12 07 18 Vol. 40 No. 17

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 40, NO. 17 | DECEMBER 7, 2018

JUST DO IT! St. James senior’s cross-country career is a victory in itself

BY OLIVIA MARTIN

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PHOTO BY CHRISTINE ROBINSON

Zoe Schierts approaches the finish line of the NXR Heartland cross-country meet in South Dakota. She ended her high school cross-country career with a personal best time of 38:49.2 in the 5K. ENEXA — Running a 5K at race-pace is not easy.

Especially after having undergone over 100 surgeries.

But that hasn’t stopped St. James Academy senior Zoe Schierts from competing in four years’ worth of cross-country meets.

“Zoe has run in every training session and raced in every competition with our team while she has been in high school,” said head coach Rob Harber. “[She] is one of the most hard-working people I’ve ever known,” he added.

Unconventional motivation For most, joining the cross-country team means training for another sport or working toward a scholarship to college. But not for Schierts.

“During summer training a few years ago, one of our coaches asked the check-in question: ‘Why

ANTI-SEMITISM

Rise of anti-semitism is a concern for area Jews and Christians.

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do you run?’” said senior cross-country teammate Sarah LaPlante. “Zoe’s answer was because each day she runs is one more day she will stay mobile.

“It’s very humbling — the reason why she does it is so much more serious [than others].”

Diagnosed with a form of cerebral palsy called “spastic displegia” as a child, Schierts’ muscles and bones are weakened by the disorder, particularly in her legs.

In middle school, Schierts’ doctor began to push her to join St. James’ cross-country team.

“There’s a lack of communication between my brain and my muscles,” said Schierts, “so they sort of spaz out and cause me some pain sometimes.

Running would make my bones a lot stronger and be able to withstand [more] through my life.”

Her doctor also encouraged her to join cross-country for the social aspect.

“If you’re disabled, you feel like you’re not included in the group and you can’t contribute as much,” said Schierts. “[My doctor] didn’t want that fate for me. He wanted me to be on the cross-country team because [they] are some of the nicest people I’d ever meet.” >> See “25-MINUTE” on page 11

HONORED

Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher is this year’s recipient of the St. Philippine Duchesne Award. Page 11

PHOTO BY CHRISTINE ROBINSON

Zoe Schierts recieves a big hug from her friend and teammate Maggie Burning after competing in her final high school meet.

SOUL MUSIC

Four young men prepared a special gift for patrons of St. Mary’s Food Kitchen.

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DECEMBER 7, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ARCHBISHOP

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Look for ‘hope stories’ in your life this Advent

dvent is the season that focuses our attention on the virtue of

hope.

For the Christian, our hope is not based on our ability to overcome any obstacle. Hope is not simply an exercise in positive thinking or naive optimism.

Our hope is based on our confidence in God’s love for us as revealed throughout salvation history, but most powerfully and eloquently in the Word made flesh who dwelt and dwells among us. Our hope is anchored in the faithfulness of God’s mercy despite the sinful infidelity of human beings.

It is because of our confident hope in God’s faithful love that Christians have expectant eyes searching for expressions of Our Lord’s goodness in the events of our lives. I do not know about you, but I come to this Advent with a great longing to renew and strengthen the virtue of Christian hope in my heart.

Our previous executive director and president of Catholic Charities, Ken Williams, initiated a practice to begin every meeting of the staff and volunteers of Catholic Charities with a hope story.

Ken sought to create a culture within Catholic Charities that recognized the revelation of God’s beauty and love in the midst of some of the distressing and often tragic circumstances of life for many of those whom Catholic Charities strives to serve. I want to share with you three brief recent hope stories that were a source of great encouragement to me.

Recently, I had the

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN opportunity to meet with one of our former seminarians, Thomas Vehige, and his bride Genevieve.

Thomas left the seminary many years ago.

Despite possessing many qualities and gifts that are essential for priestly ministry, Tom discerned that he was not called to the priesthood. He left the seminary with a desire to serve the church as a layman.

After some time, Thomas discovered the Family Missions Company, a lay apostolate committed to responding to Our Lord’s commission to proclaim the Gospel and make disciples.

The Family Mission Company trains, sends and sustains families as well as single laymen and women to evangelize and provide humanitarian aid in some of the poorest communities around the world.

Thomas has spent the past several years in India helping to bring the love of Jesus to the poor and helping to equip local Catholics to become even more effective witnesses of the joy of the Gospel.

His wife Genevieve, while in college, became acquainted with the Family Missions Company

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through her sister. Genevieve has been a missionary in the Philippines for a couple of years.

Thomas and Genevieve married this past spring. They are back in the United States assisting with the formation of other lay missionaries.

In the not too distant future, they are eager as a married couple to resume their missionary service abroad.

Genevieve shared that she discovered a profound and deep joy in attempting to share the love of Jesus and his Gospel with others.

The very same day I met with Thomas and Genevieve, I attended the oath of office ceremony for a new United States District Court judge, the Honorable Holly L. Teeter.

Holly’s husband Derek serves on the Catholic Education Foundation board, as well as the St. Lawrence Center advisory board. Some years ago, they gave me the privilege of baptizing one of their three sons.

U.S. Senators Pat Roberts and Jerry Moran spoke at the ceremony.

They shared why they had enthusiastically supported the confirmation of Holly’s appointment as a federal judge.

Holly and Derek ranked first and second in their KU law class.

Before entering law school, Holly had earned

Jim Larkin

Sam Garcia

a degree in chemical engineering. After graduation from law school, she served for a time as a federal prosecutor.

The most moving of the speeches preceding her oath was given by Derek. In his talk, he noted not only Holly’s professional qualifications, but also her wisdom and compassion that he observed upclose as her spouse.

Derek referenced the example of St. Thomas More, patron for lawyers, as one whose courage and integrity Holly sought to imitate in her practice of the law.

A very touching part of the ceremony was, after taking the oath, her three young sons assisted the new judge with the robes of her office.

Judge Teeter in her remarks thanked and acknowledged family, friends, mentors and colleagues for equipping her to assume her new responsibilities. She quoted the wisdom of St. Teresa of Calcutta as another guiding light for her life.

The ceremony made me reflect upon the awesome responsibility of judges to be the dispensers of justice in our society by faithfully applying the law fairly and without prejudice.

It also made me proud to be Catholic, because both Holly and Derek are excellent examples of individuals striving to live their faith in their personal, familial and professional lives.

My final hope story I experienced a few weeks ago in reading my mail.

A mother had sent me a drawing and a prayer from her young son.

As you may recall, some time ago, I mentioned that I was fasting and abstaining from

Archbishop Naumann Dec. 7 St. Lawrence Center board meeting and Mass Dec. 8 Pastoral visit — Holy Name, Kansas City, Kansas

Dec. 16 Pastoral visit — St. Bernard, Wamego; St. Joseph, Flush; Holy Family, Alma; and Sacred Heart, Paxico Dedication — St. Patrick, Scranton Dec. 17 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording

Dec. 9 Pastoral visit — All Saints, Kansas City, Kansas

Dec. 18 Administrative Team meeting

Dec. 10 Deacon Holy Hour and dinner — Savior Pastoral Center

Dec. 20 Priesthood golden jubilee of Bishop John Gaydos — Jefferson City, Missouri

Baptismal ministry — Cathedral Dec. 11 St. James Academy Mass — Lenexa Ethics Council meeting Dec. 12 Serra Club annual district governor meeting Dinner with Catholic Education Foundation parents Dec. 15 Ordination of Brother Luke Turner and Brother Thiago Ferreira Silva — St. Benedict’s Abbey

meat on Wednesdays and Fridays as part of my intercessory prayer for the healing of victims and the renewal of the church in the wake of the recent scandal.

Also, later in this column, I mentioned that I was joining the other bishops of the United States in fasting during the week leading up to our November meetings in Baltimore.

The mother wrote to me and told me when their family was offering

Dec. 21 Chancery staff Mass and lunch

Dec. 22 Quo Vadis retreat Dec. 24 Mass — Cathedral Dec. 25 Mass — Cathedral Dec. 27 Serra parent/seminarian Mass and luncheon — St. Joseph, Shawnee Dec. 29 St. Paul, Olathe, procession to new location

prayers for various intentions, her son expressed a desire for them to pray for that guy who is not eating! I am very grateful to this little boy for his prayers and for the prayerful support of his family.

I encourage you during this Advent season to pause and recognize the hope stories in your life. Our God is constantly revealing his love for us if we but have eyes to see.

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DECEMBER 7, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

UNITED WE STAND

Rise of anti-Semitism a concern for area Jews, Christians

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

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OPEKA — Hanukkah, or the Jewish Festival of Lights, commemorates the rededication of the Temple by the Maccabees after their victory over the Seleucid Empire.

But as Jews throughout the United States celebrate the festival, which runs from Dec. 2-10 this year, people of all faiths are also concerned about the dramatic rise of anti-Semitism in recent months.

According to the Encyclopedia Brittanica, the term was coined in 1879 by Wilhelm Marr to designate the antiJewish campaigns in central Europe.

And the Anti-Defamation League (ADL), an international organization founded in 1913 to “stop the defamation of the Jewish people and to secure justice and fair treatment to all,” has been tracking incidents since 1979. AntiSemitism can take the form of harassment, vandalism and assault.

According to ADL data, the number of anti-Semitic acts from 2016 to 2017 increased 57 percent, the largest singleyear increase on record.

And the statistics represent only reported incidents.

Rabbi Debbie Stiel has led Topeka’s Temple Beth Shalom for 13 years. In that time, she said, she recalls only one act of vandalism on temple property.

Still, the Oct. 27 shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh that resulted in the deaths of 11 has left temple leaders grappling with being welcoming to guests but also providing a sense of security for 100 families.

Dr. Richard Crane, a professor of European history at Benedictine College in Atchison, said American society has seen its share of religious discrimination.

Both the professor and the rabbi feel as if the overall climate in American society today is partially to blame.

“There’s an unwillingness to value difference,” Crane said, “and to see our fellow people as brothers and sisters.

It’s very troubling.”

Rabbi Stiel agreed.

And today’s technology, she said, particularly social media, has contributed to an increase in hate speech.

On the whole, though, Crane said America is extremely tolerant, and that’s why Americans become outraged at acts of violence.

“We’re virtually all mourning and are horrified together,” he said of the shooting in Pittsburgh.

Rabbi Stiel agreed.

“I think somebody said Jews were murdered, but all Americans were assaulted,,” she said, “and I think that’s really how Americans felt.

“We like to think of our sanctuaries as very safe spaces, and it feels particularly heinous for a sanctuary to be a target of a shooting.”

10 ways to stand with the Jewish people 1

Visit a synagogue for a community cultural event such as Temple Beth Shalom’s blintze brunch.

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7 LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

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“WE LIKE TO THINK OF OUR SANCTUARIES AS VERY SAFE SPACES, AND IT FEELS PARTICULARLY HEINOUS FOR A SANCTUARY TO BE A TARGET OF A SHOOTING.” Crane said such acts of hatred are troubling, but he sees hope, too.

“I’d like to think that acts of hatred are not indicative of a larger trend in our country, but are examples of extremes,” he said. “[However,] we live in a country where these things are happening. The idea that Jewish people in their schools and synagogues have to have armed guards and extremely heightened security is very, very disheartening.

President Editor Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org

“But at the same time, I think they have the sympathy, support and outrage of the American people and our government.”

Support, the rabbi noted, is something her congregation has felt.

In the aftermath of the Pittsburgh shooting, leaders of the American Jewish Committee encouraged Jews to show up on the next Sabbath in large numbers to show solidarity.

“We decided to combine it with an opportunity for the community to come here, too,” said Rabbi Stiel, “both to show their support for the Jewish community and to gain some comfort for themselves.

“Typically, we get 35 to 40 people on a Friday night for Sabbath service, and we had over 300 people there that night.

“I think Jews wanted to be here on that day, but it was an incredible outpouring of support from the community.”

The professor and the rabbi noted such events can help build bridges.

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Reporter Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

Social Media Editor Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

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Read “Nostra Aetate.”

Educate yourself by reading books about Jewish-Catholic relations and books about the Jewish faith.

Rabbi Debbie Stiel has led Topeka’s Temple Beth Shalom for 13 years. The Oct. 27 shooting at the Tree of Life synagogue in Pittsburgh has left temple leaders grappling with being welcoming to guests but also providing a sense of security for 100 families.

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Observe a service in a synagogue.

Take part in a Holocaust commemoration event in April.

Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Pray for an understanding among people of all faiths.

Invite speakers to your parish to talk about the similarities and differences among the two religions.

Host a traditional Seder meal at your parish.

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Send a letter of support to your local synagogue.

Organize a faith club at your parish in which men and/or women of different traditions come together to learn about the different traditions. See a Leaven story about it online at: theleaven. org/interfaith-group-results-inunexpected-sisterhood.

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“Familiarity with Jews as persons actually inhibits anti-Semitism,” Crane said.

The same can be said for prejudices of any kind, he continued. Familiarity erodes prejudices as people get to know one another as human beings.

Connections, Rabbi Stiel said, can be particularly powerful when made among religious leaders. >> See “CHRISTIAN” on page 4

Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

DECEMBER 7, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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Parish honors archbishop emeritus with award

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

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OUND CITY — Sometimes, technology allows people to connect in unusual ways.

Take for instance, this year’s St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Award recipient Archbishop Emeritus James Patrick Keleher.

Due to three shoulder surgeries, he is currently recovering at a care facility in Kansas City. But Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann was still able to award him — by speaker phone, anyway — the prestigious honor at an awards banquet held Nov. 18 in the social hall of Sacred Heart Archbishop Church in Mound Keleher City.

“Archbishop Keleher is such a perfect choice for this St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Award,” began Archbishop Naumann, “because he has been so passionate about our Catholic schools and Catholic education. And, of course, that was a big part of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne’s life.”

Archbishop Naumann said his predecessor also possessed a passion for Catholic formation and vocations, as well as for making sure the schools “fulfill their primary purpose in making disciples for Jesus Christ.”

“No one’s done more to promote Catholic education,” he said.

He then read the plaque aloud, starting with the quote from St. Rose Philippine Duchesne: “All desire but that of doing God’s holy will has been extinguished in me.”

“Presented to Archbishop James Patrick Keleher,” he continued, “who exemplifies the spirit of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne through his teaching, generous spirit and shepherd’s heart — from the Sacred Heart Catholic Community, Mound City, Kansas.’”

“You and I have often talked about the charm of that wonderful parish and the wonderful people,” Archbishop Keleher responded. “I don’t feel worthy of this honor, but the fact that they remember

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Deacon Don Pool displays the St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Award for the congregation to see. It was given this year to Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher for his contributions to Catholic education. Archbishop Keleher was unable to attend because he was recovering from three shoulder surgeries. He was, however, able to accept the award via speaker phone. me is really a blessing, too, for me.”

He found the inscription on the plaque particularly moving.

“Oh my, how beautiful,” said Archbishop Keleher. “What a beautiful testimony. Thank you so much.”

Prior to the banquet, Mass was celebrated in the church, during which Archbishop Naumann told the congregation it was a joy for him to be there in Mound City as the parish honored “the only canonized saint to have lived in our archdiocese.”

In his homily, the archbishop explained that it has been the parish’s custom to annually honor “an individual that somehow exemplifies the spirit of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne.”

“The particular criteria,” the archbishop noted, “are promotion of Catholic education and/or the promotion of

vocations to religious and consecrated life.”

The archbishop, who grew up in St. Louis, said it was easy there to see the impact of the life of the saint.

St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, who with other members of her order first landed in New Orleans, made her way up the Mississippi River and spent most of her time in the St. Louis area, near what is today Florissant and St. Charles, Missouri.

“She devoted a lot of her life to opening schools, particularly for young women,” he said, “and helping to form them in the faith, but also helping them to develop their talents and their abilities so they would lead happy and fruitful lives.”

She was also “always preparing [them] for that ultimate end,” the archbishop continued, “always passing onto them

the truth of the Gospel.”

Near the end of Mass, pastor Father Barry Clayton thanked the archbishop for his presence and announced that the parish is producing miniature copies of the shrine’s statue of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, which will be available for purchase in February.

“We have the very first one available tonight,” he told Archbishop Naumann, “and at this time, we’d like to present that to you and to the parish and ask your blessing upon this statue.”

St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, the archbishop concluded, provides an example of what Pope Francis describes as missionary discipleship and reminds archdiocesan Catholics that they’re “called to bring others to the faith as well.

“This is the greatest gift that we can help others discover in life.”

25-minute miler discovers ‘perception changes everything’ >> Continued from page 1 “[But] I sat in that doctor’s office for a good hour and cried,” she continued. “I was a 25-minute miler.”

Despite her apprehension, Schierts joined the cross-country team and greatly improved during her career. She broke many personal records and ended on a high note, setting a new 5K (3.1 miles) personal-best time of 38:49.20 in her final race.

“It’s great,” said Schierts, “but I wouldn’t have gotten there without my teammates and my coaches and my family and all kinds of people.”

Leading by example The love of running was a learning process for Schierts, with her junior year the turning point.

Schierts realized she had two options in approaching cross-country: either feel sorry for herself in her disability or do

her absolute best despite her limitations.

Despite being the last to finish every one of her races — and falling often — she chose the latter . . . over and over again. “[Running] became less of a selfish thing and more of asking how I’m going to give and help other people on my team,” said Schierts. “Perspective changes everything.”

From that point on, Schierts became a visible leader on the team — to the point of being chosen as a team captain by her teammates this year.

“It was never a goal of mine,” she said.

“It was just something that happened. [I] thank Jesus for this amazing blessing.”

But for the team, Schierts was an obvious choice for captain.

“Seeing [Schierts] work so hard and be so determined while being positive throughout really inspires me,” said LaPlante. “If she can do the workouts and give so much effort, it makes me think that I can give more effort, too.”

Today, Schierts and running are nearly inseparable.

“I cannot envision my life without running,” she said. “If I don’t go on a run, then it’s not a good day!”

An opportunity to recognize Christ Running has taught Schierts, the team and coaches how to physically and spiritually accompany each other.

“I used to run with Zoe a lot when she first started, just to give her somebody to run with,” said St. James cross-country coach Julie Becker. “Often, we would pray while we ran.

“I think she has brought me closer to Mary and my own faith,” added Becker.

“That never-give-up attitude of hers is a Mary thing.”

Awareness of the pain of running as an opportunity to recognize Christ present has opened the whole team to the needs of others.

And they look to Schierts as exemplary.

“One thing we always do as a team and that I encourage others to do is to say Hail Marys or say prayers for somebody else who is really suffering,” said Schierts.

“We have plenty of people who really need prayers,” she continued. “It reminds me that my pain is very small and insignificant compared with other people’s pain.

“I look to the cross a lot. This is the least I can do for Jesus.”

The act of running has also renewed for Schierts the memory of her late mother, who passed away when Schierts was 9 years old.

“Whenever I run, I feel weirdly connected to my mom,” she said. “Sometimes, I can sort of feel her presence there. Sometimes, I’ll pray to her while I’m running.”

Next year, Schierts plans to study pre-physical therapy at the University of Central Missouri in Lee’s Summit. And, of course, she will keep on running.

DECEMBER 7, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

CRAFTED AND WORTHY

Rural Catholic Youth Conference educates youth in faith, friendship and social awareness

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Mary Bielski, founder of ALL4HIM Ministries, engages the crowd as the keynote speaker at the biennial Rural Catholic Youth Conference.

By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

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OPEKA — Though the weather outside was bleak, the second Rural Catholic Youth Conference (RCYC) was exploding with energy. Hundreds of youth from all corners of the archdiocese gathered Nov. 17-18 at the Capitol Plaza Hotel Convention Center here to celebrate and learn about their Catholic faith.

“Living in a small town like Sabetha,” said high school senior Henry Glynn of Sacred Heart Parish, “evangelization is important, and we want to make sure we’re spreading the Gospel.

“It’s nice to hear meaningful things in these sessions and then take them back and apply them in the real world.”

The weekend was filled with friendship, inspirational speeches and live performances by the Mikey Needleman Band and Catholic painter Mike Debus.

No ships like friendship Mary Bielski, founder of ALL4HIM Ministries, was the keynote speaker at RCYC. In a breakout session titled “Building Real Relationships,” Bielski

Five signs of grooming for trafficking 1. Older boyfriend or new, older friends 2. Expensive gifts or money 3. Unexpected absences from school, work or sports practice 4. Working unusually long hours 5. Change in behavior or demeanor To request help or report suspected human trafficking, call the National Human Trafficking Hotline at 1 (888) 373-7888 or text “help” to BeFree (233733).

shared practical tips for creating and maintaining quality friendships.

“There are different types and levels of friendships,” she said. “Not everyone is going to be your bestie, but that’s OK.” Friendships can range from school acquaintances to people who know each other deeply; Bielski stressed that everyone is called to love and respect their neighbor — but also to choose close friends wisely.

“Have people who can hold you accountable [because] friendship requires responsibility,” she said.

Bielski pointed to the relationships between the Virgin Mary and her cousin Elizabeth and Moses and Aaron as biblical examples of friendships built on authenticity and vulnerability.

“If you want to be the best Christian friend you can be,” said Bielski, “learn how to forgive, forgive often and forgive well.”

For Payton Nies, a junior at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park and parishioner of Queen of the Holy Rosary Church in Overland Park, Bielski’s talks throughout the weekend were what she had been craving. “[Bielski] was open with us,” she said, “and she [has] helped me connect with the faith.

“It’s good to get away from school and have time with God.”

Building awareness In another breakout session, Linda and Deacon Brad Sloan informed students about the reality of sex trafficking of minors in northeast Kansas.

“Most people have the idea that how people get into human trafficking is by being taken, kidnapped or forced into it,” said Deacon Sloan. However, that is not the case for the majority.

“People getting kidnapped, taken off the streets or swiped out of a local mall represent less than one percent of the total of young people who end up in trafficking,” he said.

Usually, children are introduced into the trafficking ring by someone they know and with whom they have

Five tips to respond well to hurtful situations 1. Write down the emotions you are feeling. Ask: “What am I feeling and why am I feeling it?”

2. Step back and observe yourself.

Ask: “What are the facts of the situation? What is really happening?”

3. Pray. Let yourself experience your emotions in the company of Jesus.

4. Forgive. Identify the hurtful behaviors you experienced and love the other in their humanity.

5. Talk to the one who hurt you. Start from a place of compassion and with a desire to see the good.

some level of familiarity or relationship.

“Part of the problem we have living where we do in the great state of Kansas is that we tend to have blinders on, thinking this stuff doesn’t happen here,” said Deacon Sloan.

But with the conveniences of the interstate and the internet, Kansans are far from immune to its effects — including those who live in rural communities.

In 2017, Restore Hope, a division of the Topeka Rescue Mission, offered aid to 131 individuals involved in trafficking in Topeka.

“And we don’t feel like we’ve scratched the surface yet,” said Deacon Sloan.

The Sloans concluded by sharing practical tips for teens to recognize if they or a friend is being groomed for trafficking and what steps to take.

Other breakout sessions confronted issues teens face today: building positive self-esteem, staying connected to God, depression and mental health, apologetics and evangelization.

Teens at the RCYC attended Mass and were given the opportunity to receive the sacrament of reconciliation.

“My takeaway [from the weekend],” said Glynn, “is God is good all the time.”

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Good Shepherd School receives award for excellence

By Bob Hart Special to The Leaven

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HAWNEE — It was a long hard road but Good Shepherd School here has finally made it — to the head of the class!

The school recently received the 2018 Values Driven Award of Excellence from AdvancEd, a nonprofit organization that provides resources to learning institutions and conducts evaluations of their curricula. The award was made at the Midwest Region Fall Conference of AdvancEd, held in Schaumburg, Illinois.

“It was very exciting,” said Ann McGuff, school principal. “We work very well together at Good Shepherd, and it was neat to be recognized for the work our teachers, students and parents do.”

The school, which has won the AdvancED Governor’s Award for the state of Kansas more than once in the past, also received the honor of being named among the top five percent of accredited schools in the United States and 72 other countries.

“This school community should be commended for their commitment and dedication to achieve the next level of excellence on behalf of the learners they serve, and it is our privilege and honor to join them on their journey to do so,” said Betsy Deal, AdvancED regional director.

Staci Reuter, a resource teacher who chaired the committee to submit the school for consideration this year, said everyone in the school community had a hand in the outcome.

“We looked at data based on student surveys, parent surveys and what our needs were. Then we tracked them over a cycle to see if we needed to change in any way,” Reuter said.

Among the reasons cited by AdvancED for Good Shepherd’s honors was the large number of professional development opportunities offered for teachers. Assistant principal Samantha Ray gave credit to each individual teacher, and added that the school will always be about more than just great academics.

“We have focused our efforts in creating relationships with students, parents and parishioners,” Ray said. “We pride ourselves on serving each individual student’s needs.”

McGuff stressed another important factor in the school’s success.

“Our goal is to welcome everyone,” she said, “and create endeavors that not only strengthen the school academically, but recognize the gifts of these children of God whom we serve.”

Scout earns Eagle award OVERLAND PARK — A.J. Flucke, a member of Church of the Ascension here and Boy Scout Troop 218, has earned the rank of Eagle Scout.

For his Eagle project, Flucke built a workbench and two lumber storage racks for the performing arts department at St. James Academy, Lenexa.

DECEMBER 7, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

FAMILY LIFE

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This Christmas, give the gift of your presence

hristmas is a time full of joyful expectations.

When I was a child, I expected to be surprised on Christmas day with the gift of toys I had dreamed about for months.

I still remember vividly three of these gifts.

One year, I received a radio-controlled car; another, a small theater with marionettes; and a later year, a handheld jigsaw tool to cut plywood and build things.

Do you remember your childhood Christmases?

Growing up in Italy, each year during the last seven days of Advent, my family would attend evening prayer at the nearby church.

The Church of San Filippo was close to our apartment, and so we would walk to it. On the way, I remember stopping by the window of a toy store to dream for a few minutes about the gift I would like to receive on Christmas Day. Pointing to items in the window, I would ask my parents: “Do you think that I have been good enough for Baby Jesus to bring me that car or that train?”

At that time, Italian children knew that the bearer of Christmas presents was Baby Jesus, and the gift was proportionate to our behavior during the year. There was no mention of Santa Claus. Today, Santa Claus has arrived in Italy.

Christmas for me as a child was about receiving gifts.

Today, as a father and grandfather, I look at

JOHN BOSIO John Bosio is a former marriage and family therapist, director of religious education and diocesan family life coordinator. He is a member of the National Association of Catholic Family Life Ministers.

Christmas gifts from a different perspective. The gifts we give each other are a reminder of what we celebrate on this day.

They invite us to remember the gift we received in the person of Jesus, the Son of God, who was born in Bethlehem. He gave himself to us by becoming one of us. He gave us the gift of his presence.

The best present we can give each other at Christmas is the gift of our presence.

Our presence to our spouse and children is more valuable than all the other Christmas gifts.

The gift of our presence is appreciated because it is through our undivided attention that we say: “You are important.

You are worth my time.

I want to be with you. I love you!”

Think about how you feel when someone you love puts down a book they are reading, turns off the TV, or puts away the phone or tablet they

are using and says to you: “Let’s do something together!”

Presence is expressed in many ways. For example, a Christmas card personally signed and mailed or a phone call to a friend speak of presence more than an electronic card or a text message. Through our presence we interact, we enter into one another’s worlds, and connect in a special way.

Today, our presence to each other is threatened by the myriad of gadgets that fill our pockets, demand our attention and sometimes interrupt our conversations.

Have you been involved in a conversation with a member of your family when the exchange was interrupted by a text message received by one of you?

Because of the intrusion of digital technology in our daily life, most couples and families struggle not only to communicate face to face, but also to eat a meal as a family without distractions.

One evening, while eating at a restaurant, Teri and I noticed a family with three young children seated at a table near us.

They were having their family dinner. But instead of talking to each other about their day or plans for the next day, some spent their meal looking at their tablets; others, at their cellphone. No one was talking.

All five of them — the parents and three children — were quietly tapping on their digital devices. What a missed opportunity! They were together, but not present to each other.

Question for reflection: What are your opportunities for giving the gift of your presence to your spouse and children during this holiday season?

Christmas is upon us and we will have many opportunities to be together with family members. Give each other the gift of presence.

Here are some simple suggestions borrowed from a blog by Dr. Dave Currie: • No use of electronics or TV during a family meal • No interruption from electronic devices while a family member wants

to discuss a concern or problem • No use of electronics such as texting or social media while the spouse is driving. Be in the moment with your spouse.

At Christmas, your children will expect gifts.

Give them the material gifts you can afford, but do not neglect to do what Jesus did for us on this day.

Give each other the gift of your presence.

During your family gatherings, turn off the TV or video games and plan some activity that most people will enjoy: play board games, go for a walk, etc.

The time spent enjoying each other’s company creates memories that will last a lifetime. That is the best Christmas present.

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WALKING IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF A SAINT

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STORY AND PHOTOS BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

ENEXA — To this day, Holy Trinity, Lenexa, parishioner Sheila Berry remembers running down a hill after her little brother Rob, catching him by the shirttail just before he fell into a bot-

Sheila Berry explores the wooded area around the Berry’s mother attributed the boy’s survival to the i

tomless well.

Her mother came running up behind her, screaming.

Had her brother fallen in, he surely would have died.

Berry’s mother, Esther White, attributed his survival to the intercession of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne.

It is one of many miracles the saint has brought to the doorstep of this family.

Holy Land This particular miracle took place because Berry’s father, Bob White, had recruited his children to help him search for proof of a tale he remembered hearing when he was growing up in Sacred Heart Parish in Mound City.

“My dad loved history,” Berry recalled. “He remembered the old-timers talking about a nun and the Potawatomi Indians — and that they lived not far from there.”

The old-timers were referring to St. Rose Philippine, who came on mission from France in 1818 to the Sacred Heart community in New Orleans and then St. Charles, Missouri.

Twenty years later, she would come to Kansas to help the Potawatomi Nation. Forced off their land in Indiana, the Potawatomi were marched 660 miles to the Catholic Sugar Creek Mission in Linn County, Kansas.

The journey would be known as the Trail of Death.

Saint Rose Philippine spent a year in Sugar Creek ministering to the Native Americans and helping build a school.

When the Potawatomi were relocated in 1848, the mission was burned down and forgotten.

But the day of their outing, the White family found proof of its location in arrowheads and shards of pottery littering the ground.

And, of course, the well.

Later, with the help of a metal detector, they found pieces of rosaries buried in the earth.

Esther White was so moved by her son being saved from sure tragedy, that she felt it was a sign from God. “We’ve got to do something about this land,” she told her husband.

From mission to memorial And so, Bob White, along with Father Robert Pool, pastor of Sacred Heart at

The Community of the Lamb performed a play for the French pilgrims, reenacting St. Rose Philippine’s journey to the United States. Little Sister Judith (front) plays the saint kneeling on American soil for the first time.

After Mass at Sacred Heart Church in Mound City, Jerry Tuckwin, a member of the Potawatomi Nation, talked about the Trail of Death and the influence of St. Rose Philippine. the time, headed a committee to purchase the land.

“Dad had a vision and followed through with the help of a lot of other people who saw that there was something very special about the place,” said Berry.

In 1982, with the help of the local Knights of Columbus, White began to work from blueprints to establish landmarks for the original mission.

In July 1988, when St. Rose Philippine was canonized, the park took on the even more important purpose of being a memorial to a saint.

White would do much of the work himself, building Stations of the Cross for a meditative walk and erecting crosses bearing the names of the 600 Potawatomi Catholics who died there.

“He found people to do the [station] paintings,” said Berry. “He would get the wood for the signage and Rob did all the engraving in the basement of the White Haven.”

White Haven Motor Lodge in Overland Park was owned and run by the White family.

Berry remembers her father working at the park into the night.

“He would go down there several days a week and work all by himself,” she said. “We would say, ‘Dad, please be careful,’ and he would say, ‘Saint Philippine will take care of me.’

“Then he would add, ‘Now if I don’t come back by 6 [o’clock], come looking for me!’”

Duchesne descendants Many descendants from the Duchesne family were able to attend the canonization of St. Philippine in Rome. Subsequently, they formed the Perier Association — Jacques Perier was the saint’s grandfather.

In 1990, a group from the association

The French pilgrims were particularly moved by tall made a pilgrimage to the United States tracing the journey of their ancestor here.

As part of the pilgrimage, they toured the Sugar Creek Mission and were hosted by the White family at the White Haven.

“It was so awesome, then,” recalled Berry. “My mom and dad were in such good shape. We did lunch at their house and dinner was here (at Berry’s home).

“We all worked together trying to take care of the White Haven and the French at the same time.”

Nicolas Derely, current president of the Perier Association, remembered his parents going on the pilgrimage and telling stories about the White family’s generosity and deep Catholic faith.

This year, the bicentennial of St. Rose Philippine’s arrival in the United States, he decided to organize another pilgrimage.

St. Philippine Duchesne Memorial Park, where she once saved her little brother from falling into a well. intercession of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne.

Duchesne descendant Pierre Oury, who helped organize the pilgrimage, studies a map of the Trail of Death in front of boulders from each state the Potawatomi Nation traveled.

St. Philippine Duchesne Memorial Park Located at the former St. Mary’s Sugar Creek Mission, this 450-acre Catholic retreat was the true end of the Trail of Death, where the Potawatomi lived for the next 10 years. There are nature trails and many memorials and signs telling the story of the Potawatomi, the Trail of Death and St. Rose Philippine Duchesne.

For more information and directions, visit the website at: www.potawatomi tda.org/kansas/stphilip.htm.

it was the highlight of our lives.”

A final journey

l crosses bearing the names of 600 Catholic Potawatomi buried at Sugar Creek Mission, most of them children.

“We have 69 people on our association mailing list,” he said. “So, it is very easy to organize a journey like this one.”

Derely contacted Pierre Oury, a Perier descendant living in Washington, who then got in touch with Berry.

Though the White Haven has since closed and Berry has suffered the loss of both her parents and her brother Mark, she and Rob were eager to uphold the White family’s reputation for hospitality.

In the end, 30 pilgrims came from France to follow in St. Rose Philippine’s footsteps in New Orleans, Kansas and St. Charles.

Berry agreed to welcome the pilgrims on the Kansas leg of the trip.

With the help of Oury and her brother, she arranged what the pilgrims later called the best part of their pilgrimage.

The itinerary The French group spent their first morning at the monastery of the Little Sisters and Brothers of the Lamb.

The Community of the Lamb is based in France, so the pilgrims were able to pray and sing in their own language.

The Little Sisters, who prayed to St. Rose Philippine when they were establishing a community in Kansas, put on a play in French reenacting the saint’s original journey.

The pilgrims went from there to Mass at St. Philippine Duchesne Church in Westwood, and spent the afternoon at the Nelson-Atkins Museum of Art in Kansas City, Missouri.

That evening, they were treated to a barbecue hosted by the White family at Berry’s home.

The following morning, the group attended Mass and a luncheon at Sacred Heart Church in Mound City.

Pastor Father Barry Clayton welcomed them, recalling that St. Rose Philippine was known in this area as “the woman who prays always.”

“The family of Saint Philippine carries that legacy with you,” he said. “She is an inspiration to you and an inspiration to us here who know her as a saint.

“We try to imitate her dedication to God and her life of prayer.”

The pilgrims also met and visited with members of the Prairie Band Potawatomi Nation.

“I’m very proud of being a Potawatomi,” Jerry Tuckwin told the visitors. “But in my heart, I’m very proud to be a Catholic as well.

“I went to the canonization of St. Rose; many Potawatomi were there, and

The Native Americans then accompanied the French on their visit to St. Philippine Duchesne Memorial Park.

At a monument displaying the route of the Trail of Death, tribal chairman Zeke Rupnick explained to the pilgrims that “we have ancestors buried all along that way.”

The pilgrims were able to walk the path of the Potawatomi in Sugar Creek Mission and stand in the ravine where they sheltered during the first brutal winter there.

“It’s a beautiful place; it’s a serene place,” said Berry. “And what I explained to them is it’s left the same as when Saint Philippine was there.

“And you can feel the presence. I always have. You can picture what they must have gone through.”

The pilgrims took turns sitting on the rock where St. Philippine prayed her rosary. They then walked the Stations of the Cross built by Bob White.

They studied the tall crosses inscribed with the names of the Potawatomi buried there, in what proved to be an emotional experience.

And they ended their journey gathered around the memorial, reading poems the Potawatomi had written about St. Rose Philippine, first in French and then in English.

Finally, they prayed together at the site of their ancestor’s last mission.

“It was a glorious day,” said Berry. “The good Lord really shone down on us. It was all so God divined.”

DECEMBER 7, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

High schoolers can follow the footsteps of Dante

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TCHISON — Benedictine College here has announced that it is now accepting applications from high school students for its 2019 session of its summer study abroad program in Italy called “Journey with Dante.”

Journey with Dante provides rising high school juniors, seniors and graduating seniors the opportunity to earn college credit while learning about another world culture and studying great literature.

High school students who participated last year said the experience provided a better understanding of the written material of the period.

“There are some things you learn more from experience than you do from the classroom,” said Thomas Tighe, a 2018 participant from New York who is now a freshman at Benedictine. “We didn’t just read ‘The Divine Comedy.’ We were guided, like Dante through his life, to the places he lived and the experiences that inspired what we know today as one of his greatest works.”

Lauren Coldiron, a senior at Duchesne Academy in Omaha, Nebraska, who attended Journey with Dante in 2018, said it was a life-changing experience.

“From the moment I set foot on the other side of the world, I felt my confidence growing stronger,” she said. “I felt a deep sense of wonder for the world around me and a new appreciation for the small things in life. Through this new perspective, I have found beauty in everything, especially the ordinary aspects of day-to-day life.”

The program begins with group meetings and activities on the Benedictine College campus in Atchison.

Then everyone, including professional staff and faculty, travels to Italy together. The entire program includes: • Three weeks in Italy (June 16 to July 6, 2019) • Visit Rome, Venice, Florence, Milan, Padua, Bologna, Verona, Assisi and more • Attend an audience with Pope Francis • See Dante’s tomb • Explore St. Benedict’s monastery at Montecassino and the sacred grotto at Subiaco • Study Dante’s epic poem, “The

“I do think that when the religious leaders of the different faiths get to know each other personally, that connection ends up filtering down,” she said.

“They build friendships,” she added, “and I think that that can be very powerful, very instructive.”

Judy Ulitchny, a member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood, and Larry and Patty Pressman, members of Temple Beth Shalom, agreed.

As leader of a faith club in which women of the Muslim, Jewish and Catholic faiths come together, Ulitchny said she has learned much and tries to educate others.

“There’s so much ignorance of the other faiths,” she said.

And ignorance can translate into fear and prejudice.

Sister Loretta (Avila) Wiesner, OSB

A

TCHISON — Sister Loretta Wiesner, 91, a Benedictine Sister of Mount St. Scholastica here, died Nov. 26 at the monastery.

Sister Loretta (Avila) Wiesner was born to Aloysius and Agnes (Geist) Wiesner in Ogallah, the first of their six children.

After graduating from Mount St. Scholastica Academy, she entered the Benedictine community in 1945 and made her lifetime monastic profession in 1950.

She earned her teaching degree at Mount St. Scholastica College and a master’s degree in administration from the University of Detroit in 1973.

During her 40-year teaching career, she taught at the elementary and secondary levels in Colorado, Kansas, Nebraska and Iowa. She also served as principal at parish schools in Kansas at Frankfort, Mission, Atchison and Nortonville, and in Salisbury, Missouri.

After retiring from teaching, she assisted in Dooley Center and the Helping Hand Thrift Store, and as disburser of goods in the monastery until 2010.

Tom

The 2019 session of Benedictine College’s summer study abroad program in Italy called “Journey with Dante” includes the opportunity to explore St. Benedict’s monastery at Montecassino and the sacred grotto at Subiaco (above).

Divine Comedy” • Earn three hours of college credit • Travel with a Benedictine College professor • All hotels, meals, travel and excursions in Italy included Applications for the summer 2019 Journey with Dante program will be accepted through Feb. 28, 2019.

Scholarships and early bird discounts are available.

For more information or to apply,

go online to: www.benedictine.edu/ JourneywithDante. Applicants are required to complete the online form and will be asked to submit a letter of recommendation, a short essay and their high school transcript.

For more information, contact Megan Fassero in the Benedictine College Center for International Education at (913) 370-5301 or by email at: megan.fassero@benedictine.edu.

Growing up in Topeka, Larry Pressman played on church-sponsored softball and basketball teams as the only Jewish member. As a result, he developed friendships that made him appreciate the commonalities of other faiths as well as their differences.

“We’re never going to eliminate this [hatred] as long as we don’t understand each other,” Patty Pressman said.

Both the professor and the rabbi pointed to “Nostra Aetate,” a document which came out of the Second Vatican Council, as being a watershed moment.

“I really appreciate the Catholic Church and what it’s done with Vatican II to say you can’t hold all Jews responsible for deicide,” said Rabbi Stiel.

“The Jews are still God’s special people as well.

“I think that has helped to dial back

and

Alice

(Montgomery) Brackhahn, members of Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a vacation to Sedona, Arizona, with their family.

Their children are Kerri Martin and Craig Brackhahn.

They also have three grandchildren. The couple was married on Nov. 30, 1968, at St. Mary Church in Independence, Missouri by Msgr. Martin Froeschl.

ANNIVERSARY submissions submissions ANNIVERSARY POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas DEADLINE: eight days before the desired publication date.

Christian traditions rooted in Jewish faith >> Continued from page 3

11

some of the rhetoric and to increase connections between the Jewish and Catholic communities.”

Now, she said, the two communities can appreciate each other.

Father Joseph Arsenault, SSA, the archdiocesan officer for ecumenical and interreligious affairs, agreed.

“When we stand together in solidarity with people from the Jewish community, we stand with our brothers and our sisters,” he said. “We are all children of the one God. It was to the Jewish people that he first revealed himself.

“Many of our traditions and ways have their roots in the Jewish faith.

We have a common heritage and, in coming together to support one another and getting to know one another strengthens us and makes us better.”

INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: • The couple’s names • their parish • the date they were married • church and city where they were married • what they are doing to celebrate • date of the celebration • names of children (no spouses) • number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; SUBMISSION GUIDELINES: • Announcements must be typed.

• Emailed photos need to be 200 dpi.

• Mailed photos can be any size.

• If you would like your photo returned, include a self-addressed stamped envelope.

WHERE TO SUBMIT: Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or email: todd. habiger@theleaven.org.

DECEMBER 7, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS

EMPLOYMENT Drivers - Ready for the summers off? Join our school transportation division and live like a kid again! Our drivers have the opportunity to serve our community and still get those precious summer breaks. Assisted Transportation seeks caring and reliable drivers to transport K - 12 students in Johnson and Wyandotte counties in our minivans. CDL not required. $12 per hour. Retirees encouraged to apply. Learn more or apply online at: assistedtransportation.com or call (913) 262-5190 for more information. EOE. DRIVERS NEEDED Seeking caring and reliable drivers. Work up to 40 hours per week. Transport elderly and disabled individuals to and from medical appointments.

CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply.

Competitive wages and benefits. EOE. Learn more or apply online at: www.assistedtransportation.com (913) 262-5190 School office manager - Holy Spirit School is currently seeking a full-time temporary school office manager due to an upcoming maternity leave. This position would begin in January 2019. Hours are 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Friday. This position requires an extremely organized, friendly, flexible face/voice for our school office.

The office manager provides complex and confidential administrative and clerical support for the principal and the school office; conveys information regarding school functions and procedures; ensures efficient operation of support functions; coordinates projects and site activities; and handles any and all other duties as assigned. A college degree is preferred, along with a good working knowledge of Excel, Word and strong keyboarding skills.

Virtus training is required. If interested, submit your resume and cover letter to: mwatson@hscatholic.org.

Resource center teacher - Holy Spirit School is seeking a part-time teacher in our resource center, Monday – Friday, 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. This candidate’s primary function is teaching K – 6th-grade small groups reading and math instruction and will also take on other duties as assigned. A college degree is required and a Kansas teaching certification is preferred. Virtus training is required. If interested, submit resume and cover letter to: mwatson@hscatholic.org.

Director of music - Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee seeks a full-time director of music. The candidate should be an accomplished musician with an appreciation of and experience in a wide variety of liturgical music; have a deep knowledge of liturgy and the liturgical year; have a strong sense of appropriate music selections for various liturgies, including funerals and weddings. The position requires expertise in vocal technique and choral conducting experience. Proficiency with keyboard accompaniment is required as is the ability to work with and coordinate volunteer instrumentalists. A desire to work with the Hispanic community is essential; familiarity with Spanish is beneficial. The position is available beginning in January, but alternative start dates will be considered. For further consideration, email a cover letter and resume to Father Kent O’Connor at: frkent@gsshawnee.org. Video links to performances/celebrations where you are demonstrating your skills are appreciated.

Career opportunity – Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Topeka and Kansas City, Kansas, and Missouri metro areas. This is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual, who desires 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 fulltime position. For more information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, General Agent, 1275 S.W. Topeka Blvd.; Topeka KS 66612; call (785) 408-8806; or send an email to: john.mahon@kofc.org.

Retirement and disability specialist - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is accepting applications for a retirement and disability specialist. This position is an integral part of the successful operation of the human resources office. The primary responsibility is handling the day-to-day support of locations in the areas of disability and retirement processing, including the lay pension plan; lay 401(k) plan; priest 403(b) plan; and frozen 403(b) plans. The position also assists in the support of other general HR functions within the department, maintaining knowledge of HR and benefit programs and regulations that affect areas of responsibility. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing and have a minimum of four years of professional experience. Knowledge in human resources, insurance, disability or retirement is a plus. Application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should send cover letter, resume, and application via email to: jobs@archkck.org; or mail to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Retirement and Disability Specialist Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Application deadline is Dec. 7.

Sales position – Do you have sales experience? Are you well networked in the local community? J.S. Paluch Company, national publisher of church bulletins, has full- and part-time positions available. Excellent earning potential; medical benefits; 401(k); life and AD&D insurance available; excellent commission; compensation program. Interested? Call Kay Leane at (800) 621-5197, ext. 2823, or email resume to: Recruiting@jspaluch.com.

Holy Spirit extended day care assistant - Do you enjoy spending time with children? Holy Spirit School is seeking an enthusiastic person to be an assistant in our after-school care program. This well-established program runs from 3 - 5:45 p.m. each school day for our K - 8th grade students. We are looking for a responsible and creative person who enjoys working with children. The ability to communicate clearly with children, colleagues, and parents is most important in order to foster positive relationships. Applicant must attend a Virtus training and be at least 16 years old. If you are interested, contact Eileen Colling at (913) 492-2582 or send an email to: ecolling@hscatholic.org for more information.

Director of the Cathedral Early Learning Center - Are you looking for the next step in professional growth as an administrator? The Cathedral Early Learning Center may be the right opportunity for you! We are searching for the next director for our center, which is familycentered within a vibrant Catholic faith community. The candidate should hold a BA in early childhood education (MA preferred) and have at least three years’ experience in the early education setting. The candidate must be a practicing Catholic in good standing. A pastor’s letter of reference as an active member of your current parish is required. The candidate must be organized, proactive and supportive with both staff and parents. We are looking for a visible leader in our community who enjoys the challenges of working with a professional staff. The director will supervise our 6-weeks to 5-year-olds classrooms, as well as the school-age after-school program.

For more information and to apply, go online to: careers. hireology.com/thecatholicdioceseofkansascitystjoseph and scroll down and click on “Director Cathedral of St. Joseph Early Education Center.”

WE LOVE OUR TEACHERS - COME SEE WHY YOU WANT TO WORK HERE! - The Goddard School Olathe Northwest is looking for dynamic, energetic, professional teachers to add to our faculty. The Goddard School is a premiere preschool where children from 6 weeks to 6 years are encouraged to develop at their own pace in a nurturing environment, lovingly guided by our highly skilled, professional teachers. Our staff is comprised of loving and dedicated teachers who understand each child’s needs. They are highly qualified childhood educators who use their creativity and the Goddard developmental guidelines as the basis for unique lesson plans that are brought to life in a fun and imaginative way. Education and experience are required for lead teachers. We offer training and mentoring for assistant teachers with little or no experience. We are hiring for the following positions: full-time preschool teacher; full-time toddler teacher; school-age teacher from 3 - 6 p.m.; and an assistant teacher for multiple classrooms.

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Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover.

Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com.

Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, mulching, Hedge trimming, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002 Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@ kc.rr.com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlawyer. com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress.

FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) For sale - Two adjoining plots at Mount Olivet Cemetery in the Crucifixion area, close to the road. Original cost $1825 per lot. Will sell both lots for $2500 or separately for $1250 each. Call Lesley at (913) 908-2162.

For sale - Two side-by-side crypts; tier B, 13 and 15, located in the St. Joseph Chapel at Mount Calvary Cemetery, the only two left in the chapel. Call (913) 269-6176 for pricing.

For sale - Two spaces at Resurrection Cemetery in the mausoleum, St. John Corridor. Reasonable rate. Call (913) 894-2448.

REAL ESTATE Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it?

We buy it all at once in as-is condition.

Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com.

We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family-owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000.

I NEED HOUSES! - We are members of Holy Trinity Parish and we pay cash for any real estate without any realtor commissions or fees. We buy houses in any condition, including bad foundations. If you would like an easy, no-hassle sale at a fair price, please call me. We have 15 years of experience. Mark Edmondson, (913) 980-4905.

WANTED TO BUY Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid.

Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.

Wanted to buy - Need to buy a van for handicapped person. Electric lift on side. Call (785) 218-4190.

Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

BUYING AN AD To purchase a Leaven classified ad, email The Leaven at: beth.blankenship@theleaven.org. Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter. Ad deadline is 10 days before the desired publication date.

Speedy Guzman Moving and delivery Licensed and insured Anytime (816) 935-0176 Custom countertops - Laminates installed within five days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.

CAREGIVING Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.benefits ofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

Want to help someone heal from an abortion?

Call or text 913-621-2199

DECEMBER 7, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP FOR MEN AND WOMEN Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 1:30 - 3 p.m.

Caring for a loved one is very difficult. Support helps. These sessions are facilitated by Jackie Tigges, MSW, LSCSW.

individually priced. A soup dinner menu will have a variety of soups, crackers, rolls and drinks for a freewill donation. All are invited.

For more information, call Jodi Spindler at (785) 640-8734.

or family in need of the circle’s prayers, call Theresa Smith-Lawton at (785) 640-1403. If you are interested in or would like more information about the Daughters of Isabella, call Cindy Keen at (785) 228-9863.

CHRISTMAS SHOPPE Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park Dec. 8 from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.

Dec. 9 from 7:30 a.m. - 3 p.m.

OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE MASS AND CELEBRATION Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park Dec. 12 at 6 p.m.

Do all your Christmas shopping in one place.

Stay for lunch and take home a casserole for dinner. Some items available for sale are: books, Pampered Chef, Bethlehem wood carvings, honey, candy, breads, coffee, pottery, wreathes, jewelry, Christmas decor and much more. Santa will visit on Dec. 8 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

CELTIC CHRISTMAS St. Columbkille Parish (hall) 13311 Hwy. 16, Blaine Dec. 8 from 8:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

Come spend the day shopping holiday vendors. Purchase holiday cookies and candies by the pound. There will also be homemade cinnamon rolls, kolaches, breakfast burritos, homemade soups and pies, ham sandwiches and chili dogs.

SINGLES OF NATIVITY DANCE Church of the Nativity 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood Dec. 8 from 7 - 11 p.m.

The cost for a ticket is $20 and may be purchased at the door. Food and drinks are provided. Dress recommendation is semiformal.

The Loose Change Band will be playing.

ENKINDLE CONFIRMATION RETREAT Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg Dec. 8 from 10 a.m. - 7 p.m.

This confirmation retreat offers youth the opportunity to participate in our Enkindle confirmation program. All meals and programming are covered in the registration fee. Youth participants will need to have a chaperone with them during the event, as well as a completed permission form and waiver. A link will be provided in the confirmation page and email. Register online today at: www.archkck.org/ranch; contact the Retreat Team at: psrministry@archkck. org; or call (785) 746-5693.

SWEET SHOPPE Mater Dei School (gym) 934 S.W. Clay, Topeka Dec. 8 from 3 - 8 p.m.

Shop in the Sweet Shoppe, hosted by the Mater Dei Altar Society, for baked goods, cookies and candies. Load up a baker’s box with these sweet treats, weigh the box and pay by the pound. Some items may be

BREAKFAST, BOOKS AND BARGAINS Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 106 Exchange St., Emporia Dec. 9 from 8 - 11 a.m.

Enjoy a SUPER breakfast given by the Knights of Columbus Council 727. There will also be a craft and bake sale sponsored by the Altar Society. Sacred Heart School will have the Scholastic Book Fair and religious articles for purchase.

‘NAVIGATING THROUGH THE HOLIDAYS WHILE GRIEVING’ Precious Blood Renewal Center 2130 St. Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri Dec. 12 from 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Get support from others and learn practical ways to create new traditions as you navigate through this difficult terrain while honoring loved ones. To register by Dec. 10, go online to: info@pbrenewalcenter.org and click on the “Register Today” button. You may also call (816) 415-3745 to register. The suggested donation is a freewill offering.

‘MANAGING THE HOLIDAY BLUES’ Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 11 from 1 - 2 p.m.

The holidays are not always a time of joy and excitement for some people. This time of year can evoke feelings of loneliness and sadness. Some people may feel depressed about the winter due to seasonal affective disorder. Come learn tips to manage your emotions this season. Register online at: www.keelerwomenscenter.org or call (913) 906-8990.

DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE Sacred Heart Parish 312 N.E. Freeman Ave., Topeka Dec. 12 at 12:30 p.m.

The afternoon will begin with a social, followed by a luncheon. If anyone knows of a member

The evening will begin with Mass. Following Mass, there will be a reception in the parish hall with Mexican pastries, hot chocolate and coffee. Mariachi music will be provided

by Beto Lopez.

COFFEE AND SILENCE Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison Dec. 13 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Space is offered for a private retreat time on days when there are no groups scheduled.

Come for a morning or a day. Spend time in silence. Walk our beautiful grounds. Visit St. Scholastica Chapel. Coffee is provided. Call (913) 360-6173 or go online to: www.sophia spiritualitycenter.org to register. Donations are accepted.

CHRISTMAS IN KOLOGRAD DANCE St. John’s Auditorium 420 Barnett, Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 15 from 6:30 - 10:30 p.m.

Admission is $10 for adults; kids 12 and younger get in for free. There will be sausage sandwiches, beer, soda and water available for sale all evening. The Kolograd band will be playing dance music. To purchase tickets, call Kenny at (913) 371-9690, Phil Ashley at (816) 210-9035 or Jim Baric at (913) 563-0625.

BREAKFAST WITH ST. NICHOLAS Holy Family Parish 513 Ohio Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 15 from 8 - 11 a.m.

13

HEALING MASS Curé of Ars Parish (Father Burak Room) 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood Dec. 20 at 7:30 p.m.

A Mass with prayers for healing, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held. Father Dennis Wait will preside. For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

‘DARKNESS AND LIGHT: LIVING THE MYSTERY’ Precious Blood Renewal Center 2130 St. Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri Dec. 21 from 6 - 8 p.m.

The winter solstice reveals a rhythm of life that teaches patience and nurtures hope as we wait for the coming of the Light. A meditative walk to the labyrinth with luminaries to light our path and a simple soup supper will be included. The suggested donation is $20.

Scholarship funds are available. Register by Dec. 16 by going online to: info@pbrenewal center.org or call (816) 415-3745.

QUO VADIS RETREAT Savior Pastoral Center 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 21 - 23

Single men — high school seniors and up — who are seriously discerning a call to the priesthood are invited to the Archbishop’s Quo Vadis retreat. Father Bill Bruning will give the retreat, “In Mercy Called.” Meet Archbishop Naumann and inspiring priests, spend relaxed time with seminarians, pray together and discover what God is calling you to do with your life. Register by Dec. 17 by going online to: www.kckvocations.com or send an email to: vocation@archkck.org.

SILENT RETREAT FOR THE HOLIDAYS Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison Dec. 28 - 29

Resurrection School invites you to Breakfast with St. Nicholas. The cost is $6 per person and includes all-you-can-eat pancakes, hot and cold beverages, and sausages catered

by Chris Cakes. Takeout orders will be available.

Arrive on Dec. 28 between 2 and 7 p.m. and stay through Dec. 29 at 4 p.m. Spend Friday night and Saturday in prayer in silence. Reflect on the blessings of the past and set goals for the coming year. The $75 fee includes a private room and meals. Call (913) 360-6173 or go online to: www.sophia spiritualitycenter.org to register.

BREATHE RESPITE CARE PROGRAM Holy Cross School 8101 W. 95th St., Overland Park Dec. 15 from 4 - 8 p.m.

‘COPING WITH LIFE ALONE’ Church of the Ascension (St. Mark’s Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Jan. 5 - 16 on Saturdays from 2 - 4 p.m.

BREATHE respite care provides the gift of time away from caregiving for families who have a loved one with a disability age 5 years or older. If you have any questions, contact Tom Racunas, lead consultant of the special needs ministry, at (913) 647-3054 or send an email to: tracunas@archkck.org. To register a loved one for the program or to volunteer, go to the website at: www.archkck.org/ specialneeds and complete the online form.

“Coping with Life Alone” is a Beginning Experience peer-to-peer grief support program that 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 more information and alternate dates, go online to: www. beginningexperiencekc.org.

DECEMBER 7, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY SECOND WEEK OF ADVENT Dec. 9 SECOND SUNDAY OF ADVENT Bar 5: 1-9 Ps 126: 1-6 Phil 1: 4-6, 8-11 Lk 3: 1-6 Dec. 10 Monday Is 35: 1-10 Ps 85: 9ab-14 Lk 5: 17-26 Dec. 11 Damasus I, pope Is 40: 1-11 Ps 96: 1-3, 10a-c, 11-13 Mt 18: 12-14 Dec. 12 OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE Zec 2: 14-17 (Ps) Jdt 13: 18b-19 Lk 1: 26-38 Dec, 13 Lucy, virgin, martyr Is 41: 13-20 Ps 145: 1, 9-13ab Mt 11: 11-15 Dec. 14 John of the Cross, priest, doctor of the church Is 48: 17-19 Ps 1: 1-4, 6 Mt 11: 16-19 Dec. 15 Saturday Sir 48: 1-4, 9-11 Ps 80: 2-3, 15-16, 18-19 Mt 17: 9a, 10-13

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I

remember it so clearly. And I still wince at the memory.

It was a winter evening many years ago when I went to lock up the church at our old location in Tonganoxie. I was so familiar with its layout that I didn’t need to turn on any lights.

Confidently, I strode down the main aisle to check on the outside door of the sacristy.

A few feet from the sanctuary, my right shin connected — hard — with some obstacle, both surprising and scaring me.

I yelled as I stumbled forward, my hand grazing the offending object: one of the altar server seats. Apparently, someone had been working in the church, moved it and forgot to put it back where it belonged.

The scare that night took its place on the long list of why I’m afraid of the dark.

Moving about blindly can be dangerous, scary and painful.

Even the Scriptures remind us of the perils of the dark (see, for example, Rom 13:12; Eph 5:11; 1 Thes 5:5: and 1 Pt

This is just a shot in the dark 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.

2:9). And it’s no accident that we call Satan, “the prince of darkness.”

But Advent reminds us that we are people of light.

Our wreaths tell us that the more candles that are burning, the closer the Light is to coming in a deeper way into our hearts. And we’re called in these days to prepare for the Lord by embracing the light(s).

This time of year, with its early nightfall, makes us appreciate the

wonderful gift that light is. Take time in these days to savor all the Christmas lights decorating homes or relish the pinpoints of starlight seen in the crisp, winter sky.

Some hearty folks might enjoy some festive time outdoors around a blazing fire pit. Just switching on a light, in fact, can be an opportunity to notice and thank God for electricity — something that many in our world do not enjoy.

An even more appropriate way to mark this season of Advent is to treat everyone we meet with kindness and respect. In other words, we’re called to be light.

In these holidays

when many people are feeling stressed or burdened, we can act as a light by being of generous service. Showing patience in the checkout line or in traffic will cause us to stand out . . . like a light in the darkness.

One of the most needed gifts, perhaps, is that of being lighthearted in these days. With that in mind, I’ll close with a few holiday buffet pointers, courtesy of my parishioners: 1. Avoid carrot sticks.

Anyone who puts out carrot sticks knows nothing of the holiday spirit. In fact, if you see carrots, leave immediately. Go next door where they’re serving rum balls.

2. Drink as much eggnog as you can. And quickly. It’s rare. You can’t find it any other time of year but now. So, drink up! Who cares that it has 10,000 calories in every sip?

3. If something comes with gravy, use it. That’s the whole point of gravy. It does not stand alone. Pour it on.

Make a volcano out of your mashed potatoes.

14

Fill it with gravy. Eat the volcano.

4. Did someone mention fruitcake? Granted, it’s loaded with the mandatory holiday calories, but avoid it at all costs. I mean, c’mon, have some standards!

5. Under no circumstances should you exercise between now and New Year’s Day. You can do that in January when you have nothing else to do. This is the time for long naps, which you’ll need after circling the buffet table while carrying a 10-pound plate of food and that vat of eggnog.

6. One final tip: If you don’t feel terrible when you leave the party or get up from the table, you haven’t been paying attention. Read through these tips again; start over. But hurry, January is just around the corner.

No need to thank me for these tips. Hopefully, they’ve brightened your day a bit.

So, what are you waiting for? You’ve got the green light to do the same.

We dress in our finest in anticipation of the Lord

W

hen we were kids, our mother would sometimes yell at us, “Put on a jacket. You are going to catch your death of cold.”

I suppose we pretended that we were so tough, that the freezing weather wouldn’t affect us.

It is true that the clothes we wear reflect the attitudes we have.

They send a message, whether consciously or not. A fan may show support for a sports team by wearing a corresponding jersey. A tux may indicate participation in a wedding or a prom.

Sunday’s first reading, Bar 5:1-9, provides a good example of this message bearing quality

IN THE BEGINNING

FATHER MIKE STUBBS Father Stubbs is the pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.

of clothing. It instructs Jerusalem: “Take off your robe of mourning and misery.”

In the Scriptures,

the city of Jerusalem is sometimes personified as a woman, the mother of its citizens: “Rejoice with Jerusalem and be glad because of her, all you who love her; Exult, exult with her, all you who were mourning over her! Oh, that you may suck fully of the milk of her comfort, that you may nurse with delight at her abundant breasts!” (Is 66:10-11).

Her citizens are the children of which the reading from Baruch speaks: “Look to the east and see your children.”

Jerusalem was in mourning because the country had been conquered by the Babylonians, the Temple destroyed, the people carted off in exile — off to the east: “Led away on foot by their enemies they left you.”

But now, they are returning home. This happy turn of events calls for a change in wardrobe: “Put on the splendor of glory from God forever; wrapped in the cloak of justice from God, bear on your head the mitre that displays the glory of the eternal name.”

All this is happening through God’s power,

according to God’s plan: “God will bring them back to you borne aloft in glory as on royal thrones. . . . God is leading Israel in joy.”

The exiles had left in sorrow, but now they are returning in joyful victory.

As a church, we apply these words of Baruch to the coming of Jesus Christ among us.

It is a cause for rejoicing. That holds true both for his first arrival among us through his birth at Bethlehem, as well as his future coming in glory that will happen at the end of the world.

He leads us out of sin — which is a kind of exile, because it separates us from God — into the joys of life with God.

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The desire to spend vast amounts on shopping and needless extravagances can prevent Christians from being generous with others, Pope Francis said.

“Consumerism is a great disease today. I am not saying that we all do this, no. But consumerism, spending more than we need, is a lack of austerity in life; this is an enemy of generosity,” the pope said Nov. 26 during Mass at Domus Sanctae Marthae.

In his homily, the pope reflected on the day’s

Gospel reading from St. Luke in which Jesus noticed wealthy people placing their vast offerings into the treasury while an old widow makes an offering of two small coins.

“I tell you truly, this poor widow put in more than all the rest; for those others have all made offerings from their surplus wealth, but she, from her poverty, has offered her whole livelihood,” Jesus said.

The pope said Jesus often spoke about and compared the behaviors of the rich and the poor, for example, in his parable of the poor man Lazarus or his encounter with the rich young man.

— CNS

DECEMBER 7, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

15

Defense of adoption act a top priority for Kansas Catholics

P

oliticians campaigning one way then governing differently are as American as Mom and apple pie. Case in point: Kansas Governor-elect Laura Kelly.

“Candidate Kelly” projected the image of a reasonable, reach-acrossthe-aisle moderate, talking up issues like school funding, health care and the economy.

Once safely elected, the narrative changed.

During Kelly’s first post-election news conference, she prompted statewide headlines with the astonishing statement that she’d direct her staff to not follow the law.

Her target: the new Kansas Adoption Protection Act (APA).

CHURCH AND STATE

CHUCK WEBER Chuck Weber is the executive director of the Kansas Catholic Conference.

As the Kansas Catholic Church’s top legislative priority in 2018, the APA’s focus is simple and

reasonable. Faith-based adoption agencies like Catholic Charities should be protected to place children in homes with a married mother and father.

This basic exercise of Catholic religious freedom draws on two millennia of church teaching, Sacred Scripture and the model

of the Holy Family. It’s hardly controversial.

The governor-elect claims the APA somehow discriminates against “gay couples.” She’s also fully aware Kansas law allows other agencies to make such child placements — which they do on a regular basis.

The APA protects religious freedom. It also protects mothers in crisis who want the best for infants they bravely choose to bring into the world.

But the governor-elect’s ideology trumps the welfare of moms and their children.

This is one front in a larger cultural struggle.

Few Kansans know that an average of one to two unborn babies are being dismembered and

aborted alive each and every day in Kansas. Governor-elect Kelly supports this assault on innocent human life.

Our faith, values and cherished way of life are under attack. A new reality is being imposed on faithful Catholics. If we don’t believe what they believe and if we don’t act like they act, we’re bigots, plain and simple.

So what to do?

Despair and apathy are not options. We will seek common ground with Governor-elect Kelly and others. Quality health care, concern for the poor, and greater educational choice and opportunity are goals we can all agree upon.

We can also pray, like never before. This is first

and foremost a spiritual struggle. Prayer is our most powerful response.

We have special Catholic gifts at our fingertips like daily Mass, the rosary and adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Let’s use them.

Be informed. The Kansas Catholic Conference is soon launching a new website at: www. kansas catholic.org. Stay up-to-date by accessing our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/ kscathconf. Sign up for legislative updates.

Be involved. Do you know your state senator and representative? Call or send them a letter or email. Let them know you care. Be respectful, but persistent.

God is with us.

DECEMBER 7, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

16

SWEET JAZZ

Kitchen feeds the body, while quartet feeds the soul

By Jan Dixon Special to The Leaven

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Jazz concerts during the holidays are not all that unusual.

They’re seldom held, however, at the St. Mary’s Food Kitchen in Kansas City, Kansas.

But while much of the outside world spent Black Friday in holiday shopping mode, the guests at what is officially known as the Hot Lunch Services of the Wilhelmina Gills Service Center were enjoying a hearty noon meal — flavored with a little jazz.

The line of men, women and children ran deep — around the corner and down the hall. After a worker at the door handed each a ticket, diners filed through and were given plates filled with meat loaf, potatoes, and vegetables.

Despite the fact that the food kitchen filled quickly and the noise level rose accordingly, the clear, clean notes of jazz emanated distinctly from the far end of the hall.

The music was the gift of four young men whose paths crossed earlier in life. Some of them met in the church choir at Holy Name Parish in Kansas City, Kansas. Two met while in graduate school.

But all loved music — and they came to St. Mary’s to share that love.

Riley Day grew up in St. Paul Parish in Olathe, where he learned at a young age the importance of giving back. It was he who organized the event and invited his fellow musicians to join him for the special performance.

Dalton Williams, the trumpeter, readily agreed.

“There is an incredible irony to spending one day being thankful for what we have and then trampling each other to buy goods the next day,” said Williams. “That’s not what I’m about.

This is an opportunity to give, and this is a good place to do it.”

To say their audience was appreciative is an understatement.

Many of the guests seemed entranced as the musicians played. Some closed their eyes and swayed; others tapped their feet. One man danced with his dinner plate in hand.

When each piece ended, the room erupted in applause.

“Music makes this wonderful meal so festive,” said one guest. “And they

LEAVEN PHOTOS BY DOUG HESSE

The patrons of St. Mary’s Food Kitchen in Kansas City, Kansas, received a treat on Nov. 23 as a quartet of musicians played a little jazz music during their noon meal. The quartet of, clockwise from top left, drummer Tony Reyes, trumpeter Dalton Williams, guitarist Riley Day and keyboardist A.J. Reyes, volunteered their time to play at the food kitchen and then enjoyed a meal with the guests.

“

“IT WAS BEAUTIFUL MUSIC. IT TOOK ME AWAY FROM MY PROBLEMS. MUSIC CAN DO THAT FOR PEOPLE.” are really good.”

After the meal, many lingered to listen longer. Some reminisced about instruments they had played as children while others talked about jazz

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greats they had known.

As the musicians packed up, a few diners gathered around them to express their thanks and talk music.

“It was beautiful music. It took me away from my problems,” said one woman. “Music can do that for people.”

The young men then stayed to enjoy a meal with the remaining diners and volunteers, as well as share some thoughts about their work, their respective bands and their friendship.

“I really like to play with these guys,” said Day, the guitarist. “I like to do things for the community, and this was a good cause.”

A.J. Reyes, the keyboard player,

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enjoyed the appreciative audience.

“I really enjoyed playing music for these people, and I think they really enjoyed it, too,” he said.

“It is always the season to be giving back,” said drummer Tony Reyes. “I wasn’t doing anything else, so I thought I would do something good for others.”

And so, while others celebrated Black Friday in stores or on their computers, the food kitchen was filled with warm food, beautiful music and big smiles.

The last diner to leave put it best: “Good meal . . . live music . . . yes, indeed!”