12 23 22 Vol. 44 No. 19

May the radiance of that holy star, which drew the shepherds and Magi to Mary’s child born in Bethlehem — God’s only begotten Son — continue to guide you, in peace and hope through this festival of his holy birth to the very joys of his salvation. A most blessed Christmastide to you and yours!

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann

Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER/CORPUS CHRISTI PARISH, LAWRENCE Notice:

God’s mission to rescue us culminates in Christ’s birth

Recently, I stopped at a QuikTrip to fill my gas tank. I paid at the pump, but decided to go inside anyway to reward myself with some M&M’s.

Walking briskly and thinking I was on level ground, I was startled to find myself tumbling to the ground after stepping off an unforeseen curb. It was chilly, so my hands were in my pockets, thus I was unable to help break my fall.

Fortunately, I did not seriously harm myself physically — no broken bones, just a few aches and pains. However, I did give myself a black eye. Actually, consistent with the liturgical colors for the Advent season, it was more purple than black. The main injury was to my pride!

Our reflection this Advent on the “kerygma” invited us to ponder: If the cosmos, Earth and human beings were created by an all-loving God, and everything the Lord created was good, why is there so much evil and suffering in the world? The biblical answer to that question is found in Chapter 3 of the Book of Genesis with what is often referred to as the Fall Narrative.

The parents of the human race, Adam and Eve, were uniquely made in God’s image and given dominion and stewardship over the created world. They had only one limitation in the Garden of Eden: not to eat the fruit of the tree of the knowledge of good and evil.

The devil, the father

of lies, who also happens to be a fallen angel, deceived Eve into thinking that God does not really love her and Adam. Satan proposed that God forbade them to eat from this one tree because the Lord did not want them to become as smart or even smarter than him.

Adam and Eve, unlike any other of God’s earthly creatures, were given the power to choose to follow God’s plan or to ignore it — to choose the good and the noble or the bad and the ugly. God gave human beings free will, a power given to angels, but to no other worldly creature.

Tragically, our first parents rejected God as a loving Father. They rebelled against their heavenly Father who loved them into existence. In essence, the original sin was humanity’s attempt of a coup, to dethrone God and make ourselves lords of this world.

We were created as social beings. For good or bad, the choices of earthly parents have a significant impact

on their children. The choices of the first parents of the human race continue to impact today their descendants by disposing us to rebel against the God who has loved us into existence.

When we push God out of our lives, it has an impact — not only on ourselves, but others. We see it in the biblical narrative, with Eve tempting Adam to join her in the rebellion, Adam blaming Eve when confronted by God, and Cain killing his brother Abel out of jealousy.

The abundance of evil and suffering in our world today is all the fruit of the fall of our first parents. Just as when we fall physically, there are inevitable consequences, such as bruises, bleeding, aches, purple eyes and sometimes even broken bones, so the spiritual fall of every sin has consequences upon the health of our souls.

One of the most amazing features of our human bodies is, after we break a bone, our bones immediately begin to heal themselves. As long as the broken bones are aligned correctly, they will eventually mend themselves, knitting the broken

pieces back together.

Immediately after Adam and Eve’s fall and its tragic consequences, God shows tenderness for his bruised and aching creatures. In the Bible, God reveals gradually over time his plan for salvation.

Beginning with the rescue of Noah and his family, the call of Abraham to leave his homeland, the liberation of Moses and the Israelites from slavery in Egypt, and the centuries-old saga of the Jewish people with their judges, kings and prophets, God has unfolded his plan to rescue human beings from our bondage to sin and its evil consequences.

God’s rescue mission culminated with what we commemorate this weekend: God immersing himself in our human condition with the birth of Jesus in Bethlehem.

Jesus is the ultimate revelation of God’s mercy and love. Through Our Lord’s birth, life, death and resurrection, God has forged a path for the complete healing of humanity’s brokenness. Just as broken bones, when they are set properly and fully healed, can actually become stronger than before they were fractured, Jesus has set our broken humanity aright, offering us a path to complete healing and making the bond between God and us even stronger.

It is this miracle of God’s incredible merciful love, revealed by the birth of a child in an animal shelter more than 2,000 years ago,

Dec. 24

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR

Christmas Vigil Mass (4 p.m.) — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas

Christmas Vigil Mass (10 p.m.) — Cathedral

Dec. 25

Christmas Day Mass — Holy Cross, Overland Park

Dec. 27

Seminarian vespers and dinner — residence

Jan. 3

SEEK bishops experience — St. Louis

Jan. 5

RAAP board meeting

Jan. 6 Region IX bishop retreat

Jan. 15

Mass and blessing of new adoration chapel and Marian grotto — Immaculate Conception, St. Marys

Jan. 17

Priests Personnel meeting — chancery

Annual high school administrators Mass and dinner — residence

Jan. 18

Mass sendoff to March for Life youth pilgrims — Savior Pastoral Center

Presbyteral Council meeting — chancery Jesus Covenant Prayer Partner call

that is the reason for this season of rejoicing.

The One born in Bethlehem does not promise his disciples that they will never experience adversity or suffering in this world. However, what he does promise is Emmanuel, God is with us. For the disciple of Jesus, we are never alone in the midst of our suffering.

Jesus promises not only the forgiveness of our sins, but when we unite our suffering

with his on Calvary, Our Lord will give it both purpose and power. Jesus promises peace even in the midst of the storms of life in this world.

We do not really know what the forbidden fruit was on the tree in Eden, whether it was an apple or a bag of M&M’s. However, we do know the remedy for the Fall, the babe born in Bethlehem — Jesus Christ!

‘Believing and investing in students’ pays off at Bishop Ward

By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Call it an early Christmas, a game changer or the opportunity of a lifetime.

Any way you look at it, the Bishop Ward High School class of 2023 has achieved outstanding results in the college scholarship department. Credit goes to the students, the extensive support network at the Kansas City, Kansas, high school, and the commitment of a Kansas City-area foundation and Avila University in Kansas City, Missouri.

Of the 55 Ward students who applied to receive college tuition assistance through KC Scholars, a program rooted in the Kauffman Foundation, all were awarded five-year scholarships of $10,000 annually — and many have offers of full-tuition scholarships. KC Scholars stems from the legacy of Ewing Marion Kauffman, entrepreneur and humanitarian, who sought to ensure the possibility of a postsecondary education for everyone, regardless of income, age or ethnicity. To qualify for the KC Scholars traditional scholarships, high school juniors must have 2.5 or higher GPAs and be from low- to moderate-income households. Consideration also goes to students who will be the first generation of their families to attend college.

The majority of Bishop Ward students face few difficulties meeting these criteria. The high school has served changing immigrant communities for more than 100 years. Today’s student body is 74% Hispanic and 20% Black, many of whom will be first generation college students and whose families are unable to contribute substantially to their college education.

Extensive network of support

Emily Saatcioglu, Ph.D., Ward academic dean, says it’s important to convince these youth that they deserve to be in college and that they can succeed, and then to encourage and support them. Bishop Ward has developed an encompassing approach to helping students adopt this mindset, learn important skills and ultimately surmount financial obstacles.

“We want our students to be competitive and positioned to have a college option,” Saatcioglu said.

Students who qualify as potential KC Scholars take a junior seminar offered by Bishop Ward in the fall. They focus on completing and submitting KC Scholars applications that include essays, general information, interests and college preferences. They also learn about college applications, financial assistance and course selection, and meet college representatives.

Supplementing these efforts is the mentoring program offered at Bishop Ward by members of the Leawood Rotary Club and their spouses. Twenty-two adults meet two hours each month during the academic year with juniors and seniors to help prepare them for success in

college and in careers.

Jim Wasko, Rotarian and Bishop Ward alumnus, values his mentorship role and takes pride in the scholarships the students receive. Ron Slepitza, Rotarian and past president of Avila, says the Rotary Club and some members also contribute financially to KC Scholars.

At Bishop Ward, everyone — from coaches and counselors to administrators and teachers to campus ministers and facilities staff — provides KC Scholars applicants with letters of recommendation.

“We all take this so seriously,” said Saatcioglu. “When students submit their applications, we hold our breath and pray.”

The KC Scholars application process is highly competitive, with evaluation by a large group of volunteer community reviewers. In 2022, 1,300 11th graders applied from across a six-county area. From that group, KC Scholars announced 402 scholarship winners.

55 apply; 55 named KC Scholars

The combined effort and prayers paid off. In April 2022, 17 Ward juniors were named KC Scholars with the option to attend the college of their choice from the 17 participating higher education institutions.

A month later, another six Bishop Ward students received recognition as KC Scholars, specifically to attend the University of Missouri in Columbia.

Then, in September 2022 came the

announcement that Avila University, Kansas City, Missouri, would fund 100 additional KC Scholars, drawing from those applicants who didn’t make the earlier cuts. Students selected would need to attend Avila; their enrollment would be tuition-free and renewable for up to five years.

Bishop Ward transported its 32 remaining potential KC Scholars to Avila for a campus tour.

“We wanted the students to make informed decisions about attending college there,” Saatcioglu explained. “Avila seemed like a really good fit for our students who love being in a Catholic high school and who don’t want to move away from the area.”

Still, the bus trip was an emotional roller coaster ride. The students hadn’t been selected for the spring scholarships; they remained in a competitive process.

Exhilaration replaced uncertainty when KC Scholars announced that all 32 Bishop Ward students would be recipients of the Avila scholarships.

Continuity of Catholic education

Josh Parisee, the university’s vice president of enrollment management, calls this an incredible accomplishment. He sees strong similarities between the values of Avila and Bishop Ward, both Catholic institutions. He anticipates that this continuity of Catholic education and consistency of values may help acclimate Bishop Ward students to college life at Avila.

President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann Editor Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org

Avila has participated with KC Scholars since the program’s inception in 2016. Parisee acknowledges the vision of Jim Burkee, Ph.D., Avila’s new president who is seeking to extend the impact of KC Scholars even further. Avila has made a $110 million commitment over eight years to fund 100 additional “Avila only” KC Scholars annually. KC Scholars has committed $20 million to this initiative. Parisee believes that students with the greatest need can now find it more feasible to attend college and that this will have a long-lasting generational impact.

Natalie Lewis, KC Scholars chief operating officer, commends the team that encouraged and supported the 55 Bishops Ward students who merited the scholarships.

“It’s testimony to this amazing educational institution that it’s doing what a school is supposed to do — believing and investing in its students. We don’t have many high schools with as high a number of KC Scholars as Bishop Ward has this year.”

New year, renewed commitment

The KC Scholars application process opens Jan. 9, 2023, for high school juniors seeking college scholarships. Saatcioglu has faith that even more Bishop Ward students can be successful and that faculty, staff and mentors will be there to help them every step of the way.

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

COURTESY PHOTO

Many of the Bishop Ward students who received college tuition assistance through KC Scholars, a program rooted in the Kauffman Foundation, are pictured here with (from far left) Natalie Lewis, chief operating officer, KC Scholars; Jay Dunlap, president of Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas; Mary Kate Kelly, college and career counselor at Bishop Ward; and Emily Saatcioglu, academic dean at Bishop Ward.

Catholic Charities: Winning on the home front

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — “This place has a rich history of serving different groups and constituencies of people,” said Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. “I think the Lord will be very pleased with the new purpose for this house.”

On Dec. 16, Archbishop Naumann blessed the new location of Shalom House, a men’s transitional housing program run by Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas.

The 27,000-square-foot facility, located on 33 acres in Kansas City, Kansas, was constructed in 1898.

It has served as a home for the mentally ill, a nursing home for the elderly, a shelter for refugees and, most recently, the Sanctuary of Hope retreat center. Now, it will be a refuge for men in need of a home.

Lauren Solidum, president and CEO of Catholic Charities, expressed her hope for the ministry’s future to the crowd gathered at the reopening event.

“We’re excited to get started and try to end homelessness in Kansas City, Kansas,” she said. “Thanks for joining us on the journey.”

‘A dignified experience’

Shalom House was created in 1973 and taken over by Catholic Charities in 2008.

According to program director Tenesha Williams, it closed in June 2021 so the new location could undergo renovations. The plan is to welcome guests in mid-January.

Men from a variety of backgrounds will find shelter at Shalom House, where the end goal will be permanent housing.

“You have those that have just fallen down on their luck and need some additional support and are ready for a transition into permanent housing,” said Williams.

“Those are the individuals that we’re serving,” she added.

The new site offers 30 sleeping rooms, a kitchen and dining area, chapel, computer lab, exercise room, gathering space, meeting rooms and more.

The building is handicap accessible and can house up to 60 men, a 36-person increase from the previous location.

Residents will have the opportunity to stay up to 12 months and receive after-care case management up to three months after they’ve moved out.

“Our goals are self-sufficiency, family reunification, living wage jobs and higher education credentials for each person served,” said Solidum.

Williams said the new location will give guests “a dignified experience” and ensure “they have all the supportive services in place that can assist them and not allow them to go back into homelessness.”

“We all need help at times,” she added. “We just want to make sure that we are there — and the men know that we are there — to support them.”

Along with clothing, food and shelter,

Shalom House provides an extensive range of services and will now be able to offer many of them on-site.

It partners with various organizations, including Care Beyond the Boulevard, Cross-Lines Community Outreach and the Wyandot Center, to provide mental and physical health screenings, general education and literacy referrals, higher education certifications and degrees, and more.

Solidum said these offerings can “free [guests] from the chains of poverty.”

Moving forward, she hopes Shalom House can “engage a number of volunteers to support our work, bring meals, hold support groups and Bible studies.”

“I pray that the men have the openness of heart to remain steadfast in the battle against poverty,” she added, “and that they take advantage of the many services that will be provided within the program.”

A path to success

Since Williams became the program director in October 2020, she’s witnessed

The need is great

According to the Greater Kansas City Coalition to End Homelessness (GKC-CEH), Kansas City, Kansas, has the second highest rate of homelessness in the metro, making up 20% of the area’s homeless population. It also has only 6% of the available facilities to provide immediate housing and programming for those experiencing homelessness.

a number of success stories among the men at Shalom House.

“In our last location before closing, I was able to [move] five men into permanent housing,” she said, as well as help them find employment.

“And, so, of course that made them feel really good,” she continued. “But that also made us feel good as Catholic Charities to be able to help guide them in that success story.”

One of the men had no birth certificate, Social Security card or other identification, a problem preventing him from attaining employment, which he ultimately achieved because of Shalom House.

“[Another] was able to get a house,” said Williams. “He had never lived in a house independently, and he’s been doing great. I still keep in contact with him just so he can know that I’m still here whenever he needs.”

During the reopening event, Archbishop Naumann expressed his appreciation for Shalom House and his hopes for its future.

“We pray that all those that will come here will find the peace of God’s presence and God’s love,” he said. “It will be a place where many of them will be able to rebuild their own lives.

“I look forward to seeing how many will be touched in a profound way by their experience here at Shalom House.”

To learn more about Shalom House, visit the website at: catholiccharitiesks. org/where-we-work/shalom-house.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

From left, Ernie Straub Jr., Derek Ruddy, Father John Riley and Nathen Lippert share a conversation at the new location for Shalom House, a program that provides shelter and services for men in need.

From left, Tenesha Williams, Ernie Straub Jr., Father Dennis Wait, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, Lauren Solidum, Doug Ciocca and Chris Dierks cheer after Williams cut the ribbon outside the new Shalom House building in Kansas City, Kansas.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

TRUE BLUE

Program pairs up police with underprivileged children to buy Christmas gifts for their families

By Jill Ragar Esfeld Special to The Leaven

LENEXA — “Scared and excited” was how students told Lenexa Police Chief Dawn Layman they felt before meeting their Blue Santas.

After all, being picked up at school in a patrol car could be a little scary. But being driven to Walmart for a shopping spree?

That’s exciting.

Blue Santa, formally known as Shop with a Cop, is a program that matches local police officers with underprivileged children to buy Christmas gifts for their families.

This year, the Lenexa Police Department joined forces with the Knights of Columbus from Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa, to make Blue Santa a true community event.

“Nine underprivileged kids were selected from nine different schools in our area,” explained Grand Knight JD Call.

The fifth and sixth grade students were identified by teachers and faculty as coming from families in need of assistance.

“What these cops do is take each one of these kids in a police car out to the Walmart on Johnson Drive,” said Call. “They give them $300 to spend to buy presents for their families.”

Officer Derrick Pierce, the student resource officer for St. James Academy, was heartened by the children’s priorities when shopping.

“It’s just neat to see a kid think

of other people besides themselves when they have the money to buy things,” he said. “It’s usually they put their parents and their siblings first before they shop for themselves.”

After the Walmart spree, the Blue Santas brought their shoppers to Holy Trinity’s Father Quigley Center for games, crafts, gift wrapping and a visit from Santa.

The Daughters of Isabella and members of the parish youth group were on hand to facilitate the fun.

It didn’t take long for the kids to see past the uniform and warm up to their Blue Santas. And that’s always a goal when police are involved in outreach programs.

“We feel like we serve our community every day,” said Officer Danny Chavez. “But we’re always looking for these types of partnerships as well.

“Because for many people, unfortunately, their only interaction with law enforcement is maybe the worst day of their life — a car crash, something tragic happening.”

“But for these young people, and the Knights and these volunteers here,” he continued, “they’re getting to interact with our department in a way that’s a little bit different and fun.”

The evening ended with a pizza party and ice cream bar.

Along with wrapped gifts, each child went home with provisions for a complete meal and a gift card to spend on a turkey or ham.

“We started this, and the Knights of Columbus came together in partnership to make it work,” said Officer Todd Seay, a member of Holy Trinity Parish.

“Being Catholic means taking that servant approach to things,” he said. “Being able to do that professionally and personally, I don’t think you could ask for anything better, especially at this time of year.”

This first collaborative effort between the Knights of Columbus and the Lenexa Police Department was a resounding success in spreading the Christmas spirit.

“It’s really about that sense of community and that gift of giving,” said Layman. “These volunteers are giving their time to somebody else, and to me that’s more valuable than anything.

“Being a police officer is about serving others. That’s pretty well in alignment with the philosophy of any religion.”

Gary and Carol Adrian, members of St. Gregory Parish, Marysville, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary with a family Mass at St. Gregory on New Year’s Day. The couple was married on Dec. 29, 1962, at Christ the King Church in Kansas City, Kansas. Their children are: Anthony Adrian, Tara Adrian Laws and Rebecca Adrian. They also have three granddaughters. In lieu of a reception, the couple has requested a card shower. Cards can be send to: 1162 Pony Express Highway, Marysville, KS 66508.

John and Susan Berry, members of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with family in Florida. The couple was married on Dec. 30, 1972, at Immaculate Conception Parish, Minneapolis. They have a son, James, in Salt Lake City.

John and Sheila Lefler, members of St. Francis de Sales Parish, Lansing, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with a family trip next summer. The couple was married on Dec. 30, 1972, at Christ the King Church, University City, Missouri. Their children are: Colleen Zaller, Brian Lefler, Scott Lefler and Sean Lefler. They also have four grandchildren.

John and Fran (Rottinghaus) Fangman, members of Annunciation Parish, Frankfort, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Dec. 29. The couple was married on Dec. 29, 1962, at Sts. Peter & Paul Church, Seneca. Their children are: Joe Fangman, Anthony Fangman, Eddie Fangman and Jenny Kileo. They also have nine grandchildren.

Gin and Bob Fox, members of St. Dominic Parish, Holton, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Jan. 5, 2023. The couple was married in Holton by Father William Kauffman and the Rev. Leslie Peterson. They will celebrate with family with a dinner at a later date. Their children are: Craig Fox, Holton; Dena Johnston, Lawrence; and Joel Fox, Holton. They also have 11 grandchildren and one great-grandson.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

Lenexa Police Officer Natasha Valerio was a Blue Santa to Danick. After shopping, the two wrapped his family’s gifts, played games and ate pizza together.

New network can help advisors assist both clients and church

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Mo. — The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas (CFNEK) has much to offer donors and their advisors seeking to maximize charitable gifts.

Now, the relationship between CFNEK and those advisors has a new opportunity to flourish thanks to the creation of the Catholic Advisors Network.

“The Catholic Advisors Network is an organization of Catholic estate planning attorneys, tax accountants, financial advisors, wealth managers and insurance advisers,” said Jane Schmitt, director of development for CFNEK.

CFNEK sponsored an inaugural event for the Catholic Advisors Network at the Polsinelli office in Kansas City, Missouri, on the evening of Nov. 30.

Dozens of professionals had the chance to network and socialize before hearing from a panel of advisor experts on “Philanthropy and Giving Today.”

The panel of five was moderated by Casey Connealy of Gaughan and Connealy and answered questions about planned giving, faith-based giving, how the current tax law is impacting donors and more.

“We were very pleased with the turnout,” said Bill Maloney, executive director of the archdiocesan office of stewardship and development and CFNEK.

“We had a great mix of CPAs, attorneys and financial planners,” he continued. “It was also great to see both experienced professionals as well as young professionals.”

Many in attendance advise Catholic clients on charitable giving — both in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas CitySt. Joseph.

Terri Lynn, associate director of the office of stewardship and development, explained that through the new network, members of her office and CFNEK will build relationships with Catholic advisors and enlighten them on the planned giving and investment products CFNEK offers.

“The archdiocese seeks to enhance the culture of giving by parishioners through their estate plans,” she said.

“There is a great ‘transfer of wealth’ that will [be] passed down to heirs and charity over the next 20 years.”

Lynn said Catholic estate and tax advisors “can be leaders in assisting our pastors to receive more legacy gifts now through planned gifts solutions,

perhaps with a charitable lead trust, or later upon their death through a will.”

During the network’s inaugural event, Maloney introduced participants to CFNEK’s work in the archdiocese and expressed his hope for building a relationship through the network’s continuous events.

“It’s a great way for you to have fellowship with your peers and build meaningful business connections, share ideas [and] enhance charitable giving throughout our archdiocese,” he said.

“There’s many ways for you to help your clients maximize what they can do for their families, for charity and, in particular, the Catholic Church,” he added.

Maloney said the network will be a resource to help those in attendance assist their clients.

“Most of the time, you are the front line,” he said. “You’re the first person people talk to about how they’re going to grow their wealth.

“If you can have these charitable conversations with your clients, it will help us all at the end of the day.”

CFNEK plans to host quarterly events for the Catholic Advisors Network. Those interested in staying updated on future events are encouraged to call CFNEK at (913) 647-3062 and request to join its mailing list. To learn more about CFNEK, visit the website at: cfnek.org.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MOIRA CULLINGS

Dan Hutchins addresses the crowd gathered at the inaugural Catholic Advisors Network event on Nov. 30 at the Polsinelli office in Kansas City, Missouri. He was joined by Kurtis Grothoff, Troy Kuhn, Emily Buckley and Jon Stanfield — a panel of experts who spoke about “Philanthropy and Giving Today.”

THE WEARY WORLD REJOICES

Offering some holiday hope for those without homes

STORIES BY JOE BOLLIG / PHOTOS BY JAY SOLDNER

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — There was a lot of chatter in the school bus as it rumbled through the city. At one point, a rider began to sing “This Little Light of Mine,” and another joined in.

It was a cheerful ride with an atmosphere of anticipation, much like an outing for a church youth group.

These riders, however, were homeless men and women.

The Brothers and Sisters of the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ sent the bus to collect their guests for a Christmas party and meal on Dec. 10 at the former Blessed Sacrament Parish School, located at 22nd and Parallel in Kansas City, Kansas. About 120 attended the event.

Some private cars had been sent to other areas where those who are homeless gather — under bridges, in vacant lots, in encampments and other places.

Those invited had been found in an alley,

huddled against an outside wall of the Hope Faith ministry, a day shelter at the corner of Admiral Blvd. and Virginia St. in Kansas City, Missouri.

When the bus was parked, Brother Israel of the Crucified Lord, PJC, and lay volunteer Arturo Gonzalez got out and approached the men and women, most who were nestled under layers of blankets and sleeping bags.

One man, wearing a gray blanket like a poncho, approached Gonzalez. They gave each other a warm bear hug.

“Hey, man, how are you doing?” Gonzalez asked. “Merry Christmas. Do you want to come to a Christmas party? We’ve got food. We’ll bring you back.”

Most decided to board the bus, but a few stayed behind. One was a pregnant woman who volunteered to watch their meager belongings.

Some on the bus were a little apprehensive. They weren’t quite sure where they were going.

A school bus was the easiest way to transport the guests living on the streets to the Christmas party and dinner being held in their honor at the former Blessed Sacrament School in Kansas City, Kansas. Drivers of private cars gave rides to other homeless people not on the bus route.

Guests at the Christmas party and dinner were entertained by a choir of children and adults.

Seminarian Dan Mauro helps Thomas Pigg carry his things back to the bus as Pigg prepares to return to the streets.

One thought they were being taken to the police, but Jeneane, who had been to an earlier Thanksgiving dinner offered by the Poor of Jesus Christ, reassured them. (Last names of the participants have been withheld in this article to protect their privacy.)

“The night before [Thanksgiving], I was having trouble, so I was cussin’ God,” Jeneane said later. “I said things weren’t working the way I needed them to. And the next day, this guy comes by the camp and said, ‘We’re having a Thanksgiving party, would you like to come?’ I didn’t think I was going to get Thanksgiving. And I was OK with that. That’s what happens.

“So, when I got here, I started crying because this was everything I needed to see, and everything I needed to hear and everyone I needed to be around.”

As the bus neared Blessed Sacrament Church and the former school, one of the riders — Antonio — grew excited.

“I used to go to school there!” he exclaimed.

He’d grown up near 58th and Georgia. The familiarity of the parish gave him a homecoming feeling.

“It’s a blessing!” he said, smiling.

Having family for the holidays

When the guests arrived, they were greeted by the Sisters, Brothers and about 70 lay volunteers wearing Santa hats.

In the former school dining room, they found gifts waiting for them: coats, shoes, blankets and bags containing snacks and smaller items like hats, socks, gloves, backpacks and gift cards.

There were stations where the men could get a shave and haircut, and the women could get makeup and hair styling.

Dawn was in the makeshift salon, sur-

rounded by young women giving her the full beauty treatment — hair and makeup.

“I am having me-time today and I am being blessed by the ladies here and everything around me,” said Dawn. “This has been the best Christmas for a while.”

Dawn was thrilled that her hair, receiving a trim and styling, “would be pretty.”

Every week of the year, the Poor of Jesus Christ go to where those living on the

streets congregate in the Greater Kansas City metropolitan area. The Brothers and Sisters bring them sack lunches and other items on Tuesdays and Saturdays. Twice a year, the religious community hosts two holiday dinners — Thanksgiving and Christmas — for “their family,” said Sister Mariana Disciple of the Divine Master, PJC.

“On special occasions, we always gather with family,” Sister Mariana continued.

“Since we see them that much, we serve them, we know their history, they become our family. This is the way we want to spend time with our family, and they are our family.”

This year, the side dishes were donated by the New Theatre & Restaurant in Overland Park. The turkeys, chickens and hams were donated and cooked in their homes by the lay volunteers, many who regularly assist the Poor of Jesus Christ. There were

A woman proudly displays her new shoes, courtesy of the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ. After receiving the shoes, the woman said, “Oh, they’re a size 7 — that’s my size! And they’re pink! It’s my favorite color. These are perfect. I don’t have any shoes. I love them. Merry Christmas to me!” Volunteers brought shoes, gloves, hats, socks and food back to some of the homeless who declined to go to the dinner at the former Blessed Sacrament School in Kansas City, Kansas.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann mingles with the guests at the Christmas party and dinner. About 120 people who are experiencing homelessness attended the event. They were welcomed by about 70 lay volunteers.

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also cupcakes and cake for dessert.

The gymnasium floor was filled with round tables with red tablecloths, set with Christmas-themed plates and little Christmas tree centerpieces. The stage had Christmas trees, lights, a star of Bethlehem and risers for the choir that sang Christmas songs while the guests ate.

At the back was a bench with lights where the guests could get their photograph taken.

The Magi, more than three and lacking their camels, distributed small gifts.

Santa Claus was a no-show, but a tall, jolly guy did show up: Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. He offered a blessing and walked around the tables visiting the guests.

“The Brothers and Sisters the Fraternity of the Poor of Jesus Christ do the important work of the church to find the homeless, care for them and to bring them to an event

like this today,” said the archbishop. “This is truly what Christmas is meant to be about, to try to imitate the love of God revealed in the babe of Bethlehem.”

The lives of these men and women are often associated with sadness, tragedy and struggle. There was, however, a spirit of celebration at this event.

“There is a lot of adversity for those who are homeless, but there is a beauty and a joy within these people,” said Archbishop Naumann. “They really care for each other, and they are appreciative for the Sisters, Brothers and all the volunteers who assist them.”

The story of Antonio’s homecoming to Blessed Sacrament moved him.

“Hopefully, everyone feels like our churches are home for them whether they are Catholic or not,” said the archbishop. “They’re always welcome. The Lord is present for all of us there.”

Ministry delivers showers of blessings

One challenge for people living on the streets is hygiene, especially in the winter. They can go weeks without a shower simply because they have no access to facilities.

That is why several of the guests at the Christmas dinner and party at the former Blessed Sacrament School in Kansas City, Kansas, were thrilled to see Operation Shower Blessing, a traveling shower and more operated by Team Jesus ministry based in Independence, Missouri.

Team Jesus rolled in with three trailers.

The first one was large and boxy, containing a changing area and shower stall with the associated equipment for hot showers, as well as a barber station. The second trailer was the Jesus Store equipped with clean clothing and more. The third was a support trailer.

The portable shower was a wonder to behold. It’s totally self-contained, water supply and all. It has fresh towels, shower gel, lotion and a flat screen TV to entertain the “Beloved” — the term Team Jesus uses to refer to the men and women they minister to — while they are in the barber chair.

Team Jesus was there at the invitation of the Poor of Jesus Christ, with

whom Team Jesus has had a relationship for three years.

“Our mission is the Great Commission (Mt 25:34-36),” said Senior Pastor Brian Carline of H.O.P.E. (House of Praise Evangelistic Ministries) and Team Jesus. “We got blessed with a vision of Operation Shower Blessing by the Holy Spirit. The vision was to have a mobile shower we could take to a local event, a national event, emergency or disaster, or for the Beloved community.”

The trailer they have can provide showers for 100 people on one tank of water. They want the Beloved to feel loved and cared for.

“It’s designed to make them feel like they walked into a five-star hotel,” said Pastor Carline.

One of the Beloved eager to use the Shower of Blessing was Mark, who recently finished an 18-year prison term.

“I love it,” said Mark. “It really helps out the people who are homeless to take a shower, because most of the places are always closed or have other things they need to do, so you can’t always take a shower when you need to.

“This is a blessing for us. I love it. I thank God for it. I thank God these people came along when they did because I was feeling really down. They really helped me out.”

A woman steps down from the traveling shower, courtesy of Operation Shower Blessing operated by Team Jesus ministry. With the trailer, the ministry can provide showers for 100 people on one tank of water.

Antonio gets a shave from volunteer Mario Ramos at one of the stations set up at the school. Men could get a shave and a haircut, while women could get their hair and makeup done.

Sister Maria Dolores of the Eucharistic Heart, PJC, puts a Santa hat on over her habit as she waits for guests to arrive for the Christmas party and meal on Dec. 10 at the former Blessed Sacrament Parish School in Kansas City, Kansas.

Arturo Zarate hands hot food to a man, while his granddaughters give food to others on the street in Kansas City, Missouri. The food was left over from the Brothers and Sisters the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ’s Christmas dinner and taken back to those who decided not to go to the event.

Brother Israel of the Crucified Lord, PJC, speaks with a man outside of the Hope Faith ministry, a day shelter at the corner of Admiral Blvd. and Virginia St. in Kansas City, Missouri, where many of those living on the streets gather, and invites him to the Christmas party and dinner.

Guitarist’s gift cards to needy families bring Christmas joy

By Barb Umberger Catholic News Service

ST. PAUL, Minn. (CNS) — With her immediate family in Mexico, Rosana Hernandez works full time and sometimes overtime at a warehouse to support herself and her two young sons.

That includes sending them to St. Pascal Regional Catholic School about two blocks from their home in St. Paul.

Besides the Catholic education, Hernandez appreciates that the school offers “extended day” care before and after school, which eliminates job-related worries about how to get her second- and fifth-grade boys, ages 7 and 10, to school and back home.

Money is tight, especially at Christmas. But two years ago, St. Pascal’s principal, Inna Collier Paske, surprised Hernandez with gift cards from a generous benefactor who, for the past five years, had asked Collier Paske to give sets of gift cards to families in need.

The Hernandez family was a recipient in 2020 and 2021 of a $200 gift card to Cub for groceries and a $100 gift card for each child to Target (changing to Walmart this year). The benefactor also gives a $50 gift card for each adult.

Hernandez, 42, recalled the moment that first year when she realized she could buy Christmas presents for her sons.

“I was crying because I felt so blessed, because my kids were so happy,” she told The Catholic Spirit, newspaper of the

Archdiocese of St. Paul and Minneapolis. “We went to Target and they chose a toy, and then they grabbed some pajamas.”

Hernandez used the Cub gift card to buy groceries, including the makings of “a really nice Christmas dinner” with Mexican food, she said.

When she told her boys about the gift cards, her older son was moved to draw a thank-you card and picture for the donor.

The donor requested anonymity

for his years of donations, but during a recent interview with The Catholic Spirit, agreed to be named: Kevin Todd.

Now 66, he said his three children went to St. Pascal. But before the children were old enough to start school, he and his wife, both working low-wage jobs, struggled financially. Catholic Charities helped the family, he said. And he recalled nuns coming to the family’s door with baskets of food.

.

To this day, he’s not certain where the nuns were based or who “tipped them off” about their situation. “We were very grateful,” he said.

But no single event started the ball rolling for his contributions the past five years, said Todd, who lives in North St. Paul. His own childhood Christmases were happy.

“My parents had a wonderful Christmas,” he said, recalling how his father, who died just weeks ago, made presents for his children, including a play stove and refrigerator for his sister that saw a lot of use.

“He would refurbish things for the kids — tricycles, bicycles, toys. We didn’t care,” said Todd, who grew up in South St. Paul. “He’d pick up a tricycle and sand it, paint it, decal it, make it brand new again.

. . We were happy.”

“Santa always came,” he added. “We had very fun Christmases. And spiritual, also.”

Todd is a member of a rock ‘n’ roll tribute band, Arch Allies, that plays classic rock songs by such artists as Bon Jovi, Boston, Def Leppard, Journey, Queen, REO Speedwagon and Styx. He plays lead guitar and sings backup vocals.

Todd plans to continue helping three families each year. “I just want these families to have a good Christmas,” he said, recalling that one family helped this year has six children.

“I want to help people who can’t afford to have a Christmas,” Todd said. It’s not about giving back, he said, but rather “giving forward.”

CNS PHOTO/DAVE HRBACEK, THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Kevin Todd, who plays in a rock ‘n’ roll band called Arch Allies, poses with his guitar in St. Paul, Minnesota, Dec. 13. Todd gives gift cards to families in need at St. Pascal Regional Catholic School in St. Paul.

Pope’s 2022: A year dominated by war, problems walking

By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY (CNS) —

While 2022 finally saw the publication of Pope Francis’ constitution reforming the Roman Curia, the biggest news and the biggest changes in his ministry came from Russia’s war on Ukraine and from the pope’s own problems walking.

Knee problems forced the pope, who celebrated his 86th birthday Dec. 17, to postpone a planned trip to Congo and South Sudan in July, although he did make a major trip to Canada later that same month.

A few weeks before heading to North America, he had told the Reuters news agency that an inflamed ligament in his right knee caused him to limp, which made him walk badly and that, in turn, caused a small fracture.

The pope was complaining of knee pain in January and canceling public events already in February; by early May he was arriving at audiences in a wheelchair.

As the year ended, he mostly used a cane to walk in public, but the wheelchair was a frequent alternative. And, at papal liturgies, it became the norm for him to preside over the Liturgy of the Word and give the homily, but have a cardinal or bishop preside over the Liturgy of the Eucharist.

As the pope’s step faltered, his cries for peace increased, although not without controversy and criticism.

Soon after Russia invaded Ukraine in late February, Pope Francis took the unusual step of leaving the Vatican to go to the Russian Embassy to the Holy See to plead for peace and offer the Vatican’s services as a mediator. And, inviting bishops around the globe to join him, he solemnly entrusted and consecrated the church, all humanity and “especially Russia and Ukraine” to the Immaculate Heart of Mary during a prayer service March 25 in St. Peter’s Basilica.

But even as millions of Ukrainians — mostly women and children — fled and as evidence mounted of Russian war crimes, Pope Francis did not publicly condemn Russian President Vladimir Putin. That, along with his pleas for Russia and Ukraine to dialogue and negotiate peace, left many people, particularly Ukrainians, hurt that the

pope seemed to somehow blame “both sides” for the war.

Journalists repeatedly asked Pope Francis to explain.

In late November, he told the Jesuitrun America magazine he did not think it was necessary to name names. “If you have a martyred people, you have someone who martyrs them.”

“Why do I not name Putin? Because it is not necessary; it is already known,” he said.

And, he said, “the position of the Holy See is to seek peace and to seek an understanding. The diplomacy of the Holy See is moving in this direction and, of course, is always willing to mediate.”

It was not until October that Pope Francis publicly said he was calling on “the president of the Russian Federation, begging him to stop this spiral of violence and death, also for the sake of his people.”

At the same time, Pope Francis appealed to Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy “to be open” to any “serious peace proposals.”

Also in the area of diplomacy, in October the Vatican renewed for another two years its agreement with China on naming bishops that are acceptable to both the communist government and the pope. But soon after, the Chinese government transferred a bishop

without Vatican approval, drawing an unusual statement of “regret” from the Vatican that the assignment “did not take place in accordance with the spirit of dialogue existing between the Vatican and Chinese sides.”

In August, the pope created 20 new cardinals and led the entire College of Cardinals in a two-day meeting on the apostolic constitution “Praedicate Evangelium” (Preach the Gospel), which was the first major reform and reorganization of the Roman Curia since 1988.

Published in March and taking effect in June, the document merged some Vatican congregations and pontifical councils and raised the status of others — particularly the charitable office of the papal almoner. But mostly, it insisted the Roman Curia was a service organization meant to support the pope and local bishops in their efforts to promote the church as a community of missionary disciples, sharing the Gospel and caring for all those in need.

The project had been a long one. Six months after taking office in 2013, Pope Francis set up his international Council of Cardinals to advise him and to help design the reform. They interviewed all the heads of Vatican offices, studied what each was doing and made dozens of proposals, going through various drafts

and consultation periods before the final version was promulgated.

Also long in the making was Pope Francis’ trip to Canada to apologize to Indigenous communities for the ways Catholics and their institutions, especially residential schools, contributed to their suffering and to the stifling of their language, culture and traditional spirituality.

The Canadian Truth and Reconciliation Commission’s Call to Action in 2015 included a request that the pope make such an apology on the land of the First Nations, Inuit and Métis communities. And representatives of the three groups came to the Vatican in March and April to share with the pope the stories of the survivors of residential schools and to recount the multigenerational trauma that came from the physical and emotional abuse, the splitting apart of families and the suppression of their people’s language and cultures.

Meeting Indigenous people in Edmonton, Maskwacis and Lac Ste. Anne in Alberta, in Quebec City and nearby Sainte-Anne-de-Beaupré and, finally, in Iqaluit, Nunavut, in the Canadian Arctic, Pope Francis repeatedly said, “I’m sorry.”

“The overall effects of the policies linked to the residential schools were catastrophic,” he said at Maskwacis. “What our Christian faith tells us is that this was a disastrous error, incompatible with the Gospel of Jesus Christ.”

Pope Francis made three other foreign trips in 2022: focusing on migrants in Malta and on interreligious dialogue and promoting human fraternity in visits to Kazakhstan and Bahrain.

Throughout the year, the pope continued to talk about the need for the Catholic Church to embrace “synodality,” a style of sharing the Gospel by listening to one another and to the Holy Spirit and making room for each of the baptized to accept his or her responsibilities as a disciple and welcoming the gifts of all.

Saying he did not want to rush the process of discerning how the Holy Spirit is calling the church to grow in “synodality,” Pope Francis announced in October that the next assembly of the Synod of Bishops would take place in two sessions: October 2023 and October 2024.

CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING

An aide grabs Pope Francis’ cane as he sits down during Mass marking the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican Dec. 12. Knee problems forced the pope to use a wheelchair early in the year. As the year ended, he mostly used a cane to walk in public, but the wheelchair was a frequent alternative.

EMPLOYMENT

Manager assistant - St. Mary’s Food Kitchen has an immediate opening for a manager assistant. Duties include: work closely with the manager; provide support to the day’s coordinator; ensure policies and procedures are followed and operational standards are achieved; participate in the frequency and scope of required daily cleaning tasks; availability to fill in for manager when absent; perform other work-related duties as assigned; interact with guests for improved service. This position is part time. Weekends and holidays are paid time-and-a-half. 9 a.m. - 2 p.m. with the occasional start time of 8:30 a.m. $20/hour.

After-school care provider - St. Michael the Archangel School is looking for a part-time after-school care provider. Monday through Friday, 3:30 - 6 p.m., on days school is in session. Duties include gathering students when school is out; planning activities for students in program; monitoring and assisting children while in program; releasing to parent or guardian at the end of the day; and picking up the space at the end of the day. Must work well with children and parents. Email your resume to the principal, Diana Tate, to apply: diana. tate@stmichaelcp.org

Director of music and liturgy - Prince of Peace in Olathe is seeking candidates to work with the pastor in the planning and implementation of all parish liturgies. This position is responsible for overseeing all music and music groups, as well as coordinating liturgical ministries in the parish. Must be a practicing Catholic in full communion with the church, and, ideally, able to play the organ and piano. To apply, please send a resume to John Meyers, business manager, at: jmeyers@ popolathe.org.

Sisters of Charity communications director - Impelled by the love of Christ, the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, a Roman Catholic congregation of women religious, offer every loving service in their power to meet the critical needs of God’s people. Established in 1858 in Kansas, the Sisters of Charity live their mission in the spirit of their founders St. Vincent de Paul, Louise de Marillac and Mother Xavier Ross. The Sisters, as Gospel-centered women, share a tradition of responding to the needs of the time, ministering to the vulnerable and marginalized and caring for the fragile Earth. They share their mission in partnership and collaboration with those committed to working for peace and justice. Job summary: The communications director will develop and implement a strategic communications plan, aligned with the current strategic direction of the SCL community, that supports the mission, philosophy and positive image of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. This includes an assessment and review of all current communications practices. Excellent written and oral communication, computer skills, creativity, experience with strategic communications plans, and an understanding of the culture of Catholic women religious and experience are required to be a successful candidate. As the media point of contact, an ability to address crisis communication situations professionally is essential. The ability to work effectively with others through appropriate delegation and support is also important to success. Professional experience of five - seven years in communications; familiarity with faith-based, mission-driven nonprofit organizations; and a minimum of a bachelor’s degree are required. Job duties include: internal communications and other; audit current communications practices and implement changes as needed in consultation with the SCL council; take responsibility for official SCL communications; develop communication (letters, email announcements, talking points) for special events; maintain effective communication methods (daily emails, special notifications, internal broadcasts) with motherhouse and Ross Hall Sisters; provide communications support and resources to SCL community director, council, offices, staff and committees; develop and assist with analysis of SCL community and SCL associates surveys; prepare and manage annual departmental budget; update departmental policies and procedures; conduct periodic audits to determine satisfaction with means, frequency and accessibility of internal communications. External communications: Provide communications support as needed or requested for events, announcements, activities, and news about the SCL community and individual Sisters; develop press releases, announcements, news and feature articles for distribution to churches, media, website and other outlets; develop and disseminate death notices and obituaries of Sisters; develop advertisements for media placement or printed programs of events for which the SCLs are a sponsor/donor; develop, review and implement crisis communication plans and function as spokesperson for the community when delegated. Serve as liaison with media for inquiries.

Full-time maintenance technician - Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood is looking for a full-time maintenance technician with a strong work ethic. We prefer a candidate with general knowledge in electrical, plumbing, maintenance and grounds-keeping. This position also includes setting up for events. A maintenance technician is a thorough professional with attention to detail. The ideal candidate will be able to work autonomously and responsibly. Candidate needs to be able to lift 50 lbs. and work off a ladder or lift. All employees are required to be Virtus trained and background-checked. This position may include some weekend and evenings as needed. Competitive pay including benefits: vacation/sick time and 401(k) with match. Interested candidates should send a resume to the facilities director at: matt.rocca@cureofars.com.

Part-time companions needed - Perfect job for any kind-hearted, energetic person wanting to be a team player in a small growing family company. Must have reliable transportation. Job entails driving clients to appointments and running errands. Person must be personable, able to talk, do puzzles, play cards and entertain. We are not a hands-on caregiving company. Some clients may be standby assist. Driving around metro area may be required. Trip charge or mileage also given. Drug and background checks are mandatory. Call Jen at (913) 530-1795. Clarkson

Companion Care.

Director of music ministry - St. St. Pius X parish in Mission, Kansas, is seeking a director of music ministry. The music director is responsible for facilitating the worship life of the parish by coordinating and providing quality liturgical experiences that celebrate and strengthen the parish journey of faith with special emphasis on the musical leadership, coordination and formation of parish cantors, choirs and accompanists. The director should have a deep knowledge of Catholic liturgy and traditions and be able to integrate him/herself into the current music culture of the parish and build on the program. The position includes planning and developing the full liturgical cycle, including Sunday and holy day liturgies and other major parish celebrations. The director is expected to assist liturgical teams and committees. Other responsibilities include: maintains the parish liturgical music collection; orders music as needed; manages the parish copyright and licensing programs; directs, coordinates and/or performs music that is liturgically appropriate for parish liturgies and other celebrations. Serves as a resource to clergy, religious education/formation staff and catechists in selecting music and planning liturgies and prayer services; invites, encourages and enhances assembly participation in the sung liturgy; assures ongoing expansion of the parish music repertoire. Schedule requires weekend hours, evening hours and holiday hours as needed. Contact Search Committee c/o: la wagner@archkckcs.org.

Catholic elementary school principal – Holy Name Catholic School in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking an individual with demonstrated spiritual, academic and advancement leadership skills for the 2023-24 school year. As the leader of the school, the principal plays a critical role in safeguarding and promoting our school’s aim to lead students to encounter and grow as disciples of Jesus Christ, and directing the school’s activity, learning, teaching, culture, finances and formation toward that goal. The principal is responsible for ministering to staff, students and families. Our school seeks to glorify God through academic excellence. The principal is responsible for administering the school’s education program; supervising teaching administrative and support staff and implementing archdiocesan curriculum guidelines and standards; and supervising and directing all other programs and services provided at or by the school. Applicants for principal must be practicing Catholics, understand the mission of Catholic schools and have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Please apply online at: www.archkckcs.org and send resume and credentials to superintendent Dr. Vince Cascone, Catholic schools office, via email to: vcascone@archkckcs.org. Currently accepting applications. Position open until filled.

Cafeteria custodian - Curé of Ars is looking for a parttime cafeteria custodian from 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m., Monday through Friday, on days school is in session. Duties will include maintaining cafeteria cleanliness; setting up and tearing down tables and disinfecting surfaces; emptying trash; sweeping floors and running the floor scrubber machine daily; and assisting with kitchen/cafeteria responsibilities, as directed. Must work well with a team and with children. Some heavy lifting is required. All employees are required to be Virtus trained and background-checked. Interested candidates should send a resume to the cafeteria manager at: sarah.hirsch@cureofars.com.

Drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is now hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students with special needs in Johnson, Wyandotte and Clay County, Missouri, in company vans. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour. Aides earn $12 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Make a difference in your community by helping those in need. Call (913) 5214955 for more information. EEO

Early childhood educators – With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child care in a safe, loving Christian environment. Our classrooms are full, and we are looking to add to our amazing team. We are looking for both full-time and part-time teachers for all ages of children. If you have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education, we would love to meet you. For more information or to apply, call Carolyn Andruss at (913) 894-0131, ext. 102.

Bilingual counselor needed - The Keeler women’s Center, located at 759 Vermont Ave., Suite 100-B, in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking a Spanish-speaking counselor. Please contact sister Bridget Dickason, OSB, at (913) 689-9375 or email: kwc@mountosb.org.

Janitorial assistant - Queen of the Holy Rosary, Wea, is seeking a janitorial assistant. This is a parttime position requiring 15 - 20 hours per week. Work hours are flexible and can be negotiated with the employee’s supervisor. Basic duties include general cleaning of the church, school and adoration chapel. For a full job description or to apply for the position, visit: archkck.org/jobs.

Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, has the following staff job openings available: admissions counselor; advancement officer; business curriculum coordinator; financial aid counselor and vice-president of business affairs/chief financial officer. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly. edu/careers.

Caregivers - Daughters & Company is looking for several compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide light housekeeping/light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation services for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. A CNA background is helpful, though not mandatory. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match up hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team.

Community engagement coordinator - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth community engagement coordinator works as part of a three-person team in the office of justice, peace and integrity of creation (JPIC). The position’s primary responsibility is to implement the Laudato Si’ Action Platform (LSAP) and help the community live its mission of doing justice through the lens of integral ecology. This position will lead the congregation’s response to the LSAP through coordination and collaboration with Sisters, associates, staff, partners in ministry, and the local community. Job duties include: coordinate the congregation’s LSAP response by serving as a central resource for Sisters, staff, associates and partners in ministry on the development and implementation of responses to the seven platform goals; manage and monitor projects related to the Laudato Si’ Action Platform; develop educational materials and opportunities regarding LSAP and integral ecology; engage relevant internal stakeholders in the development and implementation of the platform; network with external organizations and individuals doing activities/projects to build partnerships; share outcomes of projects internally and externally, and seek, where beneficial to mission advancement, outside partnerships and funding to implement projects; in collaboration with the rest of the JPIC office, develop workshop materials and facilitate workshops on Laudato Si’ and best practices in integral ecology; participate in conferences, webinars and other informational opportunities; serve as the liaison for the congregation to the LSAP religious orders working group; manage LSAP reporting requirements through the platform website; work to ensure that the goals and journey to integral ecology extend beyond the platform’s life; and other duties as assigned. Qualifications: associate’s (bachelor’s preferred) degree in political science, sociology, theology or similar program; a team player and good communicator who is open to new ideas and eager to learn; demonstrates an understanding of integral ecology; strong commitment to and demonstrated passion for justice; strong project management skills; willingness to learn or understands the congregation’s charism; knowledge of Catholic social teaching; have the ability to: analyze and effectively articulate the justice agenda; motivate others on behalf of justice issues and concerns; engage others in active dialogue and reflective thinking; present effectively to diverse populations; strong organizational, written and verbal communication, and technology skills (Zoom, Microsoft); openness to varied points of view and cultures; sensitivity to language as it impacts race, gender and culture; limited travel to conferences and local meetings (10%); strong self-motivation and decision-making ability; ability to manage flexible hours. Physical requirements: carrying, bending, stooping, grasping, standing, twisting, sitting, lifting, walking, filing; communicating with Sisters, associates and co-workers via face-to-face, phone and other technological means; push, pull, lift or carry up to 20 pounds occasionally; generally sedentary. To apply, send resumes to: recruiting@scls.org.

Business manager - St. John the Evangelist Parish and School in Lawrence seeks a full-time business manager. The manager will administer the finances of the parish and school, and maintain accuracy of all financial operations. Applicants need computer/ new technologies competencies. Candidates with a degree in business/accounting with 1-3 years of experience or its equivalency, and bilingual (English and Spanish) are preferred. Please see full job description and requirements at: www.sjevangelist.com. This position is eligible for the archdiocesan benefits package. The position will be open until filled. Please send cover letter and resume to Father John at: or 1229 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044.

In-home child care needed - I am a first-time Mom and nurse living in Prairie Village seeking in-home child care for my infant son when I go back to work March 1 for two - three days per week. Days vary but work schedule is set six - eight weeks out. Call Maureen at (913) 548-6660.

Stylists needed - Are you addicted to the TV show “Say Yes to the Dress”? Are you self-motivated, love fashion and enjoy helping people look their best? If so, we want to talk to you! Sincerely Susan, a unique destination shop boutique is a warehouse environment where clients come in by appointment only. You must have a sense of style and a great personality to be able to interact with our “moms.” Hours are flexible. Must be willing to work a minimum of one evening per week and weekends. Must be able to stand and walk on concrete for long periods of time and reach overhead to pull gowns. Previous retail experience preferred, but not necessary. Hourly rate is based on experience. If interested, call (913) 730-8840.

Assistant director - Prince of Peace Early Education Center is seeking a highly qualified, flexible, resourceful, self-starter for our assistant director. The ideal candidate has previous teaching/administrative experience and demonstrates excellent communication skills with staff and parents. Job requirements: All applicants must meet the following requirements in order to be considered for hire: a minimum of six months or more teaching in a licensed child care center with proof of work; have a BA/BS or higher in early childhood education or related field with 12 or more college credit hours in early childhood education. We offer competitive pay. Benefits include: paid vacation and sick time; paid holidays; 401(k) match, and health, vision, dental, life, as well as short- and long-term disability insurance. To apply or for more information, call Jamie at (913) 829-2718 or email: jwessel@popolathe.org.

Extended day care position - Holy Spirit Catholic School in Overland Park is seeking an enthusiastic person to be the group leader in our after-school care program. This well-established program runs from 3 - 5:45 p.m. each school day. We are looking for a faith-filled, responsible, organized and creative person. Applicants should have knowledge of child development and be able to implement age-appropriate activities. The ability to communicate clearly with children, colleagues and parents is most important in order to foster positive relationships. Applicants must attend Virtus training, ongoing childcare training and be at least 18 years old. Contact Tessa Piscitello at (913) 492-2582 or email: tpiscitello@hs catholic.org for more information.

Faculty and adjunct faculty job openings - Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served. Adjunct faculty job openings include: biology; clinical nursing and math coordinator. Faculty job opening available for the nursing school and for professor of philosophy. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.

Nurses and nurse aides - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth are currently seeking full- and parttime registered nurses, licensed practical nurses and certified nurse aides at our beautiful long-term care facility. Our private nursing facility offers a quiet and pleasant working environment plus low resident (Sisters only!) to staff ratios! We offer a generous paid time off and benefits package, which includes Blue Cross/Blue Shield health insurance for as low as $90/month! Work 36 hours a week and get paid for 40, plus you’ll receive shift differentials and bonuses! To apply, please email your resume to: recruiting@scls.org or visit our website at: scls.org.

SERVICES

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

Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.

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

Painting - Diamond Painting, (913) 648-4933, Residential/Commercial, Exterior/interior, Free Estimate, Affordable, Decks, DiamondPaintKc.com. Kcmo/ Overland Park Metropolitan area.

Catholic counseling - For individuals, couples, families, adolescents and young adults. Sam Meier, MA, LPC. Call (913) 952-2267 or book an appointment at: StillwatersKC.com, in-person or Telehealth.

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.

Garage Door Repair

New Garage Doors

A Total Door - KC family owned since ‘83. www.ATotalDoor.com or (913) 236-6440

A Total Door (913) 236-6440.

(913)205-0926 cell

ACT Prep - Founded by a Bishop Miege graduate, Pathway Prep has helped over 250 students during the last four years improve their scores. In-person or virtual sessions available. For more information, visit: pathwayprepkc.com and contact Alex Pint at (913) 991-8217 or: alex@pathwayprepkc.com.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Gearing up for spring! We now offer financing on all your home improvement projects with approved credit. Here is a list of the construction services I offer: flooring; tile; interior/exterior painting, as well as deck and fence staining; ceiling scraping/re-texturing; bathroom, kitchen and basement remodeling; siding; decks and covered porches. We also do cabinet refinishing! Look me up on Facebook at “Father & Son Home Exteriors & Remodeling.” I work on all jobs, no subcontractors. Thank you to all my clients! (913) 709-7230. >> Classifieds

NEW YEAR SPIRITUAL REFLECTION AND PLANNING RETREAT

Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton Jan. 6 - 8

Set aside time at the beginning of the new year to create growth goals and devise steps to reach your goals. The structure of the retreat will allow ample time for you to do work on your plan. There will be conferences, eucharistic adoration, Mass, confession and walking. Cabins/courtyard rooms: $170 for single, $250 for a couple; or $100 for single guest rooms. Meals are included. To attend, fill out the individual retreat form online at: ChristsPeace.com.

CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN DIVORCE SUPPORT MINISTRY

Ascension Parish (St. Luke’s Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Jan. 7 at 6:30 p.m.

Are you divorced and feeling lost and alone? The church welcomes you and offers healing. Please join us for formation and fellowship. For more information, send am email to: katie@thecall2love.com with questions.

TAKE-A-LOOK THURSDAY

Holy Spirit School

11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park Jan. 12 from 9 -11 a.m.

Come join us for information, a tour 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 send an email to: apauls@hscatholic.org.

ICON RETREAT

Conception Abbey 37174 State Hwy. VV Conception, Missouri Jan. 13 - 15

Learn how to read and discover all the beautiful and prayerful messages written in each icon. Then, prayerfully discover how to use these sacramental images as a means to prayer and reflection. Each person will go home with numerous icons and a booklet to help them continue learning.

WILL AND TRUST WORKSHOPS

St. Pius X Parish

(Father Glowacki Room)

5500 Woodson, Mission Jan. 19 from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. or Jan. 24 from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Jon Stanfield, estate planning attorney, will present information on the differences between wills, trusts, probate, charitable gift planning and more. Refreshments will be available and there will be take-home resources. Send an RSVP by email to: tlynn@archkck.org or call (913) 647-0365.

SOCIAL SECURITY WORKSHOP

Corpus Christi Parish

6001 Bob Billings Pkwy.,. Lawrence Jan. 21 from 10 - 11:30 a.m.

Do you need to decide when to start taking your benefit? All parishioners are invited to the workshop. There will be light refreshments, door prizes and a guide book. Send an RSVP by email to: planned giving@archkck.org or call (913) 634-4567. You can also just walk in.

RETROUVAILLE

Jan. 27 - 29

Kansas City

Retrouvaille offers a welcoming and loving space to couples who have been living with the misery of a failing marriage. Retrouvaille offers hope — hope that it is not too late, hope of a different and better marriage. Retrouvaille helps couples to show each other mercy through the opportunities it provides to listen, to forgive, to be reconciled and to move into their futures believing that God loves them and, with his help and their efforts, their marriages can be healed and restored. Retrouvaille provides help for marriage problems/ difficulties/crises. For more information, call (800) 470-2230 or visit the website at: helpourmarriage.com.

‘JOURNEY TO JOY: BROKEN MOMENTS, HEALING MOMENTS, HOLY MOMENTS’

Church of the Nativity 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood Jan. 28 at 9 a.m.

Mass will be at 8:15 a.m. followed by a light breakfast. Kelsey Skoch will be the speaker, focusing on topics of evangelization and missionary discipleship. Skoch is best known for her ministry and talks helping women in their personal purity.

CALENDAR SUBMISSIONS

DEADLINE: Noon, Thursday, eight days before the desired publication date.

SEND SUBMISSIONS TO: beth. blankenship@theleaven.org.

Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, masonry (chimney repair), gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior) honey-do list, window cleaning and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

Popcorn ceiling texture removal Interior painting

Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

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.

DRC Construction

We’ll get the job done right the first time. Windows- Doors - Decks - Siding Repair of replace, we will work with you to solve yourproblems. Choose us for any window, door, siding ordeck project and you’ll be glad you did.

Everything is guaranteed 100% www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconstructionwindows@gmail.com (913) 461-4052

Handyman - Home repair; skilled labor; remodeling; handyman work done in a timely manner. References available on request. Call Jeff Mauk at (913) 915-4738.

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA

*COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

*LAWN RENOVATION *MOWING *CLEANUP AND HAULING

*DIRT GRADING/INSTALLATION

*LANDSCAPE DESIGN* FREE ESTIMATES HABLAMOS Y ESCRIBIMOS INGLES!! CALL LUPE AT (816) 252-1391

Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dandeeconst@aol.com.

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.

Family member with dementia or need help at home? - We specialize in helping seniors live SAFELY at home, where they want to live! We also offer free dementia training and resources for families and caregivers. Benefits of HomeSenior Care, www.Benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

Retired nurse - Looking for home-care position. Will do caregiving, light housekeeping, cooking, cleaning and laundry. Call (913) 602-1289.

PILGRIMAGE

Pilgrimage to Medjugorje - March 14 - 22, 2023. The cost is $2500 per person, which includes airfare, bus transportation, accommodations, two meals per day and daily local guides. Hosted by visionary Mirjana Soldo. For details, call Grace Legaspi at (913) 449-1806.

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 accessoriesOne or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 2382473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. Wanted to buy - Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME! I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners.

My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.

REAL ESTATE

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 has never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 5995000.

WE WANT TO BUY YOUR HOUSE - There are so many new companies in town advertising to buy houses. But we’re the only ones that have been here and we’re local Holy Trinity parishioners. I will give you a fair price on any conditions you are up against. Call Mark Edmondson. (913) 9804905.

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).

Classified

Advertising

The Leaven reaches approximately 50,000 subscribers. Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter. To purchase a Leaven classified ad, email: beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

The appearance of advertising in The Leaven is not an endorsement by either the newspaper or the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. The Leaven attempts to screen advertisers and copy, but is not responsible for claims and representations made in advertisements.

Entrance change at Mt. Calvary, Topeka

TOPEKA — As of Jan. 1, 2023, the east gate entrances along S.W. Westchester Road into Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Topeka, will be permanently closed. The entrance off 10th St. will be the only way into and out of the cemetery. The cemetery will be open from 5 a.m. to 8 p.m. daily. The 10th St. entrance will be closed at night.

For more information about services offered at Mt. Calvary, call (785) 272-0820; email information@ cathcemks.org; or visit cathcemks.org.

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, 6-8b, 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, 7b-8 Mt 2: 13-18

Dec. 29

THE FIFTH DAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF THE NATIVITY OF THE LORD; St. Thomas Becket, bishop, martyr

1 Jn 2: 3-11

Ps 96: 1-3, 5-6 Lk 2: 22-35

Dec. 30

THE HOLY FAMILY OF JESUS, MARY AND JOSEPH

Sir 3: 2-6, 12-14

Ps 128: 1-5 Mt 2: 13-15, 19-23

Dec. 31

Sylvester I, pope

1 Jn 2: 18-21

Ps 96: 1-2, 11-13 Jn 1: 1-18

Jan. 1

SOLEMNITY OF MARY, THE HOLY MOTHER OF GOD

Nm 6: 22-27

Ps 67: 2-3, 5-6, 8 Gal 4: 4-7 Lk 2: 16-21

Jan. 2

Basil the Great and Gregory Nazianzen, bishops, doctors of the church

1 Jn 2: 22-28

Ps 98: 1-4 Jn 1: 19-28

Jan. 3

The Most Holy Name of Jesus

1 Jn 2:29 – 3:6

Ps 98: 1, 3c-4, 5-6 Jn 1: 29-34

Jan. 4

Elizabeth Ann Seton, religious

1 Jn 3: 7-10

Ps 98: 1, 7-9

Jn 1: 35-42

Jan. 5

John Neumann, bishop 1 Jn 3: 11-21

Ps 100: 1b-5 Jn 1: 43-51

Jan. 6

André Bessette, religious

1 Jn 5: 5-13

Ps 147: 12-15, 19-20

Mk 1: 7-11

Jan. 7

Raymond of Penyafort, priest

1 Jn 5: 14-21

Ps 149: 1-6a, 9b Jn 2: 1-11

Christmas corrects our blurred vision

Christmas is a time for stories.

While none can compare with the greatest story ever told — Jesus being born among us — stories can help make the continuing effects of Jesus’ birth understandable in our day.

Here’s one of those stories:

The leader of a certain Indian tribe encamped at the base of a mountain was dying.

The chief summoned his three sons and said, “I am dying and one of you must become the head of our tribe. I want each of you to climb our holy mountain and bring back something beautiful. The one whose gift is the most outstanding will succeed me.”

After several days, the sons returned. The first brought his father a flower which grew near the summit and was extremely rare and beautiful. The second son brought him an exquisite stone which

was colorful, smooth and round, having been polished by rain and sandy winds.

The third son’s hands were empty. “Father, I’ve brought back nothing to show you,” he said. “As I stood on top of the holy mountain, I saw that on the other side was a beautiful land filled with green pastures and a crystal lake. And I have a vision

MARK MY WORDS

Messiah, in his life he accumulated no earthly possessions, commanded no army and had no place to lay his head. He didn’t overthrow the Roman oppressors or solve all the troubles of humanity, like poverty, injustice or sickness.

of where our tribe could go for a better life.

“I was so overwhelmed by what I saw and by what I was thinking that I could not bring anything back.”

The father replied, “You shall be the tribe’s new leader, for you have brought back the most precious thing of all: the gift of a vision for a better future.” (Story found in Paul J. Wharton’s “Stories and Parables for Preachers and Teachers.”)

How empty were the hands of Jesus as he entered our world. Although he came as the long-awaited

And his hands remained empty even after the Resurrection, save for one thing: the wounds of crucifixion in his hands, feet and side. Those wounds spoke of a vision of a better life — not only in this world, but in the life to come. It was a life of joy, but also sacrifice.

Jesus ushered in a world where the “blind regain their sight, the lame walk, lepers are cleansed, the deaf hear, the dead are raised, and the poor have the good news proclaimed to them” (Mt 11:5). This vision, begun with him, was passed on to his followers to continue . . . right up to this present time.

It’s not magnificent churches or beautiful

works of religious art or music that ultimately matter, but rather how we make Jesus’ vision real — in our generosity, our inclusiveness and our compassion, particularly toward those most easily snubbed.

That’s why those empty hands of Jesus remain so important. He came into this world with nothing and left with nothing. His was a life lived for others.

The inheritance he left didn’t consist of possessions, but of boundless love and compassion.

And Jesus continues to rely on us to live this vision at Christmas and beyond.

I’ll close with a story of a family’s Christmas visitor. The guest asked 5-year-old Ruth, “Did you get everything you wanted for Christmas?”

Without hesitation, she replied, “No . . . but then, it’s not my birthday, it’s Jesus’.”

Oh, what wise words to remember.

At Christmas, the human search for God sees a new dawn

“A

holy day has dawned upon us. Come, you nations, and adore the Lord. For today a great light has come upon the earth.”

With these joyful words prayed before the reading of the Gospel on Christmas Day, the church invites our contemplation of the great mystery of the Christmas feast. The themes of dawn and radiant divine light shining into the darkness of the world remind us of our deep Advent longings for the peace that comes from God.

The human search for God sees a new dawn. Now, God comes in search of humanity by sending his only son Jesus, the word made flesh. No other gift will

exceed this greatest of divine gifts — God becomes one of us so we might become more like God, who is love and in whose divine image we were created.

The theme of divine light shining into the world’s darkness is reflected in the season’s

,

Christians rejoice because God chose to draw close to us with divine love, grace and mercy with the light of true human freedom.

festive lights. Over the past year, reminders of many signs of darkness born of human pride, greed and division abound. Unimaginable images of war with innocent lives destroyed and shattered peace among nations come to mind.

Conflicts continue to darken human relationships, while social injustice and inequality tear apart communities and societies. Clearly, the world cannot redeem or save itself from the consequences of human sinfulness.

At Christmas, everything we do and say as Christians is experienced as sheer gift in light of the unsurpassed divine gift that St. John proclaims in the Gospel: “And the Word became flesh and made his dwelling among us, and we saw his glory, the glory as of the Father’s only Son, full of grace and truth.”

In the Christmas season, the church celebrates the mystery of God, who speaks through his son, drawing even closer to us in Jesus born in poverty in the obscure town of Bethlehem.

As the newborn Je-

sus finds a home in our creches and Christmas cards, the church invites us to open our lives to the light of God. We recognize humbly the darkness of sin in the world and in our own hearts and minds. In beholding the infant Jesus, we see the transforming power of divine light shining into the world’s darkness.

Christmas is God’s victory over sin and darkness in the incarnation of Jesus. This is the single, greatest gift we receive in this season of gift giving.

As we join our voices to sing, “O come, let us adore him,” may we give thanks to God for Jesus, whose divine light gives us the confidence to pray, “Speak to me, Lord.”

Celebrate Christmas ‘with Ukraine in your hearts,’ pope says, urging aid

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Celebrating Christmas is important and beautiful, Pope Francis said, but he asked people to spend less on their celebrations this year and donate the savings to help the people of Ukraine.

As he has done at his general audiences since Russia invaded Ukraine in February, the pope

asked pilgrims and visitors Dec. 14 to express their “closeness to the martyred Ukrainian people, persevering in fervent prayer for these brothers and sisters of ours who are suffering so much. Brothers and sisters, I tell you, they are suffering so very, very much in Ukraine,” the pope said.

“I want to draw your attention to Christmas, which is coming, and to

the festivities,” he said. “It’s beautiful to celebrate Christmas and have parties, but let’s reduce the level of Christmas spending a bit; let’s have a simpler Christmas with more modest gifts.”

And, the pope said, “Let’s send what we save to the people of Ukraine, who are suffering so much.” People in the country are hungry and cold, he said.

JEM SULLIVAN

Sullivan is a professor at The Catholic University of America.

FATHER MARK GOLDASICH

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

Diaconate deepens a man’s life in Christ

We know from the Catechism of the Catholic Church that Christian marriage brings a man and woman together for the rest of their lives, to love each other and their children with the love with which Christ loves his church.

We also know that the church calls bishops and priests to remain celibate for the sake of the kingdom of heaven, joyfully serving God’s people with undivided hearts.

These beautiful vocations are generally understood as being complementary, but mutually exclusive.

Enter the permanent diaconate. Deacons are

ORDAINED TO SERVE

hoever is generous to the poor lends to the Lord, and he will repay him for his deed.”

— Prv 19: 17

Last year, Catholic Charities embarked on a journey to re-envision and relocate Shalom House, our men’s shelter in Kansas City, Kansas. The purpose of the relocation was to increase the overall number of men served and to secure a property that would allow for the development of programming that leads men experiencing homelessness out of poverty once and for all.

We are excited to share that our new location is now opening

LEON SUPRENANT

members of the clergy. Through the sacrament of holy orders, they are specially configured to Christ, the “deacon” or “servant” of all (cf. Mk

10:45; Lk 22:27). And yet, most permanent deacons are married with particular responsibilities in the home, or “domestic church.”

How are deacons to understand their vocation as “married clergy” in a way that does justice to both sacraments? That is a great question to which I would like to

offer three principles to aid our understanding.

Being vs. Doing

After baptism, we are Christians and members of the church. We carry that identity with us wherever we go and in whatever we do. After marriage, we are married men and women wherever we go, and we even wear a ring or carry a picture to remind us of that reality when we are apart.

Similarly, deacons carry their identity with them wherever they go and in whatever they do. Especially for younger, married deacons with children, much of their diaconal activity takes place in their home, not to mention in their workplace.

Integration vs. Compartmentalization

Sometimes we are inclined to compartmentalize the diaconate. When we approach it from this perspective, one perceives the diaconate as something tacked on to the life of an already active Catholic husband and father. It becomes merely the “things they do at church” that “steal time” from their family and work.

I propose that we consider the diaconate not as extending (or overextending) the married Catholic man’s “to-do list,” but as a new deepening of his life in Christ, empowering him to give more fully of himself to family,

“WShalom House is a Sanctuary of Hope

through an extensive review prior to entry.

INSIDE CATHOLIC CHARITIES

LAUREN SOLIDUM

and it is divinely fitting — the former Sanctuary of Hope archdiocesan retreat center in Kansas City, Kansas. The space will remain a sanctuary of hope, and Catholic Charities is grateful

hat have the Romans ever done for us?”

I love that scene in the Monty Python movie, “Life of Brian.”

A Zealot is trying to foment a Jewish rebellion with that question, but the group keeps answering with a list of all Rome’s engineering and legal achievements. The Zealot begrudgingly acknowledges these but keeps asking the inflammatory question, as if there is no answer.

In a lot of ways, the secular world is like that Zealot by asking, “What has Jesus Christ ever done for us?” as if there is no answer.

friends, co-workers and parish as part of a beautiful, integrated life.

Priority vs. Value

When a deacon is at home with a sick kid, at a soccer game or recital, or on a “date night” with his wife — and not doing something at the parish instead — it’s not because he got married before he became a deacon or because marriage is more important than holy orders.

Rather, those intentional choices reflect a properly ordered (and diaconal) set of priorities, grounded in prayer, effective spousal communication and docility to the Holy Spirit.

We will further unpack these principles in future columns.

situation.

tual fellowship groups

to the archdiocese for their commitment to serving the poor.

Shalom House will be a transitional living program which will serve up to 60 men — a substantial increase from 24 in years past. Men will be referred to Shalom House through a variety of community partners and parishes. Each resident will go

The renovations of Shalom House will allow the program to be more deeply infused with employment and education services. The revamped program will run over a course of 12 months with the ultimate resident goals of achieving permanent housing and employment; improved physical, mental and spiritual health; and a renewed sense of hope.

Why a men’s-only transitional living program? While most do not identify men as “vulnerable,” men experiencing homelessness are most often left without the resources necessary to repair their health, relationships and housing

If we are successful in serving men in need, then Catholic Charities is committed to reviewing the transitional living needs of pregnant women experiencing homelessness, women and children, and families.

The work of Catholic Charities relies on the mobilization of the laity and community members. In our new space, there will be a variety of opportunities to support Shalom House at Sanctuary of Hope from capital expenses to volunteerism, including:

• property and walking trail cleanup

• serving of meals or supporting weekly support groups with refreshments

• coordination of spiri-

“WWhat has Jesus Christ ever done for you?

cons. The “kerygma” is the core revelation of God’s goodness and personal love for each of us. It is the proclamation, the telling of God’s story, with four components: goodness of creation; sin and its consequences; God’s response to our sin; and our response to what God has done.

your response? Faith is God’s work within us to which we respond.

• volunteerism within on-site programming such as Family Financial Transformations classes

If you or your parish group are interested in volunteering with Catholic Charities, contact us online at: CCNEKvolunteers@ catholiccharitiesks.org or call (913) 433-2081.

Catholic Charities is humbled to begin this next chapter of services and grateful to all who have made this opportunity possible.

At Catholic Charities, our mission is to move those we serve from immediate crisis to self-sufficiency — what an incredible opportunity we have through Shalom House.

DEACON BILL SCHOLL

Are you able to answer that question? If you are, it’s because

you know the “kerygma,” and if your “kerygma” is to be effective in this current age, the practice of social justice must be included in your response.

This Advent, we have been going through the “kerygma” through the preaching of our priests and dea-

At the archbishop’s urging, preachers have been leaning into Father John Ricardo’s outline of the “kerygma” from his book “Rescued,” as we equip the faithful to weave the Gospel story into their personal witness to what Jesus Christ has done for us.

So, what is your answer? So, what is

This response has three components: gratitude, surrender and mission. We thank God by our worship and prayer; we surrender to God’s will in our life by obedience and discernment; and we participate in God’s mission to turn this upside-down world right-side-up by works of charity and justice.

Social justice is that virtue by which the baptized and confirmed apply the social teachings of the church to build up the kingdom of God in all their areas of influence. We join Jesus in his messianic mission “to bring glad

tidings to the poor, proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free” (Lk 4:18).

We don’t just give to the poor; we grapple with what causes their poverty. Empowered by grateful worship and trustful surrender to God’s plan over ours, we engage in politics, economics and culture as Christ’s agents.

By our kerygmatic acts of social justice, let our neighbors hear the answer to “What has Jesus Christ ever done for us?” no matter how much it may annoy the secular powers who prefer that question to go unanswered.

Deacon Scholl is the archdiocesan consultant for social justice. You can email him at: socialjustice@archkck.org.

Lauren Solidum is the executive director of Catholic Charities.

Leon Suprenant is the co-director of the Office of the Permanent Diaconate. He may be reached at leons@archkck.org.

CHRIST IS BORN

PHOTOS BY JAY SOLDNER

Special-needs participants from all over the archdiocese took part in a living Nativity on Dec. 17 at Queen of the Holy Rosary Church in Overland Park. The Nativity was part of a special iCare (Inclusive Catholic Activities and Religious Experiences) Mass. Father Bill Bruning, pastor of Queen of the Holy Rosary, was the celebrant. Participants — ranging from children to adults — participated in the readings and music to convey the Nativity story.

HOLY ANGELS

HOLY FAMILY

WISE MEN

From left, Lee Giesler, Rosemary Dorr, Jenny Buddemyer and Monica Micek play the part of angels in iCare’s live Nativity on Dec. 17.

Michael Hall and Anna Brabston portray Joseph and Mary as they are surrounded by angels and a shepherd. The angels, from left, are: Jenny Buddemyer, Andrea Hill, Clare Conrad, Patsy Morgan, Rosalee Morgan and Lee Giesler. The part of the shepherd is played by Aidan Neal.

The three kings make their way toward Jesus as they follow the Star of Bethlehem. From left, are: James Johnson, Steven Moobery and John Johnson.