12 20 19 Vol. 41 No. 19 by The Leaven

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 41, NO. 19 | DECEMBER 20, 2019

y his conception by the Holy Spirit and his birth of the Virgin Mary, may the Lord enflame your hearts with his love this Christmastide, and may you share that same love with everyone you meet this coming New Year.

+ JOSEPH F. NAUMANN Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas

+ JAMES P. KELEHER Archbishop Emeritus of Kansas City in Kansas

DECEMBER 20, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ARCHBISHOP

Enjoy your Christmas traditions — with Christ at their center

arish pastoral visits are one of the aspects of my ministry as bishop that I enjoy the most. Our parishes have much in common, but each has a unique personality. In recent weeks, I visited: 1) Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka, which boasts one of our best programs for the care of elderly and shut-ins as well as a magnificent youth choir; ARCHBISHOP 2) Holy Spirit Parish in JOSEPH F. NAUMANN Overland Park, which has a well-developed program for high school church and added a large youth and sent one of and gracious vestibule the largest delegations where parishioners can to the “Enflame Our gather before and after Hearts” convocation; Mass. 3) St. Gregory Parish in This past Saturday, I Marysville, which enjoys visited St, John the Bapits magnificent new tist and Holy Family parchurch and the opportuishes on Strawberry Hill nity it provides to welin Kansas City, Kansas. come many Catholic and These parishes share non-Catholic visitors; 4) a pastor, Father Peter Good Shepherd Parish in Jaramillo, Shawnee, who is also which has pastor for developed On the cover St. Marya vibrant The Nativity is depictSt. AnthoHispanic ed in this 16th-century ny Parish in painting by Italian artist ministry Lorenzo Lotto. The Nadowntown and is tivity of Christ, a holy Kansas proud of day of obligation, is celCity. its 26-year ebrated on Dec. 25. Holy relationPHOTO BY CNS/BRIDGEMAN IMAGES Family ship with Parish was its sister founded to serve the parish, El Buen Pastor Slovenian Catholic com(Good Shepherd) in El munity. The parish was Salvador; and 5) St. shepherded for decades Joseph Parish in Shawby Msgr. Heliodore Mejak, nee, which has been who remains a legend able constantly to renew within the community. itself because of the age Readers of The diversity of its commuLeaven are in debt to nity as evidenced by St. John the Baptist, many baptisms, first because it is the comCommunions, marriages munity that helped form and funerals. St. Joseph in the faith our editor, recently renovated its

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS Father Mark Goldasich. They also have welcomed in recent years members of the young and growing Burmese Catholic community that has brought a new vitality to the parish. During my meeting with parish leaders, we were all moved by the testimonies of members of the Burmese community, who described the harsh religious persecution that forced them to flee their homeland. Old-time members of Holy Family and St. John’s took note of the parallels between the experience of their Slovenian and Croatian ancestors with current refugees from Myanmar, formerly known as Burma. I enjoyed celebrating Mass in the beautiful church of St. John the Baptist and was inspired by the music that included hymns in Croatian, Burmese and English. My visit happened to coincide with the monthly liturgy that features the parish youth serving as lectors, gift-bearers and eucharistic ministers. My meeting with leaders from both

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Call or Text: (913) 648-1100 | erin@insurekcmetro.com | St. Joseph Parishioner 13139 Shawnee Mission Parkway, Shawnee, KS 66216 | Bishop Ward Alum

parishes took place in the “Tea Room” that is part of the Strawberry Hill Museum, a former orphanage. After the meeting, I visited the parish bowling alley operated by the Men’s Club. It was packed with bowling enthusiasts. I was also escorted to the parish hall, where there was live music, as well as traditional Croatian Christmas folk dancing. The previous week the parish hall hosted a Christmas movie that attracted youth both from the parishes as well as non-Catholic children from the neighborhoods. It was impressive to witness the vitality of this Catholic community in this very historic part of Kansas City, Kansas. The Strawberry Hill Museum features rooms with exhibits of the diverse ethnic communities that at one time considered Strawberry Hill their home. It was inspiring to witness the beauty of these multiple cultures with their unique languages, ethnic foods, music, dances, art, literature, drama and traditions. However, they all shared in common what is most important — a deep and profound love for Jesus and his church. Pope St. John Paul often wrote about the importance of culture. Our late Holy Father was convinced from his Polish experience that culture is more important than politics. Governments come and go, but the culture transmits from one generation to

the next the faith and values of their ancestors. Poland was eliminated from the map of Europe for decades, but the people maintained their history and identity through their culture. The future pope during the Nazi occupation of Poland performed in the Rhapsodic Theatre, an underground resistance group that was committed to preserving the rich cultural heritage of Poland. Christmas is an important time for families. Many families have beautiful traditions that include special foods, music and rituals for Christmas. These are extremely important for developing deep, authentic bonds that span generations. However, it is most important that we not forget why we have these traditions and rituals for Christmas. With the rich diversity of all our ethnic heritages, the core of what we celebrate is universal and unique for Christians. Our celebration commemorates the most important moment in human history, when the Creator of the cosmos, the Lord of Lords and the King of Kings chose to immerse himself in our humanity so that we could share in his divinity. In a secular culture that wants to strip Christ from Christmas, we must be very intentional in making certain that our youth know why we give gifts, why we enjoy special foods and why we have festive decorations.

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN Dec. 20-21 “Quo Vadis” retreat Dec. 23 Chancery staff Mass and luncheon Dec. 24 Mass — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 25 Mass — Cathedral Dec. 27 Serra parent/seminarian Mass and luncheon

Make participating in the celebration of Mass the most important tradition in your family observance of Christmas. However, also make certain that awe for the miracle of God embracing our humanity, faith in the love and mercy of God revealed in one born in Bethlehem, and prayer — the ability to communicate and develop a friendship with Jesus — are the central elements of your family Christmas celebrations. Preserve and renew your family Christmas traditions, but also be not afraid to begin new traditions that make Jesus the center of Christmas in your home.

DECEMBER 20, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

BLESSED BY BELIZE

What started out a simple mission has giant impact By Jan Dumay Special to The Leaven

VERLAND PARK — When Tom Kolarik retired this year, his wife Debbie asked him where he’d like to go for a retirement trip. Anywhere in the world, she said. Australia? Europe? Greece? Kolarik’s answer was surprising. He wanted to go to the Central American country of Belize to see firsthand the mission supported for 43 years by fellow members of Queen of the Holy Rosary Church in Overland Park. So, the Kolariks mentioned the idea to Father Bill Bruning, Queen’s pastor, who eagerly agreed to join in. Plans were made for a trip Nov. 2-8. Joining the pastor and the Kolariks were Debbie’s mother Patty Wernel, also from Queen; Tom’s sister Mary Jo Audley; and a lifelong friend of Debbie’s, Cindy Hill, who grew up in Queen parish. By all accounts, the trip was eye-opening and rewarding for the six travelers. Their activities included attending Mass every day, painting two of seven grade school buildings and participating in an All Souls’ novena in a rainy, muddy cemetery where Father Bruning blessed each grave. The mission was started by Deacon Cal and Ginny Cathers of the Overland Park parish with the goal of educating children while spreading Catholic values. Belize, which has a population of 390,000, was a British colony until 1981 when it received its independence. Though it is not a Third World country, its quality of living is far below that of the United States. “When we arrived in Belize in August 1976, only 10 percent of the children born in Belize were graduating from high school,” said Deacon Cathers, who is affectionately known by all as Deacon Cal. “Less than 40 percent of the children born in Belize were graduating from grade school,” he added. But things have changed, primarily thanks to a printing company the Cathers started called BRC Printing. By 1995, it was the largest nongovernment employer in Benque, where it is headquartered. The company, which employs about 40 people, prints reading and math books written by Deacon Cathers and distributed for free to the more than 40% of the children in Belize who live in poverty. By 2007, almost all the 220 or so schools in the country were using BRC’s reading books. Close to 90% of the children born in Belize can now read and write above the third-grade level. But the program founder cares far less about where they’ve been than where they’re going. “I rarely think about [our accomplishments],” Deacon Cathers said in an email. “I think about how we can improve.”

Deacon Cal Cathers, left, who trained as a teacher and started the Belize mission, assists Father Bill Bruning, pastor of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park, as he celebrates Mass at Mt. Carmel Church in Benque, Belize.

Goals of the mission 1. Raise an extra $300 to $400 a month to hire a full-time handyman to help Deacon Cal Cathers, who is 80. 2. Raise an extra $7,000 to put a fence around one of the grade schools. 3. Secure about $60,000 to build a school for students with developmental disabilities such as Down syndrome or autism. Deacon Cathers is currently drawing plans to submit for a government grant that takes two years to process.

The mission has impacted the culture as well, he said, particularly in how men treat their families. “When we arrived in Benque Viejo del Carmen 43 years ago, men, emptyhanded, would ride their horse 20 feet in front of their wives,” he said. “Their wives would be carrying an infant or a bundle. Men were never seen with a child of any age. Very few men went to Mass. “Ginny and I made it our goal to change that culture. As Father Bruning and the Queen group can attest, now most men carry their infants, play with their children and take care of their families.” It took a community to change the culture, but the couple and their family of six children were a big part of that change because the people could see a loving, close, Catholic family modeled for them. “I was very impressed with the impact Deacon Cal and Ginny have

President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Thanks to the help of the mission, close to 90% of the children born in Belize can read and write above the third-grade level. made in the areas of education and Catholic formation of so many young students throughout the country of Belize,” Tom Kolarik said. “Everywhere we went, both inside and outside of their town of Benque, we met people who knew the Catherses, some going back 20 to 30 years. They had nothing but praise for them and their accomplishments. “Thanks to Cal and Ginny’s efforts, the literacy rate in the country is dramatically improved, and Benque has become the Catholic center of Belize. All in all, it was a very enjoyable and worthwhile trip.” Wernel was among a group of Queen parishioners who first went to Belize 22 years ago. “When I see Ginny and Cal walking hand-in-hand, it’s like two little saints,”

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she said. The recent trip is only the second trip made by parishioners and the first by a Queen pastor. Father Bruning said he was humbled by the experience, stating that Queen parishioners send about $700 a month to support the mission. “This parish has been supporting for 40-plus years this mission down there, sight unseen,” he said. “How beautiful is that? “I believe someday, when our parishioners die, these souls will welcome them into heaven. I get a little choked up thinking about that. I believe that as long as we keep our hearts for the most vulnerable and keep that present in our lives, God will continue to bless this parish.”

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

DECEMBER 20, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Sister teachers take school twinning effort to next level By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — It’s been 14 years, but Cathy Hair and Janet Schlake still get choked up talking about a partnership they created to bring two schools in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas together. “It’s the highlight of my year every year,” said Hair. “I get very emotional.” Hair, a fourth-grade teacher at Ascension School in Overland Park, and Schlake, a former kindergarten teacher at Our Lady of Unity School, are sisters who wanted their students to be connected in some way, too. So for the past 14 years, Ascension’s fourth-graders have visited Our Lady of Unity’s kindergarten, first- and secondgrade classes, as they did on Dec. 13 this year. In the spring, Our Lady of Unity students visit their friends at Ascension. During these visits, the students work on crafts with a designated buddy, play outside at recess and participate in a prayer service. “I think this is the greatest way to teach them,” said Hair. “It’s about making new friends and realizing they don’t live that far away from you,” she said. “They have so much in common. They’re both Catholic, they’re hard-working kids and their families are hardworking families.” Although Schlake retired from teaching a few years ago,

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MOIRA CULLINGS

Fourth-grade students at Ascension Catholic School in Overland Park visited Our Lady of Unity School in Kansas City, Kansas, on Dec. 13 for an Advent celebration. The schools have had an ongoing relationship for more than a decade. she is still involved in Our Lady of Unity and the ongoing friendship between the two schools, which she believes has brought her relationship with Hair full circle. “I used to push [my sister] on the swing,” said Schlake, who is nine years older than Hair. “Now, they bought us a playground, they bought us the swings. I’d button her coat and I’d pray with her. They’ve had coat drives for us. “It’s become where Ascension is like the big sister to this school,” she added. Our Lady of Unity has a

“

“I FEEL LIKE WITH THIS RELATIONSHIP, IT’S BECOME WHERE ASCENSION’S LIKE THE BIG SISTER TO THIS SCHOOL.” twinning relationship with St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood, but they receive

additional support through the connection between the two sisters. “Ascension is such a generous community,” said Hair, “and I really want to teach my fourth-graders the importance of giving back.” Hair fills a bulletin board with pictures of the students at Our Lady of Unity, and her students pray for them regularly. She also talks to the kids about Jesus’ commandment to love one another and the importance of getting out of the classroom to show others that love. Schlake is inspired by her

sister’s efforts to help her students “practice what they preach,” she said. “When I taught kindergarten, my kids loved it,” said Schlake. “But the Ascension kids come away touched.” A memory the sisters will never forget is when one of Hair’s fourth-grade students discovered her buddy at Our Lady of Unity wanted an American Girl doll for Christmas, “but she knew Santa Claus could never bring her that,” said Hair. The fourth-grader saved up her own money and bought her friend a doll, then presented it to her privately without telling her classmates. “That girl is a senior in high school now,” said Hair. ”It’s one of the greatest things I’ve ever seen a fourth-grader do.” When the students got together on Dec. 13, they laughed and played as if they had been friends for years. “It’s become such a tradition at Ascension that they know coming into fourth grade this is one of the highlights,” said Hair. The students at Our Lady of Unity are “so loving and welcoming,” she said. “I do feel like my kids get the most out of it.” Hair hopes the ongoing relationship will inspire her students to continue giving back throughout their lives. “You can talk to them and talk to them,” she said. “But when they actually do something, they see what Jesus’ message is. “It’s the best way to teach them.”

Special-needs ministry debuts integrated wellness program By Susan Fotovich McCabe Special to The Leaven

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Nothing can be more difficult than losing a loved one to suicide. The pain is deep, and a lifetime of questions persist. Navigating those emotions and questions is the focus of the two-week series, “Hope for You and Your Loved Ones After Death by Suicide,” on Jan. 14 and 21. The series, sponsored by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas special-needs ministry, will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. at St. Joseph Church in Shawnee. Husband and wife psychologists Deacon Mike Moffitt, Ph.D., and Jacque Pfeifer, Ph.D., will lead the series as part of Fully Alive, an integrated wellness program the couple recently founded. Fully Alive follows a mind-body-spirit approach for understanding and processing mental health challenges. “Secular psychology talks a lot about grief and loss and our feelings. But it doesn’t include religion,” Pfeifer said. “Our faith in God and our Catholic teachings help us in our grief and in answering the questions about our loved ones’ transition from suffering on earth to eternity.” Deacon Moffitt, who serves at St. Paul Church in Olathe, and Pfeifer have enlisted the help of a number of Catholic

A list of Fully Alive topics scheduled for 2020 • Hope for You and Your Loved Ones After Death by Suicide — based on a book written by Father Chris Alar • Project Chrysalis — A Catholic ministry developed by Ken and Patti Billinger and designed to help parents who have lost a child find hope through sacred Scripture and community. • Catholic Mindfulness — An 8-week mindfulness-based stress reduction program developed by Gregory Bottaro, Ph.D. • The Depression Cure — A holistic approach to preventing and treating depression developed by Stephen Ilardi, Ph.D. • Addiction Support — based on Scott Weeman’s book entitled: “Twelve Steps and the Sacraments: A Catholic Journey through Recovery.” • Together with Jesus Couple Prayer Series — A DVD series to teach couples to pray together developed by Deacon Bob and Kathy Ovies. • Marriage Enhancing Techniques and Improving Attachment — Evidencebased treatment for developing and maintaining healthy marital relationships: John Gottman, Ph.D. and Marital Attachment: Stan Tatsin, Psy.D. • Forgiveness Ministry — Led by Chuck Jansen

counselors who have volunteered their time for this and future series on mental health topics. Each program in the series will include Mass, education, prayer and small group discussion. For the series on suicide, the discussion will follow Father Chris Alar’s book, “After Suicide: There is Hope for You and Them.” Suicide is the 10th leading cause of death in the United States and the second cause of death for young people, Pfeifer said. “That’s why we are starting with

this topic,” she said. Future series will focus on such topics as depression, bipolar disorder, addiction, healthy eating and marriage. There will be an emphasis on Catholic Mindfulness as well, Deacon Moffitt said. “Catholic mindfulness is the premise that we are aware and safe in the present moment. We can only really know we are safe if we believe there is a God who loves and cares for us,” he said. “Catholic mindfulness is a way to practically trust God so that we can

incorporate faith into our daily life and bridge the gap between chaos and peace.” According to Pfeifer, Fully Alive practitioners believe they have an extraordinary privilege and responsibility to assist others in finding strength, building resilience and improving general health. This program is focused on connecting, protecting and showing loving concern for every person. Helping individuals with mental illness (and their families) is one aspect of the special-needs ministry, according to lead consultant Tom Racunas. “Mental illness is a disability,” Racunas said. “We must eliminate the stigma of mental illness. We must create awareness in our parishes that one in five families are affected by the mental illness of someone in their family. “Many families in this situation feel isolated, unsupported and lonely in their suffering.” But it doesn’t have to be that way. “Jesus asks us to accompany the most vulnerable,” he said. “Mental illness can be chronic or episodic. However, since all of us ‘struggle in life’ in some way from time to time, Fully Alive doesn’t single anyone out but is inclusive in the recognition that we are all weak.” Each Fully Alive program is free. To attend, send an online RSVP to Racunas at: tracunas@archkck.org.

DECEMBER 20, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Parents share both stories and gratitude at CEF dinner By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — It happens every year. And Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann loves it. Every year about this time, he hosts an evening at which all of his dinner guests wind up sitting around his table, wiping tears from their eyes. The event is the annual Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) parent dinner with the archbishop, held this year on Dec. 4. And the tears flow from hearing firsthand the stories of parents whose lives, though filled with hardships, were also filled with an overwhelming determination to see their children in a Catholic school. The CEF makes that possible. Each Advent, a number of parents whose children benefit from CEF scholarships are invited to join the archbishop for Mass in his chapel and to have dinner with him afterwards. Invariably, the dinner conversation leads to accounts of the many difficulties these parents have overcome, the value they place on their Catholic faith and the gratitude they have for CEF scholarships that help them send their children to Catholic schools. This year, Jeremina Ree recounted the many years her family spent in the horrendous conditions of a refugee camp in Burma, their difficult journey to America and their adjustment to a new world. Ree’s children now attend Resurrection Catholic School in Kansas City, Kansas, where they feel safe and supported. Alejundra Arevalo, who is from Mexico, told the group that her English was learned out of necessity. She grew more fluent in hospitals, as she struggled to understand doctors treating her infant daughter in need of a kidney transplant. Arevalo’s other children were so

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann celebrates Mass with Catholic Education Foundation parents in the chapel of his home on Dec. 4. Following Mass, the group joined the archbishop for dinner and shared stories on why they wanted their children to have a Catholic education. affected by her sadness that she promised God that she would “smile during the day and cry at night.” Arevalo now finds comfort in the Catholic community she’s a part of through her children’s school, Our Lady of Unity, also in Kansas City, Kansas. There were more stories from parents whose life circumstances made it impossible for them to afford a Catholic education for their children, until the CEF stepped in with scholarship assistance. And Archbishop Naumann pointed out that these were only a few of the stories from hundreds of families throughout the archdiocese.

New retirement community opens

ANSAS CITY, Mo. — St. Anthony’s Retirement Community here welcomed new residents to its gated resort-style community just in time for the holidays. The culmination of a unique joint venture between Catholic Charities and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, St. Anthony’s is designed for adults 62 years and older. It currently offers 120 residential living apartment homes and will add assisted living and memory support suites in 2020. The retirement community represents a rebirth in the Brookside area, as it was formerly a medical office building. Owner Mark Ledom Sr. likens the revitalization to a miracle. “We put a lot of careful planning and thought into transforming a former well-known community landmark where so many people sought medical treatment into a modern, fresh offering with caring and support still at its core,” said Ledom.

“St. Anthony’s enjoys close ties to the community and will flourish with their support,” he added. The community offers daily Mass in its chapel, and spiritual care is offered to those of other faiths, too, as anyone is welcome at St. Anthony’s. Following the four cornerstones of healthy aging highlighted in its Rhythms Life Enrichment program, St. Anthony’s not only fosters spiritual wellness but also offers robust social, intellectual and physical programs, as well as an elegant restaurant, pub and daily happy hour. “Between all the amazing contacts we have made in the community thus far, and the willingness for volunteers to serve, we have a great lineup of activities, entertainment and fun to be had,” said executive director Mark Walter. “St. Anthony’s will provide a service to our community that is not present currently,” he continued. “Our secure, state-of-the-art campus will have older adults in our community living their best life.”

This school year alone, 805 families were served by CEF; almost 400 students, though, are on the waiting list for scholarships. The evening included moments of laughter, too. Tina Alvarez told of her son’s experience in a public school, where mentions of Christ and Christmas were prohibited and he played the part of a mosquito in the school’s “winter” program. He came home complaining to his mother: “I don’t want to play a mosquito at Christmas! I want to go to a school where I can talk about Christ.” Thanks to CEF scholarships, the Alvarez children talk about Christ every

day at Holy Name School in Kansas City, Kansas. During his homily at Mass, Archbishop Naumann said that in addition to high-quality academics, Catholic schools strive to teach children they have a friend in Jesus. Jesus can be their best friend and, though other relationships may disappoint them, they can always count on their relationship with the Lord. “If we can give our young people that,” he said, “if they leave our schools with that friendship in Jesus, then whatever life throws at them, they’re going to have the strength to not just endure it but to overcome it — and to triumph.”

Gary and Mary Lou (Schmitz) Koch, members of St. Francis Xavier Parish, Mayetta, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Dec. 27. The couple was married Dec. 27, 1969, at St. Mary Church, St. Benedict. Their children are: Tracey Koch and Kimberly White. They also have four grandchildren and one step-great-granddaughter. They will celebrate at a later date with family and friends.

Theresa Y. (Cover) and Dennis R. Johnson, members of Christ the King Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Dec. 20. The couple was married on Dec. 20, 1969, at Holy Cross Church, Kansas City, Missouri. They celebrated with a recent family trip to Hawaii. Their children are: Jennifer Johnson and Michaela Culkin.

Mary Frances and Mike Horton, members of Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Dec. 20 with family and friends. The couple was married on Dec. 20, 1969, at Sacred Heart Cathedral, Davenport, Iowa. Their children are: Robert Horton and Monica King. They also have five grandchildren.

ANNIVERSARY submissions submissions ANNIVERSARY POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas DEADLINE: eight days before the desired publication date. WHERE TO SUBMIT: Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or email: todd. habiger@theleaven.org.

DECEMBER 20, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

FAMILY LIFE

Sometimes the best Christmas gifts are the simplest By Deacon Tony Zimmerman Special to The Leaven

hat would be the best gift you could give your children or grandchildren this Christmas? Could it be the gift of faith? When I was around 13 years of age, my grandmother gave me a simple Nativity scene. It was maybe 12 inches TOOLS FOR long and 12 FAMILIES inches high Growing as at the point Disciples of where the Jesus roof boards of the stable came together. Inside the stable were the images of Mary, Joseph and the newborn baby Jesus in the manger, along with the traditional donkey, cow and lamb. In the background is a figure of an angel on one knee with both arms crossed on its chest in worship of the Christ Child. This simple representation of the birth of Our Lord was not an expensive work of art. Yet now, 55 years later, it is a treasured reminder of the faith my grandmother passed on to me in my youth. I have another Nativity scene

PHOTO BY DEACON TONY ZIMMERMAN

Deacon Tony Zimmerman still has the Nativity scene his grandmother gave him when he was around 13 years old. This simple representation of the birth of Our Lord is a treasured reminder of the faith his grandmother passed on to him in his youth. given to me years later by our grade-school-age daughter Amy. On a piece of notebook paper she had drawn her idea of how that scene on Christmas morning might have looked and titled it, “Away in a Manger.”

This stable has Joseph and Mary standing, with the manger of straw holding the smiling baby Jesus between them. Three Wise Men stand outside the stable with an angel above in a robe covered

with hearts. This drawing of the Nativity of Our Lord has one special and prophetic addition to the stable: a cross placed at the high point of the roof. Our Lord was born to give his life out of love for us.

Here are some possible faith-sharing activities for your family as you prepare to celebrate Christmas: • Gather depictions of the Nativity in various works of art. These can be found on Christmas cards you will receive or perhaps gather around your own family Nativity set. • Listen as a family while someone reads aloud the narrative of the birth of Jesus found in the Gospel of Luke. • For adults, share what image or aspect of the scene present on Christmas morning most touches your heart. • Invite your children or grandchildren to draw pictures of how they imagine that first Christmas morning would have looked. What does it all mean to them? You may be surprised. As I write this to you, I realize that there are churches, cathedrals and basilicas around the world that have art, whether in stained glass or paintings, to remind us of the great gift of Jesus being born into our world. May the little domestic churches of our homes be adorned with the art of our children’s and grandchildren’s drawings of the birth of Our Lord and bring joy to our hearts for many years to come.

DECEMBER 20, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

Can only Catholics go to heaven?

said Father Joseph, “and if you weren’t a Catholic, it wasn’t possible.” So, there was a period in the history of the church in which it was believed that you had to be a Catholic to go to heaven.

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — One of the most misunderstood teachings of the Catholic Church concerns who can attain eternal life in heaven. According to the Catechism of the Catholic Church, “outside the church there is no salvation.” If so, what does that mean for other Christians? Or what about non-Catholics or people who have never heard of Christ? Father Joseph Arsenault, SSA, archdiocesan consultant for ecumenical & interreligious affairs, explains. Q: Jesus taught that those who believed in him and followed him could attain eternal life. What did he mean by that? A: Jesus meant those who follow him, do his will and believe in him will have eternal life in heaven available to them. Q: Who did he mean it to apply to? A: “To everyone,” said Father Joseph. “He came to call everyone to heaven.” Q: Was belief in heaven part of Jewish tradition, or would this have been a teaching unique to Jesus? A: There was a belief in a kind of afterlife in ancient Judaism. “However,” explained Father Joseph, “there were some of the Jewish people who did not believe in the resurrection of the body.” Q: Did teaching on heaven develop in any way during Jesus’ years of ministry? For example, was it taught that Gentiles as well as Jews can enter the kingdom of God? “The Jewish people believed that they were the ones that God revealed himself to and that he was theirs,” said Father Joseph. The early Christians believed, however, because of Jesus’ teaching, that the king-

with

FATHER JOSEPH ARSENAULT, SSA Consultant for Ecumenical & Interreligioius Affairs

dom of God was open to Gentiles (non-Jewish people) as well as Jews. “The Gentiles helped to bring about the church [and show] that heaven was open to everyone,” said Father Joseph. “You didn’t have to be Jewish to believe in Jesus.” Q: In the centuries that followed, was the teaching on heaven developed at all? Who was eligible for the afterlife? Those who came to Jesus through the Catholic Church but no one else? A: This is where things get complicated. For centuries, it was believed that people had to come to know and follow Jesus in “real time,” so to speak, to have a chance at eternal life. And it is true, said Father Joseph, that if people are going to make it to heaven, it’s going to be through Jesus Christ. “They can’t acquire it through anyone else,” he said. “He is the only way.” But that does not mean that faithful Jews, or Buddhists or those who lived and died before Jesus had no chance at heaven if they did not come to know and follow Christ in their lifetime. Everyone is created in the image and likeness of God, explained Father Joseph. Even without knowing him, they could be redeemed through Jesus if they had lived lives in accord with Christian teachings. “Whether we acknowledge it or not,” he said, “deep within us is the reality of God. “As we come in touch with who we really are, we come

in touch with God — even if we can’t articulate that.” Q: What happened after the Protestant Reformation? Were Protestants not eligible for eternal life according to Catholic Church teaching at that time? A: The church teaches there is no salvation outside of the church. And for centuries of church history, that was interpreted very literally. “The way that was interpreted at the time [of the Protestant Reformation] was that you had to be a Catholic in order to get into heaven,”

Q: Did the Second Vatican Council impact this teaching? A: Yes, it made the proper interpretation of the church’s teaching clearer. “Vatican II made it clear that there is the possibility of attaining heaven without being Catholic,” said Father Joseph. “I think we would still say there is no salvation outside the church,” he continued, “but what we mean by that is that Jesus is the way, the truth and the life, as he said. “He’s it. So, if there’s salvation, it’s in him. “If I am saved, I am saved by Jesus Christ and no one else.” Q: What does the Catholic Church teach today about faithful Protestants, Jews or non-Christians entering the kingdom of heaven? A: “We teach that it’s a

possibility for everyone to enter heaven if their life conforms to the ways of the Lord,” said Father Joseph. “They may not know or acknowledge Jesus,” he added, “but if they have an openness to striving to live a good and godly life, then, doing that, they are pleasing to the Lord.” Q: How should we understand the clarification of this doctrine? A: In simple terms, that which was assumed within doctrine was investigated and made explicit in Vatican II. “[This clarification of teaching] is giving it a different interpretation because the doctrine hasn’t changed,” said Father Joseph. “There is no salvation outside of the church. That hasn’t changed. How we understand that has.” Father Joseph gave the example of Jesus while on the cross offering eternal life in heaven to the repentant thief. “Well, he wasn’t a Catholic!” said Father Joseph. “Hope of resurrection is open for all.”

“The Glorification of St. Felix and St. Adauctus” by Carlo Innocenzo Carlone shows a depiction of heaven. Vatican II made it clear that there is the possibility of attaining heaven without being Catholic.

BABY JESUS MAKES HIS ENTRANCE

Little Sisters of the Lamb enjoy the sight of their Baby Jesus doll being scanned through security by a corrections officer at the Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex in Topeka.

PREPARE YE THE WAY OF THE LORD

PHOTOS BY JAY SOLDNER

ometimes, Christmas is easy. Sometimes, it’s hard. On Dec. 13, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, chaplain Father Joseph Chontos and members of the Community of the Lamb visited the Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex in Topeka. There, they met with many of the young men and women, reminding them that even at this hectic time of year — or, perhaps, especially at this hectic time of year — they were not forgotten. They were not alone.

CHECKING IN

Little Sisters of the Lamb Marie-Jeanne, left, and Sara point out their names on their passports as part of the check-in process to enter the correctional complex.

“BEHOLD, THE VIRGIN SHALL . . . BEAR A SON, AND THEY SHALL NAME HIM EMMANUEL, WHICH MEANS

‘GOD IS WITH US.’” Mt 1:23

FIST BUMP

Father Joseph Chontos, chaplain of the Kansas Juvenile Correctional Complex, greets an inmate with a smile and a fist bump.

LISTENING

Through a heavily fortified door, Little Brother postulant Jedidiah and a young man discuss the works of C.S. Lewis and their favorite Bible stories.

FORGIVENESS

Archbishop Naumann grants absolution to a young man at the end of the latter’s confession.

LET US PRAY

ALL SMILES

Little Sister Sara gives a warm welcome to one young man, as she and Jedidiah move through the intake area of the complex. New arrivals acclimate there before they go into the general population.

LET’S TALK

Archbishop Naumann addresses the young men who joined the Little Brothers and Little Sisters of the Lamb for their Nativity play. With the archbishop are, from left: Jedidiah, a postulant with the Little Brothers, Little Sister Amaya, Little Sister Oliviana, Little Brother Francis-Xavier and Will Harris, a Young Adult of the Lamb, part of the Little Brothers and Sister’s lay community.

Archbishop Naumann and the Little Brothers and Sisters of the Lamb pray for an incarcerated male juvenile. The archbishop asked everyone he met what he could pray for on their behalf.

DECEMBER 20, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NATION

Death penalty foes applaud message of movie ‘Just Mercy’ By Mark Pattison Catholic News Service

LEXANDRIA, Va. (CNS) — The upcoming movie “Just Mercy” “has the potential to wake up out of a slumber the part of society that either doesn’t believe the death penalty is still in practice or chooses to ignore it,” according to two leaders of the Catholic Mobilizing Network, founded 10 years ago to eliminate death penalty laws and executions. The “brilliance” of the movie is that “it does not need to actually show death to teach us a powerful lesson about the value of life. The film is a truth-teller about the grit and courage it takes to place hope over death,” said a joint statement from Krisanne Vaillancourt Murphy, the Catholic Mobilizing Network’s executive director, and Emma Tacke, its associate director of community engagement. Vaillancourt Murphy and Tacke saw a November preview screening of the film intended for “faith leaders” across denominations. They also participated in a second such screening in December in Washington, where the network has its headquarters. “Just Mercy” is based on the best-selling memoir by Bryan Stevenson, founder of the Equal Justice Initiative in Alabama. The movie focuses most of its energy on Stevenson’s (Michael B. Jordan) defense of black Alabama logger Walter McMillian (Jamie Foxx), who was sentenced to death for

CNS PHOTO/WARNER BROS.

Michael B. Jordan and Jamie Foxx star in a scene from the movie “Just Mercy.” The film “has the potential to wake up out of a slumber the part of society that either doesn’t believe the death penalty is still in practice or chooses to ignore it,” according to two leaders of the Catholic Mobilizing Network, founded 10 years ago to eliminate death penalty laws and executions. the murder of a white woman that he did not commit. “The film’s most powerful characteristics are its ability to humanize the individuals who are on death row and illuminate the discrimination, mental illness, impoverishment and racial bias that commonly leads to a death sentence,” Vaillancourt Murphy and Tacke said. “By humanizing individuals on

death row and inviting us to bear witness to their crushing pain and suffering, ‘Just Mercy’ lays bare the reality that when we execute people we devalue and cheapen all human life.” “Just Mercy” opens Christmas Day, Dec. 25, in major U.S. cities. It will screen nationwide beginning Jan. 10. “’Just Mercy’ highlights the systemic racism that undergirds and props

up not only the death penalty, but our country’s entire justice system,” Vaillancourt Murphy and Tacke said. They added, “Every time we justify the use of the death penalty we lose a piece of our own humanity and make way for a society where vengeance is valued above true restorative justice.” The Walter McMillian case is “entirely accurate,” Dunham told Catholic News Service in a Dec. 13 phone interview. “It’s not an unusual scenario. It’s still something we’re seeing repeated in the South. Rodney Reed (whose planned November execution in Texas was halted) had some very similar cultural issues. “In Walter McMillian’s case, the whole concept of improper interracial sexual relations is there because McMillian had been having an affair with a white woman. That kind of dynamic is one that we’ve seen throughout American history in the South, where black men are lynched because of their actual or perceived crossing racial boundaries by having or threatening to have relationships with white women.” Dunham added, “When we look at the laws on rape in the South, rape was punishable by death, whether or not the victim died, but in the entire history of those capital rape laws, there was not a single white person who was executed for the rape of a black woman or child unless the victim was killed. Almost all the people executed for rape in the United States were black, but almost all of those executions took place in the South.”

Bishop Conley of Lincoln, Nebraska, to take medical leave of absence

diagnosed with depression and anxiINCOLN, Neb. (CNS) — ety, along with insomnia and tinnitus. The Diocese of Lincoln an“My doctors have directed me to take nounced Dec. 13 that Bishop James D. Conley will a leave of absence for medical take a medical leave and psychological treatment, of absence, effective immediand to get some much-needed ately. rest. After prayer, and seeking Due to serious medical the counsel of my spiritual issues, Bishop Conley formaldirector, my brother bishops, ly requested a temporary leave and my family, I have acceptof absence from Pope Francis, ed the medical necessity of a and the request was accepted. temporary leave of absence,” Pope Francis has appointed Bishop Conley wrote. Archbishop George J. Lucas of He said he will be at a diocOmaha to serve as apostolic esan retreat facility in the DiBishop James administrator during Bishop ocese of Phoenix, “thanks to D. Conley the kind invitation of Bishop Conley’s temporary leave of Thomas J. Olmsted, while I undergo absence. the best psychological and medical In a letter to the faithful of the Ditreatment available to me.” ocese of Lincoln, Bishop Conley announced that he has been medically

Catholic sermons come up short

ASHINGTON (CNS) — If experience can’t prove it, data scraping will: Catholic sermons are shorter than their Protestant counterparts. According to an analysis of 50,000 sermons — Catholics commonly refer to theirs as homilies — the Pew Research Center determined that the median Catholic sermon is 14 minutes long. The next shortest are mainline Protestant sermons, at 25 minutes. Evangelical Christian sermons are nearly three times as long as Catholic sermons at 39 minutes. But the longest median sermons belong to churches in the African American Protestant tradition, clocking in at 54 minutes, nearly four times as

long as their Catholic counterparts. Pew made its analysis by conducting data scraping, a technique in which a computer program extracts data from human-readable output coming from another program. Pew found its trove of sermons and homilies either posted on church websites or on YouTube. The numbers sound right to Deacon Steve Kramer, director of the homiletics program at the Sacred Heart School of Theology in Hales Corners, Wisconsin, near Milwaukee. The deacon, who has a doctorate in ecumenical homiletics, said he sees “no value” in longer sermons. “If you can say it, say it and get out,” he said in an interview with Catholic News Service. The Pew study was released Dec. 16.

DECEMBER 20, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

WORLD

Lebanese Guides, Scouts hope to raise Christmas hope amid despair By Doreen Abi Raad Catholic News Service

Evangelization happens in shopping malls, Cardinal Tagle says

EIRUT (CNS) — Fouryear-old Celine Khater, encouraged by her father, proudly offered the Scouts a heavy grocery bag containing rice, pasta and cookies. It was a teachable moment for children to help the needy, replicated outside grocery stores around the world, but in Lebanon, the situation is especially dire. Since massive anti-government uprisings began two months ago, banks have imposed limits on withdrawals and transfers of money abroad, the value of the Lebanese pound against the dollar has devalued and a reported 160,000 jobs were cut or temporarily suspended. Lebanon has a citizen population of approximately 4 million people, of whom about 40 percent are Christian. Even before the most recent crisis, 30 percent of Lebanese residents lived below the poverty line. Three people committed suicide in the first two weeks of December as Lebanon continues to descend into its worst financial and economic crisis. In an effort to brighten an otherwise bleak Christmas, the Maronite Girl Guides and Boy Scouts of St. Joseph Maronite Catholic Parish in Mtaileb, north of Beirut, initiated a food drive for the needy. “We want to help people feel the joy of Christmas,” Sabine Bou Serhal, 22, a chief for the group, told Catholic News Service. “More and more people are poor.” The weekend of Dec. 14-15, the Guides and Scouts carried out their project at two supermarkets, greeting

CNS PHOTO/DOREEN ABI RAAD

Celine Khater, 4, offers food donations from her family to Maronite Scout Angelo Fahed outside a Beirut grocery store Dec. 14. customers, asking if they might also purchase some basic food items to help people in need. “When we decided on this initiative, we worried that people would be reluctant to give. But thank God, people are helping us,” Bou Serhal told CNS. Donations from individuals and families ranged from a single item to a few grocery bags. One shopper even left the store greeting the Scouts with an overflowing grocery cart. Outside the supermarket, with a package of diapers for his baby boy and one small bag of groceries, Tony Freila quietly placed a six-pack of bottled water in the Scouts’ grocery cart. “Merry Christmas,” he said. The

53-year-old Catholic is unemployed; he lost his managerial position in September. “I like to give in these bad times, even if it’s a small amount. It’s so important to give whatever we can to help others, especially at Christmas.” With a big smile, Tamar Cholakian, a 33-year-old English teacher at a private school, offered a bag of canned goods. “This Christmas, because of the crisis, it’s more important than ever to help. Giving, helping, sharing: That’s the true spirit of Christmas,” Cholakian told CNS. “Many people don’t have enough money for food. People are desperate.”

ANILA, Philippines (CNS) — It might be “unbelievable” to people in other countries, but a Catholic chapel inside a shopping mall and thousands of people attending Mass there have become a new norm among Filipinos. Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle of Manila, the incoming prefect of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, said evangelization can happen even in shopping centers, ucanews.org reported. “Many [at the Vatican] cannot believe that in the Philippines there is a chapel in a mall,” he said during the celebration of the second of nine days of early morning Christmas Masses in the Philippines. “They cannot believe that evangelization can happen in commercial centers,” added the prelate, who celebrated a Mass at the Chapel of the Eucharistic Lord in a shopping mall in Manila on Dec. 17. “They cannot believe that every first Friday there is a Mass in offices, banks,” he said. “[People at the Vatican] probably want to understand why this is so,” added the cardinal, who Dec. 8 was named head of one the Vatican’s most influential offices. “This is your fault,” Cardinal Tagle joked, drawing laughter from the faithful. He then appealed for prayers for his new church assignment. “I ask for your prayers,” he said, adding that “everything is still unclear. . . . But when is life clear? It is not always clear.”

Pope blesses Nativity scene statues, calls them signs of God’s love

ATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis blessed hundreds of figurines of the baby Jesus — ranging from tiny plastic figures to life-sized statues — and encouraged children to make sure they have Nativity scenes at home. After reciting the Angelus prayer Dec. 15, the third Sunday of Advent, Pope Francis did the traditional blessing of the “bambinelli,” or statues of the infant Jesus, for children to put in mangers at home, at school and in their parishes. “Raise the statues up,” the pope told the children. “I bless them from my heart.” Nativity scenes were also on the pope’s mind Dec. 16 when he met members of Italy’s Catholic Action section for 11- to 13-year-olds for his annual exchange

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of Christmas greetings with them. “I’m giving you some homework,” he told them. “On Christmas Day pause in prayer and, with the same awe of the shepherds, look upon baby Jesus who came into the world to bring the love of God, who makes all things new. “With his birth Jesus became a bridge between God and humanity, reconciling earth and heaven, restoring the unity of the whole human race,” the pope said. “And today he asks you, too, to be little bridges where you live. You know there always is a need to build bridges, right?” “What is better, building bridges or walls?” he asked them. “Bridges,” they shouted. Being bridges, bringing people together, “is not always easy,” the pope told them, “but if we are united to Jesus, we can do it.”

CNS PHOTO/VATICAN MEDIA

Pilgrims hold up figurines of the Christ Child as Pope Francis leads the Angelus from the window of his studio overlooking St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican Dec 15.

DECEMBER 20, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS

EMPLOYMENT Bus drivers - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality early childhood education in a safe, loving, Christian environment. With a balanced curriculum of preacademics and social-emotional development, children grow with us, build confidence, and a strong self-esteem. At Special Beginnings, we believe providing the right environment will give children the foundation to be successful in life. Special Beginnings Early Learning Center is seeking a part-time bus driver (15-20 hrs/week; no weekend hours) of a 15-passenger bus to drive children to school and/or pick them up after school. Duties include: safely transport children to and/or from school following ALL safety & security procedures; safely transport children to and from field trips and other off-site activities; follow a planned route on a time schedule; help children get on and off the bus; ensure children stay in their seat at all times; follow traffic laws and state and federal transit regulations; carefully navigate roads and watch for ice, debris or slippery spots; report accidents immediately; maintain “clean” driving record during off hours. We require the following: driver must be at least 25 years old (due to insurance requirements) with a “clean” driving record for at least 2 years; pass a background check; must maintain and practice safe driving and have a “clean” driving record; have patience and understanding when working with children ages 5-12 years old; enjoy working in a child friendly environment. Benefits: competitive benefit package; excellent support and training from an experienced leadership/management team; pay: $11-15/hour depending on experience. Elementary school principal – St. Michael the Archangel School in Leawood is seeking an individual to serve as principal with demonstrated skills in spiritual and instructional leadership in Catholic schools beginning with the 2020-21 school year. The successful applicant will provide leadership, direction, and oversight to teachers and staff, as well as set goals and ensure successful completion of learning objectives for students. The principal will also establish and execute the school budget and coordinate activities and priorities with the pastor and parish staff. Applicants must be practicing Catholics, understand the mission of Catholic schools and have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Apply online at: www.archkckcs.org select “Employment” and send resume and credentials to: Superintendent Dr. Vincent Cascone, Catholic Schools Office, Archdiocese of Kansas City, Kansas, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send an email to: vcascone@archkckcs.org. Community assistants - L’Arche Heartland of Overland Park serves adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities in day program support services and in residential services. We are seeking assistants who are looking for a unique opportunity in a faith-based organization. We are in immediate need of day service assistants to work in our day program serving 30 adults. We have a recycling program and community activities. Our core members participate in distributing for Meals on Wheels and Rise Against Hunger. They also attend community events such as the library, movies, bowling and going to parks. We also have a need for live-in and live-out assistants in our five residential homes. If interested, contact Jamie Henderson, community leader, by email at: jamie@ larcheks.org. School cafeteria workers – Holy Spirit School is seeking school cafeteria workers willing to learn all duties in assigned areas including: production; preparation; storage of food/supplies; accountability; and safety/sanitation. Workers may perform sales transactions and must interact with students in a friendly, service-oriented manner. Compliance with sanitation and safety requirements is essential, and basic math skills are required. Shifts will be Monday – Friday during the lunch hour when school is in session. Previous kitchen/cafeteria experience preferred but not required. If interested, please contact Larry at: lgroce@hscatholic.org to schedule an interview. Part-time administrative assistant for general counsel - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking qualified candidates to fill the position of administrative assistant for our in-house legal counsel; part-time flexible schedule working 20 – 25 hours per week with the possibility of increased hours in the future. The office is located in the northern Overland Park area. Qualified applicants must have experience handling reception duties; ordering office supplies and managing vendor relationships; must be proficient using the Microsoft Suite of office products (including Word, Excel and PowerPoint), internet and the ability to learn other software and online systems as required; file management of both paper and electronic files. Applicants must be a practicing Catholic in good standing and an active and faithful steward in their parish. Previous experience working in a legal office is preferred but not required. The successful candidate must also have a valid driver’s license and the ability to pick up and deliver documents to various courthouses, chancery offices and other law offices. For a complete job description and to download the job application, go online to: archkck.org/ jobs. Completed application and resume/cover letter can be emailed to: jobs@archkck.org. Application deadline is Jan. 10. Bell ringers needed - Holy Cross Parish is ready to start “ringing” again by reorganizing the bell choir ministry. The choir needs a volunteer director to work with a limited number of dedicated members to enhance the parish music ministry at Masses. The parish has a complete set of bells and chimes, as well as music just waiting to be heard! Contact Dee Dee at (913) 897-1504 or send an email to: Deetecc@aol.com for more information. The bell choir also needs more ringers to help round out our sound. Interested persons need not be members of Holy Cross to play, just love beautiful music and fun people to join!

Career opportunity – Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City, Kansas, and Missouri metro areas, St. Joseph, Mo., and Maryville, Mo. This is ideal for a determined, high energy, high expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual, who desires to serve others yet earn a better than average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families, and will provide excellent benefits and training. This is a full-time position. For more information or an interview, please contact John A. Mahon, General Agent, 1275 S.W. Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS 66612; call (855) 3564849; or email: mahonagencymail2@kofc.org. Principal - Our Lady of the Presentation, a dynamic and growing parish located in Lee’s Summit, Missouri, seeks a faith-filled principal with proven leadership skills and a commitment to Catholic education. Our Lady of the Presentation is an accredited, nationally recognized Blue Ribbon elementary school that strives to educate the whole child. Qualified candidates must be a practicing Catholic with administrative certification or the ability to become certified. Candidates must also have teaching and administration experience. Applications close on Jan. 15, 2020. Applications may be made to the Catholic schools office on the website at: careers. hireology.com/thecatholicdioceseofkansascitystjoseph and scroll down to “Principal - Our Lady of the Presentation.” Customer support specialist - My Catholic Faith Delivered is looking for a customer support specialist to help with the day-to-day needs of our clients in the areas of online learning and Catholic education delivery. Responsibilities include: resolving customer inquiries; technical support and other assistance as necessary via phone and email support; maintaining end-to-end responsibility for customer’s needs providing timely, reliable and courteous service; providing information about our online products and services; assisting with the development and improvement of processes, standards and documentation; developing and maintaining a knowledge base of the evolving products and services we offer; recommending potential products or services by analyzing customer needs; contributing to team effort by accomplishing related results as needed; and performing other duties as assigned. Qualifications include: proven customer support experience; ability to build strong relationships with clients and act as a trusted adviser; results-oriented and capable of creatively solving problems as they arise; ability to prioritize and multitask; and excellent communication, organization and time management skills. Familiarity with cloud software solutions, learning management systems content management systems, and graphic design software a plus. Full time. Salary: $33,000 to $38,000 per year. Resumes can be emailed to: jfoster@mycatholic faithdelivered.com. Construction field technician - Looking to hire construction field technician to do light delivery and trim carpentry work. Experience is great but willing to train the right person. Also willing to train to install custom window coverings. Includes delivery van for use to job sites. Clean driving record required. Position available PT or FT. Call Laura at Gallery Design (913) 782-6000.

Interior painting Update your ceilings and walls with a fresh coat of paint. Cracks repaired with no mess! Serving the Leaven readers for over 25 years. Call Jerry anytime at (913) 206-1144. Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 829-4336. DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time. Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. – We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful. Woodwork will glow. Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125. The Drywall Doctor, Inc. – A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655. STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa. Concrete construction - Tear out and replace amped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dandeeconst@aol.com. Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, power washing, staining, masonry (chimney repair, patio’s) gutter cleaning, water heaters, junk removal, lawn mowing, window cleaning, honey - do list and more!! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913)927-4118. Popcorn ceiling removal - Renew your ceiling and walls with a fresh coat of paint. Replace drywall or plaster repaired with no mess!! 25 years’ experience. Call Jerry anytime: (913) 206-1144. EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 935-0176

Administrative assistant, office of evangelization - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking qualified candidates to fill a full-time position of administrative assistant for the office of evangelization. Qualified applicants must have experience handling general office duties; assisting with travel arrangements; creating and maintaining databases; using software platforms to create fliers and promotional materials; must be proficient using the Microsoft Suite of office products (including Word, Excel and PowerPoint), internet and the ability to learn other software and social media as required; file management of both paper and electronic files; must be a practicing Catholic in good standing and an active and faithful steward in their parish. Must have a high school diploma or equivalent plus a minimum of three years’ prior experience working in a professional office environment. Must have strong writing and creativity skills. Must be self-motivated with the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. For a complete job description and to download the job application, go online to: archkck.org/ jobs. Completed application and resume/cover letter can be emailed to: jobs@archkck.org. Application deadline is Jan. 10.

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

Administrative assistant - Looking for something new? Use your administrative skills to help a developmental optometrist change people’s lives. The hours are: T/W/TH from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; summer hours vary. No health benefits. Need to know basic bookkeeping skills. Background needed in Work, Excel and QuickBooks. Customer service and medical office experience helpful. Send resume to: Dr. Beth Bazin, 13600 Washington, Kansas City, MO 64145 or send via email to: bbazin@visiondevelop.com.

Custom countertops - Laminates installed within five days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.

Drivers - Assisted Transportation is now hiring caring and reliable drivers to transport K-12 students to and from school and other activities in company minivans. Positions are now available in Olathe, Overland Park and Kansas City, Kansas. Competitive wages and flexible schedules. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Call (913) 262-3100 or apply online at: Assisted Transportation.com. EEO.

Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor, at (913) 909-2002.

HOME IMPROVEMENT NELSON CREATION’S L.L.C. Affordable home remodeling: Kitchens, baths, basements and room additions. All interior and exterior work. Honest, dependable, experienced and family owned. Licensed and insured. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. (913) 927-5240 or nelsport@everestkc.net

CAREGIVING

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 3412500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.

SERVICES

Give a Unique Piece of Art This Christmas Original art and prints by Karen Kaffenberger, Three Trails Art Studio (Holy Cross parishioner) Florals, animals, landscapes & more Visit www.threetrailsartstudio.com (913) 735-9080

Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com. Handyman - Furloughed railroader trying to keep the bills paid for my family. I advertised here as Father and Son Home Exteriors and Remodeling for 13 years previously. I can do carpentry, windows, doors, trim, siding and decks. Also paint, sheetrock and tiling. No project too big or too small. Give me a call and ask for Josh at (913) 709-7230.

8 to Your IdealWeight Get Real, Get Healthy, Get Empowered. Release your weight and restore your power in 8 weeks! http://8toyouridealweight.com/coach/kathi/ Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your T-shirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704. HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com Loving marital mediation - Retired Catholic lawyer and certified mediator will mediate your marriage to MEND IT - NOT END IT. Mary Ellen Rose. (913) 381-6400. Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, mulching, Hedge trimming, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002 Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@kc.rr.com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlawyer.com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress.

REAL ESTATE CASH FOR YOUR HOME (913) 980-4905 Any condition in the metro area Mark Edmondson - local parishioner http://www.buykcproperty.com We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family-owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 5995000. Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it? We buy it all at once in as-is condition. Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com. WE SELL HOMES - Looking to sell? This is a seller’s market. Call for a free consultation detailing the steps to selling your home. Ask about our 39-day sales guarantee. Mention this ad for a special offer. Call Jim Blaufuss, Re/ Max Realty Suburban, at (913) 226-7442. Jimblaufuss@ remax.net. For rent - Condo with one bed/one bath, beautiful large open floor plan in the picturesque Tuileries. Secure building. Newly remodeled. In-unit washer/dryer and storage unit. Must see. Great location. Quiet and tranquil. New salt-water heated pool and active club house. Private patio overlooks residents’ private garden. Near 435 and Metcalf. $1,100/month. Call (913) 244-1443.

PILGRIMAGE Italy - Join Benedictine College for an experience of Italy’s “Faith & Beauty,” June 15 – 24, 2020, with theology professor Dr. Matt Ramage. For more information, go online to: www.benedictine.edu/ravendiscovery. The Holy Land - College students and adult learners: Join Benedictine College and Dr. Mark Zia in the Holy Land, May 31 - June 14, 2020. College credit available. For more information, go online to: www.benedictine.edu/holyland. Study abroad - Summer high school study abroad experience with Benedictine College. “Journey with Dante” June 26 – July 16, 2020. For information and to register, go online to: www.benedictine.edu/journeywithdante.

FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross KC) For sale - Two spaces at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in the Garden of Everlasting Life on a hill with mature trees. Asking $1500 per space or best offer. Seller to pay $150 transfer fee. Call (719) 633-8292.

WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. Wanted to buy - Old cars or hot rods. Uncompleted project cars in any condition, with or without titles. Cash buyer. Call (913) 980-3559.

DECEMBER 20, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR ON THE SECOND DAY OF CHRISTMAS Divine Mercy Parish 555 W. Main St., Gardner Dec. 27 from 7 - 8 p.m.

Celebrate Christmas with the “Carolers of Note,” who will be performing Christmas carols as a fundraiser for the parish. This is a family-friendly event. The suggested donation is $10 or more per family. Come and enjoy the Christmas season!

SACRED HEART BREAKFAST Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 106 Exchange St., Emporia Jan. 12 from 8 - 11 a.m.

Join the Knights of Columbus for breakfast. The suggested donation is a freewill offering.

SERRA CLUB OF JOHNSON COUNTY CHILI COOK-OFF SOCIAL HOUR Curé of Ars Parish (Father Burak Room) 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood Jan. 2 at 7 p.m.

The Serra Club of Johnson County prays, encourages and supports religious vocations. Join us for a social get-together and learn more about our mission.

SPIRITUAL REFLECTION AND PLANNING Christ’s Peace of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton Jan. 10 - 12

The retreat will begin on Jan. 10 at 5:30 p.m. and end on Jan. 12 at 4:30 p.m. The focus of the retreat is spiritual growth. Create growth goals: Devise steps to reach goals and write a vision statement for the year. There will be private time for prayer/reflection, daily eucharistic adoration, praying the Liturgy of the Hours, confession and Mass at the local parish. The suggested donation is $170/ single or $250 for couples for the cabins and courtyard rooms or $80 for the single guest rooms. To attend, send an email to: info@ christspeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.

BREAKFAST WITH THE KNIGHTS Divine Mercy Parish Christian Formation Center 555 W. Main St., Gardner Jan. 12 from 7:30 - 10 a.m.

Join the fun and fellowship and enjoy a hot and hearty breakfast. The cost for a meal of pancakes, sausage, eggs, and biscuits and gravy is: $6 for adults; $3 for kids 6 - 12; and free for kids 5 and under.

BLOOD DRIVE Good Shepherd Parish 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee Jan. 13 from 1 - 6 p.m.

Schedule appointments online at: www. savealifenow.org using the sponsor group code: 2U, or call Jack Carson at (816) 2252789. Walk-in donors are welcome but appointments help in staffing. A Chiefs T-shirt or Chiefs hat will be given to each donor.

HOPE FOR YOU AND YOUR LOVED ONES AFTER DEATH BY SUICIDE St. Joseph Parish 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Jan. 14 and 21 from 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Fully Alive is a new integrated mind-bodysoul wellness program that will begin with a two-week session about after-suicide support using the book, “After Suicide: There is Hope for You and Them.” The evening will begin with Mass, followed by small group discussion facilitated by Catholic counselors. The evening will end with prayer. Adults and teens, accompanied by a parent, are welcome. RSVP with number attending to Tom Racunas, special needs ministry, by calling (913) 647-3054 or by sending an email to: tracunas@archkck.org. It is not necessary to give your name when you respond.

TAKE-A-LOOK THURSDAY Holy Spirit School 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park Jan. 16 from 9 - 11 a.m.

JOURNEY TO JOY Church of the Nativity 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood Jan. 25 from 8:15 a.m. - noon

CALLING ALL MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER COUPLES Precious Blood Renewal Center 2130 Saint Gasper Way, Liberty, Missouri Jan. 18 from 1 - 4:15 p.m.

DIVORCED: CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN Church of the Ascension (St. Luke Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park 2nd and 4th Sundays from 7 - 8:30 p.m.

Come join us for information, tours of the school and refreshments. Choose a learning environment that is welcoming and Christ-centered. For more information, call Anita Pauls at (913) 492-2582 or email her at: apauls@hscatholic.org.

Worldwide Marriage Encounter is offering an afternoon of enrichment for any couple that has experienced a Marriage Encounter Weekend. The afternoon, “Lighting the Way Together — Castles to Lighthouses,” will reinvigorate your communication and rekindle the love in your relationship. Mass will be celebrated at 4:30 p.m. with a freewill offering to defray the program costs. For more information or to RSVP, send an email to Rich and Wendy Lorenz at: wendyteach3@yahoo. com by Jan. 10.

WIDOWED WOMEN OF FAITH Perkins Restaurant and Bakery (Back Room) 1720 S.W. Wanamaker Rd., Topeka Jan. 21 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Join other women of faith for lunch and companionship. No RSVP is needed. For more information, send an email to: WidowedWomenof Faith@gmail.com.

HELP FOR HURTING MARRIAGES Kansas City, Kansas Jan. 24 - 26

Have you thought about separation or divorce? Have you stopped sharing how you feel? Retrouvaille is a lifeline for hurting marriages. For more information, contact the KC registration team at (800) 4702230 or visit the website at: www.helpour marriage.com.

All women are invited to this mini-retreat. We will begin with Mass, followed by a light breakfast. The retreat will be given by Sonja Corbitt. The cost to attend is $20. Register online at: www.kcnativity.org/journey-to-joy. Contact Susan Vogliardo at: suesues6@hotmail.com or by phone at (816) 215-0180 with questions.

Called to Love Again is a community of support and formation for divorced Catholics. The Nov. 24 talk will be: “The Art of Gratitude.” Enjoy dessert and fellowship while hearing witness talks from our recent retreat. The Dec. 8 talk will be: “Navigating Divorce and the Holidays” by family therapist Stacie Cordell, who will offer tips and insights. Visit our Facebook page at: www. facebook.com/giftofself143 or send an email to: calledtolove143@gmail.com.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR VICTIMS/ SURVIVORS OF SEXUAL ABUSE Johnson County area Twice monthly

This will be a safe, supportive environment to talk about the impact to your lives, to know you are not alone, and to promote healing. To protect the privacy of potential participants, contact Linda Slater-Trimble for information on days, times and location of meetings by email at: lslater-trimble@archkck.org; or by phone at (913) 298-9244. Must be at least 18 years of age to participate.

MOTHER OF PERPETUAL HELP DEVOTIONS Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish 7023 W. 71st. St., Overland Park Tuesday evenings at 6:30 p.m.

Come join this group who prays this devotion weekly. Prayer includes the Mother of Perpetual Help novena and Benediction. For more information, call Martin at (913) 213-8810.

DECEMBER 20, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

Well, what are you waiting for?

FOURTH WEEK OF ADVENT Dec. 22 FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT Is 7: 10-14 Ps 24: 1-6 Rom 1: 1-7 Mt 1: 18-24 Dec. 23 John of Kanty, priest Mal 3: 1-4, 23-24 Ps 25: 4bc-5ab, 8-10, 14 Lk 1: 57-66 Dec. 24 VIGIL OF THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD Is 62: 1-5 Ps 89: 4-5, 16-17, 27, 29 Acts 13: 16-17, 22-25 Mt 1: 1-25 Dec. 25 THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD (CHRISTMAS) Is 9: 1-6 Ps 96: 1-3, 11-13 Ti 2: 11-14 Lk 2: 1-14 Dec. 26 STEPHEN, THE FIRST MARTYR Acts 6: 8-10; 7: 54-59 Ps 31: 3cd-4, 6, 8ab, 16bc-17 Mt 10: 17-22 Dec. 27 JOHN, APOSTLE, EVANGELIST 1 Jn 1: 1-4 Ps 97: 1-2, 5-6, 11-12 Jn 20: 1a, 2-8 Dec. 28 THE HOLY INNOCENTS, MARTYRS 1 Jn 1:5 – 2:2 Ps 124: 2-5, 7c-8 Mt 2: 13-18

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uring Advent at the parish this year, we’ve steered away from the traditional “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel” in favor of some different songs, including a simple but beautiful closing hymn. It’s called “The Whole World Is Waiting for Love.” The song, written by Sister Marianne Misetich, SNJM, has this catchy refrain: “Come down, Lord Jesus! Come quickly, Lord Jesus! The whole world is waiting for Love, the whole world is waiting for Love.” Christmas is indeed a special time to reflect on love and that’s best done through stories. Here’s one of my favorites: A man once punished his 3-year-old daughter for wasting a roll of gold wrapping paper. Money was tight and he became infuriated when the child tried to decorate a box to put under the Christmas tree. Nevertheless, the little girl brought the gift to her father on Christmas morning and said, “This is for you,

MARK MY WORDS

FATHER MARK GOLDASICH Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.

Daddy.” The man was embarrassed by his overreaction earlier but, after unwrapping it, he raged again when he saw that the box was empty. He yelled, “Don’t you know, when you give someone a present, there’s supposed to be something inside?” The little girl, with tears in her eyes, said, “Oh, Daddy, it’s not empty at all. I blew kisses into the box. They’re all for you, Daddy!”

The father was crushed. He put his arms around his little girl and begged for her forgiveness. A short time later, an accident took the life of this child. Her father kept the gold box by his bed for many years and, whenever discouraged, he’d take out an imaginary kiss and remember the love of the child who had put it there. For truly, love is the most precious gift in the world. (Adapted from Meir Liraz’s “Top 100 Motivational Stories: The Best Inspirational Short Stories and Anecdotes of All Time.) Love, love, love. We hear the word so much anymore that the true power of genuine love is often diluted. But love,

especially that which comes from Love itself, is still a powerful force, even in its simplest form. This Facebook post from Tabitha, a parishioner of mine, demonstrates it well: “Mom and I had a great afternoon together shopping. . . . We finished our first stop and went to eat lunch at Noodles and Co. and met a really sweet family in line ahead of us. The little girl was 3 and the little boy couldn’t have been much older than 18 months. They got their food and, as we waited for ours to arrive, the boy had a meltdown. . . . Mom and Dad kept their cool, but nothing was working to calm the little man down. Dad took over and, as his back was turned to us, my mom held her hands out to the little man and he reached for her. He calmed down immediately and I asked him if he wanted his food. Then, his sister wanted to come sit with us, too! I gave the tearful mom a hug and rubbed her back, and I told her things were OK and she was doing a

great job. Mom and Dad finished their lunch in peace, just a table away from us, and the little girl and little man sat and ate with us. It was so much fun! Everyone was in a much better place and mood after that, and the kids’ mom came to talk with us and said, “You hear about women helping women, but it’s so nice to experience it.” I told her there should be more of this in society and thanked her for letting us help, and we gave each other a big mama bear hug. . . . Just moms helping moms, women helping women, people helping people. Compassion goes so far and I thank the Lord that he gave me the ability to be a servant to others. Thanks to my mom for sharing that beautiful experience with me.” Life, especially during the Christmas season, is all about making selfless Love real. And after all, isn’t that what the whole world is really waiting for?

His virgin birth was prophesied centuries before Jesus

moke is a sign of fire. A smile means that someone is happy. A stop sign means just what it says. But what does a sign from God look like? And what can it say to us? In Sunday’s first reading from the Book of Isaiah the prophet (7:1014), God offers to give Ahaz a sign. When Ahaz refuses the offer, God gives it anyway: “The virgin shall conceive, and bear a son, and shall name him Emmanuel.” Compared to the birth of an infant, many other miracles could come across as more flashy, more dramatic. After all, babies are born every day. Think of the raising of Lazarus from

IN THE BEGINNING

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

the dead in the New Testament, or of Jesus walking on water. The sign offered to Ahaz does not sound all that

impressive, at first glance. So, the centuries go by. The sign offered to Ahaz passes into obscurity. Until finally, Christians reflect on the birth of Jesus, and see it as fulfilling the promise made to Ahaz long ago. Only now, they see the words of the prophet Isaiah as a promise made — not just to

POPE FRANCIS Young people need training in how to be active citizens focused on the care of the human person and the environment, Pope Francis said. “Technological innovation is also needed to achieve these goals, and young people, if well motivated, will in fact be able to attain them, since they have been born and raised in today’s fast-paced technological world,” he added. The pope’s remarks came in his address Dec. 9 to members of the “A Chance in Life” foundation, which

Ahaz, but to the whole world. The audience is expanded. That promise was spoken in the Hebrew language, whose limited vocabulary resulted in many words serving double duty. Consequently, the word which is often translated as “virgin,” can also be translated simply as “young woman.” It is ambiguous. The early Christians reflecting on this promise most probably were not considering the original Hebrew text but, rather, a Greek translation that had rendered the word clearly as “virgin.” The more precise Greek language could make that distinction. This translation correlated with their belief that this event

marked the arrival of the Messiah. Even though it was the birth of an infant, because the mother was a virgin, this event would stand out as just as wonderful as the initial offer to Ahaz, of a sign as “deep as the netherworld, or high as the sky.” This poses an interesting question: Does the sign interpret the event, or does the event interpret the sign? Or, is it both? In any case, the birth of Jesus Christ, which we celebrate at Christmas, remains an enduring sign of God’s love for us. It is also a sign that points out for us the direction for us to go. It is a sign whose meaning we seek to explore and ponder.

helps at-risk youth in many countries. Formerly known as Boys and Girls Towns of Italy, the organization’s work is still built on the vision of its founder, the late-Msgr. John Patrick CarrollAbbing. The pope praised the organization’s initiatives that have benefited thousands of boys and girls and “offer children and adolescents in situations of particular hardship a chance to surmount their difficulties and to realize fully God’s plan for each of them.” To be more effective in carrying out its mission in today’s world, the foundation is also looking for ways to promote recommendations made in the pope’s encyclical, “Laudato Si’.”

— CNS

DECEMBER 20, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

We’ve been given all we need to advance the mission

t seems the most profound things come in threes. The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit: one God, three divine persons. Faith, hope and love: the three things, which, in the end, remain. The body, the mind and the soul: the threefold essential makeup of the human person. The will, the intellect and the passions: the three things which each of us must continually calibrate as we strive for holiness. And then there are these three: truth, goodness and beauty: the three great principles of our holy, Catholic faith. They are said to be the three fundamental qualities of God himself.

am writing this from a hospital room in Wichita where my youngest brother is recovering from open-heart surgery on the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. My brother is the fifth of my mother’s six children. I am her third. My brothers and sisters are grateful that we have each other, the best gifts our mother ever gave us. I prayed the rosary accompanied by beeps, hums and intercom announcements, and thought about Our Blessed Mother and her cousin Elizabeth. Just a few weeks ago, I joined a group of fellow pilgrims to the

AS THE CHURCH PRAYS

MICHAEL PODREBARAC Michael Podrebarac is the archdiocesan consultant for the office of liturgy and sacramental life.

These realities transcend time and place, and are rooted in God’s

very being. And because we are created in the image of God, they are also the ultimate objectives of the human person. They are the font and fulfillments of humanity’s adoration of the divine. That same adoration of the living God is the first of the so-called

“four ends” of the apex of the sacred liturgy, the holy Mass. Which means that each must be present when we come together to offer our worship and praise through the church’s sacred rites. It’s not enough only to believe, for “even the demons believe — and shudder” (Jas 2:19). Neither is it sufficient to merely be good, “lest anyone should boast” (Eph 2:9). No, the God of supreme beauty cannot be properly adored in the manner truly capable of humanity unless beauty is also present. “How lovely is your dwelling place, O Lord of hosts!” (Ps 84:1). Why would we settle for, or offer,

anything less? Earthly beauty reflects divine beauty. And since God himself draws each of us into communion with him, it follows that beauty itself has the capacity to draw people to God and neighbor. Mere functionalism draws only the functional to itself. Sentimentality only cultivates sentiment. The shallow and the trite will sow only their own seeds in us as well. Beauty alone begets beauty. The Father, the Son and the Holy Spirit are coequal and coeternal, a triune communion of giving and receiving. So also are truth, goodness and beauty, affording both gift and reception

Season brings gratitude for all of God’s gifts SIMPLY STEWARDSHIP

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

Holy Land at Ein Karem, the traditional site of the

birth of John the Baptist. It is the place where Mary traveled “into the hill country to a city of Judah” (Lk 1:39) and the place where Elizabeth greeted Mary as “the mother of my Lord.” When Mary arrives and greets Elizabeth,

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John the Baptist is filled with the Holy Spirit, anointed to be the one who will prepare the way for the coming Messiah. Michael Scherschligt, the founder of the Holy Family School of Faith, was our catechist and guide on the pilgrimage. He said it was the last day of Hanukkah when the Archangel Gabriel appeared to Mary saying, “Hail Mary full of grace! The Lord is with you” (Lk 1:28). The angel tells Mary that she will give birth to the Son of God. Her heart’s desire is to do God’s will. When Mary went to Ein Karem to see Elizabeth, all that the angel had told her

was confirmed. Later, our pilgrimage led us to Bethlehem, “the house of bread,” where Michael Podrebarac sang beautiful Christmas hymns and Archbishop Naumann celebrated Mass, the paschal sacrifice. We prayed at Shepherds’ Field, where the first adorers greeted Jesus, the Lamb of God. This Advent, I am grateful to Trinity Travel, who helped us celebrate the 30th anniversary of the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas and to the generous CFNEK board members who established an endowment and a challenge grant to enable adult Catholics

within earth’s sacred precincts. We have been given all the truth needed to effectively proclaim the Gospel. We have been endowed with all the goodness necessary to do God’s will. And we have been given all the talent required to reflect the divine beauty within and among us. The question remains as to whether or not we possess the commitment to confront ourselves, and the world, with God’s truth, God’s goodness and God’s beauty, or merely settle for the functional, the sentimental, the shallow and trite. The choice is ours.

from our archdiocese to travel with the School of Faith to the Holy Land. Beep. Hum. I watch my brother sleep, grateful for his doctors and nurses, and for my family. Help me, Lord, to see you in all the coincidences of life. I believe that God has a plan for each of us. As stewards of our various gifts, we are given tasks that require us to use our gifts in service to one another. Our lives are part of God’s plan. I am also thinking about the Holy Family and Mary’s love for God that allowed her to trust. Christmas blessings to each of you.

DECEMBER 20, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

AWAY IN A MANGER

Creches tell the Nativity story using materials, symbols of local culture By Katie Rutter Catholic News Service

AYTON, Ohio (CNS) — Each culture, if not every home, has its own unique rendition of the Nativity. The Christ child may lay on a manger made from materials as diverse as wax, blown glass, yarn, papier-mache and terra cotta. Mary might don the dress of a first-century peasant or Renaissance royalty. The ubiquitous manger scene makes the perfect illustration of enculturation, that is, adapting the principles of faith to a specific cultural setting. The Incarnation, the moment God becomes human, allows the nations to envision Christ as one of their own. “Enculturation is a step further from the Incarnation,” said Marianist Father Johann Roten, a scholar at the University of Dayton and expert on cultural interpretations of the Nativity. “The Incarnation is the son of God becoming human and enculturation will then be [when] he becomes not only human, but he becomes Afghani or he is Persian or he is German or French,” Father Roten told Catholic News Service. The University of Dayton, which is a Catholic and Marianist institution, has amassed what curators believe is the largest collection of Nativity sets in North America. The archives contain about 3,600 creches from around 100 different countries. “They’re really important examples of popular devotion,” said Sarah Cahalan, director of the Marian Library at the university, which houses the Nativity sets. “We have pretty comprehensive coverage for Europe and North America,” she said, “so we’re really excited these days to get donations of materials from the African continent, from Asia. We have a great deal of materials from Latin America.” Each December the university publicly displays around 100 curated sets. On Dec. 2, the opening day of the Nativity display, a creche from France filled three tables in an attempt to portray an entire Provencal village. Along with the Holy Family, there were depictions of fishermen, peasants carrying wood, the parish priest and the town mayor, all of whom were in provincial dress. The scene intended to emphasize that everyone, wealthy and poor alike, must come to the manger. A Nativity from New Mexico following the Pueblo tradition was made of clay painted with traditional colors and geometric shapes. Each face was fashioned to have a prominent nose and a wide open mouth. “The idea behind it is what is most important in life is indeed life, and so therefore the breath of life, or the open mouth, and the nose that highlights that,” Father Roten said in an interview for Catholic News Service. Another set from Australia contained both a koala and a kangaroo. Some figures were depicted as European and others as indigenous people, showing peace between two groups often at odds. A Swiss creche painted in subdued tones carried a subliminal message characteristic of the German tradition. Two

CNS PHOTO/KATIE RUTTER

Twenty Nativity scenes crowd one wall of the Marian Library at the University of Dayton in Ohio Dec. 2. The university has collected about 3,600 sets and displays a curated selection open to the public each Christmas. of the wooden shepherds were intentionally identical. “You have to go to the manger in order really to know who you are, your identity as a human person because there is a danger to always consider one’s self as interchangeable with another person,” said Father Roten. “In other words, the two identical figures actually are a way of saying we have a tendency of seeing ourselves in whoever we meet. So the alter ego idea is highlighted there, typical of the German tradition, very ambitious and very psychological,” he said. The depiction of the Nativity spans across not only cultures, but also centuries. St. Francis of Assisi is credited with erecting the first live Nativity scene in 1223 in Greccio, Italy, recreating the moment using animals, people and perhaps even an infant stand-in for Christ. The Basilica of St. Mary Major in Rome contains fragments of a Nativity scene by the 13th-century sculptor Arnolfo di Cambio. Around the 18th century, small Nativity sets began to be displayed in homes, allowing for even more devout customization of the scene. “Our own beliefs and religion actually hinges upon our own tradition, the life of the family, what we heard from our father, mother, the kind of objects they left us,” explained Father Roten. “We need to be very visual, very concrete, in order to represent our beliefs. . . . The Bible is very important, but it’s abstract. We need something a little bit more that speaks, that actually talks to the heart,” he said. Father Roten suggested that, no matter what cultural traditions were followed, the Nativity be used as a tool to bring the family together in the “feast of love” known as Christmas. The display of the University of Dayton’s curated selection of Nativity sets is free and open to the public. The collection will be on display at the Marian Library through Jan. 12.

CNS PHOTO/KATIE RUTTER

A hand-blown glass Nativity scene from Hungary is displayed at the University of Dayton in Ohio. The university has collected Nativity sets from 100 different countries to study and document the enculturation of the Gospel.

CNS PHOTO/KATIE RUTTER

An Italian Nativity scene displayed at the University of Dayton in Ohio shows St. Joseph observing the arrival of the Magi.