Leaven 12-11-15 Vol. 37 No. 18

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 37, NO. 18 | DECEMBER 11, 2015

‘BEAUTIFUL BEYOND WHAT I IMAGINED’ Holy Family Parish dedicates new church that was decades in the making STORY AND PHOTOS BY JOE BOLLIG

Serious discussions about building a new church in Eudora began four years ago.

The total cost of the project was $3.6 million. The upper and lower levels of the church total 16,460 square feet.

Pastor Father Patric Riley gives the key and plans for the new Holy Family Church in Eudora to Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann during a dedication Mass on Dec. 6. The completion of this church ends worship in the basement church of the former school, an arrangement that was supposed to end in the mid-1960s.

Parish growth was a major factor in the decision to build the church, as well as a desire for handicap accessibility, more classrooms and aesthetic concerns.

E

UDORA — Local Catholics waited half a century for their “temporary” situation to end. Fittingly, their wait ended during Advent.

On Dec. 6, Eudora Catholics celebrated the completion of the new Holy Family Church with a dedication Mass, followed by a dinner in the parish hall — which until the Sunday before was their church.

“I’m so excited,” said Andi Bock.

“There aren’t really words.”

Bock grew up in Holy Family Parish.

She attended the old three-room schoolhouse and the former school

(now parish center) built in 1963. She worshiped in the 1864 stone church, the 1963 “temporary” church in the school basement and now the new church.

“The [1963] church was supposed to be open for three years,” said Bock. “It was a long three years.”

Although parishioners followed the progress of the new church with growing excitement, the experience of walking through the completed church for that first Mass was an awesome experience for many.

“I think it’s lovely — beautiful beyond even what I imagined it would be,” said Betty Tennis, a longtime parishioner. “I think it’s just the beginning

of a wonderful work of the Holy Spirit here in Eudora and at Holy Family.”

The contemporary Romanesque church, in a traditional cruciform layout, is located east of the school and adjoins the parish cemetery. The north-facing entrance is covered in rose-colored brick with limestone-like cast stone accents. The majority of the building is covered with medium-tan stucco.

“This is exactly what we prayed for,” said Bock. “We unanimously wanted a church that looked like a church, not some modern-day thing that would >> See “PASTOR” on page 5

Paintings and murals in the church were made and donated by parishioner Jeannie Pflumm. An icon-like painting in the narthex depicts saints important in the parish’s history.

DECEMBER 11, 2015 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ARCHBISHOP

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We build not to display our pride, but to elevate our hearts

O

ne of the great joys of the ministry of bishop is to preside at the dedication of a church.

This past weekend, I dedicated a new church for Holy Family Parish in Eudora. It had been the aspiration of the Eudora Catholic community to build a new church for many years. The former church building was simply not adequate to meet the needs of the growing Catholic community in that portion of the archdiocese. I congratulate Father Pat Riley for his leadership and the hard work and generosity of all the parishioners in making the dream of a new church now a reality.

Recently, I also had the opportunity to dedicate the renovated Holy Cross Church in Overland Park.

The parish for many years had been worshiping in a space that had not been intended to be the permanent church. Parishioners made significant sacrifices to fund a major renovation that will serve the parish of Holy Cross for many, many years.

Sometimes, the question is posed: Why invest money in building beautiful churches?

Would it not be better to take the money raised for a building to serve the poor? This is a fair and legitimate question.

Buildings represent the priorities of a community.

I am always struck by the magnificent churches in our rural areas. These beautiful buildings are a

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN visual testimony that God was first in the hearts of those who constructed them.

Today, in most of our urban areas the most prominent buildings are office towers, athletic stadiums, theaters and shopping malls. In many ways, they do represent the priorities of 21st-century America.

Catholic churches have a different meaning and significance than churches for Protestant Christians. For Catholics, our churches are not just places where we gather to pray or enjoy fellowship with fellow believers.

We believe that the Son of God makes himself physically present to us in the Eucharist and remains in our churches through the Blessed Sacrament reserved in our tabernacles.

There is nothing that we can build worthy of God. The most magnificent cathedral is a completely inadequate space for the God who created

the entire universe. We do not build beautiful churches because we are under the illusion that we can fashion something worthy of God. Our churches are simply manifestations of our efforts to give God our best. They are visual, concrete acknowledgments that everything we have, even life itself, is his gift. Recall the biblical story of the brothers Cain and Abel. Abel sought to sacrifice to God the best as an expression of his gratitude, while Cain evidently chose to offer God something less.

Our churches are also expressions of our own self-understanding. We believe that each one of us through the waters of baptism became a living temple of God. We carry the very life of God within us. In this sense, each one of us is a cathedral, a church and a tabernacle where God himself resides.

Every time we walk into a Catholic church, we are both reminded of our baptism and challenged to live in a manner consistent with our dignity as beloved daughters and

sons of God. Just as we would never vandalize or desecrate a church building, so must we have the same commitment never to do anything that is unworthy of our dignity as temples of the living God. Finally, our churches remind us of the dignity of every other human being. We must treat our fellow baptized Christians with the same reverence and respect we have for church buildings, because we know they carry the life of God within them.

For those who are not baptized, we know God desires for them also to become his living temples. Thus, we need to show them the love and respect due to one fashioned in the divine image and for whom Jesus shed his blood on Calvary.

The beauty of our churches serves as a continual reminder of our own innate worth and a constant challenge to spend our lives helping others to discover and appreciate their dignity.

Pope Francis has reminded us not to keep Jesus locked up in our churches.

It is our duty to bring the Jesus we encounter in our churches to the entire world.

This past Sunday, in preparation for the jubilee Year of Mercy, every Catholic in northeast Kansas was invited to make a commitment to live in a more intentional way one or more of the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. The corporal works of mercy are derived from the 25th

chapter of St. Matthew’s Gospel where Jesus tells us that when we feed the hungry, give drink to the thirsty, clothe the naked, shelter the homeless, care for the sick and visit the imprisoned, we are actually doing this for him. If we love Jesus, then we manifest this by treating others with the same care we would give to Our Lord.

The spiritual works of mercy actually occur on a regular basis in our churches, where we receive instruction in the truths of our faith, counseling for our doubts, the invitation to recognize honestly our sinfulness, opportunities to experience his mercy, the strength to bear wrongs patiently, the power to forgive those who have hurt us and the chance to pray for both the living and the dead In the Rite for the Dedication of a Church, it says clearly that our church buildings are not to be costly displays that feed our pride. At the same time, our churches are intended to have a noble beauty that elevates our hearts to God and inspires us to ponder our own dignity and destiny.

Beautiful churches do not take away resources from the poor. They are sacred spaces where we receive the motivation that empowers us to sacrifice heroically and generously to care for every other human being with the same tenderness and respect that we desire to give to Jesus Christ, the son of the living God.

CALENDAR

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN

Dec. 11 Southern Region priests meeting — Prairie Star Ranch, Williamsburg Dec. 12 Profession at Apostles of the Interior Life Dec. 13 Jubilee Year of Mercy opening of Holy Door — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 15 Ethics Committee meeting — Chancery Dec. 16 Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas annual meeting Dec. 17 Priests Personnel meeting Administrative Team meeting Mass and dinner with representatives of parents whose children are Catholic Education Foundation scholarship recipients Dec. 20 Quo Vadis retreat

ARCHBISHOP KELEHER Dec. 11 Episcopal ordination anniversary

Dec. 12 Mass — Federal camp Dec. 20 Mass — Federal camp

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DECEMBER 11, 2015 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann presents the St. Philippine Duchesne Award to the Apostles of the Interior Life at Sacred Heart Church in Mound City on Nov. 22. Receiving the award are, from left: Sister Susan Pieper; Sister Loredana Mazzei ; and Sister Michela Brugnoli. St. Philippine Duchesne, a French missionary to the Potawatomi tribe that lived in the area, is the only saint to have ministered in the archdiocese. The Potawatomi referred to her as the “Woman Who Prays Always.”

IN THE FOOTSTEPS OF THE ‘WOMAN WHO PRAYS ALWAYS’ Apostles of the Interior Life honored in the 25th year of their founding

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

M

OUND CITY — “Why us?” was the surprised reaction of Sister Susan Pieper, AVI, when she learned the Apostles of the Interior Life would receive the St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Award.

But on further reflection, the selection made a lot of sense.

Since 2006, the award has been given annually to individuals and groups who promote Catholic education, vocations to the priesthood and religious life, or devotion to St. Rose Philippine Duchesne.

The award is given on or near the solemnity of Christ the King at Sacred Heart Parish in Mound City, which is also a shrine to St. Rose. St. Rose, a French missionary to the Potawatomi tribe, ministered only a year, but earned the name “Woman Who Prays Always” from the tribe.

“There were two reasons the Sisters got the award,” said Father Regie Saldanha, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, St.

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) President: Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE

Sister Susan Pieper, AVI, accepts the St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Award on behalf of the Apostles of the Interior Life.

Philip Neri Parish in Osawatomie, and Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in LaCygne.

“One is that last year on Dec. 8, we began the Year of Consecrated Life and we had the Sisters of the Community of the Lamb,” said Father Saldanha. “And we want to close this Year of Consecrated Life by honoring another religious community.”

“The second reason,” he continued, “is that the Apostles of the Interior Life are celebrating the 25th anniversary of the founding of their congregation. We

decided this was a fitting occasion to honor them.”

The community of the Apostles of the Interior Life was formed by Father Salvatore Scorza, an Italian priest who ministered for a time in California.

Gradually, a small group of friends formed around his vision of a new religious community, and the group officially became a community on April 12, 1990.

The order is a private association of the faithful, approved by the Diocese of Rome and the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. The Apostles have male and female branches in two provinces — one in Italy and the other in the United States. The female branch has 16 members, with nine Sisters in the North American Province. The male branch has five men ordained priests.

The Apostles have also established two affiliated lay groups: the Collaborators of Your Joy and a group called “the Family.”

The Apostles and the Holy Family School of Faith are providing spiritual formation for the permanent deacons of the archdiocese. They also run the

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org

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Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

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archdiocesan Catholic Spiritual Mentorship program.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann presented the award to the Sisters during a Mass on Nov. 22 at Sacred Heart Church. Representing the Sisters were Sister Susan, the provincial; Sister Michela Brugnoli; and Sister Loredana Mazzei. Also present were members of the male branch of the Apostles, represented by Father Vince Huber and by Zachary Harris, who is currently in formation.

In preparation for the Year of Mercy, Archbishop Naumann also sealed a door that will be opened at 6:30 p.m. on Dec. 12, the Third Sunday of Advent.

The church and shrine is one of six archdiocesan churches that have been designated a pilgrimage site for the jubilee year. Passing through the door and praying for the Holy Father’s intentions at the Mass fulfills three of the four conditions for a plenary indulgence for the jubilee year.

A reception and dinner in honor of the Sisters was held in the parish hall following the Mass.

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.

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DECEMBER 11, 2015 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Topeka parish cares for the aging population

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

Archdiocesan council discusses 10-year vision and key initiatives

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

T

OPEKA — Father Tom Hesse might be retired from active ministry and parish life, but that hasn’t kept him from caring for the spiritual needs of seniors like Nancy Burton at Atria Hearthstone Community here.

Raised Catholic, Burton once considered becoming a nun. After her first marriage ended in divorce, Burton met her second husband, a non-Catholic. The two got married, and Burton often attended church services with him. The services were nice, she said, but something was missing. She didn’t realize she missed her Catholic faith. That is, until about five or six months ago.

Father Hesse, also a resident, happened to be in the community restaurant one day just as Burton was talking with a few others about growing up Catholic. Although he wasn’t trying to, Father Hesse overheard part of the conversation. He asked Burton why she hadn’t been to any of the Masses he celebrates for residents on the weekends.

That moment, according to Burton, changed her life.

Father Tom, as he is affectionately known, moved into the community five years ago after retiring from active parish ministry. Along with Sister Ann Moylan, SCL, aging ministry coordinator at Topeka’s Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, he regularly cares for the community’s Catholic residents. The community is located within the parish’s geographic boundaries.

Years ago, Topeka area priests divided the responsibilities of caring for the aging at the city’s different nursing and assisted living facilities by assigning the pastoral care of the facilities to the parish in which they lay geographically. Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish took responsibility for nine facilities within its parish boundaries.

But in 1995, then-pastor Father Frank Krische asked Sister Ann if she would consider heading a ministry to the aging.

“I didn’t know anything about it,” said Sister Ann, but she eagerly embraced the opportunity just the same.

“I told him I’d love to,” she said.

Now, 20 years later, she heads up 14 different teams of volunteers, comprised of nearly 40 individuals, all of whom serve the aging, whether they are homebound, in a nursing facility or in a hospital.

Volunteers take Communion to the sick and visit with them. Volunteers also help Sister Ann maintain

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K LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Father Tom Hesse celebrates Mass for Topeka’s Atria Hearthstone Community, one of the many efforts of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish’s ministry to the aging. records of the numerous Catholic residents, ensuring that all the Catholics in the nursing facilities or patients in the hospitals are known to the parish.

The goal of the system is to make sure that the sacramental needs of every Catholic — whether hospitalized, living in a nursing facility or living in an assisted living facility — are being addressed, especially in times of suffering. Indeed, making personal visits is what Sister Ann enjoys the most about her ministry.

“I love to help them see Jesus through their suffering,” said Sister Ann. As she gets older and deals with some health challenges herself, she said she finds it even easier to empathize with others in their sufferings.

Although volunteers say Sister Ann never says no to anyone in need, she is quick to credit those very volunteers. It’s because of them, she said, that the parish is able to serve so many.

Father Hesse’s residence at the assisted living facility offers one extra blessing the other facilities don’t enjoy — the physical presence of a priest. It allows the residents there to enjoy many more opportunities to express their Catholic faith and worship with other Catholics.

On a daily basis, Father Hesse might celebrate Mass, hold a Bible study, anoint someone in an emergency situation, hear someone’s confession or just visit with a resident who has been away from the Catholic faith for a while.

In short, he said, it’s very similar to parish life. The only real difference is that he hasn’t celebrated a wedding yet — although he admits you never know what the next day might bring.

Take, for example, that conversation with Burton in the restaurant.

“I didn’t know he was a priest,” said Burton. But after Father Hesse approached her, they visited for while.

“He invited me to Mass,” she continued. “I went to Mass, and I thought, ‘Now is the time to get straight with God.’” He encouraged her to return to God’s healing grace through the sacrament of reconciliation, after an absence of nearly 40 years.

“I didn’t remember the Act of Contrition,” she said later, but Father Hesse walked her through it. “He made it so easy.”

And he made it so powerful.

“He told me that Jesus loved me,” said Burton simply.

Bringing people back to the faith is a real blessing, said Father Hesse.

“We evangelize our own.”

On Saturday nights, he celebrates a 4 p.m. Mass for at least 25 people.

“I’m practicing my faith with others,” he said.

Although he has chronic obstructive pulmonary disease and is on oxygen, Father Hesse said the faith of others energizes him.

He makes it a point to talk to as many people as possible, sitting at different tables in the restaurant, saying hello to others in the hall and inviting them to Mass — all in an effort to let them know Jesus cares for them and they are not forgotten, an all-too-common feeling in the aging population.

Evelyn Bernica, another resident, serves as one of the sacristans for the weekly Mass. She is thankful for Father Hesse’s presence.

“Just knowing we have a priest to say Mass for us,” she said, “means the world to me.”

ANSAS CITY, Kansas — Parishes next year will begin to see the implementation of the three key initiatives that are part of the archdiocesan 10-year mutually shared vision.

The visioning process and the initiatives were among the items discussed during the Archdiocesan Pastoral Council meeting, held on Oct. 19 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas.

Twenty-two council members, representing the eight archdiocesan pastoral regions and certain constituencies, were present. Six new members were welcomed.

The first key initiative is: “Build a Culture of Evangelization Across the Archdiocese.”

Michael Scherschligt, executive director of the Holy Family School of Faith, and Father Andrew Strobl, director of the archdiocesan office of evangelization, are working together to meet three goals under that first key initiative.

The goals are: first, to place a discipleto-disciple training program in each pastoral region by Pentecost 2017; second, to create benchmarks to measure evangelical efforts by Sept. 20, 2016; and third, to create at least one pilot parish in each pastoral region to model a culture of intentional evangelization by Pentecost 2017.

The second key initiative — “Strengthen the Vocation of Marriage and Family Life” — is being developed by a committee led by Msgr. Thomas Tank. The third key initiative — “Cultivate Relationships

by Engaging in the Corporal and Spiritual Works of Mercy” — was launched on Dec. 5-6.

Father John Riley led a discussion about the church’s response to the legalization of same-sex marriage. Council members discussed the church’s teaching on marriage, its reception by young people and ways in which that reception might be improved upon.

Karen Kroh, assistant superintendent for special needs in the archdiocesan school office, led a discussion about caring for special-needs Catholic school students.

A needs analysis, done in 2000, found that eight percent of Catholic students had special needs. Archdiocesan schools have about 1,000 students with disabilities with a full range of challenges. A task force has been formed to review how the archdiocese serves Catholic students with special needs.

There was some concern expressed that parishes are losing families because disabled persons can’t participate or don’t feel welcome at Masses and parish activities. Discussion followed on how various parishes currently provide for special needs students, whether through formal or informal programs.

The council concluded its meeting after identifying topics to be discussed at future meetings, including the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, stewardship, social justice issues, refugees and migration, and repurposing facilities.

DECEMBER 11, 2015 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Pastor praises parishioners generosity, support >> Continued from page 1 become outdated. We wanted something timeless, and we got it.”

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann was the main celebrant and homilist of the dedication Mass. The concelebrants were pastor Father Patric Riley, former administrator Father Tom Hesse, former pastor Msgr. Raymond Burger, archdiocesan chancellor Father John Riley, and Father Al Rockers. Msgr. Gary Applegate was master of ceremonies.

Seminarian and parishioner Anthony Mersmann, who is studying for the priesthood for the archdiocese at Cardinal Glennon College in St. Louis, represented both the “old” and “new” of the parish. He is both a member of a family with deep roots in the parish and a current parishioner discerning a vocation. In the opening procession, he carried a relic of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, which was placed in the altar

by Archbishop Naumann during the Mass.

In his homily, Archbishop Naumann praised Holy Family parishioners for their many sacrifices and strong support in funding the project, and he congratulated Father Riley for his leadership. “[A new church] has been a dream of this community for many years, and we congratulate you on making this dream a reality,” said the archbishop.

“And we thank in a very particular way Father Pat Riley for his great leadership,” the archbishop continued. “This only happens when you have a pastor who is willing to really dedicate himself to a project like this. Thank you, Father Pat, for being such a good shepherd for this community.”

Father Riley, in turn, praised the support of his parishioners. Although a small parish, members shouldered $1.2 million of the $3.6 million total cost of the project through pledges and fundraising.

“I feel very privileged to be pastor with so many great and generous people,” he said. “They have been greatly supportive of this whole process and are so excited to begin to worship in our new church.”

The new altar and credence table were built by parishioner Randy Eaton, who also restained the ambo to match. The top of the altar is made of limestone.

The stained-glass windows — 13 in all — are being made and donated

by Jack and Loretta Kirchhofer, who got to know Father Riley when he was pastor of St. Matthew Parish in Topeka. So far, two of the windows are installed, and the remainder will be done in two years.

The church also boasts new

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OPEN WIDE THE DOORS

T

he Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas will begin the Year of Mercy with the opening of six holy doors.

The following is a schedule for the opening of the doors.

Each of the six churches listed has been designated a pilgrimage site for the jubilee Year of Mercy.

For more information about additional visiting hours for the sites and other information, go online to: archkck.org/mercy.

SACRED HEART

729 W. Main, Mound City Dec. 12 at 6:30 p.m.

A relic of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne was placed in the altar of the new church of Holy Family Parish in Eudora, and it was anointed with sacred chrism by Archbishop Naumann. He was assisted by Msgr. Gary Applegate, who served as master of ceremonies. Anthony Mersmann, a parishioner now studying at Cardinal Glennon College in St. Louis, carried the relic of St. Rose in the procession to symbolize the coming together of the “old” and “new” in the parish. murals and paintings by Jeannie Pflumm. Facing the altar, a mural of Jesus being baptized by St. John the Baptist is on the left, and a mural of Jesus rising from the tomb is located on the right.

The interior ceiling features large laminated wood beams and exposed wood ceiling, giving the appearance of an overturned ship. The cylindrical lights hang above the dark wood pews in clusters of three.

The narthex is separated from the sanctuary by a striking wood and glass partition.

Of particular note is an icon-like painting by Pflumm in the narthex depicting a number of saints significant to the history of the parish: Sts. Boniface, Benedict, Scholastica, John the Baptist, Joseph, Thérèse, Philomena, Francis of Assisi and Patrick.

Other parishioners contributed to the purchase of new Stations of the Cross, holy water fonts, votive light stands, pews, the tabernacle, sanctuary crucifix, baptismal font, presider and server chairs, and processional cross.

On the Monday before the dedication, Father Riley discovered that the tumblers on the tabernacle doors were jammed and it wouldn’t open.

So, a representative of the I. Donnelly Company in Kansas City, Missouri, drove the tabernacle to Chicago, had it repaired and drove it back to Eudora — all within two days.

Father Riley gave three main reasons for building a new church.

“The parish considered the possibility of a new church 15 years ago but, with so many pastors coming and going, it never got off the ground,” said Father Riley. “Four years ago, we had a parish meeting to identify the future needs of the parish. By far,

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the three most important needs were a larger church, more classrooms and a larger and handicap-accessible parish hall.”

Growth was the main driver. The former church had 220 seats, but the new church has about 500, with the ability to add an additional 80 temporary seats. The parish has 350 families, several being young with children. In fact, the parish added 47 new families in the past 14 months.

The future classroom space in the basement of the church is unfinished, but could accommodate six classrooms and a parish office. The upper church and the basement together comprise 16,460 square feet.

Parking spaces have been almost doubled.

The people who helped were too numerous to thank, said Father Riley, but he did single out parishioner Doug Pickert for his key role.

“The one person who we couldn’t have done without was Doug Pickert,” he said. “He has been the building committee chairperson of all the committees since we started. His stable leadership, and work with the architects and general contractors certainly helped both me and our parishioners to come to this point of having a beautiful, new church.”

Thanks was also extended during the dedication Mass to members of Piper-Wind Architects in Kansas City, Missouri: Ken Low, Michael Blackledge and John Wind; architect Allan Hermanson, Integration Design Group, PC in Denver; John Hess of Excel Constructors Inc. of Overland Park; and Carla Mills, CFO of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

ST. BENEDICT’S ABBEY 1020 N. 2nd, Atchison Dec. 13 at 10 a.m.

ST. MARY 9208 Main St., St. Benedict Dec. 13 at 10 a.m.

CATHEDRAL OF ST. PETER

409 N. 15th, Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 13 at 11 a.m.

CHURCH OF THE ASSUMPTION

8th and Jackson, Topeka Dec. 13 at 5 p.m.

DIVINE MERCY 555 W. Main, Gardner Dec. 13 at 7 p.m.

Anniversary William “Bill” and Donna (Harman) Bileck, members of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary Dec. 12 with a celebration in their honor at Holy Angels’ Father Quinlan Hall. The couple was married on Dec. 10, 1955, at St. Rose of Lima Church, Kansas City, Kansas. Their children are: Kathi Parks, Teri Long and Patti Schons.

They also have 11 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren.

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DECEMBER 11, 2015 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS Father Jordan Rooney

N

IAGARA FALLS, Ontario, Canada — Father Jordan Rooney, O.Carm., died Nov. 20 here. He was 88.

John Joseph Rooney was born in Chicago on Nov. 7, 1927, to James Joseph and Ann (Howe) Rooney. He professed his first vows as a Carmelite in 1948, taking the religious name of Jordan. He was ordained a Carmelite priest in 1954.

Father Jordan served in Carmelite high schools and parishes in Kansas, Illinois, Virginia and Ontario. He was the associate pastor of St. Joseph Parish, Leavenworth, from 1973 to 1975, and pastor from 1975 to 1984. He was also pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish, Leavenworth, from 1983 to 1984; associate pastor at Immaculate Conception and St. Joseph parishes from 1992 to 1994; and parish administrator from 1994 to 1995.

Jim and Loydean (Barker) Ricard, members of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Dec. 18. The couple was married at St. Peter Church, Kansas City, Missouri.

Their children are: Cindy Steele and Aaron Ricard. They also have five grandchildren.

A spring tour of Alaska is planned.

WEB EXCLUSIVE

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Sister Ann McGuire, SCL

EAVENWORTH — Sister Ann McGuire, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth, died Nov. 19. She was 76.

Margaret Ann McGuire was born in Kansas City, Missouri, on Jan. 2, 1939, to Alexander Felix “Phil” and Kathleen (Schorgl) McGuire, the youngest of seven children. She attended St. Elizabeth Elementary School and Bishop Hogan High School. After graduation, she went to work as an office assistant at her uncle’s grocery store. Later, she worked as a secretary at a life insurance company.

She entered the religious community of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth on Feb. 15, 1959. She was given the name Sister Kathleen Therese and made her profession of vows on Feb. 19, 1961. She later returned to the use of her baptismal name.

Sister Ann earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Saint Mary College, Leavenworth; a master’s in education administration from the University

of Dayton; and a specialist degree in education administration from Boston College.

She taught and was principal at parochial elementary schools across the West and Midwest for 31 years. Responding to the call to serve the poor more directly, she moved into the health care ministry as the administrator of Caritas Clinics and served in that position until 2005. She spent three years as building coordinator for three parishes in Kansas City, Kansas: Our Lady & St. Rose, Blessed Sacrament and Christ the King. In 2010, Sister Ann became the motherhouse administrator responsible for buildings and grounds. She served in that position until her death.

Survivors include her brothers: Father James D. McGuire, OAR, Montebello, California; Phil McGuire, Harvest, Alabama; and Thomas McGuire, Kansas City, Missouri; her sisters: Mary Boso, Indianapolis; and Jane Bourquin, Shawnee; and her sister-inlaw Marlene McGuire.

CHURCH OF THE WEEK St. Joseph, Olpe Address: 308 Iowa Pastor: Father John Cordes Mass Times: Saturday, 5 p.m., Sunday, 8:30 a.m.

Email: st.joseph_olpe@yahoo.com

Video

A video tour of this church is available online at: www.theleaven.org.

More photos of this church can be seen online at: www.theleaven.org.

6

TO EVERYTHING THERE IS A SEASON Strawberry Hill transplant finds love, life’s work in corporal work of mercy Story and photos by

K

JILL RAGAR ESFELD ANSAS C I T Y, Kan. — Not many women can claim they fell in love in a funeral home, but Helen

In 1892, Matt Skradski Sr. immigrated to the United States from his native Croatia.

He settled in the Kansas City, Kansas, community known as Strawberry Hill.

In 1929, Skradski Funeral Home opened its doors for the first time.

The business was passed down from father to son to grandson. They were all named Matt.

Helen married her Matt in 1969, when he was on leave from the Navy.

“After Matt got out of the Navy,” she said, “we moved to St. Joseph, Missouri, where he worked at Carnation Company.”

The mortuary business wasn’t in their plans until Matt’s father had a heart attack and needed help.

“The mortuary school opened up out here at Kansas City Kansas Community College,” said Helen. “And so, Matt started taking classes and got his degree in mortuary science.”

The couple eventually bought the business from Matt’s parents with the intention of running it in partnership.

“My mother-in-law always said, ‘This is a corporal work of mercy,’’’ recalled Helen. “I knew that growing up Catholic, Matt and I would embrace it together — and we did.

“He had the business side,” she said.

“I had the softer side.”

“MY MOTHER-IN-LAW ALWAYS SAID, ‘THIS IS A CORPORAL WORK OF MERCY.’ I KNEW THAT GROWING UP CATHOLIC, MATT AND I WOULD EMBRACE IT TOGETHER — AND WE DID.” — Helen Skradski

Meeting life’s challenges Oddly enough, Helen had been a wedding singer for most of her life.

Now she began to sing at funerals, too.

And she did it beautifully.

Singing was a talent she discovered when she was forced into performing for a musical at Bishop Ward

s After serving the Strawberry Hill community over 18 years, Helen Skradski is turning her reins over to Steve Pierce — a fellow Catholic who shares her value of community service.

A portrait of Matt Skradski hangs in the foyer of Skradski Funeral Home. Helen Skradski ran the business in partnership with her husband until his sudden death in 1997. s

Skradski can.

She met her late husband Matt just after high school when she was attending Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, and he was at Rockhurst College in Kansas City, Missouri.

He brought her home on their first date.

His family happened to live above their place of business — Skradski Funeral Home in Kansas City, Kansas.

“We came through the prep room,” she recalled. “And I thought, ‘This is kinda creepy.’

“There was no one in there, no body or anything.

But it was different; I was not used to that.”

She got used to it very quickly.

The couple continued to date through college. And when Matt joined the Navy and was often away, Helen would hang out with his family.

“I would come and go,” she said.

“And, eventually, it was no big deal.”

Matt’s mother did the cosmetic work in the prep room. Helen got in the habit of visiting with her while she worked.

“It wasn’t anything,” she said. “I’d be in there with her and we would talk; she’d tell me who this was and how this one was related to that one.”

Indeed, the family knew just about everyone they buried. That’s the way it is when you’re a small business in a tight-knit community.

Serving the neighborhood

High School in Kansas City, Kansas.

“I was a wallflower,” she said. “And then at Ward, I had a nun who pulled me off the wall.”

This pattern would be repeated often in Helen’s life — being pulled off the wall to meet a life challenge.

She was happily in the background of the mortuary business — until her husband suggested she take on more responsibility.

“So I went to school and got my license,” she said. “That turned out to be a blessing.”

A blessing indeed — Helen and her husband had three grown children and a thriving business when Matt, only 53 years old, died unexpectedly.

“He had a massive heart attack,” she said. “We were getting ready for our son’s wedding. I had no idea that he would be gone.

“But that’s part of this business — some are unexpected.”

Overnight, Helen became the sole owner, manager and administrator of the funeral home.

But like discovering her voice when she was forced into a high school musical, she discovered God had prepared her perfectly to meet this challenge, too.

And the experience of losing her

husband gave her a wealth of empathy for the people she would serve with love and compassion in the years to follow.

“I needed the people here as much as they needed me,” she said. “I suffered that loss that I see everybody else is going though.”

path to healing.

“For me, doing this job was what I needed,” said Helen. “Going through the grieving process — I had done that before with a mother and a father.

“But losing Matt — then I understood the losing of a spouse and your children’s father.”

She learned to mix business with compassion as she interacted with her community in a new way.

“I met with the people and learned more about them,” she said. “As far as the church community [of St. John the Baptist], I was singing in the choir and knew the people that way and belonged to the parish.

“But now, I had to feel what they were feeling.”

Helen credits her faith with giving her the strength to carry on with it.

“If I didn’t have my faith, I couldn’t have gotten through it,” she said. “A lot of people wondered ‘Can she keep this going?’ because I was it.

“And so with my faith, I said, ‘OK, Lord, you’ve got to help me. You led me all these steps — having me embraced by this family, by this community, having me go to school.

“So it must be your plan.’”

let Helen know she’d found the right person to take over her family’s business.

“It was divine providence,” she said. “I really say that and mean it and feel it.”

While the two were privately negotiating the sale, Helen was involved in a funeral service with a priest from Missouri.

“It was just a beautiful service,” she said, “and Father and I were talking and he complimented me on the service.

“And he said, ‘There’s only one other person I think does such a wonderful service, and it’s a young man named Steve Pierce.’”

“He had no idea that Helen and I were in the process of talking,” said Pierce.

“No,” interjected Helen. “He didn’t have a clue.

“So I said, ‘Father, could you pray for me?’”

When Helen got home from the service, she found two roses in the back of the hearse.

“A message from the Blessed Mother,” she said.

“He was the guy.”

“WE’RE ONE OF THE FEW [FUNERAL HOMES] THAT ARE STILL PART OF THE COMMUNITY. I SAY THAT BECAUSE WE’RE INVOLVED IN THE COMMUNITY, WE GIVE BACK TO THE COMMUNITY AND WE STILL LIVE AND WORK IN THE COMMUNITY. — Steven Pierce

A new face in town

Empathy and faith Helen’s children had chosen career paths outside of the funeral business.

When her husband died, she was on her own.

“I had never sat here and met with a family,” she said. “I did the embalming, the cosmetic work; I was in

the background.”

Now she had to step out front while others took over in the background.

“It was hard,” she said. “I had to get myself up and get going — I would get up at five and probably not go to bed until one o’clock.”

But the hard work was part of her

God continues to guide Helen.

After running the funeral home alone for 18 years, she knew it was time to turn the reins over to someone else.

But she wanted someone who would care for the community as much as she did.

She found that person in Steve Pierce.

Pierce, who owns Muehlebach Funeral Care, a Catholic funeral home in Missouri, purchased Skradski Funeral Home in December of 2014.

Like Helen, he was drawn into the business by his relationship with a family who owned a mortuary.

“I grew up in a farming community near Kansas City,” he said. “When I was in tenth grade, I had a friend with a similar situation to the Skradski family.

“They lived upstairs — so when I was at their home, I was at the funeral home.”

Pierce began helping out in the mortuary and eventually went to get his degree in mortuary science.

“It’s the only job I’ve ever had,” he said. “I always knew this is what I wanted to do.”

A mutual friend, knowing Helen and Pierce shared similar Catholic values, suggested they talk. But God

A new lease on life

Pierce, a parishioner of St. Thomas More Parish in Kansas City, Missouri, plans to continue the traditions started by the Skradski family.

“We’re one of the few [funeral homes] that are still part of the community,” he said. “I say that because we’re involved in the community, we give back to the community and we still live and work in the community.

“And many of the funeral homes in the metropolitan area have been bought out by corporations.”

Making sure her business stayed part of the community was one of the biggest concerns for Helen.

“The big companies that buy these up don’t know the background of the community,” she said. “They don’t know how the people need to be treated and understood.”

Pierce shares her attitude.

“When they’re going through that most difficult time,” he said, “they want to deal with someone they know and they trust.”

So far, the community has embraced the new owner.

“People have been very supportive and appreciative of the years Helen has put in here,” said Pierce. “They realize she deserves to slow down.”

As for Helen, she’s starting a very new chapter in her life. She will soon be married again.

“I’m engaged,” she said. “Matt’s been gone 18 years, and I found a wonderful man that I can share the rest of however many days I get.”

“I’m going to retire and travel,” she added.

“She’s going to semiretire,” corrected Pierce.

Helen acknowledged his truth.

“You get emotionally attached,” she said. “That’s why it will be hard for me to let go.”

12/15

NATION

DECEMBER 11, 2015 | THELEAVEN.ORG

11

JRS honorees reflect on decades of helping refugees, displaced people

By Beth Griffin Catholic News Service

N CNS PHOTO/VICTOR ALEMAN, VIDA-NUEVA.COM

A boy walks with a woman as thousands march in Los Angeles Dec. 6 in the 84th annual procession and Mass in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe is Dec. 12.

Tens of thousands participate in Los Angeles Guadalupe procession, Mass

L

OS ANGELES (CNS) — Tens of thousands of people from Santa Barbara, Ventura and Los Angeles counties marched down East Los Angeles streets Dec. 6 to honor Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patroness of the Americas, in the 84th annual procession and Mass.

Themed “Mother of Mercy,” the event took place ahead of the Dec. 12 feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. It aimed to prepare Catholics for the Year of Mercy, opening Dec. 8. Pope Francis designated the jubilee year to encourage Catholics worldwide to rediscover the mercy of the Lord.

During his homily for the Mass, Los Angeles Archbishop Jose H. Gomez also prayed for all those who died and those who were injured in the mass shootings Dec. 2 at a county social services center in San Bernardino, entrusting the victims to the mercy of God. The mile-long Guadalupe procession — the oldest religious procession in Los Angeles — included colorful floats, equestrian groups, mariachis, indigenous dancers, and Catholic school

students escorting the Peregrina, the official Los Angeles archdiocesan pilgrim image of the Virgin of Guadalupe.

Many wore red and green attire to resemble the flag of Mexico where Our Lady of Guadalupe appeared to St. Juan Diego.

The procession ended at East Los Angeles College Stadium in Monterey Park. White doves were released as the Peregrina entered the stadium, where Archbishop Gomez celebrated a special Mass in her honor.

“We want to pray to the Virgin today in a special way for our brothers and sisters in San Bernardino. Let’s pray for the families of those who were killed and pray for healing for those who were wounded,” said Archbishop Gomez during his homily. “Let’s entrust the innocent victims to the mercy of God and let’s ask Our Mother of Mercy to bring conversion to the hearts of all those who are consumed by hatred.”

Sunday’s Mass also included a musical lineup of traditional songs in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe performed by several mariachi groups. At the end of Mass, Catholics venerated

the blessed image of Our Lady of Guadalupe with roses.

In 1531, Mary appeared to St. Juan Diego, a humble native, at Tepeyac near modern-day Mexico City, and asked him to build a church on a hilltop. She miraculously left her image on his cloak, or tilma, which he presented to the bishop as proof of her request.

Since then, the image of Our Lady of Guadalupe has been a symbol of faith, unity and mercy for people all over the world.

“During this Year of Mercy, let’s try to walk more closely with God on a “two-way street” of mercy — receiving God’s mercy and showing mercy to others,” said Archbishop Gomez.

This year’s pilgrimage of the framed images of Our Lady of Guadalupe and St. Juan Diego began Oct. 9 at St. Joseph Church in Carpinteria.

Catholics from more than 20 parishes and three detention centers in the three-county archdiocese welcomed the images with worship services and parish celebrations, leading up to the annual procession and Mass in East Los Angeles.

EW YORK (CNS) — Not all refugees need resettlement, but all deserve just treatment, according to two women honored by Jesuit Refugee Service.

Mercy Sister Denise Coghlan and Katrine Camilleri reflected on their decades of experience with refugees, asylum seekers and displaced people.

The Australian-born Sister Denise is a founding member of the JRS program in Cambodia. She went to Thailand in 1987 as a member of the Mercy Refugee Service to help Cambodians fleeing civil war in their own country.

Since 1990, Sister Denise has served asylum seekers and refugees in Cambodia, including Montagnard people from Vietnam, Rohingya from Myanmar, Uighurs from China and others from Iran, Afghanistan, Sri Lanka, Iraq, Ethiopia, Rwanda, Eritrea and Sudan. Her efforts have encompassed advocacy, outreach, reconciliation and training for people with disabilities.

“I like advocacy work, trying to get just solutions,” Sister Denise told Catholic News Service. “I don’t believe everyone needs resettlement.”

In some cases, she said people would not become refugees or asylum seekers if conditions were improved at home. “An obvious solution to me is to stop persecuting people religiously. Then, you undercut some of the reasons for them running away,” Sister Denise said.

Camilleri, an attorney, is the director of JRS in Malta. The island nation 50 miles south of Italy has long been an initial landing spot for refugees and asylum seekers trying to reach Europe.

Camilleri, a native of Malta, has served with JRS since 1996. She said the law now requires an earlier review of people in detention and allows some asylum-seekers to live in the community. As a result, JRS also helps people transition from detention centers to sustainable independence, and supports their efforts to integrate and build a life in Malta.

“Malta is easy to ignore, because it’s so small, but because it’s so small, you get to deal with many different situations and meet people firsthand,” Camilleri said.

“We have the experience of receiving relatively large groups and that’s important now. Until a year ago, Italy and Malta were voices in the wilderness dealing with people arriving irregularly in Europe. I hope Europe learns from what Malta did right and will meet the needs of more vulnerable people,” she said.

Sister Denise and Camilleri were recognized at a JRS awards dinner in New York Dec. 1 marking the 35th anniversary of the founding of the Washington-based organization.

Judge’s ruling frozen embryos must be destroyed called ‘tragic case’

By Liz O’Connor Catholic News Service

L

EVITTOWN, Pa. (CNS) — A California state judge’s ruling that a now-divorced couple’s five frozen embryos must be destroyed is an example of doing something that technology allows without considering all its aspects, according to medical ethicists.

Christopher White, director of research and education for the California-based Center for Bioethics and Culture, called the dispute a “tragic case” illustrating “the plight of these frozen embryos.”

Estimates of the number of embryos

in frozen storage range from “hundreds of thousands” to several million worldwide. White told Catholic News Service he would be comfortable putting the number at 1 million.

The center is opposed to the destruction of the embryos created by in vitro fertilization for anesthesiologist Mimi Lee and Stephen Findley, when they married. They are now divorced.

The couple had signed a release at the time directing that the embryos should be destroyed if they were to divorce. But Lee said she did not understand the agreement to be binding and thought she could change her mind.

California Superior Court Judge Anne-Christine Massullo in San Fran-

cisco ruled Nov. 18 the embryos must be thawed and discarded.

According to articles in the Los Angeles Times, Lee was diagnosed with breast cancer days before the couple’s 2010 wedding, and they decided to create embryos through IVF before she underwent treatment that might impair her fertility. She and Findley separated in 2013 and divorced earlier this year.

Lee, 46, asserts that the embryos represent her last chance to have a biological child; Findley does not want to have children with her. Lee’s lawyer did not return a CNS request for comment, but Lee is reported to have said she would appeal a ruling against her.

Massullo’s ruling is in line with most other rulings on the subject across the country, according to a Nov. 19 article in The New York Times. Judges in at least 11 states have ruled in estranged couples’ embryo-custody cases, and in at least eight of those states the ruling has been in favor of the party who did not want the unborn babies brought to term.

In Pennsylvania, Illinois and Maryland, however, courts have awarded the embryos to women who argued, as Lee does, that the embryos created with ex-husbands or ex-boyfriends represent their only chance to have biological children. There is no federal law regulating these issues.

DECEMBER 11, 2015 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Administrative assistant/office manager/PT - Looking for something new? Use your experience to help us improve people’s lives. Developmental optometrist needs help with her small practice. M-Th, noon-6 p.m.

No benefits. Background in word processing, Excel, QuickBooks, customer service and medical office experience are helpful. Send resume to: Dr. Bazin, 13600 Washington, Kansas City, MO 64145, or send an email to: bbazin@visiondevelop.com.

Part-time nurse practitioner - Rehab physician at St. Joseph Medical Center rehab ward is seeking a part-time nurse practitioner to help care for rehab unit and acute hospital consult patients 4-5 hours/day, 4-5 days/week.

Great for someone with children in school, family commitments, etc. Email resume and cover letter to: dsmith son@carondelet.com.

Director of outreach - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is hiring a director of leadership giving position.

The ideal candidate will successfully promote and support the mission of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas as guided by Catholic social teaching, by implementing and sustaining the agency’s strategic vision of creating communities where neighbors are helping neighbors. Guide the agency’s processes for formation of the heart and provide leadership and direction in the facilitation and development of new parish and community partnerships through parish social ministry, advocacy and community engagement. The ideal candidate must have 5 years experience in parish/diocesan ministry and appropriate educational credentials. For more information, send an email to: catholiccharitiesks.applicantpool.com/jobs/58163.html.

Marketing/sales representative - This marketing representative position requires a self-motivated, organized and personable individual to market the services that our company offers. This position will actively search for new accounts and manage existing accounts. We are an industry-leading cleaning and restoration company located in Lawrence. Marketing/sales experience is required. This position is part time, 20-25 hours per week, very flexible.

Send resumes to Servpro9721@sunflower.com.

Data entry - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has immediate openings for two temporary data entry positions. The individual will assist the office of stewardship and development during the busy Call to Share annual appeal. Required hours will be 30+ hours per week beginning in mid-January, with approximate end date in late March. Requires reliability, collaborative demeanor and demonstrated data entry skills. Full job description available at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Qualified individuals should email cover letter, resume and application (available on the archdiocesan website) to: jobs@archkck.org by Dec. 31. May also be mailed to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Stewardship - Data Entry Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

Director of stewardship and development - The Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph is searching for a director of stewardship and development. This full-time position will direct and implement a comprehensive program, including stewardship education on time, talent, treasure; the annual bishop’s appeal; annual fundraising activities; the coordination of special events; and long-term development efforts such as support of the Catholic Community Foundation, estate planning and corporate donor programs. The position is eligible for benefits, paid time off and two retirement plans. Please visit job opportunities at: www.diocese-kcsj.org for a complete job description or to apply.

Executive director - Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic is an expanding, faith-based, nonprofit organization serving women and families facing unplanned pregnancies with Christ-like compassion. We are looking for an executive director. The candidate should have strong leadership and supervisory skills; be flexible and able to work in a constantly evolving work environment; be comfortable collaborating with a wide range of agencies, churches and organizations; have excellent writing and communication skills; and have familiarity with QuickBooks, databases and MS Office products. Will be responsible for growing donor base and event planning. Reports to governing board. Send resumes to Donna Kelsey at: dkelsey@wpcnetwork.org. Our client website: www. wyandottepregnancyclinic.org. Our donor website: www.BabiesAtRisk.org. Our mobile pregnancy clinic: www.mobilepregnancyclinic.org. Any questions, call Donna at (913) 904-4050.

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.

Drivers needed - Medi Coach Transportation is looking for caring and reliable drivers for nonemergency transportation. CDL is not required. Contact Jeff at (913) 825-1921.

Quality control specialist - Large automotive plant is currently seeking a quality control specialist to assist with the inspection of equipment and parts. Excellent growth potential and advancement. Individual must be dependable and have a great work ethic. Starting wage is $10. Call (816) 994-8200.

Drivers – Assisted Transportation is now hiring caring and reliable drivers to transport K-12 students to and from school and other activities in company minivans. Positions are now available in Olathe, Overland Park and Kansas City, Kansas. Competitive wages and flexible schedules. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Call (913) 262-3100 or apply online at: AssistedTransportation.com. EEO. Teaching positions - St. Ann Young Child Center in Prairie Village is seeking to fill a Kids’ Day Out aide position, Mon. - Thurs. from 9 a.m. - 2:45 p.m. We are also looking for subs for preschool classes. For more information, call Tati at (816) 716-4676.

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, 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 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.

Junkyard Dawg - Can do cleanup, debris removal and any other odd job you have. Call (913) 575-8522 for an estimate.

House cleaning - Reasonable, thorough and dependable. Many years of experience. References. Call (816) 257-5303.

Marketing and advertising consultant - Strategic marketing and advertising consultant for your small business. Send an email to: loyedge@yahoo.com or call (877) LOY-EDGE. Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided.

Call (913) 940-2959.

K-12 tutoring available - Tutor is degreed and has experience in the K-12 curriculum in various subjects and can help in test preps (ACT, SAT, GED, etc.) as well as French, Spanish, piano, guitar, voice and music theory. Sessions are fun and meaningful in context. Sessions are one-onone and a family discount is available. For more info, call/text Kathleen at (913) 206-2151 or send an email to: Klmamuric@yahoo.com.

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.

December special - 5 sessions of personal training for $200 at your home. A healthy body gets you going further with God. Call Angela Nosworthy, 15 years experience. (913) 558-7759 Tree service - Pruning trees for optimal growth and beauty and removal of hazardous limbs or problem trees.

Free consultation and bid. Safe, insured, professional.

Cristofer Estrada, Green Solutions of KC, (913) 378-5872. www.GreenSolutionsKC.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.

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.

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT 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.

Brick mason - Brick, stone, tile and flat work. 22 years of residential/commercial experience. FREE QUOTES - KC metro area. Small and large jobs accepted. Call Jim at (913) 485-4307. www.facebook.com/faganmasonry.

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.

Swalms Organizing - Downsizing - Clean Out 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.SWALMS ORGANIZING.COM. The Drywall Doctor, Inc. - A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655.

DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time.

Windows - Doors - Decks – Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and you’ll 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.

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 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.

12

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.

Excellence in care - RNs want to assist you in care of your loved ones. Our services include private duty nursing, companion and respite care. JoCo only, no nights or live-in care. Licensed, insured and background check done. Call Mary at (913) 710-5412.

Retired nurse - Looking for work in home care. Please call (913) 579-5276.

FOR SALE For sale - Walk to Aquinas High School. Remodeled 4 BR home. Spacious yard, great neighborhood. Offered

by Welcome Home Real Estate for $269,000. For more information, please call (913) 314-4243.

Max’s rosaries - Custom-made locally for all occasions – first Communion, confirmation, baptism, graduation.

Rosary bracelets and beaded earrings, too! I also do repairs. Member of the Church of the Ascension, Overland Park. Call (913) 400-3236.

For sale - Cigarette pack from President Lyndon Johnson’s Air Force One. 1966, 1971, 1977 K-State yearbooks.

Over 2000 sports collector cards. Make offer. Call (913) 721-5517.

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.

For sale - Resurrection Cemetery lot in the Charity Garden. $4000 includes interment fees for two cremations, or one burial and one cremation. Call (913) 2680419.

For sale - Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, KCK. Two cemetery lots, side by side in Meditation section. $3000, or best offer for both. Send an email to: jnschroeder@cox. net or call (785) 273-3985.

For sale - Mt. Calvary Cemetery, KCK. 5 plots, old section number 8. Two plots: side by side, lot 47, space 3A and 4A. Two plots: lot 47, 7A and 8A. One single: lot 52, space 2A. Contact Marty Clem at (316) 519-5382 or send an email to: martyc@airco-ict.com.

For sale - At Gate of Heaven Cemetery, a double cremation niche with companion urn in the mausoleum. It is located in the St. John Corridor, #8 H. Today’s selling price for the double niche and urn is approximately $6,522; offering for $4,500. Call Colleen at (913) 269-6944.

WANTED TO BUY

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.

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

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

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.

VACATION

HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com

Ski week - Spring break 2/27 - 3/5/16. Winter Park, Colo.

Inn at Silver Creek in Granby. Fully furnished condo with kitchen. Easily sleeps six. Five-hour drive. $700. Pet OK. Call (913) 649-7596.

Lawn/landscaping - Mowing, mulch, dirt work, sod, tree trimming, landscape rock, gutter cleaning and power washing. Mention this ad for special pricing. Call (816) 509-0224.

Bronson condo - Enjoy fall colors and Christmas programs. Condo sleeps 6. Fully furnished and close to entertainment. On golf course, an indoor pool, Wi-Fi and exercise room are available. Call (913) 515-3044.

House painting Interior and exterior; wallpaper removal.

Power washing, fences, decks.

30 years experience. References. Reasonable rates.

Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.

CAREGIVING CNA, Home Health Care Professional - Provides TLC in the comfort of the client’s residence. Budget Friendly.

Available 24 hours, or part time. Excellent references. 25 years of Seasoned Experience. Nonsmoker. Call (816) 806-8104.

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.

Need help? - Do you or your parents need help at home?

Doctor appointments? Shopping? Light meals? Companionship? Years of experience. References. Call (913) 257-5303.

ROOMMATE WANTED For rent - Room and private bath available near Johnson County Community College. $500 per month. Short term or long term. For more information, call (913) 579-5276.

WANTED TO RENT Wants to rent - Single mom and 8-year-old son in residential placement need to rent 2-bedroom place to live in JOCO. Please call Margaret at (913) 209-7124.

Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co.

Specializing in Foundation Repairs Mud-jacking and Waterproofing.

Serving Lawrence, Topeka and surrounding areas.

Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696 In business since 1963 www.foundationrepairks.com

DECEMBER 11, 2015 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE CELEBRATION Queen of the Holy Rosary Church 7023 W. 71st, Overland Park Dec. 12 at 4 p.m.

There will be many vendors with homemade gifts for Christmas and crafts. There will also be tamales and burritos for sale. On Sunday, there will be Mexican bread, hot Mexican cocoa, coffee or punch.

The Leavenworth High School choir, Lansing’s concert choir and Immaculata High School’s IMAC singers will perform in the annual concert. There is no admission charge, but those attending are asked to bring a nonperishable food item for the Leavenworth Assistance Center.

CELEBRATION OF OUR LADY OF GUADALUPE AND CRAFT FAIR Guardian Angels Church 1410 Westport Rd., Kansas City, Missouri Dec. 12 from 2 - 6 p.m.

Dec. 13 from 9:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Books are available for sale. The suggested donation is $10. Space is limited. Check-in is one half-hour before start time. To RSVP, send an email to: ContemplativeOutreachKC@ gmail.com.

A Mass with prayers for healing, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be presided over by Father Dennis Wait.

For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

Mass will be held at 4 p.m. with mariachi music provided by Beto Lopez. A reception will follow after Mass with Mexican pastries, hot chocolate and coffee in the church hall.

COMMUNITY CHRISTMAS CONCERT Immaculate Conception Parish 711 N. 5th St., Leavenworth Dec. 13 at 2 p.m.

HEALING MASS Curé of Ars (Fr. Burak Room) 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood Dec. 17 at 7:30 p.m.

13

CHRISTMAS PAGEANT: ARCHANGEL GABRIEL CELEBRATION Holy Angels Parish 15408 Leavenworth Rd., Basehor Dec. 13 at 6 p.m.

Holy Angels celebrates the archangels throughout its 150th jubilee year, presenting a Christmas triptych of Catholic traditions: the English Lessons and Carols, the Hispanic Posada and the Nativity play. A Christmas party will follow in the parish hall.

PARISH MISSION Holy Angels Parish 15408 Leavenworth Rd., Basehor Dec. 14 - 16 from 7 - 8 p.m.

Mass at 6:30 both days

Father Anthony Marshall of the Congregation of the Blessed Sacrament will speak each evening on the Eucharist as a source of healing, reconciliation and mission. Each session will take place in the context of a eucharistic Holy Hour. The sacrament of reconciliation will be offered during the session on Dec. 15.

QUO VADIS RETREAT Savior Pastoral Canter 12601 Parallel Pkwy, Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 19 at 4:30 p.m., ends with lunch Dec. 21 Retreat master Msgr. Stuart Swetland will increase your friendship with Jesus with talks on “Jesus — Priest, Prophet and King.”

Come meet inspiring priests and seminarians, pray together and discover what God is calling you to. Register online at: www.kck vocations.com by Dec. 14.

HALF DAY OF CENTERING PRAYER Sanctuary of Hope 2601 Ridge Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 19 from 9 a.m. - noon

Come “rest awhile with the Lord” and enjoy five 20-minute periods of centering prayer with walking meditation breaks in between.

CRAFT FAIR Christ the King Parish 3024 N. 53rd St., Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 19 from 9 a.m. - 7 p.m.

Dec. 20 from 9 a.m. - 2 p.m.

There are booths still available. For more information, call Kim at (913) 514-0529.

‘LATE NITE CATECHISM’ Starlight Theatre 4600 Starlight Theatre Kansas City, Missouri

For dates and times of performances, go online to: www.kcstarlight.com, click on events, then on “Late Nite Catechism.”

SUBMITING CALENDAR ITEMS • List the event • List where the event will take place.

• List the date and time of the event.

Send calendar items to: beth.blankenship@ theleaven.org.

This is love.

How is God calling you to love like this?

Quo Vadis Discernment Retreat For single men 18-35 Savior Pastoral Center Dec. 19, evening to Dec. 21, morning • “Jesus as Priest, Prophet and King,” led by Msgr. Stuart Swetland • Personal time with Archbishop Naumann • Q & A with priests, seminarains • Adoration & meditations • Time with seminarians • No charge

Register by Dec. 14 and attend to be eligible to win a gift card.

Register at Kckvocations.com today.

DECEMBER 11, 2015 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT Dec. 13 THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Zep 3: 14-18a (Ps) Is 12: 2-6 Phil 4: 4-7 Lk 3: 10-18 Dec. 14 John of the Cross, priest, doctor of the church Nm 24: 2-7, 15-17a Ps 25: 4-5b, 6, 7bc, 8-9 Mt 21: 23-27 Dec. 15 Tuesday Zep 3: 1-2, 9-13 Ps 34: 2-3, 6-7, 17-19, 23 Mt 21: 28-32 Dec. 16 Wednesday Is 45: 6b-8, 18, 21b-25 Ps 85: 9ab, 10-14 Lk 7: 18b-23 Dec. 17 Thursday Gn 49: 2, 8-10 Ps 72: 1-4b, 7-8, 17 Mt 1: 1-17 Dec. 18 Friday Jer 23: 5-8 Ps 72: 1-2, 12-13, 18-19 Mt 1: 18-25 Dec. 19 Saturday Jgs 13: 2-7, 24-25a Ps 71: 3-4a, 5-6b, 16-17 Lk 1: 5-25

R

14

Does your post make folks feel like toast?

ight before Thanksgiving, a friend of mine put something wise on Facebook. Afraid she was getting addicted to the social media site and yet weary of it at the same time, she wrote: “I’m not sure the human psyche was designed to handle all the sadness. A distant [high school] friend’s cousin lost a toddler the other day in an accident. Before FB, I would have never known because I don’t know the family who lost him.

Now we know every lost job, every death in the family, every struggle. . . . The saying ‘comparison kills contentment’ rings true for me as well. My life starts to feel harder than it is when I scroll through FB. So . . . I just need to reprioritize. . . .

I’m going to take a break from FB for a while . . . to reconnect with people face to face.”

Smart girl. I’ve been feeling the same way myself. Lately, many posts have to do with endless political posturing, Elf on the Shelf (is it good or bad for kids?), gun control (do we need more or less?) and pleas to type “Amen” to vari-

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.

LISTEN to this article online at: www.theleaven.org. ous religious statements (or you really don’t love Jesus). It seems like the comments that folks are making to one another grow more and more strident and divisive.

Is this how the season of Advent should be celebrated? Over and over again, the readings of this season call us to imagine a better and more peaceful world, where “the lion shall eat hay like the ox. The baby shall play by the

cobra’s den, and the child lay his hand on the adder’s lair. There shall be no harm or ruin on all my holy mountain.” It’s a time of promise and hope, a time to “say to those whose hearts are frightened: Be strong, fear not!” Sadly, much of Facebook seems to be giving me just the opposite: fear, despair, gloominess and nastiness.

So, as the Italians say, “Basta!” Enough with all of the negativity! At least throughout the season of Advent and Christmas, can we Christians present to the online world a different message? A favorite way for many people to do that is through the use of memes, which are simply short sayings — kind of like posters — that are inspiration-

al or humorous. They can help make our lives richer or lighten our burdens with laughter.

A few that were on my Facebook news feed today were: “I think as you grow older, your Christmas list gets smaller and the things you really want for the holidays can’t be bought.”

“I promise if you keep searching for everything beautiful in this world, you will eventually become it.” (Tyler Kent White) “Always believe something wonderful is about to happen.”

“The world is changed by your example, not by your opinion.”

(Paulo Coehlo) So, in these coming weeks, when a meme has touched you, why not post it for others to ponder and enjoy?

A second way to positively use social media and the Internet in Advent and Christmas is through music.

I recently learned of a site called “Playing for Change: Peace Through Music.” Its philosophy is that “music has the power to break down boundaries and overcome distances between people.” Essentially, the

site has videos of street musicians from around the world playing the same song. For example, Ben E. King’s “Stand By Me” is performed by musicians from New Orleans, Amsterdam, the Congo, Caracas (Venezuela), Umlazi (South Africa), Rio de Janeiro, Pisa (Italy), Moscow and Toulouse (France).

The video pops from musician to musician, country to country, as the song progresses. It shows music as a universal language that can literally bring diverse people into marvelous harmony.

I’d like to ask those of us on Facebook or other social media to refrain from posting contentious items at least for these next few weeks — and ideally all through this Year of Mercy.

Instead, let’s seek to follow Pope Francis’ lead in promoting humility, understanding and gentleness.

Social media should, above all, be social and polite. We can make it so by practicing the meme that says: “A tongue has no bones, but is strong enough to break a heart.

So, be careful with your words.”

Following Jesus comes at a price. Are you willing to pay it?

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T

he German theologian Dietrich Bonhoeffer coined the term “cheap grace” in his writings.

By that, he meant the kind that comes from a faith in God that makes no difference in one’s behavior. It does not cost the person anything. It is “cheap.”

In contrast to that, Bonhoeffer argued that our response to God’s grace always means a change in our behavior.

It has to cost us something.

This fits in perfectly with Sunday’s Gospel reading, Lk 3:10-18. The crowd has been listening to John the Baptist preaching about the need for conversion. In response, the crowds ask John: “What should

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.

we do?”

Similarly, two other groups ask John the same question, the tax collectors and soldiers.

The international community is facing a stark and serious choice: “either to improve or to destroy the environment,” Pope Francis said, referring to the Paris Climate Conference. “It would be sad, and I dare say even catastrophic, were special interests to prevail over the common good,” the pope said Nov. 26 during a visit to the headquarters

They seek specific guidance from John on how they should live.

To the crowd in general, John encourages them to share their possessions with others.

To the tax collectors, he advises they stop shaking people down to line their own pockets.

Similarly, he tells the soldiers not to abuse their authority in order to gain more money.

In every case, John’s advice affects his listeners’ material well-being.

He is asking them to make a sacrifice in light of God’s offer of mercy.

It has to cost us something.

When we hear the word “stewardship,” we often think of our financial contributions — to put our money where our mouth is. And that is certainly part of it.

Witness John’s advice to the crowds. In response to their question, “What should we do?” he is asking them to make a financial sacrifice.

But stewardship goes beyond that. It involves our management of all the gifts that God has given us — our talents, our time.

Stewardship involves the whole of our life. It includes all the decisions

in Nairobi, Kenya, East Africa, of the U.N. Environment Program and U.N. Habitat, an agency concerned with urban planning.

Under the auspices of the United Nations, the Paris conference Nov. 30-Dec. 11 has the aim of achieving a legally binding and universal agreement on measures to stem climate change and protect the environment.

Pope Francis spoke at length about the importance of the conference during his

that we make in response to God. In the case of Bonhoeffer, that meant the sacrifice of his life. He was executed by the Gestapo because of his opposition to the Nazi regime.

He undertook that risky course because he believed that that was where God wanted him to go. For Bonhoeffer, God’s grace was not cheap. It cost him a lot.

With that in mind, the question that the crowd poses to John is certainly a daring one: “What should we do?”

If we echo that question, we also should be prepared for challenging direction. What does God want us to do with our life? What will God’s grace cost us?

visit to the U.N. offices, and his top aides had a meeting the evening before with Kenya’s environment minister and other officials to discuss their hopes and strategies for the Paris meeting. On his way into the meeting with U.N. officials and diplomats accredited to the two U.N. agencies, Pope Francis planted a tree.

— CNS

DECEMBER 11, 2015 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

15

Why not take the time to give the very best?

I

f we are blessed to live long enough to experience the joy of the births of grandchildren, great-nieces and great-nephews — and to hear little cousins’ laughter — we usually send gifts to celebrate.

The following ritual to celebrate the arrival of children — adapted from the book “Home Celebrations” by Lawrence E. Moser, SJ — touched my heart and seemed like a nice gift.

Prayer fits all sizes.

No delivery fee. No gift-wrapping required.

Satisfaction guaranteed. Find a candle and a match, your Bible, a quiet moment and begin: “Rejoicing, let us

come before the Lord; filled with gladness, and in the lightness of heart, let us offer our thanks.”

Read Ps 92: 1-2, 4-5, 13-15.

“In the fullness of our time, Father, we come before you in great joy for the gift of new life.

In the flow of our years, it has too often seemed that we have cluttered our souls with useless and heavy baggage; that we slip more and more into loneliness with the passing of each day; that we have proven unequal to the work that you have asked of us.

“Yet, by your grace, Father, you still ask that we shoulder part of your

earth. You place in our hands the freshest of tasks: that of handing on the best of what we are; that of replanting and tending once again the tender seed of your love.

“In peace, let us hear the word of God.” (Light the candle.)

SIMPLY STEWARDSHIP

LESLE KNOP Lesle Knop is the executive director of the archdiocesan office of stewardship and development. You can email her at: lknop@archkck.org.

work of creation: We form ourselves in the

whirl and play of your world; never alone, we treasure the blessings of your love in our hearts.

And now, at the very hour of ripeness and fruitfulness, you speak again today, Father — softly, gently, in a voice nourishing as rain to the

Read Jn 1: 9-14.

“Father, with the first breath of every child, with a voice crying in the wilderness, your Word comes again to his own and seeks acceptance. Cast light upon us once again, Father, as you have never ceased to do through your son.

May our own needs yield place to those of the newborn child that from

the fullness of your gifts to us, he/she may receive full measure. This we ask to your glory, in the name of your own Son Jesus, and in the power of his spirit.”

Join hands and pray the Our Father.

Prayer is one of the spiritual works of mercy and one of the pillars of Christian stewardship.

Disciples pray often in thanksgiving for all God has provided, including the grace and blessings we experience and witness in our daily lives, at work, in our communities and in our families.

Prayer. It’s always the perfect gift.

Help wanted with marriage prep. Perfect couples need not apply

A

gathering of engaged couples was asked: “Who believes that your spouse is a gift from God?” Hands were eagerly raised in response. Perhaps a follow-up question would be: How many see children as a gift from God that you are eager to receive?

A young married couple was heard saying: “We aren’t going to have children. We are too selfish.” This attitude is common today. A recent study shows the birth rate is in freefall worldwide. Is it really about being selfish? The couple I referred to followed up their statement with:

“We might have a child like me!”

Is part of the resistance a fear of coping with the challenges of raising children? What newly expectant parents don’t experience this self-doubt?

Each year, we hear the staggering average cost of raising a child (currently $245,000). It is understandable that some look at this giftwrapped box offered by the Father with a little hesitancy.

We who have children should be asking: “What’s wrong with this picture?!” We should be the first to recognize the distortion our culture presents regarding children. Recognizing

FAMILY MATTERS

DEACON TONY ZIMMERMAN Deacon Tony Zimmerman is the lead archdiocesan consultant for the office of marriage and family life.

and proclaiming the gift of children in our lives

TOUCH OF HEAVEN

Catholic Store 119 SE 18th Topeka, KS (785) 232-2543 Hrs. T-F - 10 a.m. 5:30; Sat. 9 a.m. to noon

shouldn’t wait until our 40th anniversary celebration.

Someone recently remarked that it takes a church to raise a child.

It takes the witness of joyfully married parents to help our engaged and young married couples eagerly ask God for the

gift of children in their lives.

Have we let our married children’s birthdays slip away with a nice card, phone call or some material gift? What a blessing to spend time over dinner sharing how you felt when you first realized you were expecting them. Affirm all that you are proud of them. Tell them how poor your life would have been without them. If it is hard to say, write it down and give it to them.

Take your witness to the church. Consider offering yourselves to your pastor as a possible lead couple for marriage preparation. What our engaged need is not perfect examples of marriage

and parenting. What will inspire them is the witness of couples who strive through the ups and downs of life to discover the real joy found in love for their spouse and their children.

We will offer the “Living in Love” retreat for married couples in Sabetha at Sacred Heart Parish on Jan. 16 and 17, and at Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park on Feb. 13 and 14. Besides being a great enrichment for marriage, it also helps couples prepare for becoming a lead couple for the engaged.

Pray and ask God if you should talk with your pastor about ministering as a lead couple. YOU ARE NEEDED!

Concrete Work

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

Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

DECEMBER 11, 2015 | THELEAVEN.ORG

WORLD

16

CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING

CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING

CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING

Pope Francis kisses a child as he visits a refugee camp in Bangui, Central African Republic, Nov. 29.

A man waves the national flag of the Central African Republic as Pope Francis celebrates Mass in Barthelemy Boganda Stadium in Bangui, Central African Republic, Nov. 30.

A boy walks between United Nations peacekeeping troops as people arrive for Pope Francis’ meeting with evangelical communities in Bangui, Central African Republic, Nov. 29.

THE POPE IN AFRICA

First door of jubilee year opened early at pope’s most dangerous stop

By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

B

ANGUI, Central African Republic (CNS) — Pope Francis ended his visit to the violence-torn Central African Republic with cries for peace and pleas for a mercy that seeks and grants forgiveness.

In a country where political and ethnic rivalries also have split the population along religious lines, Pope Francis began Nov. 30 with a visit to the Koudoukou mosque in Bangui.

After two years of civil war, much of the recurrent violence in the country involves the murder of a Christian or a Muslim, then retaliations from members of the other community. Most areas of Bangui are divided into Christian or Muslim neighborhoods with “buffer zones” between them patrolled

by U.N. peacekeepers.

“God is peace, ‘salam,’” the pope said in his speech at the mosque, where armed U.N. peacekeepers monitored the crowd outside from each of the three minarets.

“Christians and Muslims are brothers and sisters,” created by the same God, he said, and they must act like it.

“Together, we must say no to hatred, to revenge and to violence, particularly that violence which is perpetrated in the name of a religion or of God himself,” Pope Francis insisted.

“The recent events and acts of violence which have shaken your country were not grounded in properly religious motives,” he said, but some have used God’s name as an excuse for their actions, which “disfigures the face of God.” Pope Francis prayed that the elections scheduled for Dec. 27 would be a symbol and victory of national unity rather than being seen as the victory of one particular faction.

“Make your country a welcoming home for all its children, regardless of their ethnic origin, political affiliation or religious confession,” the pope urged the people.

Tidiani Moussa Naibi, the imam of the mosque, assured the pope that Central African Christians and Muslims know that they are brothers and sisters. “Trouble mongers could delay the completion of a particular project of common interest or compromise for a time a particular activity, but never, ‘inshallah’ (God willing), can they de-

CNS PHOTO/L’OSSERVATORE ROMANO

Pope Francis walks through the Holy Door after opening it to begin the Holy Year of Mercy at the start of a Mass with priests, religious, catechists and youths at the cathedral in Bangui, Central African Republic, Nov. 29. stroy the bonds of brotherhood that unite our communities so solidly.”

After the speeches, Pope Francis asked the imam to show him the mihrab, which indicates the direction of Mecca, the direction Muslims face when praying. The pope and imam stood in front of it for several moments of silence.

The Catholic archbishop of Bangui, the president of the country’s evangelical Christian alliance and another imam have been leading a very public campaign of education and cooperation to end the violence. The three were present at the mosque for the pope’s visit.

Afterward, the pope visited the camp for displaced people that has sprouted around the mosque, just as other camps have mushroomed around the city’s Catholic parishes.

To show just how special the visit was, Pope Francis personally opened the Holy Door at Bangui’s cathedral Nov. 29, nine days before the official opening of the Year of Mercy.

The last event on the pope’s schedule was a Mass in a sports stadium, where he urged the Catholic community to participate in the Year of Mercy by moving forward courageously toward peace and reconciliation.

The country’s bishops chose “Cross to the Other Side” as the theme for the pope’s visit, and he told people in the stadium that even though the elections are only four weeks away, they are still only in midstream in their journey to the side of peace.

All Christians, he said, need to break the habits of sin and division, which are “ever ready to rise up again at the prompting of the devil. How often this happens in our world and in these times of conflict, hate and war! How easy it is to be led into selfishness, distrust, violence, destructiveness, vengeance, indifference to and exploitation of those who are most vulnerable.”

Pope Francis urged the country’s Catholics to hold fast to their faith, sharing it with all they meet through words and, especially, gestures of care,

peace and reconciliation. At the end of Mass, the pope gave a special greeting “of joy and fraternity” to Ecumenical Patriarch Bartholomew of Constantinople, wishing him — “from the heart of Africa” — a happy feast of St. Andrew.

“I ask the Lord to bless our sister churches,” he said. The evening before, after celebrating Mass with priests, religious and catechists, the pope joined the young people who had watched the liturgy from outside the cathedral.

They were holding a prayer vigil into the night, with special permission to stay outside the cathedral beyond the 8 p.m. curfew in the violence-torn city.

The centerpiece of the event, though, was the sacrament of confession, which Pope Francis personally administered to five youths.

He urged the young people to pray often, to forgive those who hurt them and to be courageous enough to stay in their country and work for peace.