.S. bishops’ website (www.usccb.org) has a marvelous, interactive Advent calendar filled with seasonal prayers and ideas. Visit it each day, or at least make this simple prayer by Father Henri Nouwen part of your go-to Advent routine: “Lord Jesus, Master of both the light and the darkness, send your Holy Spirit upon our preparations for Christmas. We who have so much to do seek quiet spaces to hear your voice each day. We who are anxious over many things look forward to your coming among us. We who are blessed in so many ways long for the complete joy of your kingdom. We whose hearts are heavy seek the joy of your presence. We are your people, walking in darkness, yet seeking the light. To you we say, ‘Come, Lord Jesus.” AMEN!
Second coming will be all too soon for unprepared
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ragedy often appears to strike at random. Consider, for example, small children killed in the crossfire of gang shootings, or victims of cancer or stroke. It looks as though there is no rhyme or reason to it. One person is taken, another left behind. The situation in the Gospel reading for this Sunday, Mt 24:37-44, sounds very similar: “Two men will be out in the field; one will be taken, and one will be left. Two women will be grinding at the mill; one will be taken and one will be left.” On the surface, it may look as though the one being taken and the other being left amounts to pure luck. After all, the two are indistin-
POPE FRANCIS
THE GOSPEL TRUTH
FATHER MIKE STUBBS Father Stubbs is the pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.
guishable, one from the other. But the context of the reading suggests that there is a reason for their different fates. The
The vulnerability of the poor and of future generations to the impact of climate change creates a “serious ethical and moral responsibility to act without delay and as free as possible from political and economic pressure” to slow climate change and protect the environment, Pope Francis said. In a written message to the U.N. Framework
reading cautions us: “So too, you also must be prepared, for at an hour you do not expect, the Son of Man will come.” When the Son of Man arrives, he brings judgment. Those not caught off guard will enjoy salvation. Those who are not watchful will suffer a different fate. It was not obvious which of the two men was watchful and alert for the coming
of the Son of Man and which was not. Neither was it obvious which of the two women was similarly watchful and which was not. But at the arrival of the Son of Man, what was hidden will be revealed. When Luke’s Gospel was being written, the early Christians expected the imminent return of Christ in glory. At the same time, they did not know the exact day or hour: “For you do not know on which day your Lord will come.” This uncertainty tempted them to grow slack and less attentive. In our own day and age, the long delay in Christ’s return has caused Christians to no longer expect an imminent return. Similarly, though, we are tempted to lessen our prepara-
Convention on Climate Change conference in Marrakech, Morocco, Pope Francis praised the 100 countries that formally joined the Paris climate agreement adopted last year, but emphasized that implementing the agreement must involve multidisciplinary cooperation and special measures of solidarity with the poor. “Technological solutions are necessary, but not sufficient,” the pope wrote to the conference, which was meeting Nov. 7-18.
tion for that event. We even wonder if he is ever coming back. All this uncertainty can tempt us to a lack of preparation. We might even say that this follows an unfortunate national tendency. So many older Americans have not saved adequately for retirement. Too often, when disaster approaches, we have stuck our heads in the sand. Preparation is key. But the preparation that the Gospel points to does not involve laying in supplies of food and water, or building a bomb shelter. It is the spiritual preparation that consists of living according to the values of Christ, of following his teachings. Then we will be prepared, no matter what happens.
Governments must recognize there are “ethical and social aspects” of working for a new model of development that is sustainable and respectful of both the planet and the poor. “The current situation of environmental degradation,” he said, is “strongly connected with human, ethical and social degradation.” — CNS
NOVEMBER 25, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY
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New president could signal intent in early days
he electoral earthquake that shook America on Nov. 8 revealed a political landscape that has been fundamentally changed. Yet amid the excitement, amazement and hysteria over this new political alignment, it should be borne in mind that no federal laws or regulations were approved or repealed on election day. That part — the important part — doesn’t just happen automatically. The work of making policy is still ahead, and it is a far different business than the making of campaign promises. On his fourth day in office, President Obama overturned the Mexico
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CHURCH AND STATE
MICHAEL SCHUTTLOFFEL Michael Schuttloffel is the executive director of the Kansas Catholic Conference.
City Policy, a ban on aid to groups that perform or promote abortion abroad. It was an action
pregnant with both symbolic and substantive significance, sending a clear message about his priorities. In the early days of his presidency, Donald Trump will have a similar opportunity to send a message about his intentions. Americans with traditional religious beliefs, having felt under
siege by the culture, the media and their own government for the last several years, will be watching closely. Swift reinstatement of the Mexico City Policy would be an excellent way to start. Then, before the ink is even dry on that directive, America’s new president should turn his attention to the plight of the Little Sisters of the Poor. The Little Sisters are an order of religious women whose mission is to care for the poor elderly. Shockingly, they have had to fight the Obama administration in court for years because the administration wants to force the Little Sisters’ employee health plan to provide contraception, steril-
ization and abortioninducing drugs. By substantially amending — or preferably just ending — the HHS mandate that has ensnared the Little Sisters, Hobby Lobby and countless other employers who simply want to be able to provide their employees with health care without violating their religious beliefs, the Trump administration would send a clear signal that the federal government again recognizes that religious freedom means more than a mere right to private worship. It, in fact, means, among other things, the right to run a charity, a school, a hospital or a business in accordance with the religious beliefs of that organization’s
people and mission. Under the current administration, the federal government has been an eager combatant in the culture wars, whether it’s harassing high schools and universities over their bathroom policies, or trying to prevent states from defunding Planned Parenthood. It is instructive that nowadays most federal heavy-handedness is the result of executive action, not actual laws debated and passed by Congress. This is bad news for democracy, but good news for the Little Sisters and others in their predicament: On Jan. 20, 2017, their ordeal can be ended with the wave of a presidential hand.
Sometimes we need to stop and celebrate what we got right
ear friends of Catholic schools, Sometimes we Catholic school educators can be our own worst critics. Because we are always striving to be better and because we are immersed in what we do on a day-to-day basis, we can become desensitized to what we do well. I was reminded of this recently when, for some reason (thank you, Holy Spirit!), I was blessed to hear a plethora of stories of how Catholic schools in our archdiocese have “gotten it right.” Please allow me to share some of what I heard: One of our schools held a Custodian Appre-
FROM THE SUPER
KATHY O’HARA Kathy O’Hara is the superintendent of archdiocesan schools.
ciation Day. The idea of the day originated with the students, and the day’s events were completely planned by them.
Fourth-grade students took it upon themselves, unbeknown to their parents and teacher, to gather to prayer the rosary at lunch for their teacher’s father who was gravely ill. Many schools offer adoration of the Blessed Sacrament to all grade
levels and report that it is the one thing students comment on as being what they “like best” about their schools, saying it is “more fun than recess.” Students have initiated “Promise to Pray” drop boxes and other ways those in the school community can hold each other in prayer in both good and bad times. Teachers, when asked about what an evangelizing Catholic school should look like, responded with beautiful and articulate testimony rooted in their schools’ lived ministry. Parents who are new to our schools report the overwhelming and
positive difference they see and feel in how their children are welcomed and treated. Consultants who have worked with our schools tell us how impressed they are with our schools’ understanding of and fidelity to our primary mission — forming disciples of Jesus. The Gaudeamus event sponsored by the Catholic Education Foundation showed the talent, dedication and faithfulness of students, faculty, staff and parents in our Catholic schools. These are just a sampling of “good news” stories that have been shared with me in the
last month. What is gratifying to me is that these stories are not out of the ordinary; they are part of the everyday fabric of what happens in our Catholic schools. Because we realize what a gift Catholic schools can be to our faithful, we take very seriously the need to always improve. However, it is important to understand, appreciate and celebrate what we “get right” and to remember that we are only stewards of our Catholic schools. They really are the Lord’s schools. We just need to rely on him to do what he calls us to do. ¡Vaya con Dios!
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NOVEMBER 25, 2016 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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MERCY MADE FLESH Lawrence parish uses Mercy Cards to commit to practical and concrete corporal, spiritual works of mercy
From left, Murphy O’Malley and Sara Pavlyak carry a reliquary box during the procession from the Chapel of Mercy to the altar. Carrying the candles are Austin Quick and Sampson Huston.
By Carolyn Kaberline Special to The Leaven
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AWRENCE — This year’s celebration of the solemnity of Christ the King held a special significance for members of Corpus Christi Parish Church here. Not only did it represent the official closing of the Year of Mercy, but it also marked the end of a yearlong program in which parishioners found and committed to simple, practical ways to spread Christ’s mercy. “During the year, our choir went on a pilgrimage to Rome and parishioners traveled to St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison,” said pastor Father Mick Mulvany. “Our young people also went to visit the Shrine of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne.” But in addition to the pilgrimages, he said, there was also a need to come up with practical ways that everyone could live the works of mercy. “There was a collaboration of the parish staff and Father Mick as we reflected on the Year of Mercy and tried to decide what we wanted to get out of it,” said Chase Becker, Corpus Christi pastoral assistant. “We wanted something concrete in terms of taking the lofty idea of mercy and making it tangible.” A parish-wide Mercy Card project was the result of their brainstorming. The cards were sent out to parish organizations and staff members who, in turn, came up with 10 ways each of the works — both corporal and spiritual — could be carried out. “It can be pretty vague as to what it means to ‘teach the ignorant’ — one of the spiritual works of mercy,” said Becker. “However, inviting someone to a faith formation class is much more concrete and doable.” Once the idea of the Mercy Cards was decided upon, a small folder listing the corporal and spiritual works of mercy and several Mercy Cards was passed out to all parishioners. Those cards featured sayings like: “Offer someone a ride if they’ve lost their driving privileges”; “Have a technology-free family day’’; “Light a candle at church for someone in need”; “Pray by name for someone disliked, even for those who have wronged you”; and “Give cards and stamps to a homebound person” — to name just a few of the 140 possibilities. “If you really look through the cards, you’ll note that, although people’s circumstances might be different, these are achievable by everyone,” said Becker. “Once we came up with the idea for the cards and realized they represented something very holy, we
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Father Mick Mulvany, pastor of Corpus Christi Parish in Lawrence, delivers his homily at the Mass for the solemnity of Christ the King, the official end of the jubilee Year of Mercy.
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“TOGETHER AS A PARISH WE’VE WORKED HARD TO FULFILL POPE FRANCIS’ CALL TO SPREAD CHRIST’S MESSAGE OF MERCY IN SIMPLE, PRACTICAL WAYS THROUGH THE USE OF OUR MERCY CARDS.” Chase Becker, Corpus Christi pastoral assistant
needed somewhere to keep them, so a couple of parish artists went to work on the reliquary box.” Constructed by Terry Wildeman and painted by Tony Silvestri, the idea for the paint colors and designs on the box came from the parish’s young adult group. “When you look at the box, you notice the trees on it,” said Becker. “So many of the corporal works of mercy are somehow connected to trees or shelter. “Trees are a symbol of growth and a
reminder that, by participating in these acts, we can increase our relationship to Christ.” While the trees are a reminder of the corporal works of mercy, the seven stars on the lid are a reminder of the spiritual works of mercy. The lid also contains a relic of Mother Teresa — a strand of her hair — which makes mercy more tangible, as she lived a merciful life, said Becker. “She also brings out the idea of the communion of saints,” he said, adding that the relic was obtained from the Mother Teresa Center in California. The reliquary box was placed in a flex area of the church, which was renamed the Chapel of Mercy. There, parishioners and others brought their completed Mercy Cards throughout the year. “Together as a parish we’ve worked hard to fulfill Pope Francis’ call to spread Christ’s message of mercy in simple, practical ways through the use of our Mercy Cards,” said Becker. “These cards, inscribed with names or intentions, have been placed by individuals into our Mercy Reliquary Chest,” he continued. “Throughout this past year, this reliquary and the cards within it have been the focus of much prayer and devotion.” At each Mass this past weekend, the chest was brought up to the altar as part of a festive procession from its
place of prayer near the baptismal font. Accompanying the chest were members of the Knights of Columbus and representatives of parish ministries who carried candles and placed them around the enthroned chest. “This action symbolized the many, many works of mercy accomplished by the members of this parish community over the past year,” Becker explained. “During this liturgy, as we celebrated the closing of the Year of Mercy, we offered our thanksgiving as we reflected upon our own growth over this past year and the message of love which Christ the King offers us through his mercy.” Following the liturgies, the cards placed in the reliquary were packaged and mailed to Calcutta, India, where they will be placed at the tomb of Mother Teresa and remembered in the prayers and liturgies of the Missionaries of Charity, the order that Mother Teresa founded. “Mother Teresa’s example of living mercifully has inspired us through this year,” said Becker said. “We continue to ask for her prayers as we move forward from this year as more merciful and holy people.” “This call to be merciful doesn’t come to a close with these liturgies,” explained Father Mick. “It is now part of who we are.”