12-12-08 Vol. 30 No. 18

WWW.THELEAVEN.COM | NEWSPAPER OF THE ARCHDIOCESE OF KANSAS CITY IN KANSAS | VOL. 30, NO. 17 DECEMBER 12, 2008

Jack Farnsworth’s third-grade classmates conspire to find a way to include their special friend in a spirited game of “Around the World.”

Flying high Third-grader soars with the help of his classmates Story by

KARA HANSEN

| Photos by

SUSAN MCSPADDEN

S

SHAWNEE — Jack Farnsworth might have needed a little help from his friends here at Sacred Heart School recently to make it around the world.

But that’s fine with his third-grade classmates; since kindergarten, they’ve found him a boon traveling companion.

Jack is a special member of Liz Brown’s third-grade class. Diagnosed with Down syndrome at birth, Jack has special needs that sometimes require some quick and creative thinking on the part of his teacher.

But where there’s a will, there’s a way. And when Brown announced to the class that it was time to play a review game of “Around the World,” she could tell Jack really wanted to play.

Story continues on page 8

Jack is one of more than a thousand special-needs children enrolled in archdiocesan schools.

Some services are provided by the schools themselves, but others are available only through the resources of the neighboring public school district.

ARCHBISHOP

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THE LEAVEN • DECEMBER 12, 2008

THE LEAVEN • DECEMBER 12, 2008

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

Arch Jim’s ‘secret’ is joy of Christ he radiates

Honored for ‘art of persuasion’

By JANE GRAVES

O

n Dec. 11, Archbishop James Patrick Keleher celebrated the 24th anniversary of his consecration as a bishop and began his 25th year of serving the church as a bishop.

This past spring, Archbishop Keleher observed the 50th anniversary of his ordination as a priest. With all of the priests and people of the Archdiocese of Kansas City, I give thanks for Archbishop James Keleher’s more than 50 years of priestly ministry, as well as the beginning of his 25th year of service to the people of God as a bishop.

Through the conference of bishops, I had known Archbishop Keleher before my appointment as his coadjutor in 2004. At the time of my appointment to the Archdiocese of Kansas City, Archbishop Keleher was the treasurer for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. As such, he was one of four elected officers for the bishops’ conference serving on its Executive Committee. Archbishop Keleher’s election as treasurer of the bishops’ conference was a manifestation of the esteem and affection of his brother bishops.

It has been a personal grace for me to have the opportunity to work alongside of Archbishop Keleher for the past

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almost five years. I have been edified by the great love and respect of the priests and people of the Archdiocese for Archbishop Keleher.

It is not difficult to understand why Archbishop Keleher is so universally well-regarded, and why bishops, priests and laypeople — young and old — connect so readily with him. I have had the opportunity to observe Archbishop Keleher in a wide variety of pastoral circumstances. No matter the setting, his genuine love, care and compassion for others is readily apparent.

I visited him this past March, after his knee surgery at a rehabilitation center where he was receiving physical therapy. We were visiting in the lobby area for a few moments. It was amazing to watch the interaction of Archbishop Keleher with the staff, patients and the families of his fellow patients. Obviously, Archbishop Keleher, while recovering from his own surgery, was ministering the love and compassion of Jesus to everyone else in the rehabilitation center.

Archbishop Keleher has a favorite pectoral cross given to him by Cardinal

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Joseph Bernardin that features an image of Jesus, the Good Shepherd. He loves the cross because it was given to him by Cardinal Bernardin, but also because he has a special devotion to Jesus under the title of Good Shepherd.

I admire the priority Archbishop Keleher has given in recent years to visiting the prisons in the Archdiocese. It is just one of the ways that he is an example to me of what it means to be a shepherd after the heart of Jesus, constantly seeking out the lost and forgotten.

I am personally in Archbishop Keleher’s debt for doing everything humanly possible to make as smooth as possible my transition in assuming the leadership of the Archdiocese. From the day I first set foot in the Archdiocese up to the present moment, he is a constant source of support and encouragement to me.

However, it is not just me; my family and friends also have a great affection for Archbishop Keleher. He not only dubbed my mother “Queen Mother” of the Archdiocese, but he has always treated her royally. Family and friends, who only met Archbishop Keleher at the Mass of welcome almost five years ago, still ask about him with great fondness.

The Archdiocese continues to benefit from Archbishop Keleher’s excellent leadership: his strong support for Catholic schools, evidenced by the building of several new elementary schools, as well as the opening of St.

James Academy; his creation of the Catholic Education Foundation, providing scholarships to families who need tuition assistance for their children; his effective promotion of vocations to the priesthood; the success of A Future Full of Hope capital campaign; the opening of Prairie Star Ranch with its beautiful Catholic camping programs, providing so many of our young people with the opportunity to grow closer to Jesus while enjoying the beauty of creation and developing life skills; the renovation of Savior Pastoral Center, making it such an attractive facility for retreats and conferences; and the initiation of the permanent diaconate program for the Archdiocese.

These are just a few of the many fruits of Archbishop Keleher’s service to the people of the Archdiocese.

In my observation, the “secret” to the success of Archbishop Keleher’s ministry as a priest and as a bishop is the authentic joy he radiates. Priests, seminarians and people love to be around Archbishop Keleher because he is filled with a joy that is infectious.

Let us all give thanks to the Lord for the blessing of Archbishop James Patrick Keleher’s exceptional ministry.

He is a great example for all of us of what it means to be a disciple of Jesus Christ, the Good Shepherd. We pray the Lord will give “Arch Jim” many more years to be an instrument of his grace to the priests and people of the Archdiocese.

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Special to The Leaven LAWRENCE — Beverly Boyd downplays her contribution to the canonization of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, the only saint known to have ministered here in the archdiocese.

But to members of the Potawatomi tribe the saint served, Boyd’s a hero.

Not only has Boyd faithfully supported the Catholic Campus Center at Haskell Indian Nations University in Lawrence for years, she also did a tremendous amount of the research used to promote the cause of St. Philippine, who is still beloved by the Potawatomi more than 150 years after her death.

“She’s looking out for the little people, and in this case the minority, and the first people of this nation,” said Jerry Tuckwin, a member of the Prairie Band of the Potawatomi Nation and a member of the Haskell Catholic Campus Center.

It was Jerry Tuckwin and his wife Terry who nominated Boyd for this year’s St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Award, given in recognition of a life spent in service of God and exuding the values of Catholic education in the spirit of mission of the saint.

Boyd received the award on Nov. 23, the 20th anniversary of St. Rose Philippine’s canonization, in a special ceremony at Sacred Heart Church in Mound City.

“It’s really been her life’s work for the last 25 years,” said Terry Tuckwin. “She did lots and lots and lots of research, lots and lots of tracing down leads and following up, and traveling to do so. And I mean she was very, very devoted.”

Boyd, a permanent member of the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center community, attends Mass at the Haskell Catholic Campus Center.

She characterized her assistance in the canonization process of St. Philippine as reviving interest in the saint.

Although she didn’t specifically start work on St. Philippine’s time in Kansas in order to advance the missionary’s cause for canonization, Boyd was aware that, for the longest time, nothing was happening in Kansas in terms of the kind of research canonization would require.

“After I had visited the church in Mound City and had seen those lovely windows . . . I started pushing,” Boyd said with a laugh, employing “the art of persuasion.”

Boyd first became interested in St. Philippine while teaching in two New York schools founded by the saint’s order, the Society of the Sacred Heart. After moving to Kansas, Boyd was recovering from a surgery when she became reac-

Leaven photo by Elaina Generally

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann presents Beverly Boyd with the St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Award on Nov. 23 at Sacred Heart Church in Mound City. Boyd was instrumental in promoting St. Rose Philippine Duchesne’s cause for canonization. quainted with St. Philippine through an article left by a visiting priest.

Before that, said Boyd, “I didn’t even know that I was living on [St. Rose Philippine’s] frontier.”

Boyd’s letter writing, presentations and research were a key part of the canonization process, said Jerry Tuckwin.

Boyd, a retired University of Kansas professor of English, specializing in Chaucer and medieval studies, is interested in the lives of saints and has written six books, including “The Middle English Miracles of the Virgin.” She used her research skills to study the life of St. Philippine and shared her information with Archbishop John L. May of St. Louis and with Archbishop Charles Chaput of the Archdiocese of Denver, a member of the Prairie Band of the Potawatomi Nation. Both archbishops were working to get the missionary canonized.

When St. Philippine was canonized, Boyd was chosen by the provincial of the Society of the Sacred Heart to attend the canonization Mass in Rome, where she received Communion from Pope John Paul II. She also donated her St. Rose Philippine research to the KU Spencer Research Library.

Boyd said she sees her support of the Haskell Catholic Campus Center as a way of continuing the saint’s work. St. Philippine’s lifelong dream

was to educate Native Americans residing in the territory of the Louisiana Purchase. But she was unable to work directly with the native population until she was 72 years old and in ill health. It was then that she came to serve the Potawatomi at a Jesuit mission in Sugar Creek, Kan. Because of her frail health, St. Philippine’s time at Sugar Creek was not spent teaching as she had hoped.

Moreover, even the school she and other Sisters of the Society of the Sacred Heart had established at St. Charles, Mo. — the first free school and the first school for girls west of the Mississippi — was temporarily closed.

For these reasons, many had considered St. Philippine’s efforts to be a failure. Boyd was told, “We can’t get somebody canonized who didn’t succeed.”

Yet Boyd saw St. Philippine’s persistence in the face of adversity and her example of service while aging and in poor health as cause for recognition.

“Spiritually, [her work] was far from a failure,” she said.

“You get canonized not only for what you did — because you can do great things and be a terrible person — but [for] what you are,” Boyd said. “This was a holy woman who was motivated by her faith and fought such obstacles as no health care, no dental care, no food a lot of

the time. . . . We don’t adapt unless we’re heroes. She had heroic sanctity, heroic courage.”

St. Philippine reminds her, said Boyd, of the English poet John Milton, who in his sonnet (“On His Blindness”) claims: “They also serve who only stand and wait.” “[Milton] wants to be a poet,” explained Boyd, “and he goes blind and he can’t write. So, he figures, ‘Well, you’re serving, even though you can’t do what you want to do.’

Well, at Sugar Creek, [St. Philippine] couldn’t teach, but she could do things like supervise study time, things like that, and go and sit with sick people, take care of them.

She was also serving, only standing and waiting.”

As Boyd deals with her own health issues, she recognizes some of the challenges faced by St. Philippine, and has learned much from the saint.

“I don’t have to keep going, but I do,” she said. “Some people think once you have retired, you sit back on your rocking chair and drink tea all day. Not so.”

“You have to fight your way through adversity,” Boyd continued.

“Not necessarily with your dukes. It’s a question of endurance. You have to be able to endure obstacles. You have to hang on.”

LAST CHANCE Tell us your favorite Archbishop Keleher story in honor of his upcoming double anniversary.

But keep it short and send it to: anita@theleaven.com.

4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • DECEMBER 12, 2008

THE LEAVEN • DECEMBER 12, 2008

Catholics urged to fight unprecedented threat to life Leaven staff KANSAS CITY, Kan. — It’s the most dangerous piece of pro-abortion legislation in the history of the United States, and the bishops are mobilizing Catholics to fight it.

This proposed bill is FOCA, the Freedom of Choice Act, which was first introduced into Congress in 1989, and reintroduced in 2007. It would be difficult to overstate the threat represented

by FOCA, said Ron Kelsey, archdiocesan consultant for pro-life ministry.

“FOCA is the most radical, the most extreme piece of pro-abortion legislation that the United States has ever seen,” said Kelsey.

“Basically, it would sweep aside all restrictions and enshrine an absolute right to abortion into U.S. law,” he continued.

“The bottom line is that it could increase the number of babies killed annually by abortion by about 125,000.”

FOCA would “create a fundamental right to abortion through all nine months of pregnancy,” according to the National Committee for a Human Life Amendment.

Furthermore, according to NCHLA, “no governmental body at any level” could interfere or discriminate with this right “in the regulation or provision of

“

FOCA is the most radical, the most extreme piece of pro-abortion legislation that the United States has ever seen. . . .

The bottom line is that it could increase the number of babies killed annually by abortion by about 125,000.

“

By JOE BOLLIG

Ron Kelsey, archdiocesan consultant for pro-life ministry benefits, facilities, services, or information.

“For the first time, abortion would become an entitlement that the government must condone and promote.”

“That’s a strong word — ‘promote,’” said Kelsey. “For example, it could position abortion equally to adoption. By law, these would have to be treated the same in terms of government support.”

During their annual fall meeting in Baltimore on Nov. 11, the U.S. bishops is-

sued a statement saying they looked forward to working with the incoming Obama administration, but they expressed concern about the harms resulting from passage of FOCA. The bishops are worried because of President-elect Obama’s past support for FOCA. In his “Statement on the 35th Anniversary of Roe v. Wade decision,” on Jan. 22, Obama touted his “100 percent pro-choice rating” and said that he would “continue to defend this right by passing the Freedom of Choice Act as president.”

In answering a question at a Planned Parenthood event that he spoke at on July 17, 2007, then-candidate Obama said that the first thing he’d do as president was to sign FOCA into law.

Obama was a cosigner of FOCA while a member of the Senate, and his chief of staff, Rahm Emanuel, was a cosigner of the bill while a member of the House.

In January, the NCHLA, with the support of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, will launch a nationwide postcard campaign on the weekend of Jan. 24 and 25. These postcards, expressing opposition to FOCA and similar measures, are addressed to members of Congress.

But FOCA isn’t the only threat the bishops and pro-life leaders are con-

For more information about FOCA, visit the USCCB Web site at: www.usccb.org/ prolife/issues/FOCA/index.shtml.

cerned about. They’re worried that when Obama takes office in January, he will promote a pro-abortion agenda that includes: • supporting China’s coerced abortion policy through the U.N. Population Fund • ending the Mexico City Policy, which prohibited funds for nongovernmental organizations that promote abortion overseas • eliminating restrictions on federal funding of embryonic stem-cell research • lifting the ban on abortions being performed on U.S. military bases and other medical facilities • promoting state and federal funding of abortions.

“Because of the unprecedented threats posed by FOCA and other proposed pro-abortion policies, we’re at a critical time for Catholics to unite with their bishops to stand in defense of life,” said Kelsey.

“We are fortunate in our archdiocese to have such a strong pro-life leader in Archbishop [Joseph F.] Naumann,” he continued. “We need to listen to his teaching and follow his lead.”

Luncheon raises hunger awareness

By KEVIN KELLY Catholic Key Associate Editor KANSAS CITY, Mo. — “Something is terribly wrong.”

Speaking at the annual Hunger Awareness Luncheon Dec. 2 to some 500 people at the Downtown Marriott Hotel, Kansas City-St. Joseph Bishop Emeritus Raymond J. Boland said hunger in Kansas City and throughout the United States — the wealthiest nation in human history — has gotten worse, not better, in the 15 years since the Order of Malta, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph have sponsored the event.

“This luncheon has been describing the dire problem of hunger in the Kansas City metropolitan area for 15 years,” he said. “Every year, it has been a grim report. This year, it is catastrophic.”

“There is absolutely no hint of a silver lining for hungry people in the current economic crisis,” Bishop Boland added.

“People are losing their homes.

Unemployment is rising alarmingly.

Food prices are soaring. Malnutrition is increasing. Mere survival is becoming more difficult. Food lines are getting longer. Pantry shelves are emptying faster,” he said.

“Contributions are down, and the despair is palpable when hungry people

Photo by Kevin Kelly/Catholic Key

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann gets a bowl of soup. He opted for the chicken noodle, in honor of his ancestors who died in the Great Hunger. are greeted by shaking heads as all the good will in the world cannot provide what does not exist,” Bishop Boland added. “Something is terribly wrong.”

He cited both local and national statistics to illustrate his point.

Catholic Charities USA, he said, reports that: • 77 percent of emergency food agencies are reporting an increase in demand.

• 64 percent expect food to be the

greatest need of their clients in December, the Christmas season.

• 51 percent of the agencies expect to run out of food this month.

Locally, Susan Engel, director of community services for Catholic Charities of Kansas City-St. Joseph, reports similar challenges.

For example Harvesters, the regional food bank, reported that 75 percent of the agencies that purchase food from Harvesters are seeing new clients seeking help for the first time. Two thirds of the new clients turn to a food pantry because their breadwinner has just lost a job.

“Harvesters anticipates the need to distribute 7 million more pounds of food this year than they originally planned,” said Bishop Boland.

“Among the top 10 states, with what sociologists call the ‘highest food insecurity rates,’ are listed, to our shame, both Missouri and Kansas,” he continued. “And yet Kansas is part of the Grain Belt and most years leads the nation in wheat production. Missouri is one of the top food producing states of the Union.”

But there is a solution: Jesus Christ.

“Christ was very blunt when he established a litmus test for the judgment all of us must one day face,” he said. “It will be a choice between commendation: ‘I was hungry and you gave me food;’ or condemnation: ‘I was hungry and you gave me no food.’

“The problem is huge, but the re-

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sources are attainable. We just need to galvanize thousands of resolute and generous people like yourselves to ensure that nobody in our communities, especially no child, goes to bed suffering and being debilitated by the pangs of hunger.”

The luncheon also honored three individuals and two agencies for their work against hunger with Souper Bowl MVP Awards.

Receiving the individual award was Christine Pettus of St. Thomas More Parish, Kansas City, Mo. Each month, she coordinates the parish’s food drive that keeps the pantry shelves stocked at the inner-city Seton Center.

Receiving the not-for-profit award was Project Uplift, an agency that seeks out and gives food, blankets and personal care items to the homeless living under Kansas City’s bridges.

“We are blessed,” said Frank Fiorini, Uplift president and parishioner of Holy Spirit Church in Overland Park.

“We started all-volunteer and we’ve stayed all-volunteer. That’s what keeps us going. You should see the appreciation we get. When our truck drives up, they appreciate everything we do.”

Receiving the corporate award was Farmer’s Insurance of Olathe, which conducts two food and money drives that stock the shelves of three Olathe pantries.

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LOCAL NEWS

5

Topeka school honored for its excellence

By MARC and JULIE ANDERSON

Mater Dei at a glance

Special to The Leaven TOPEKA — Although its roots run deep in the Topeka Catholic community, Mater Dei School has yet to comWays you can plete its help the CEF third year in opera• Consider an indition. So, vidual donation the school’s • Establish a matchfaculty, ing gift program staff, stu• Remember the CEF dents and in your will p arents • Make a donation to were all the CEF’s annual pleasantly scholarship drive surprised • Participate in the w h e n CEF’s special events Mater Dei such as the annual was named Gaudeamus dinner, the 2008 the May 3 family art School of and talent show or Excellence the June 23 business by the breakfast Catholic Education Foundation (CEF).

It’s an honor that Mater Dei principal Andrea Hillebert and Michael Morrisey, executive director of the CEF, say is exciting and encouraging for both the school and the foundation.

The Catholic Education Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to providing disadvantaged children with scholarship assistance to attend Catholic schools in the archdiocese. According to its mission statement, CEF believes “all children who seek a Catholic education, one that offers both quality and faith, should be given the opportunity in the name of Jesus.” Throughout its 11-year existence, CEF has provided more than $8 million in scholarships.

Currently, CEF serves 16 schools throughout the archdiocese, ranging from schools in Kansas City, Kan., and Topeka to schools in Axtell and Ottawa.

For the 2008-09 school year, the CEF’s $1.3 million budget will provide approximately 1,100 scholarships, averaging $700 apiece.

Each year, schools supported by CEF are invited to compete for the title of the

Established: July 2006 Opened: August 2006 School name means: Mother of God Formed by: Merging the former Assumption and Holy Name schools.

Those two schools dated back to the 1880s. Enrollment for Mater Dei exceeds the combined enrollments of the former Assumption and Holy Name schools.

Principal: Andrea Hillebert Pastor: Father Jon Hullinger Enrollment: 300 students in kindergarten through eighth grade Location: 934 S.W. Clay, Topeka

Leaven photo by Marc Anderson

Teacher’s aide Angela Howey works with kindergartner Teyha Bush during math class, while Cooper Meier checks in on the progress.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann Catholic Education Foundation School of Excellence; the winning school receives $2,500 worth of additional scholarship assistance, a plaque and a CEF flag for the school. Schools are evaluated in three main areas: faith formation, scholarship and service. Morrisey said this year’s winner impressed him by its accomplishments in all three areas, despite undergoing consolidation less than three years ago.

Officially established in July 2006 by the merger of the former Assumption and Holy Name schools, Mater Dei School first opened its doors to students in August 2006.

“It’s always difficult to consolidate schools,” said Morrisey. “But Andrea, in conjunction with [pastor] Father [Jon] Hullinger and the rest of the faculty and staff, has done a great job in making sure the morale is high, as well as making sure the Catholicity is what it’s supposed to be along with ensuring high standards of academic excellence.”

Hillebert points to several factors that helped shape Mater Dei School into what it is today, the CEF’s 2008 School of Excellence.

“First, we have a great faculty here, and we have had an almost nonexistent turnover rate,” said Hillebert. “That really helps in terms of mapping the curriculum, as teachers can anticipate the strengths, as well as weaknesses of the students when they arrive in their classrooms.”

Second, she said, “We have wonderful parents. You know, every time you talk about mergers, people become a little uneasy. Our parents are excited, and they have done a great job in focusing in on the positives of the consolidation.”

“Also,” she continued, “our students are fabulous. For them, combining schools was easy. They have blended well and quickly.

“Last, but not least, I’d also have to say we have a parish pastor, Father Jon Hullinger, who is very supportive of everything we do.”

When the winner of the School of Excellence Award was announced at the annual Gaudeamus (a Latin word meaning, “Let us rejoice”) dinner in Overland Park on Oct. 18, more than 700 people in attendance received a brief overview of Mater Dei’s accomplishments. A short

presentation detailed ways the school demonstrates success in the areas of faith formation, scholarship and service.

Examples ranged from the way the entire school stops at noon to pray the Angelus together to the way it set the record for student participation in the 2008 Topeka and Shawnee County Public Library Summer Reading Challenge.

Moreover, state assessment scores increased in every subject, resulting in 13 of 20 Standards of Excellence. Finally, last year alone, the students were able to adopt eight families for Christmas, as well as raise funds for sick children urgently in need of medical care.

When asked what the award meant to the school, Hillebert summarized it this way: “It’s exciting for us as a school, because we’ve worked really hard to create something new here. . . . Of course, we had great foundations [the former schools], but we have worked really hard to create a new school and build a new tradition here. It’s nice to think someone else recognizes our efforts.”

For Morrisey, Mater Dei School is an example of a school grounded in faith, one that serves both the students and the larger community. It’s an example he points to repeatedly when trying to enlist more financial resources for the CEF. “It’s hard to beat the mission of helping kids,” said Morrisey said.

“It’s helping to change their lives,” he added simply, “and that’s pretty cool.”

Individuals, agencies honored with Souper Bowl MVP awards Continued from page 6 “It’s an easy way for our employees to give back,” said Kristen Comer, who accepted the award. “We push social responsibility, and we always get a lot of involvement.”

Receiving the lifetime achievement award were Domingo Mora and Carl LaBella, who donated decades of service to the St. Vincent de Paul Society at St. Mark Parish in Independence, Mo.

“We seem to be getting a lot of calls from people who have lost a nice job,” said LaBella, 84. “Things are beginning to back up on them and they need a little help. I remember the Depression when I was a kid. People need a little help once in a while.”

“Somebody needs to help,” said Mora, who has been working at the parish for 22 years. “It gives you a good feeling at the end of the day to know you have helped.”

In his opening prayer, Kansas City,

Kan., Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann prayed “to conform our heart to your Sacred Heart.”

Noting that the people were about to have a simple lunch of soup, fruit and bread, he prayed: “We gather today to eat simply, so that others can eat.

“Inspire us in our everyday choices to live more simply, so that others can live.”

In his closing prayer, Kansas City, Kan., Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher invoked the memory of Blessed

Mother Teresa.

“There she was, taking care of feeding the hungry in a strange land, not her own,” he said.

He also noted that in the Bible’s Book of Genesis, God answered Cain directly when he asked, “Am I my brother’s keeper?”

“Yes, you are, and your sister’s keeper, too,” Archbishop Keleher said. “We are family. God told us that right at the beginning.”

6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • DECEMBER 12, 2008

Dioceses reach across the miles to help each other

By JOE BOLLIG Leaven staff KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Two visiting bishops found friendship and fraternal ties here in the archdiocese during separate visits in October.

Bishop Hector Cubillos Peña, of the Diocese of Zipaquira in Colombia, visited from Oct. 2 to 5, and Bishop Prasad Gallela, of the Diocese of Cuddapah in India, was here from Oct. 13 to 16.

Both bishops were here for the same reasons: to look in on their own priests currently serving in the archdiocese and to meet and visit with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.

Both bishops are relatively young and new to their posts.

Bishop Cubillos, 58, was ordained a priest in 1974, appointed an auxiliary bishop in 2002, and installed as bishop of the Diocese of Zipaquira in 2004.

Bishop Gallela, 46, was ordained a priest in 1989 and ordained bishop of the Diocese of Cuddapah this past March.

During his stay in the archdiocese, Bishop Cubillos toured All Saints, Bishop Ward High and Resurrection schools in Kansas City, Kan., and spoke at Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park.

It was actually Bishop Cubillos’ predecessor who began loaning the archdiocese priests from the Diocese of Zipaquira. But Bishop Cubillos has con-

Leaven photo by Elaina Generally

Bishop Prasad Gallela of the Diocese of Cuddapah in India presents Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann with a gold cross as a gift. tinued that practice, allowing the archdiocese to bolster its Hispanic ministry program.

It is very important for the Diocese of Zipaquira to keep the missionary spirit of collaboration alive, both inside and outside his diocese, said Bishop Cubillos through interpreter Angel Delfin, assistant director of All Saints Parish’s school of religion and assistant director of the parish youth group.

The Diocese of Zipaqira has been blessed with many vocations to the

priesthood, the bishop continued. As long as he has enough priests, the collaboration between the archdiocese and his diocese will continue.

For his part, said Bishop Cubillos, Archbishop Naumann is providing much-needed financial assistance to the Colombian diocese in its efforts to complete an important project of its own.

The construction of a new multipurpose facility will help meet several needs of the diocese: It will serve as a retreat house, a center for the continuing edu-

cation of clergy, and a home for retired priests.

During his stay in the archdiocese, Bishop Gallela visited St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Onaga, Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish in Topeka, Holy Sprit Parish in Overland Park, and Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood. “[Bishop Gallela] is a very friendly man, very down to earth,” said Father Arul Carasala, St. Vincent pastor and a priest of the Diocese of Cuddapah. “He’s looking at the long-term vision for the Diocese of Cuddapah and making every effort possible in the pastoral, spiritual, and social administration of the diocese.”

One of the main objectives of Catholic bishops in India is evangelization, which isn’t easy in a country where 80 percent of the people are Hindu, 12 percent are Muslim, and only 2 percent are Christians.

“This mission is a challenge, but together with the priests and the people, the bishop is ready for the challenge,” said Father Carasala. “We, [his] priests working here in the United States, offer our unconditional support, financial assistance and prayers.”

As in Colombia, support from the archdiocese is deeply appreciated in the Diocese of Cuddapah. The four rural parishes served by Father Carasala, in addition to Mother Teresa Parish, have collected funds to support Bishop Gallela’s work.

Turn to DIOCESES on page 11

usually in two seconds,” said Jack’s 19-yearold sister Katie, with a laugh. “He’s extremely loving and caring.”

And Jessie, Jack’s 13-year-old sister, enjoys Jack’s big-hearted affection.

“When I see him at school in the hallway,” she said, “he always says hi to me and gives me a hug, even though other kids his age probably wouldn’t do that with their brother or sister.”

In addition to Jack’s unconditional love, the family says his presence in their lives has helped them grow as individuals.

“Sometimes it’s hard to communicate with Jack, but I think we’ve all learned to think about what’s best for him and look out for him,” said Luke, Jack’s 16-year-old brother.

“Having Jack in our family has taught me that when I see someone with special needs, I treat them the same as I would anyone else.”

That is despite the fact that every member of the family is, at times, inconvenienced by the need to do things differently because of Jack.

Everyday activities that most people breeze through — like getting dressed or into the car — take a great deal of time in the Farnsworth home.

Tying shoes and tasks like practicing handwriting are hard for Jack. And when he gets his mind set on something, his family says it’s nearly impossible to take his focus from it.

Though frustrating at the time, those experiences have taught the family patience and a deeper appreciation for the small things in life.

“Every little accomplishment is a big thing,” said Carol. “We’ve really learned to take nothing for granted.”

“When he just says a sentence on his own out of the blue, it’s amazing,” added Steve.

“We know how hard he’s been working and struggling with it, and then all of a sudden he just wows us all.”

Continued from page 1 It was going to be a challenge, however.

The game was notoriously loud and intense; Brown was afraid the commotion would impede Jack’s progress, leaving him frustrated.

She need not have worried.

“I couldn’t believe how supportive the other students were with Jack,” she beamed.

“They rigged the game so Jack could continue going around the world!”

What? Catholic schoolchildren cheat?

Well, not exactly.

“The whole class got into it,” said Brown.

“Instead of screaming out the answer to help Jack, the students were all using manipulatives and showing him how to solve the problem.

“And Jack was grinning so hard, it was as if he won the lottery.”

Best of all, she said, Jack’s classmates learned more from “helping” Jack than they would have otherwise.

“Since they were so concerned with him doing well, they were paying much more attention than they usually do!” she said.

Rock star There are certain kids, principals will tell you, who effortlessly win the hearts of students and teachers alike.

At Sacred Heart School in Shawnee, Jack Farnsworth’s that kid.

“Jack is a bit of a rock star,” confirmed Kathleen Hess, the mother of a first- and a third-grader at Sacred Heart School.

“When he walks down the hall, he is highfived by children of every age,” she said.

Hess’ oldest son, Billy, started school at Sacred Heart at the same time as Jack.

It wasn’t too long into that first school year, recalled Hess, that she and other parents began to notice how close the class had grown in a very short time.

“As any parent will tell you, some classes are just special,” said Hess. “That’s not to say that the parents and children in any other grade aren’t.

“But this class seemed to come to the school wanting to connect; and it hasn’t changed in these past four years.”

“And I can’t help but think that one element that has brought these children together is their love for Jack,” she concluded.

Photos clockwise from left: Like all twins, Jack and Nick share a special bond. And though Jack might not be able to join his brother on the Sacred Heart football team, he gives Nick a run for his money in the backyard.

With the help of phys ed teacher Thomas Harrison and his classmates (front to back: Camden Chastain, Madison Douglas, Colin Miller, and Savas Luther), this photo finds Jack hooping it up in gym class.

And what would life be without a little roughhousing?

Here the Farnsworth brothers enjoy a little male bonding with a dog pile in the living room.

No questions asked

Life can be difficult for a special-needs child, and his or her family as well. Each small accomplishment, however, is a cause for celebration. Here, Learning Resource teacher Mary Miller provides that little bit of extra attention that Jack needs.

It’s often observed that kids can be cruel.

But they can be kind and loyal and nurturing as well.

And so it was that from the very beginning, Jack’s classmates accepted Jack and his twin brother Nick for who they were — no questions asked.

“Jack’s tolerance for certain activities is different than other children,” Hess explained. “But all the kids seem to understand Jack and show compassion when he is having a hard day.

and his family. Like any family with a specialneeds child, the Farnsworths have faced their share of obstacles.

Carol and Steve Farnsworth consider themselves very fortunate to be members of a parish whose school can be so supportive of their son’s special needs. The special education that Jack receives — some from Sacred Heart and some from the local school district — includes not only speech and occupational therapy, but social skills training as well.

He even bowls, swims, and participates in Special Olympics.

Jack’s heroes In October, the “First Down for Down Syndrome” buddy walk was held at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, Mo. Over 100 kids and adults from Sacred Heart in Shawnee walked together as “Jack’s Hometown Heroes,” making up the sixth largest team in the city, out of 291 teams.

The Farnsworths, who have been parishioners at Sacred Heart for over 20 years, were deeply touched by the outpouring. The entire family said they feel the love and support from their pastor, fellow parishioners, and school.

“We have tremendous support from our parish. Without that, we wouldn’t be where we are today,” said Steve.

“They truly are our extended family,” added Carol.

Deep impact

While caring for Jack dictates a different pace at the Farnsworth household, the family has found that life with a special-needs child has its own special blessings. Clockwise from left, Carol, Luke, Katie, Jack, Jessie, and Nick enjoy a card game. Out of view at the near end of the table is Jack’s father, Steve.

Balancing act But it goes beyond empathy, she said.

“They watch out for Jack,” she stated.

Everyone knows, for example, which spot in the lunchroom is favored by Jack, and they make sure it is saved each day. They enjoy spending time with him, said Hess, and take pride in his accomplishments.

“When Jack was in first grade and read aloud to his class for the first time, it was the biggest news of the day,” Hess recalls. “It was all the first-graders could talk about in either class.

“When parents heard of Jack’s accomplishment, neither moms nor dads could keep from getting a bit choked up and a little teary-eyed.”

God’s love at work From her vantage point in the school nurse’s office, Jack’s mom, Carol Farnsworth, is often deeply moved by what she sees taking place in the hallways at Sacred Heart.

“When I see another student helping Jack open his locker, it’s an expression of simple, unconditional love,” she said. “They aren’t expecting anything in return.

“And when I see their reaction to his ‘thank you,’ I know I’m truly seeing God’s love at work.”

It’s moments like this that remind her of the special blessings of the road she walks — a road that has not always been easy for Jack

In addition to being a special-needs child, Jack is also a twin, which adds an additional dynamic.

Jack’s twin, Nick, does not have Down syndrome, and participates in basketball, baseball, football, and track.

“Having twins when one has Down syndrome is a continual balancing act,” said Carol. “Even at nine, they are already not experiencing the same activities together.

“It’s difficult with one being special needs.

It’s hard for Jack.”

“There are activities that come easily to Nick when it’s safer for Jack to be on the sidelines,” added Carol.

It can also sometimes be frustrating for

Nick, who can’t help that he can do things that Jack cannot.

“Sometimes he doesn’t understand something and he gets really mad,” said Nick. “Or he says he’s sorry over and over when he doesn’t need to.”

Jack can also easily be overstimulated and overwhelmed, especially in loud situations or crowds. Add to that his difficulty expressing himself, and it can make for complicated experiences for the entire family.

“When you first think of twins, you think of them being on the same team and it will be great — they will be there to support each other and be good friends for one another,” said Carol.

Although they can’t be teammates in most

things, now that the twins are older, Steve and Carol are finding that the boys really do rely on one another — but in different ways than originally expected.

“Jack and Nick really do support each other — at home, school, and cheering each other on at their different events,” said Steve.

Special blessings Though the challenges of raising a specialneeds child will always be there for the Farnsworths, they have also found it has blessed their family in ways they never imagined.

“Jack is selfless and forgives very easily —

The deepest impact Jack has had on the lives of those around him has been a spiritual one. Though they never imagined raising a child with special needs, Steve and Carol see God’s hand in it from Day One. “I think we have more of an appreciation for the gift of life,” said Steve.

“The plan is not always what we think it is,” he added, “but we learn to accept it and realize what a blessing it really is.”

Carol agreed.

“When we get right down to it, it’s pretty clear and simple: Let go and let God,” she said. “It’s not about what I want; it’s about what God wants.

“We’ve met people and formed friendships that never would have happened without this experience in our lives. Going down a different road than we expected has been a real joy of having a special-needs child.”

Jack has taught the faculty and staff of Sacred Heart a thing or two as well.

“As a second year teacher, I am well aware that I have a lot of growing to do, and Jack has helped in that department,” said Brown.

“Perhaps the most important lesson that I have gotten from Jack is to keep things simple,” she said. “He reminds me on a daily basis to focus on what is truly important: treating others how we want to be treated, the importance of a smile, or a comforting hug.”

Principal Nick Antista agreed.

“Having Jack at our school is truly a gift, because it allows all of us to see God’s beauty in the differences among us,” he said.

‘Round the world Before you know it, Jack’s classmates will be out of school and traveling ‘round the world for real.

And who knows all the places they’ll go?

But it’s not hard to guess the kind of people they’ll be.

Thanks, in part, to a little rock star named Jack.

Meeting special needs More than 1,088 students with special needs are served through Catholic schools in the archdiocese, totaling roughly 8 percent of the student population.

In fact, every parish school in the archdiocese serves students with special needs. The five most common special needs faced in classrooms across the archdiocese are: Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder (ADHD), learning disabilities, giftedness, speech and language disorders, and behavior disorders.

Special needs are generally met in schools in one of three ways: various classroom accommodations; the support of the Learning Center teacher (in schools that have Learning Centers); and through collaboration with the public school district where the Catholic school resides.

But the services offered through the 28 public school districts across the archdiocese often vary from district to district, said Karen Kroh, coordinator of the Perfect Wings program.

Perfect Wings, operated through the archdiocesan school office, helps Catholic schools serve their students with special needs by providing on-site consultation and support for the teaching staff, facilitating the professional development of teachers, and acting as a liaison between Catholic schools and local public school districts.

Many of the services available to students with special needs in Catholic schools are contingent upon what the public school counterpart can provide, said Kroh.

“We couldn’t do what we do without their support,” she said.

But the place to start for more information, she added, is your own parish school.

“If you have a child with special needs and you’re interested in a Catholic education,” she concluded, “I would encourage any parent to talk with their parish school’s principal.”

There are a lot of good reasons to make Catholic Community Hospice your choice when selecting a hospice.

• Our low nurse-topatient ratio

• Our pain management expertise

• Our Catholic identity

But sometimes, the best reason has more to do with you than it does with us.

Feel as good as you can, as long as you can.

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Ask for us by name.

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THE LEAVEN • DECEMBER 12, 2008

Dioceses find ways to help each other Continued from page 6 The church in Cuddapah faces two great challenges: poverty and its minority status. Recently, Christians in nearby regions have been subjected To help Bishop to vicious atPrasad Gallela of the tacks by militant Diocese of Cuddapah Hindus, some in India, contact even resulting in Father Carasala at St. murder. It could Vincent de Paul spread to Parish, Onaga, at Cuddapah and (785) 889-4896. endanger the of lives To help Bishop Hector Christians there.

Cubillos Peña, of the “To survive as Diocese of Zipaquira a Catholic in a in Colombia, contact strong Hindu Father Liborio Pachon community, [in at Holy Cross Parish, the face of] the Overland Park, at state adminis(913) 901-7543, or tration which contact him by e-mail opposes our exat: liboriopachon@ istence, is a chalyahoo.com lenge,” said Father Carasala.

“The second main challenge is that our Catholics are from the poor economic class, and they struggle for their livelihood,” he continued. “Most of them are day laborers. We cannot preach the Gospel to a hungry stomach.

We have to feed and evangelize. It’s a challenge, because the priests depend on the chancery for their support, because the parishes cannot support the priest.”

LOCAL NEWS 11 Norma Jean “Jeannie” (Schoenfelder) and Leo J. Berry will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Dec. 27 with a Mass at St. Benedict Church in Bendena, followed by a reception hosted by their children in the ANNIVERSARIES parish hall. Their children and their spouses are: Shom and Karen Berry, and Mary and Ric Larson, all of Creston, Iowa; Teresa Berry, Las Vegas; and Etola Berry, of Roeland Park. They also have five grandchildren. The couple requests no gifts.

ANNIVERSARY POLICY

Leaven photo by Susan McSpadden

Bishop Hector Cubillos Peña (center), of the Diocese of Zipaquira in Colombia, tours All Saints School in Kansas City, Kan. Father Dan Gardner (right), pastor of All Saints, leads the tour with Father Mauricio Garzon, associate pastor of All Saints. Father Garzon is a native of Columbia.

913-621-5090 • 785-357-5107 • www.catholiccommunityhospice.com

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We have the newest and nicest funeral home in Wyandotte County, right across the street

from St. Patrick’s Church. Personalize a Funeral, Cemetery or Memorial Service all from one office, instead of driving all over town making plans. We even accept many pre-arranged plans from other funeral homes. To receive a free Personal Planning Guide, call or stop in today.

The Leaven only prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. Announcements are due by 5 p.m. eight days (Thursday) before the desired publication date. Announcements must be typed. They are for parishioners of Catholic parishes in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Please include the following Information: • The couple’s names; their parish; the date they were married; church and city where they were married; what they are doing to celebrate; date of the celebration; names of children (if desired); number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; photo.

Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an e-mail to: Todd@theleaven.com. If you would like your photo returned to you, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope.

12 CLASSIFIEDS ■ EMPLOYMENT Help desk/support – Customer-driven, friendly, service-oriented people needed. Qualifications include: proficiency in MS applications; the ability to assist Web users with demos; navigation of our Web application; and other support-related issues. Great opportunity with a growing company. Salary, bonus, benefits, and 401(k) plan. Send your resume, via e-mail, to: HR@cobraguard.net. EOE. Part-time position available - To assist two female mentally retarded and developmentally disabled clients in their Overland Park home. 15-20 hours per week, Mon. - Fri., from 3 p.m. until approx. 7 p.m. Great for a college student or if you are looking to supplement your income! Female applicants only. Call Amy at (913) 221-9158.

Part-t ime ov erni gh t s leep s taff pos iti on - To assist three female mentally retarded and developmentally disabled clients in their Overland Park home. Sun., Wed., and Thurs. nights from 6 p.m. - 7 a.m. Great for a college student or if just looking to supplement your income! Female applicants only.

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Financial representative - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City Metro and Topeka areas. This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better-than-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For more information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton, KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450.

Work at home - No selling, no inventory, no risk!!!

For details, visit the Web site at: www.AtHome FullTime.com.

■ SERVICES

Counseling services - Our contemporary society can present families, couples and life partners with unique challenges, stress, breech of trust, financial loss and communication breakdown. We each have the power to change and improve the quality of our life.

This is the purpose of therapy. I provide affordable, confidential therapy for individuals, couples and families. I also specialize in clinical outpatient substance abuse treatment for adult men and women. Call JB Strong, MA, LCPC, AAPS, at (913) 722-1118.

Voice and piano lessons - Available for 3-yearolds and up. Instructor teaches in a fun and meaningful way. For information, call (913) 206-2151 or send an e-mail to: mamurick@rockhurst.edu.

Tax returns - Prepared reasonably, confidentially, and expertly. Don't let your tax problems grow; let me help you solve them now. I am also willing to do bookkeeping for small businesses: i.e., preparing quarterly, payroll, and yearly taxes. I have over 30 years doing business and personal taxes and have a very good relationship with the IRS. I will pick up and deliver taxes quickly. For a free estimate, call John at (913) 2061588.

Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor. Also, quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837.

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

THE LEAVEN • DECEMBER 12, 2008 Do y o u h a v e co mp a n y co mi n g f o r t h e h o l i d a y s ? Give yourself the gift of a clean home for Christmas and enjoy time relaxing with your family.

I will get your house sparkling clean for your family gathering or party. Years of experience and reasonable rates. Call (913) 499-8039.

Preserve your memories by telling your life story ! I can type your memoirs from handwritten or recorded notes. Also provide secretarial services. Call All About Words at (913) 438-5922.

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

Granite, Cambria and Silestone countertops See our new showroom at 5820 Barton, in the heart of beautiful downtown Shawnee. Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 898-8685 or (913) 962-5058.

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

Need an occasional extended family helper for bus y hous ehol ds or s eniors? Transportation, appointments, personal shopping, dinner party assistance, and/or house sitting. My personal care at each visit. Call Mrs. Daryl Duffy, Grand Activities LLC, at (816) 210-6757 (mobile). Serving JoCo area.

Husband and wife cleaning team - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959.

W ed d i ng d e cora t i on s - Relax, I decorate for church, receptions, anniversaries and parties.

Includes cleanup. Free consultation. References.

Greater KC area. Call Twila at Elegant Wedding Decor at (913) 724-1408.

“G r and pa M os e s ” o f s ta in e d g la ss Specializing in custom-made door side-lights. Fits over your existing window. JoCo only. Call Ed at (913) 648-0099.

Bankruptcy - When debt becomes overwhelming, seek professional help. Experienced, compassionate Catholic attorney Teresa Kidd. For a confidential, no obligation consultation, call (913) 422-0610; or send an e-mail to: tkidd@kc.rr.com.

S t r u g g l i n g w i t h d e c i s i o n s on w h e r e t o p l a c e and pay for aging seniors’ care? Professional advice from Ray & Associates. (913) 236-4495.

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 Andrea, Sara or Gary.

Do you need help caring for an elderly family member? Contact Benefits of Home – Senior Care and let our social work expert help you build a plan of care. We provide assistance with homemaker and personal care services, in the comfort of your home. To speak with our social worker, contact Benefits of Home at (913) 422-1591.

What is an endowment? An endowment is an account whose principal cannot be spent, only the income. Over time the amount paid out far exceeds the initial gift. To see if your parish has an endowment, visit the Web site of the C a t h ol i c Fo u n da t i on of Northeast Kansas at: www.cfnek.org. If you would like to donate to the endowment or start a new fund, call the Catholic Foundation at (913) 647-0365.

■ HOME IMPROVEMENT

Masonry work - Quality, new or repair work. Brick, block, and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second generation bricklayer. Call (913) 829-4336.

Cu st om-k itchen count ertops - Laminate tops manufactured and installed within 5 days. Competitive prices, dependable work. St. Joseph Parish member.

Call The Top Shop, Inc., at (816) 898-8685 or (913) 9625058.

TOUCH OF HEAVEN Catholic Store 119 SE 18th Topeka, KS (785) 232-2543

THE LEAVEN • DECEMBER 12, 2008 W i n t e r i ze y o u r sp r i n k l e r s y s t e m - Familyowned business with 30 years of experience. Free estimates. Call Mike at (913) 269-1394. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish.

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Vacuum, blow and haul away. Also ask about our monthly-average snow removal plan which can save you up to 30% off of all seasonal work. Licensed, bonded, insured; references. Call now for a free estimate. (913) 620-6063.

Topsoil and fill dirt delivered - Southern Johnson County area. Other landscape materials and hauling services available. Aquinas alumnus. Call (913) 6269500.

Organizing & handyman services - Basements, garages, attics and shop spaces organized! Your items sorted, boxed & labeled; areas cleaned when finished!

Wall repair, interior painting, tile work, handicap bars and ramps. Great references and insured. For pictures of current projects, view my Web site at: www.swalms .com. Call Tillar Swalm at (913) 375-9115.

Damaged sheetrock repaired – WyCo and JoCo areas. Ceilings, painted or textured. 25 yrs. experience; insured and reliable. Call (913) 631-5241.

Granite countertops No obligation quote and consultation Turnkey service available Removal, installation and plumbing Member of St. Agnes – Call Tim (913) 626-5020 ST A ( Su r e T hi n g A l w a ys ) H o m e R e pa i r Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Call for free estimates.

Cell: (913) 579-1835; phone: (913) 491-5837; e-mail: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa.

Registered home child care -Southern Overland Park and Leawood areas. Call (913) 6362782.

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Great location; close to everything. $125/night. Call (816) 835-7994, or send an e-mail to: kelgang@ aol.com.

Baha mas beachfront condo - Enjoy the crystal clear waters, beachfront pool or the beautiful sunrises from our newly remodeled condo that sleeps four. $125/night; $750/week. Local owner will rent to mature adults and families. Visit the Web site at: www.coralbeach1602.com, or send an e-mail to: coralbeach1602@gmail.com.

Ski cabin in Winter Park, Colo. – 2 BR, 1 BA, on free ski shuttle route. $110/night. Call (913) 642-3027.

For pictures, visit the Web site at: cabin.forcade associates.com.

Ski vacation - Winter Park, Colo. 2 BR, 1BA, sleeps 6. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec. center with pool & hot tub. $125/night; $750/week. Call Joe Frederick at (913) 385-5589.

■ MISCELLANEOUS

Re si d en t i a l li f t s - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment. Call Silver Cross® - KC at (913) 3932042. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish.

El ectrici an - Free estimates; reasonable rates.

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New Yea r’s Ev e sin gles ex trav agan za 2008 Sponsored by Kansas City’s own Zepster’s A to Z Party DJ’s at Holy Trinity, 92nd & Pflumm Rd., Lenexa. Doors open at 8 p.m., with dancing until 12:30 a.m. Tickets cost $25 in advance ($30 at the door) and include soda, beer, wine, champagne, and light appetizers. To order advance tickets, visit the Web site at: www.zepster. com/dances.asp, or send a check, postmarked by Dec. 20, to: P.O. Box 14321, Kansas City, MO 64152. Advance purchase tickets will be at the door under your name.

For information, contact Zep at (816) 292-2848 or send an e-mail to: e-mail@zepster.com. A percentage of proceeds will be donated to BE fundraiser.

T im th e H a nd y ma n - Insured; free estimates.

Carpentry: new and repair deck, doors, windows, siding, screens. Plumbing: faucet, garbage disposals, toilets. Electrical: switches, outlets, ceiling fans, light fixtures. Light landscape: fill dirt, trimming, planting, garden tilling and mulching. Serving Johnson County. Call Tim at (913) 859-0471.

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Flexible time off. References requested. Call Jenell at (913) 724-1837 or Linda, after 4:30 p.m., at (913) 2447721.

Contractor - Commercial and residential work — painting and renovating. Free estimates; insured; 20 yrs. experience. Call (913) 206-4524.

Home security systems only $99! - Protect your family and property. Call Mike at (913) 269-1394.

Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Overland Park.

El sol y la tierra *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation * Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!!

Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376.

■ REAL ESTATE

Lake house for sale - Beautiful and private Lake Kahola, less than 2 hours from the KC area. Only 10 miles off I-35 at the Emporia exit. This home sleeps 10+ with a 2-car garage, plus a private boat ramp and dock. Located at the water’s edge on a quiet cove with great neighbors. Call Cy at (316) 262-0888.

■ CHILD CARE

■ WANTED

■ WANTED TO BUY

***Wanted to Buy*** Antique/Vintage Costume Jewelry Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179

Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, 71st and Metcalf, Overland Park, will celebrate the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe with a Mass at 5:30 p.m. on Dec. 12 and Mañanitas

by Juan Torres Mariachi. A reception will follow in the church hall.

13

The St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center, 1631 Crescent Rd., Lawrence, will host an Advent celebration of lessons and carols. Join Father Steven Beseau and the St. Lawrence choir on Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. to prepare for the Christmas season. A reception will follow.

For information, visit the Web site at: www.st-lawrence.org.

14

Most Pure Heart of Mary Church, 17th & Stone, Topeka, will host a festival of nine lessons and carols at 7 p.m. on Dec. 14. There is no charge to attend, however, a free will offering will be collected to benefit the parishes’ Advent tree to purchase needed items for disadvantaged families in the Topeka community.

The Daughters of Isabella, Little Flower Circle No. 503, will host a c o v e r e d - d i s h C h r i s t m a s l u n c h e o n at noon on Dec. 14 at Rossiter Hall, 204 S.W. 8th, Topeka. The circle will provide meat, drinks, and table service. Members are to bring a $5 gift for the gift exchange.

Husbands and children are welcome.

Please put name on gift for husband and children.

The Knights of Columbus, Council No. 1913, Olathe, will host breakfast with Santa from 8 - 10:30 a.m. on Dec. 14 in the St. Paul Activity Center, 900 S. Honeysuckle Dr. A freewill offering will be collected for breakfast. Nonperishable canned food and pantry items will be collected for Catholic Charities.

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under 12. All proceeds will benefit the Bishop Ward High School Teens For Life program.

Misc.

16

Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel,” presented by Benedictine Sister Gabrielle Kocour, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m., on Dec. 16. The cost is $40. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151.

18

▲ A Croatian Mass celebrated by Father Tomislav Ljuban of Mostar, Herzegovina, will be held at 11 a.m. on Dec. 14 at St. John the Baptist Church, 4th and Barnett, Kansas City, Kan. Confessions will be heard prior to Mass at 10:30 a.m. A dinner will follow at 12:30 p.m. A donation of $10 is requested for dinner. For tickets or information, call (913) 721-3252 or (913) 721-0627.

The Knights of Columbus and the Mothers of Young Children organizations at Curé of Ars Parish, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood, will host breakfast with St. Nick from 8 a.m. - noon on Dec. 14 in the school cafeteria. Santa will be there, so bring your cameras. The cost is: $6 for adults; $5 for children; $20 per family.

Donations of new or gently used coats (sizes infant through six), hats, and mittens — for St. Benedict’s Special Children’s Center in Kansas City, Kan. — will be accepted. A portion of the proceeds will benefit Rachel House. For information, call Jo Yun at (913) 236-0041 or Jenn Miller at (913) 381-0188.

Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph Parish, 711 N. 5th St., Leavenworth, will host the annual community Christmas concert at 2 p.m. on Dec. 14. Choirs from four area high schools will perform. Bring nonperishable food donations for the Leavenworth Assistance Center for admission.

15-20

The Knights of Columbus, Council No. 2332, Shawnee, will hold its annual Christmas clothing drive from Dec. 15 - 20. Good, warm, used clothing, bedding, useful household appli-

A healing Mass, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Dec. 18 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood.

Father Dennis Wait will preside; fellowship follows.

20

Father Greg Hammes will celebrate the archdiocesan monthly pro-life Mass at 8 a.m. on Dec. 20 at Sts. Cyril & Methodius, 44 N. Mill, Kansas City, Kan., followed by a rosary procession to an abortion clinic four blocks away.

Eucharistic adoration is available for those not processing, with Benediction concluding services at 10 a.m.

A memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones will be held at 8 a.m. on Dec. 20 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. The bereavement ministry will have its monthly meeting following Mass in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be: “A Celebration of Life.” For information, call (913) 649-2026.

21

The Knights of Columbus, Council No. 2332, Shawnee, will host a pancakes-and-more breakfast from 8 a.m. until noon on Dec. 21 in their hall, located at 11512 Johnson Dr. The cost is: $7 for adults; $4 for children; $20 per family.

Santa and Mrs. Claus will make a guest appearance to hand out treats to the children.

The Knights of Columbus, Council No. 12026, Kansas City, Kan., will host their annual pancakes with Santa and Mrs. Claus from 8 a.m. until noon on Dec. 21 in Spurlock Hall, 14th and Sandusky.

The cost is $6 for adults; $3 for children

Kick off the holidays with one of Kansas City’s most beloved holiday traditions, Marillac’s Enchanted Forest.

Experience the magic of the season as you view over 100 beautifully decorated trees and wreaths, available for purchase, at Union Station. Enchanted Forest is free and open to the public for bidding through Dec. 6. All proceeds benefit children with special emotional and behavioral needs in our community.

Lay Dominicans, St. Martin de Porres Group will meet at 4 p.m. on the third Sunday of each month at the convent at St. Agnes Church, 5250 Mission Rd., Roeland Park. For information, call Tom Smith at (816) 232-0374.

Were you injured while on active duty in the military? Do you have combat related nightmares or are you bothered by remembrances of combat? A “veterans helping veterans” support group is forming in this area. If you are in need of help, or are available to help, call John at (913) 909-3368.

Freedom from pornography. Sam Meier, MA, LPC, provides counseling and men’s groups for sexual integrity. Call (913) 647-0378, or send an e-mail to: mhmg@archkck.org. Women, contact Beth Meier for information on our group for spouses and loved ones at (913) 647-0379, or send an e-mail to: bmeier@archkck.org.

Support is confidential and from a Catholic perspective. To listen to live testimonials, visit the Web site at; www.archkck.org/ myhouse.

Catholic Charities is sponsoring Mother to Mother, a program that provides emotional support for mothers.

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

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Join the Singles of Nativity for happy hour beginning at 6 p.m. on Dec. 12 at Barley’s Brewhaus, 11924 W. 119th St., Overland Park. Look for the yellow balloon and our greeters, who will be at the table until 7:30 p.m. Questions? Send an e-mail to: social@son-ministry.org.

***ANTIQUES WANTED*** Postcards, old photos, military items, trains, coins, watches jewelry, political buttons, old toys and banks, Red Wing crocks, Indian rugs, signs and sterling silverware. Call Chris (913) 642-8269.

column inch, five lines or less. Each additional Little Rascals Christian Daycare - Now open at 16550 W. 129th St., Olathe. Come by and tour our fabulous facility! Twenty years of experience. If you enroll by Christmas, you receive your 5th week of childcare absolutely free! For information, contact Colleen at (913) 397-7100.

Dec.

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ances and Christmas toys can be delivered to 11110 W. 67th St. between 8 a.m. and 6 p.m. For information, call Shawnee Community Services at (913) 268-7746.

Shawnee Community Services welcomes cash donations as well, which will be used for food, medical bills and family counseling for needy families.

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14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • DECEMBER 12, 2008

THE LEAVEN • DECEMBER 12, 2008

BUILDING THE CULTURE OF LIFE

MARK MY WORDS

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

Catholic Press Association Award Winner 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007 Archbishop Edward O’Meara Award Winner 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2001, 2002, 2003

A

n unexpected benefit from this catastrophic Chiefs season is that people are finding an “extra” three hours of time on Sunday. That makes this the perfect year to rediscover a good habit: spiritual reading. And Christmas is an ideal time to give a gift book to remind the recipient of what this season is all about.

Below are some recent titles to consider as gifts — for others or yourself. I chose these based on ease of reading and understanding, price, engaging topics, length, and their linking of the subject matter to the Scriptures and/or prayer.

I’ll start with a book to celebrate this year dedicated to St. Paul. If you regularly find yourself zoning out during that second reading at Mass, it’s probably because St. Paul is too confusing. Learn to appreciate him more by reading “A Still More Excellent Way: How St. Paul Points Us to Jesus” by Joseph Durepos (Loyola Press, 2008; 118 pgs; $10.95). This book contains 52 short chapters: one page has a brief passage from one of Paul’s letters; the other, a short, practical meditation from the author — a husband, father of three, worker, and a “pretty ordinary guy.”

Remember the question-and-answer format of the Baltimore Catechism? It’s a great way to break down scads of material into manageable parts. Father Juan Alfaro employs that method nicely in “Getting to Know Jesus: What Do Matthew, Mark, Luke and John Tell Us?” (Liguori

Publications, 2008; 144 pgs; $14.95). In 118 questions, Father Alfaro leads readers into a much better understanding of each of the Gospels through easy-to-understand answers.

What do fish, philosophers, milk, plows, peacocks, lighthouses and anchors have in common? All were used at one time by ancient Christians as a witness to their faith. In “Signs and Mysteries: Revealing Ancient Christian Symbols” (Our Sunday Visitor Press, 2008; 188 pgs.; $15.95), Mike Aquilina unlocks the meaning and origin of these symbols, still seen in churches today. The many illustrations of Lea Marie Ravotti complement the text nicely.

If you’re in the mood to deepen your prayer life, our own archdiocesan priest, Father Ed Hays, comes to the rescue with the reissue of two of his classic works: “Prayers for the Domestic Church: A Handbook for Worship in the Home” (286 pgs; $17.95) and “Prayers for a Planetary Pilgrim: A Personal Manual for Prayer and Ritual” (371 pgs; $19.95).

Both are Forest of Peace Books from Ave Maria Press. These reissues provide a

fresh and inviting presentation to these prayers that cover a vast variety of situations, moods and times.

You’ve read a lot about the rosary in The Leaven over the past year. A very simple, compact, attractive presentation of the why and how of this prayer, featuring beautiful artwork for each of the mysteries, is found in Gary Jansen’s “The Rosary: A Journey to the Beloved” (FaithWorks, 2006; 104 pgs; $11.99).

If someone on your Christmas list has been very, very good, get them a copy of “Gospels and Acts,” part of The Saint John’s Bible series. This oversized, illuminated, 136-page volume is not only a work of art; its calligraphy invites readers to slow down and savor the words of Scripture. Don’t be put off by its $64.95 price tag. The book’s 25 large illuminations make it something that will be paged through, prayed with, treasured and handed down from one generation to another.

If, however, someone’s been only “moderately” good, at least buy them a copy of “The Art of The Saint John’s Bible” (Collegeville, Minn., 2007; 126 pgs.; $14.95). Author Susan Sink, with the help of plenty of color reproductions, explains not only the history of illuminated Bibles, but lets readers peek into the minds of the artists who created the images. This book should inspire the recipient to better behavior in order to deserve a copy of The Saint John’s Bible next year!

Happy reading!

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 7215276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com.

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Subscriptions $18/ year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

SCRIPTURE READINGS THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT Dec. 14 THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Is 61: 1-2a, 10-11; (Ps) Lk 1: 46-50, 53-54; 1 Thes 5: 16-24; Jn 1: 6-8, 19-28 Dec. 15 Monday Nm 24: 2-7, 15-17a; Ps 25: 4-9; Mt 21: 23-27 Dec. 16 Tuesday Zep 3: 1-2, 9-13; Ps 34: 2-3, 6-7, 17-18, 19, 23; Mt 21: 28-32 Dec. 17 Wednesday Gn 49: 2, 8-10; Ps 72: 3-4, 7-8, 17; Mt 1: 1-17 Dec. 18 Thursday Jer 23: 5-8; Ps 72: 1, 12-13, 18-19; Mt 1: 18-25 Dec. 19 Friday Jgs 13: 2-7, 24-25a; Ps 71: 3-6, 16-17; Lk 1: 5-25 Dec. 20 Is 7: 10-14; Ps 24: 1-6; Lk 1: 26-38

Why wasn’t abortion the preeminent election issue?

Make this football season one for the books

President MOST REVEREND JOSEPH F. NAUMANN

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

Vigorous engagement was Baptist’s style

W

hile formulating a parish mission statement, we came across the following: “The church does not have a mission. The mission has a church.”

That saying makes clear that the church should serve the mission entrusted it by God, and not the other way around. At the same time, a pithy saying where eventually they hid the scrolls durcan point the church, or even an individing the upheavals of the ’70s. They had ual, in the right direction. That was also decided to separate themselves from the true 2,000 years ago. rest of Jewish society, to move out into All four Gospels associate John the the desert and to establish a community Baptist with this quotation from Isaiah: purified from worldly contamination.

“A voice of one crying out in the There they would prepare for desert: Prepare the way of the the end times, for the final conLord, make straight his paths.”

THIRD SUNDAY frontation between good and Sunday’s Gospel reading — Jn OF ADVENT evil.

Jn 1: 6-8, 19-28 1:6-8, 19-28 — takes this one Since they chose the desert step further. as the place to accomplish this, In the case of Matthew, it was natural for them for characterize Mark and Luke, that quotation appears as their mission by the same Isaiah quotaan editorial comment to describe John tion we associate with John the Baptist. the Baptist. John’s Gospel, on the other That is why we find the following written hand, has John the Baptist apply the quoin one of their scrolls, “The Rule of the tation to himself: “I am the voice of one Community”: crying out in the desert, Make straight the “When such men as these come to be way of the Lord.” in Israel, conforming to these doctrines, Did the historical John the Baptist they shall separate from the session of adopt that quotation as his mission stateperverse men to go to the wilderness, ment, or did John’s Gospel ascribe those there to prepare the way of truth, as it is words to him to reflect the early Christian written, ‘In the wilderness prepare the community’s understanding of that imway of the Lord, make straight in the portant figure? We cannot give a firm andesert a highway for our God.’” swer. At the same time, it is interesting to Interestingly, the Essenes did not sinnote that another religious sect with posgle out any one individual as accomplishsible links to John the Baptist did describe ing this task, as did the early Christian itself in terms of that quotation. community with John the Baptist.

The writers of the Dead Sea Scrolls, Instead, the Essenes identified themusually identified as the Essenes, lived on selves collectively as the voice in the the shores of the Dead Sea, near the caves

COMMENTARY 15

desert, which would prepare the way of the Lord.

And what steps would they take to fulfill that mission? The same document goes on to explain: “This means expounding the Law decreed by God through Moses for obedience, that being defined by what has been revealed for each age, and by what the prophets have revealed by his holy spirit.” In other words, the Essene community would interpret the Bible. That correct understanding would prepare the world for the coming of the Lord.

Contrast that approach with the fireand-brimstone preaching of John the Baptist against sin. While he also chose the desert as his dwelling place, he welcomed visitors and engaged in a vigorous dialogue with them. He saw the desert, not as a place to hide, but rather as a place where he could battle with worldly powers.

The words of Isaiah also challenge us as a community to prepare the way for the Lord. In that respect, we imitate the Essenes, who applied those words to themselves as a community. At the same time, that does not mean that we take exactly the same path.

There is no reason for us to separate ourselves completely from the world, to establish a Catholic ghetto, to proclaim a truth that only we will hear. Instead, like John the Baptist, we engage in vigorous dialogue with the world, to bring it to a change of heart.

Father Mike Stubbs is pastor of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lansing and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.

O

ne would have to acknowledge that abortion was not the major issue based upon the national election results and the preceding media coverage.

One could argue that it was not even one of the major issues. Even though Archbishop Naumann and many other bishops spoke out clearly and authoritatively, many Catholics did not place abortion among the prominent issues. I would like to reflect on why this is the case.

First, after 35 years of legalized abortion, we have become somewhat desensitized to abortion and perhaps tired of the battle. However, we must remember

that we are dealing with the killing of unborn babies — 50 million since 1973.

No other intrinsic evil in society even begins to approach this magnitude.

As a democratic society, we have within our power the ability to correct this problem, yet we continue to tolerate this intolerable evil. Ironically, contrast this acceptance of the killing of unborn children with the elaborate security systems that many hospitals have put in place to protect newborn babies, or contrast it with the Amber Alert system for

locating and protecting abducted children.

Society’s love of born children is very evident, and therein lays hope.

However, one can only conclude that society does not love the unborn child.

Without love, we are able to consider abortion a minor election issue compared to the economy — a morally corrupt prioritization.

While there are many other reasons why abortion was not a deciding issue in the election, let’s consider some of the more fundamental reasons.

God told Moses that the Israelites were a “stiff-necked people.” We share that characteristic with our ancestors.

We are not a humble people — we do not want to recognize our dependence upon God. This then frees us to do our will, rather than God’s. We can love who we choose and choose when we love.

This lack of humility also contributes

to our lack of faithfulness and our unwillingness to recognize the authority of the church and to follow its teaching, Christ’s teaching. Thus our consciences are poorly formed; we make poor moral decisions and we vote for pro-abortion politicians.

So how do we elevate abortion to the most pressing societal problem that it is?

Fundamentally, we must first ask how we can remove the stiffness from our necks. Our Blessed Mother provides us with the remedy for this malady by her perfect example of humility. We need only to fervently ask her for help.

And just as she brought Life to the world, she brings Life to our nation and asks that we follow Life with his call to humility and love: “Deny yourself, pick up your cross daily and follow me.”

Ron Kelsey is the archdiocesan consultant for the pro-life office.

CHURCH AND STATE

Conference found where religion and politics intersect

G

ood manners, say some who claim to have them, dictate that one should not discuss religion or politics in polite company.

What then of mixing religion and politics? Devotees of Emily Post would worry that such a flagrant violation of etiquette might disturb the tranquility of a Saturday evening dinner party.

Similarly, many Catholics attending Mass on a Sunday morning would worry that such an incendiary combination might disturb the tranquility of an otherwise restful hour in the pews. Much as McDonald’s once strove to keep the hot side hot and the cold side cold, Catholics often prefer to compartmentalize their religion and their politics, keeping them

separate so that, as Kipling said of East and West, “never the twain shall meet.”

But meet they do. Politics and religion are inextricably bound, for both are communal attempts to define “the good.”

One’s religion plays no small role in shaping one’s conscience, and one’s conscience hopefully plays a large role in shaping one’s political preferences.

Politics and religion have much to say to and about each other. Ensuring that they do so without trespassing upon each other’s mission requires great care.

Well, perhaps not too much care.

Religious expression faces the specter of involuntary evacuation from the public square. (‘Tis the season to rename the giving tree at Florida Gulf Coast University the “giving garden.”)

Warnings of impending theocracy notwithstanding, there is far more likelihood of secularism smothering religious expression than religious fanaticism overrunning our political institutions.

Thus, people of faith might be required to be a little less accommodating of secularists’ delicate sensibilities.

This fall, some particularly sensitive Catholics were startled to hear their priests make mention of certain moral issues currently under intense political debate. While no sensible Catholic wants the pulpit transformed into a political soapbox, the church dare not be silent on the premier human rights issues of our time.

The Kansas Catholic Conference, as the public policy arm of the church, plays

a key part in balancing the church’s dual roles as nonpartisan religious institution and vocal advocate of social justice.

When issues important to Catholics are debated in the political arena, the conference represents the church’s interests.

The conference also leads internal discussions over whether it is appropriate for the church to speak on a particular political issue — and if so, how.

The complications of faithful citizenship are not new to mankind, as evidenced by the 2,000 year old injunction: “Render unto Caesar what is Caesar’s, and to God what is God’s.” The Kansas Catholic Conference, by operating at the intersection of the religious and the political, hopefully renders a service to the faithful as they endeavor to harmonize their patriotism and their Catholicism.

Michael Schuttloffel is the executive director of the Kansas Catholic Conference.

AS THE CHURCH PRAYS

Juan Diego’s example serves us well each Advent ucked this week between Monday’s feast of Mary’s Immaculate Conception and today’s feast of her appearance to the indigenous people of Mexico, was Tuesday’s commemoration of her coworker in the miracles of Tepeyac Hill, St. Juan Diego.

T

It’s interesting how, even though the liturgical seasons and the cycle of feasts aren’t meant to particularly coincide with one another, we can nevertheless keep the seasons, in part, by observing

the feasts of the saints celebrated therein.

Mary’s Immaculate Conception and appearance in the Western Hemisphere remind us of her unique role in the history of salvation, that history which liturgically begins in Advent. The feast of St. Juan Diego also gives us something to ponder as we mark this season of anticipation and recollection.

One of the virtues we might associate with Advent is the virtue of humility. The humility of the Son of God coming to us

in human flesh; the humility of the Lord’s handmaid who said, “He has looked with favor on his lowly servant”; the humility of her betrothed, who “did as the angel instructed him”; the humility of John the Baptist, who said, “I am unworthy even to untie his sandal.”

Let us then also recall the humility of St. Juan Diego Cuauhtlatoatzin (1474-1548), a poor and humble man, deeply committed to his Catholic faith, who walked several miles each Saturday and Sunday in order to participate in the holy Mass.

It was on one of those days — Dec. 9, 1531 — that Juan Diego heard the extraordinary singing of birds and a voice calling his name from Tepeyac Hill. Rushing toward the sounds, he met a young lady whom he recognized to be the Blessed Virgin Mary. She called him “my little son.”

The next few days proved that Juan Diego was indeed a son of the Mother of

God — following her instructions, pleading with her to choose a better messenger than himself, taking time to care for his dying uncle, and finally submitting to his faith in God and his trust in what the Lady had to say. His life changed forever.

So did that of Mexico and of the church in the Americas.

Eventually, the day of the miracle of the roses and Juan Diego’s tilma became the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. In 2002, the date of that first encounter became the feast of one who happily called himself “a tiny ladder” in the whole scheme of things.

May this Advent, a season of trustful humility, bring each of us to a humble embrace and courageous demonstration of the faith we know to be true.

Saint Juan Diego, pray for us.

Michael Podrebarac is the archdiocesan consultant for the liturgy office.

16 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • DECEMBER 12, 2008

Family-friendly games fill retail shelves this year

By ANITA McSORLEY Leaven staff KANSAS CITY, Kan. — I didn’t predict the housing collapse. And I didn’t predict the stock market crash.

But I did predict in these very pages that the Nintendo Wii was going to change the face of gaming — and it has.

Consider this: The cover of a recent issue of Game Informer magazine features some very cool art from an upcoming mature-rated horror/military first-person shooter game called “Wolfenstein.”

But inside, where it lists the topselling games of the month, 10 of the top 20 were rated either E (for Everyone) or T (for Teen).

Take that, “Grand Theft Auto.”

Sadly, however, just when the Nintendo Wii began rewarding game developers for taking seriously what I call the family gamer, enter that pesky housing collapse and stock market crash.

Combined, they leave many a Christmas budget significantly tighter than it was a year ago. That means every dollar has got to count — and even a family-friendly video game is only a good gift if it is actually a good game.

“Madden NFL 09 All-Play” has new enhancements on the Wii that will make the annual bestseller even more accessible.

soles.) Some are packaged with just a guitar, but others include bass and drums as well (“Guitar Hero: World Tour”). A console version (and an Internet connection) lets your youngster (with parental supervision, of course) rock out online from the comfort of his own home with band mates Bridging the gap down the street or around the world, or I started this guide more than a to compete with same. decade ago in an effort to Before going the full steer parents and grandband route, however, parents toward familycheck out your gamer’s friendly games that their preference. Although youngsters would enjoy as both “Guitar Hero: much as the violent and World Tour” and “Rock well-publicized alternaBand 2” are each exceltives. With nine out of 10 lent in its own way, each youngsters asking for also has its strong and video games this year, that weak points. And at close need is greater than ever. to $200 a kit, it’s better to But the introduction of the be safe than sorry. If the Nintendo Wii has given me youngster you’re buying a second objective as well: for doesn’t have it yet, it pointing out titles that might be better still to might be enjoyed by the buy an earlier version of entire family as well — the still-popular “Guitar something literally unHero 2 or 3” (T, for all heard of just a few short Play as vampire hunter or on systems) at a greatly rethe side of the dark lord himyears ago. duced price.

To start with, I should self in “Castlevania Judgnote that if the revolution ment,” the franchise’s first Sports and fitness was actually accom- fighting game.

Two of the top titles in the sports catplished by the Wii, it was certainly fuegory this year are the newest versions eled by franchises like “Guitar Hero” of a couple of old standbys, now made and “Rock Band.” Even boomers — or playable by a whole new host of players should I say, especially boomers — want to be rock stars. And this year a because of the Wii: “Tiger Woods PGA whole host of new titles allow gamers to Tour 09 All-Play” (E) and “Madden play more than just guitar in their own NFL 09 All-Play” (E). Both the work of EA Sports, these franchises continue to virtual rock band.

“Guitar Hero,” for example, rated T provide quality play year after year.

Tiger’s new “all-play” feature, which for Teens (Activision and Red Octane), has multiple titles out for every gaming allows all levels to play together — is a device imaginable. (All games reviewed great addition to an already great game.

And although the enhancements to here are available on multiple con-

one who has played them with their combination of creativity, charm, and humor. Who knew that if you built a great product, people would buy it?

George Lucas, apparently. If Indy’s price tag is too steep for you, get “Lego Star Wars: The Complete Saga” (Lucas Arts, E 10+) at a third the price.

Next, “Kung Fu Panda” (Activision, E 10+) is a surprisingly satisfying game, considering that movie tie-ins have a less-than-impressive track record. Like the Lego titles, the fun is as much in the antics as in the game play.

Finally, “Nerf N-Strike” (Electronic Arts, E 10+) takes the first-personshooter experience to the kiddies with a family-friendly Nerf gun bundled with the game. The gun doubles as both a peripheral for the video game and a Nerf gun for outdoor play. Although older gamers will find this one a little repetitive, it’s just the thing for younger gamers or Moms and Dads, whose trigger fingers aren’t yet ready for anything but the very slowest of the zombie invaders.

Madden are subtler, the Wii version of this annual bestseller is getting close to providing the same deep and realistic play of the other consoles’ versions, while keeping it more user-friendly.

But perhaps the biggest hit of the holFighting games iday season will be the game that gets all Not everyone plays those armchair golfers video games to pursue and quarterbacks off a story line. Some just the couch and working like to bash things up. up a little sweat themIf you prefer your onselves. screen talent to be of Even at $89 for the the comic book varibasic bundle, “Wii Fit” ety, then Midway’s T(Nintendo, E) is flying rated “Mortal off retail shelves. A Kombat vs. DC video game that truly Universe” should be taps the incredible poright up your alley. tential of the medium, But fans of the re“Wii Fit” starts off by cent box office hit having the gamer “Twilight” might pre“weigh in,” then profer to do their fighting ceeds to line out a Although in the past, good movies with the sartorially splenworkout program cus- have not always translated into good did undead instead. If tomized to the individ- video games, “Kung Fu Panda” is a so, “Castlevania ual gamer. Buyers be- satisfying play for gamers of all ages. Judgment” (Konami, ware, however. This T) makes for a hearty excellent game is not for the faint of game of vampire bashing. heart — or the “wii not so serious about Due to space constraints this issue, getting in shape.” the second part of this guide — which will review the puzzle, role-playing and singing and party games, as well as the Action/adventure games handheld titles — will appear in the Except for a few notable exceptions, Dec. 19 issue of The Leaven, but can be the family-friendly action/adventure viewed on our Web site (www.theleaven. games that in past years have been the com) immediately. lifeblood of the gaming industry are few Shoppers out there who were born to and far between this year. slack, however, can chill until next One of those exceptions, however, is week. That’s because game developers “Lego Indiana Jones: The Original have finally come up with a gift that will Adventures,” (Lucas Arts make you the coolest parent/grandparent/ Entertainment, E 10+) which is making uncle or aunt on the planet — with little the Christmas list of even hardcore or no real thought or effort on your gamers this year. Those of you who part! can’t quite make the connection beTune in next week to find it right tween Legos and a video game should here. Or, if you insist, visit our Web site know that since its inception with today.

“Lego Star Wars,” the games of this franchise have captivated nearly every-

“Guitar Hero: World Tour” lets you rock out with band mates down the street or around the world.