12-24-10 Vol. 32 No. 20

www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 32, No. 20 december 24, 2010

A day in the LIFE OF THE ArchdiocesE OF KANSAS CITY IN KANSAS

T

he photos in this issue will give you a window on the church I am privileged to observe every day. Archbishop Keleher and I are continually edified by the beauty, generosity and fidelity of the priests, religious and laity of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

+Joseph F. Naumann

+James P. Keleher

Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas

Archbishop Emeritus of Kansas City in Kansas

be The ne no L re w xt ea ill we ve ek n

Our wish for you this holy season is that all your preparations for the Christ child’s arrival may bear fruit, and that the new year will find you growing ever closer to your Savior.

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 2

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 3

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

‘Preparing Him room’ in the Heartland

P

By Anita McSorley

Leaven managing editor

hotographers are a strange breed.

They’re the sort of folks who happily crawl under, lean over and, on occasion, suspend above all sorts of things to get the perfect shot.

They will drive any distance, brave any weather, and talk their way through any obstacle short of the TSA, all to lay their lens on just one indelible image.

For this issue, I asked them to do all three.

My e-mail went out only a few weeks ago: “The Leaven has decided to undertake something we’ve discussed for years — a special issue featuring a day in the life of the archdiocesan church as documented in photographs.

“It will mean round-the-clock hours, tons of driving (with no mileage comp) and a shot list as long as your arm.

“Are you in?”

The responses were quick and overwhelmingly positive.

“Sounds really fun.”

“I am ready and willing.”

“I would love to participate.”

And, my personal favorite: “Thank you for asking me.”

I told you they were a strange breed.

Logistical nightmare The job of trying to create shot lists for 10 photographers trying to document an entire church in the course of a single day (12:01 a.m. to midnight, Dec. 15) was a gargantuan one. So, being the good manager that I am, I quickly delegated the task to production manager Todd Habiger.

Photographing church activities is by no means an unusual activity for any of the 10, most of whom have covered scads of church events in the past. But to photograph THE church — not a liturgy or a dedication, but the living, breathing, round-the-clock-kingdom-building work that we each hopefully engage in each day — was a different animal altogether.

The first challenge was the light — or lack thereof. From those keeping company with Jesus in the middle of the night, to Father Shawn Tunink’s candlelit morning Mass in Topeka (surprise!), it was at first the lighting that found the photographers stretching the limits of their expertise and ingenuity.

Photo by Don Wolf

We knew the 10 photographers sent out to document a day in the life of the archdiocesan church on Dec. 15 would bring back more pictures than we could ever possibly use. We expanded this edition — twice — and still, this lovely image of server Natalie Bragdon from the managing editor’s home parish of Christ the King in Kansas City, Kan., had to be rescued from the cutting room floor. tographed. Don said he never realized how proud he was to be a ’Dotte (a bornand-bred Wyandotte Countian) and a KCK Catholic.

JD Benning, photographer for St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison, also did not have far to go for his shoot. Although he had to psych himself up to brave the midnight cold, once out there JD was impressed by how instrumental the church was in the life of the community — “both in times of prayer, such as morning and evening prayer at the abbey and Mount,” and in practical service, like at Project Concern, a soup kitchen-type of program sponsored by the church.

Home-field advantage The second challenge was the distances. Some photographers had it easier than others. Todd had mapped out the shoots by geographical regions: While some photogs drove from town to town to catch events at parishes throughout their region, Don Wolf wound up covering his hometown.

Despite having the longest shot list — Don hit a record 15 locations and logged a surprising 73 miles without every leaving Kansas City, Kan. — he discovered he had personal ties to literally every single one of the churches or agencies he pho-

Holy ground Leaven senior reporter Joe Bollig, on the other hand, was traveling territory less familiar to him in Wamego and Paxico, then on to Emporia. With a shot list shorter than the professional photogs, Joe had time to follow up his visit to a farm family saying grace before its midday meal with a trip out with one of the sons to move the cattle.

How does moving cattle constitute an act of faith, you might ask?

Joe, a recent graduate of the Maryvale Institute catechesis program, said the

answer is simple.

The activities documented in this issue, he insisted, “aren’t photographic trivia, but the very substance of holy lives — the places where Christ’s will is incarnated daily in his body — the church — which is the People of God.” Not all of the members of The Leaven staff were waxing catechetical over their assignments. Todd, who had a little more time to spare than the other photographers (whom he had failed to schedule for even so much as a lunch break) decided to take a moment to explore a low-maintenance road that was more grass than dirt.

“Fittingly enough it led nowhere,” said Todd, “which seemed perfect to me.”

The 250-plus miles he logged in the Southern Region of the archdiocese reminded him of just what a vast amount of territory the archdiocese covers. Impressed by the “rolling hills and vast pastures” he drove through, Todd concluded that “there is such a quiet peacefulness in our rural areas that is beautiful — and sacred.”

Teamwork Being married to the assignment editor didn’t buy photographer Lori Wood

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark@theleaven.com

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe@theleaven.com

Advertising Representative Jennifer Siebes jennifer@theleaven.com

President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita@theleaven.com

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd@theleaven.com

Reporter Kara Hansen kara@theleaven.com

Habiger any special breaks, since her first shoot was of Father John Schmeidler, OFM Cap., as he prepared to start his daily run at some ridiculous hour of the morning. Although she brought back some beautiful images from that and other shoots, it is the one that got away that haunts her.

When the freezing rain in the early evening caused her to slide through a stop sign in Topeka, Lori decided she’d better head home instead of to her last assignment. Naturally, it was the one she was most looking forward to: the children of Our Lady of Guadalupe Church performing “Las Posadas,” a reenactment of Mary and Joseph’s search for a birthplace for Jesus.

The Leaven’s two primary photographers — Susan McSpadden and Elaina Cochran — found Dec. 15 a delightful change from the many, more formal, church activities they usually cover for us.

“As a photographer,” said Susan, “I’m always amazed and humbled by how willing people are to let you into their lives.”

But what she particularly loved about this project was the opportunity to show more “personal and human” moments in the life of the church.

Elaina, on the other hand, said she particularly enjoyed being part of a team; even though the photographers shot alone, the phone calls, e-mails, and texts between them flew, especially in the early hours. One of Elaina’s most memorable shoots, she said, was of the relative who now fills the shoes of the previous “Shoe Santa.”

Fernando Ugarte’s day job as a surgeon in Marysville doesn’t leave him much time to shoot for The Leaven. But on Dec. 15 he drove more than 200 miles to cover eight events and described it as “the best Christmas present I ever had.”

He does consider it a minor miracle, however, that the patient that suddenly required his urgent attention that day resided in Axtell. You see, when the call came in, he was already there, photographing St. Michael School’s Christmas pageant. Who says doctors don’t make house calls anymore?

Perhaps Leaven writer Jill Ragar Esfeld had the most transformative day, since the self-described “writer by trade and photographer by default” finally cast aside her training wheels and shot her assignments on manual settings. For a fuller account of her day, and this special issue in slide-show format, visit The Leaven Web site at www.theleaven.com.

12:24 a.m.

A new day begins with a new life, safe in the capable hands of nurses Cathy Van Buskirk (left), of Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe, and Diane Dominguez, of Holy Angels Parish in Basehor. Both work in the Providence Family Care Center of Providence Hospital in Kansas City, Kan. Photo by Don Wolf

1:32 a.m.

Providence Place resident Irene Edwards works a jigsaw puzzle in the pre-dawn darkness of the extended-stay nursing facility in Kansas City, Kan. Photo by Don Wolf

A remarkable day We’ll let you, our readers, be the judge of how good a job we did of capturing a single day in the life of the archdiocese.

But we know our own lives have been enriched immeasurably by the opportunity to see all of you, as the Christmas carol goes, “preparing Him room.”

May the Christ child find you home to him in a new way this Christmas season, as we found you home to us.

I think Dr. Ugarte spoke for all of us here at The Leaven — when he’d thawed out enough to type — when he wrote: “I had a truly remarkable day.

“Can we do it again? Soon?”

Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@ theleaven.com.

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Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

12:30 a.m.

Benedictine College senior Brandon Boesch and St. Benedict parishioner Kay Mangimelli spend some quiet moments before the Blessed Sacrament in the adoration chapel at St. Benedict’s Parish in Atchison. Photo by JD Benning

12:57 a.m.

Viewed from this angle, a parishioner of Holy Trinity in Lenexa seems part of the stained glass window of the adoration chapel. Photo by Michelle Gress

3:59 a.m.

Brother John Peto, OSB, proclaims the first reading at the early morning Mass at St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison.

Photo by JD Benning

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 4

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 5

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

6:50 a.m.

In keeping with more than 1,000 years of Benedictine tradition, Father Matthew Habiger, OSB, offers a reading at morning prayer at St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison. Photo by JD Benning

5:07 a.m.

Capuchin Franciscan Father John Schmeidler, pastor of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Lawrence, prepares for his morning run as leader of his own pack. Every morning at 5 a.m., Father John takes four neighborhood dogs along on his run before going to morning prayer. Photo by Lori Wood Habiger

7:17 a.m.

Father James Shaughnessy, pastor of St. Gregory Church in Marysville, starts morning Mass. Photo by Fernando Ugarte

6:07 a.m.

Father Greg Hammes, associate pastor of Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood, wages man’s eternal war against stubble in the parish rectory. Photo by Susan McSpadden

6:10 a.m.

Msgr. Michael Mullen, pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kan., prays the Liturgy of the Hours in the quiet of his empty church before 7 a.m. Mass. Photo by Don Wolf

7:36 a.m.

Martha Concannon, principal of Holy Trinity School in Lenexa, welcomes 5th-grader Allison Coens, as another school day begins. Photo by Jill Ragar Esfeld

6:39 a.m.

Advent lights burn brightly as Father Tim Haberkorn, pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Topeka, celebrates daily Mass. Photo by Lori Wood Habiger

6:53 a.m.

Msgr. Thomas Tank, pastor of Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, takes a quick final check of his vestments before Mass. Photo by Elaina Cochran

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 6

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 7

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

7:58 a.m.

7:39 a.m.

Michael Shirley (left) shares his thoughts at a weekly “Men of Nativity” meeting, a group that focuses on male spirituality at the Church of the Nativity in Leawood.

Photo by Susan McSpadden

Brooke Twombly (left), 12, and Megan Muller, 13, altar servers at Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka, light candles before morning Mass. A few hours earlier, associate pastor Father Shawn Tunink had decided to celebrate this daily Mass by candlelight in a nod to an Advent tradition in Germanic countries. Called a “Rorate Mass,” it honors the Blessed Mother. Photo by Lori Wood Habiger

8:23 a.m.

Msgr. Michael Mullen makes it a regular practice to sit down, visit, share a doughnut, and pray with the eighth-graders of St. Patrick School in Kansas City, Kan. Photo by Elaina Cochran

8:59 a.m.

The halls buzz with student traffic at Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kan., between classes. Students were focused on taking finals on this day. Photo by Don Wolf

8:04 a.m.

Mary Jane Zych (right) leads the rosary for fellow parishioners Paul J. Breitenstein (center), who will be 95 on Christmas Day, and Myron Gilsdorf at Christ the King Church in Kansas City, Kan. Photo by Don Wolf

8:03 a.m.

Students arrive at St. Michael the Archangel School in Leawood for the start of the day. Photo by Susan McSpadden

8:31 a.m.

Father Gabriel Landis, OSB, pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Atchison, elevates the monstrance during Benediction and eucharistic adoration. Photo by JD Benning

9:01 a.m.

Vernon Randall, a certified nurse aide at St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison, attends the daily rosary and Mass for the aged and infirm monks at 9 a.m. Photo by JD Benning

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 8

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 9

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

[ A day in the archdiocese ] 9:15 a.m.

Most Pure Heart of Mary pastor Father Brian Schieber listens to third-grader J.T. Tetuan’s confession during a penance service at Mater Dei Church in Topeka.

Photo by Lori Wood Habiger

9:04 a.m.

Donated toys fill a store at Catholic Charities, where Menai Curry shops for Christmas presents for her two children. About 400 children will get toys this year, thanks to Catholic Charities. Each family shopping at the store also received a turkey. Photo by Jill Ragar Esfeld

9:12 a.m.

Father Pat Sullivan, parochial administrator of Annunciation Parish in Frankfort, St. Monica-St. Elizabeth Parish in Blue Rapids, and St. Joseph Parish in Lillis, hits the road between parishes. New to the area, Father Sullivan makes good use of his GPS. Photo by Fernando Ugarte

9:23 a.m.

Steve Raydo helps Holy Name School second-grader Dustin Brennan try on shoes at Payless ShoeSource in Shawnee. Raydo is the grandson of John Raydo, the original “Shoe Santa” who bought shoes for the needy until the time of his death. Holy Name is in Kansas City, Kan. Photo by Elaina Cochran

10:05 a.m.

Teacher Hannah Malott, of St. Gregory School in Marysville, directs students in their Christmas program.

Photo by Fernando Ugarte

10:06 a.m.

Helen Skradski, a parishioner of St. John the Baptist in Kansas City, Kan., tweaks an arrangement of flowers at Skradski Funeral Home in Kansas City, Kan. Photo by Don Wolf

9:46 a.m.

10:04 a.m.

Students from St. Matthew School in Topeka tour the food bank distribution center of the Topeka Rescue Mission after delivering a donation to Residents of the Vintage Park assisted living community in Wamego worship at a Mass celebrated by Father John Pilcher, pastor of the agency. Photo by Lori Wood Habiger St. Bernard Parish there. Photo by Joe Bollig

10:07 a.m.

Tim Wolters (right) is a teacher at Happy Hearts Adult Education Center. Happy Hearts is sponsored by Mount St. Scholastica Monastery and is held in the Sophia Center on the Mount campus. Photo by JD Benning

10:18 a.m.

At Touch of Heaven, a Catholic book and merchandise store in Topeka, clerk Ellen Klinefelter (kneeling), of Mater Dei Parish, helps loyal customer Elizabeth V. Wunder, of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, shop for a few people on her Christmas list. Photo by Lori Wood Habiger

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 10

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 11

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

11:16 a.m.

It doesn’t take much to entertain Good Shepherd kindergartners Kyle Vogel (left) and Dillon Scharpenburg during lunch at the Shawnee school.

Photo by Susan McSpadden

10:54 a.m.

10:38 a.m.

Alice Flores (left) and Myrtle Freschett (right), homebound Communion ministers from St. Pius X Parish in Mission, visit with parishioner Vera Clifford, a resident of Bickford At Mission Springs assisted living community. Photo by Susan McSpadden

10:41 a.m.

Luis Ortiz of the Keeler Women’s Center in Kansas City Kan., advises Ciemantha Stubblefield on job opportunities. Photo by Don Wolf

Fifth-grade students at Holy Trinity School in Paola learn their science lesson the tasty way. Toasting bread for the breakfast demonstrates radiation; the pancakes illustrate conduction. Fifth-grade teacher Beth Miller serves Kaitlyn Wright the day’s lesson. Photo by Todd Habiger

11:20 a.m.

On a quiet day at Mother Teresa of Calcutta Church on the northern outskirts of Topeka, secretary Mary Zachariasen answers the phone. Photo by Lori Wood Habiger

11:52 a.m.

10:55 a.m.

Susan Smith and Ron Walleck, employees of Church of the Nativity in Leawood, take a break with the rest of the staff at Nativity to cross the street and sing carols to the residents of Grand Court, a retirement community. Photo by Elaina Cochran

11:07 a.m.

Two Sisters, Servants of Mary brave the bitter cold to attend a prayer service at St. Mary/St. Anthony Church in Kansas City, Kan. Photo by Don Wolf

Students from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park gather donations for their adopted families. Photo by Elaina Cochran

11:57 a.m.

Everyone is all smiles during a lunch at Project Concern, a notfor-profit private social service agency in Atchison. Photo by JD Benning

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 12

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 13

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

12:41 p.m.

First-grader Fisher Galey of St. Philippine Duchesne School in Garnett is pretty sure he knows the answer. Photo by Todd Habiger

12:07 p.m.

Dave Gaumer, a deacon candidate and parishioner of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lansing, assists Army chaplain Father Lee Yoakam, OSB, as he celebrates noon Mass in the main post chapel at Fort Leavenworth. Photo by Jill Ragar Esfeld

12:51 p.m.

Donnelly College student Crystal Sudduth works with the Licensed Practical Nursing program’s new patient simulators. Photo by Don Wolf

12:09 p.m.

Myron Hurla (right), a member of Sacred Heart Parish in Paxico, bows his head as his wife Laverne leads the family in prayer before lunch. His sons Vincent (left) and Roy were among those who joined the extended farming family for the meal at their parents’ house east of Paxico. Photo by Joe Bollig

12:19 p.m.

Father Joseph Portzer, FSSP, elevates the chalice during the consecration at a traditional Latin Mass at Blessed Sacrament Church in Kansas City, Kan. Photo by Don Wolf

1:25 p.m.

Roy Hurla, a member of Sacred Heart Parish in Paxico, moves some cattle that he was keeping at a neighbor’s farm.

Photo by Joe Bollig

12:31 p.m.

Young guitarists rehearse for the children’s program set for later that evening at St. Michael Parish in Axtell. Photo by Fernando Ugarte

1:10 p.m.

Inspired by the joyful Christmas music performed by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth at the employee appreciation luncheon, held at the motherhouse, Sister Bonnie Bachle (left) joins Sister Maureen Hall, community director, in a spontaneous dance. Photo by Jill Ragar Esfeld

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 14

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 15

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

1:40 p.m.

1:30 p.m.

Benedictine College senior Matt Minnis gives a campus tour to prospective student Cecilia Hoopes. Photo by Steve Johnson

Hayden High School president Rick Strecker discusses budget issues with board of trustee members during an early afternoon meeting at the Topeka school. Photo by Lori Wood Habiger

2:03 p.m.

Third-grader Cameron Rogers makes an ornament at Queen of the Holy Rosary, Wea, for a service project.

Photo by Elaina Cochran

1:57 p.m.

Hard at work on a quilt at the Paxico Senior Citizen Center are: (from left, clockwise) Rita Heigert, Alice Michaelis, Virginia Glotzbach, Laverne Hurla, Lila Glotzbach, and (partially hidden) Rita Glotzbach. They are all members of Sacred Heart Parish in Paxico.

Photo by Joe Bollig

2:07 p.m.

From a perch atop the master’s chair, Bebe keeps a eye on Joseph Reindl, a parishioner of St. Joseph Church in Leavenworth, and his home health care provider, Sister Paula Rose Jauernig, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth. Photo by Jill Ragar Esfeld

1:40 p.m.

Sister Lucero Garcia attends to patient Mary Ann Dercher during a patient visit in Kansas City, Kan. The Sisters, Servants of Mary have been providing in-home patient care for Dercher for about a year. Photo by Susan McSpadden

1:45 p.m.

Archbishop Joseph Naumann listens attentively as a fellow Donnelly College Board member makes a point.

He is flanked by Dick Flanigan, senior vice president of research services at Cerner Corp., and Father Gary Pennings, archdiocesan vicar general, both of whom are also board members. Photo by Don Wolf

2:15 p.m.

Father Arul Carasala, pastor of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Onaga, anoints parishioner Mary Lieb, a resident of the Eastridge Nursing Home in Centralia. Photo by Fernando Ugarte

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 16

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 17

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

[ A day in the archdiocese ] 3:26 p.m.

Theresa Rettele, a retired teacher, gives a tour of St. Mary Church in St. Benedict. The church is one of the 8 Wonders of Kansas Art. She holds a reliquary believed to contain a piece of the cross of Jesus. Photo by Fernando Ugarte

2:20 p.m.

University of Saint Mary’s nursing and science students take final exams before the Christmas break. The Leavenworth college is affiliated with the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. Photo by John Schultz

2:38 p.m.

Levi Allender paints one of the dorm rooms at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg. Despite it being the off-season, the ranch is busy with activity as the dorms are repainted and carpeted, and the interior of the new chapel is under construction. Photo by Todd Habiger

4:18 p.m.

Stanton Weber (center), playing guard for the Bishop Miege Stags of Roeland Park, is fouled by defending Kearney players A.J. Shippert (left) and Chris Head during the 16th Hy-Vee Shootout tournament at Avila University in Kansas City, Mo. Miege lost a tight game, 48-46. Photo by Susan McSpadden

3 p.m.

Father Ed Oen, CPPS, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Baileyville, prepares his supper. On the menu tonight is pot roast with corn on the cob. While some priests have their meals prepared for them, Father Ed has long enjoyed cooking his own food. Photo

by Fernando Ugarte

4:25 p.m.

Father Jerry Spencer, pastor of Holy Name Parish in Kansas City, Kan., and chaplain at the University of Kansas Medical Center, experiences a bit of role reversal when he finds himself a patient there. The colorful blanket he wears was delivered by teachers of Holy Name School. Photo by Elaina Cochran

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 18

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 19

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

4:44 p.m.

Jim Muckenthaler, a member of Sacred Heart Parish in Emporia, helps a customer at his familyowned food equipment company in Emporia. Photo by Joe Bollig

4:45 p.m.

Retired Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica’s Dooley Center in Atchison gather for evening prayer. The Dooley Center was named one of the top nursing homes in the country by U.S. News and World Report magazine. Photo by JD Benning

5:19 p.m.

First-grader Evangelina Hrenchir designs a Nativity scene with stickers during her religious education class at Holy Family Parish in Eudora. Photo by Jill Ragar Esfeld

5:20 p.m.

Joanna Lopez (blue shirt) and Bridget Dwyer of the Sacred Heart Cardinals practice in the gym of Sacred Heart School in Shawnee. Photo by Elaina Cochran

5:31 p.m.

Father Patric Riley and his dog “guard” the halls of Holy Family Parish in Eudora, while religious education and confirmation preparation classes meet. Photo by Jill Ragar Esfeld

5:31 p.m.

The Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica Monastery in Atchison gather for vespers. Photo by JD Benning

5:17 p.m.

First-grade Daisy Scouts and third-grade Brownie Scouts from St. John the Evangelist Parish in Lawrence sing Christmas carols to residents of Pioneer Ridge Retirement Community. Photo by Jane Graves

5:10 p.m.

Sister Carmina Troncoso (left), OSB, listens to Sister Aurora Villamar, OSB, as she talks to a visitor. The two Benedictine nuns minister to Hispanic members of St. Catherine Parish in Emporia. Photo by Joe Bollig

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 20

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 21

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

5:34 p.m.

Marcella “Bunny” Bragdon, a member of Christ the King’s RCIA team, explains the scenes in the stained-glass windows and the Stations of the Cross to the candidates and catechumens of this year’s class at the Kansas City, Kan., parish. Photo by Don Wolf

5:57 p.m.

As freezing drizzle falls outside, Topeka Region priests enjoy an Italian dinner in the basement of Mater Dei-Assumption Church, located in the shadow of the Kansas Capitol in downtown Topeka. Photo by Lori Wood Habiger

6:08 p.m.

Jeannie Gerstner accompanies the choir as it practices at Annunciation Church, Frankfort. Photo by Fernando Ugarte

5:46 p.m.

Nine-year-old Alexis Davis, a fourth-grader at Sacred Heart School in Emporia, snacks as she studies in the rectory kitchen while her father, Jay, attends a parish council meeting. Photo by Joe Bollig

6:18 p.m.

Donna Dieker sweeps between the pews at St. Teresa Church in Westphalia. Dieker joined several other women of the parish in getting the church prepared for weekend Mass. Photo by Todd Habiger

5:51 p.m.

Ten-week-old Emmalyn snoozes through the meal preparations of her mom, Meghan Lojewski. Meghan is a member of the Mater Dei-Assumption Church Altar Society and was steaming vegetables to serve Topeka Region priests at a dinner in the basement of the church, located in downtown Topeka. Photo by Lori Wood Habiger

6:18 p.m.

5:56 p.m.

Priests gather for dinner at St. Paul Parish, Olathe, prior to an Advent penance service.

They are: (from left, clockwise) Father James White, SJ; Father Matthew Schiffelbein; Father John Torrez; Msgr. Thomas Tank; and Father Ron Cornish. Photo by Susan McSpadden

Father Ray May, pastor of St. Catherine Parish in Emporia and director of the Didde Catholic Campus Center at Emporia State University, studies under the watchful eye of Pope Benedict XVI. Photo by Joe Bollig

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 22

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 23

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

[ A day in the archdiocese ] 7:19 p.m.

A few members of Annunciation Parish, Frankfort, gather to pray the rosary on a very frigid night. Photo by Fernando Ugarte

7:19 p.m.

7:11 p.m.

Parishioners of St. Francis Xavier Parish in Burlington enter the church for a communal penance service, despite temperatures dropping to the low 20s and the threat of freezing rain. Photo by Todd Habiger

7:04 p.m.

Before an ice storm in Eudora cancelled the Holy Family Parish’s high school Christmas party, some revelers arrived dressed for the best/worst Christmas sweater contest: (from left) Sarah Brown, Alexandra Bock, Claire Mersmann, Anthony Mersmann, Leah Gruber, Amanda Mast, youth minister Molly Pratt, and Gary Pratt (seated).

Photo by Jill Ragar Esfeld

Father Jeremy Heppler, OSB, a religion teacher and chaplain at Maur HillMount Academy in Atchison, grants absolution at a penance service at St. Benedict’s Parish. Photo by JD Benning

7:24 p.m.

7:18 p.m.

Kyle Handzel wouldn’t miss his Wednesday night league bowling at St. John’s Catholic Club lanes in Kansas City, Kan., the same lanes his dad bowled for 40 years. Kyle is the only person to win the St. John’s bowling tournament three times. Photo by Don Wolf

7:18 p.m.

Father Gabriel Landis, OSB, pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Atchison, hears a confession during a penance service at St. Benedict’s Parish in Atchison. Photo by JD Benning

The students at Atchison Catholic Elementary School take their places for the start of the school’s annual Christmas program. Photo by JD Benning

7:27 p.m.

The choir at Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park rehearse the songs for Sunday’s Mass. Photo by Elaina Cochran

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 24

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 25

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

[ A day in the archdiocese ]

7:28 p.m.

Jared Ostermann, music director at St. Ann Church in Prairie Village, gives directions to members of the choir during practice. Photo by Susan McSpadden

7:35 p.m.

Atchison’s Maur Hill-Mount Academy boarding students Casey Doll (left), of Chicago, and Ana Maria Silveira of Marida, Mexico, prepare for their upcoming religion finals. Photo by JD Benning

7:47 p.m.

Fireman Chris Werner, a member of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kan., suits up quickly to respond to a call.

Werner works at the Kansas City, Kan., Fire Department’s headquarters on 6th St. Photo by Don Wolf

9 p.m.

Archdiocesan seminarian Justin Nelson, second year pre-theology student at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis, prays at Church of the Ascension, Overland Park. Photo by Michele Gress

8:04 p.m.

The Rhythm of Christ participants John Rudzinski, director, and Amanda Gerber, cantor, practice their craft at Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee. The Rhythm of Christ features 18 singers/musicians who lead the 5 p.m. Sunday Mass at Good Shepherd every week. Photo by Elaina Cochran

Classifieds Employment Certified reading specialist - Bishop Ward High School is taking applications for a reading specialist. Job duties include serving as a resource to teachers and working with students needing reading assistance. The qualified candidate will possess a valid bachelor’s degree, a valid Kansas endorsement, be proficient in the use of technology and have effective interpersonal skills. Interested individuals should send a cover letter and resume to: Principal, Bishop Ward High School, 708 N. 18 St., Kansas City, KS 66102.

Chief financial officer - For Mother Teresa of Calcutta Church, Topeka. This paid position is responsible for all financial and accounting operations. Applicant must be proficient in Excel, QuickBooks and Word, and understand benefits and payroll processing. Applicant must be a practicing Catholic and have a basic understanding of nonprofit agencies. Mail resume by Jan. 14, 2011, to: Mother Teresa Church, 2014 N.W. 46th St., Topeka, KS 66618-5817.

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

Administrator - The Diocese of Wichita is seeking an administrator for All Saints School, Wichita, for the 2011 - 12 school year. Candidates must be practicing Catholics; be eligible for Kansas licensure as an administrator; promote a standards-based instructional program; and possess strong interpersonal and organizational skills. Interested candidates may contact Dan McAdam, director of staff services, Catholic Diocese of Wichita, 424 N. Broadway, Wichita, KS 67202. Application deadline is Jan. 15, 2011.

Principals - Seeking dynamic Catholic school principals who embrace the Catholic faith and possess spiritual leadership skills blended with strong instructional leadership and managerial skills. Two elementary schools in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas have openings for the position of principal for the 2011-2012 academic year: St. Patrick, Kansas City, Kan. – Serves 273 students in grades K-8 and employs 19 teachers.

The preschool is comprised of 57 students and 5 teachers. The community is looking for a vibrant, faith-filled principal with excellent educational and administrative skills to both maintain the current programs as well as effectively address future programs. In addition, the principal at St. Patrick is expected to implement a comprehensive marketing initiative to increase school enrollment. In order to be successful at this effort, the principal will need to have an energetic and creative approach to reaching the entire St. Patrick community.

Curé of Ars, Leawood, – Serves 579 students in grades K-8 and employs 39 teachers. The preschool is comprised of 57 students and 2 teachers.

The Curé of Ars community is looking for an excellent communicator, a vibrant, faith-filled principal with excellent educational and administrative skills to maintain and build upon the strong Catholic identity and academic programming that is a hallmark of the school as well as effectively address future challenges.

Principal applicants must be practicing Catholics and hold (or be eligible for) an administrative license from the Kansas State Department of Education. Interested individuals should complete the principal application available on the Web site at: www.arch kckcs.org. Applications are due by Jan. 7, 2011. Questions may be directed to Dr. Kathleen O’Hara, superintendent of schools for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, at (913) 721-1570 or, via e-mail, at: kohara@archkckcs.org.

Call center representatives – We are looking for telephone professionals seeking top pay and benefits. Prior phone experience preferred. We are growing and need quality people to grow with us.

Prior benefits administration experience preferred.

To apply, visit the Web site at: www.cobraguard.net (click on the “jobs” tab at the bottom of the page) or forward your resume, via e-mail, to: HR@cobraguard.net. EOE

Services Need help with QuickBooks®? - I provide setup, customizing, and maintenance; quarterly and/or yearly accounting; and support for your certified public accountant. I can help with balancing monthly statements and providing profit and expense tracking. Call Ann at Evans Consulting LLC at (913) 406-9778 or send an e-mail to: Annevans401@gmail.com. Member of Curé of Ars Parish.

Computer repair and sales - Geeks on Guard will help you set up a new computer, upgrade your old one, or build a new one. We will fix annoying issues such as: popups, viruses, and unwanted programs. Speed up your computer, backup your data, and recover lost files. Call (877) 724-8727 or send an e-mail to: info@gogllc.com.

Machine quilting - by Jenell Noeth, Basehor.

Also, quilts made to order. Call (913) 724-1837.

Counseling - Topeka Marriage and family, child, teen, personal Shunga Creek Mental Health Call Ken Zweig, LSCSW at (785) 969-5308.

Husband and wife cleaning team - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 9402959.

Perfection housecleaning - I am available to clean in the JoCo and Olathe areas. I clean with honesty and care. No hourly charge. Cost determined by the needs of the client. I also take down Christmas decorations, organize, store and cleanup after the holidays. Many years of experience and references. For a free consultation, call Dee at (816) 214-5102.

Mortgage rates have never been lower!!!

Considering a refinance or new home purchase?

Call today to see how much money you can save.

We make mortgage loans easy and hassle-free.

Evening and weekend appointments available.

Members of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa.

Call Kurt or Angie at Approved Mortgage Inc. (913) 599-0004 An equal housing lender.

KS mortgage number MC0002252 Bankruptcy - When debt becomes overwhelming, seek professional help. Experienced, compassionate Catholic attorney Teresa Kidd. For a confidential, no obligation consultation, call (913) 422-0610; or send an e-mail to: tkidd@kc.rr.com.

Tree service - Pruning trees for optimal growth and beauty and removal of hazardous limbs or problem trees. Free consultation and bid. Safe, insured, professional. Brad Grabs, Green Solutions of KC, (913) 244-5838. www.GreenSolutionsKC.com.

Yard clean up Gutters and leaf removal Insured and bonded.

Local parishioner. Free estimates.

Call (913) 620-6063.

Home Improvement Need to get ready for the holidays? Clutter getting you down? Organize, fix, assemble, clean – we do it all! For a free consultation, call your professional organizing handyman, Kevin Hogan, M. Ed., today at (913) 271-5055. Insured; references.

Visit the Web site at: www.KOATINDUSTRIES.com.

Clutter problems? Embarrassing garage, basement, attic or any room? Let me help you get organized! Items sorted, grouped, boxed and labeled; areas clean when finished. Great references and insured. Twenty years experience! Handyman repairs also available. To view “before” and “after” pictures, visit my Web site at: WWW.SWALMS.COM. Tillar Swalm (913) 375-9115.

Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing, Licensed and insured.

(913) 599-7998 STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Call for free estimates. Cell: (913) 579-1835; phone: (913) 491-5837; email: smokey cabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

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.

Thank you to all my customers for a great summer and fall! We’re looking for indoor work.

We can do bathroom, kitchen, and basement remodeling. Includes floors, cabinets, doors, windows, sheetrock, painting, and wood rot. You name it – we can do it; just ask. Christmas lights, too!

We’re reasonably priced, fully insured. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates.

JoCo and southern KC metro area. Call Pat at (913) 963-9896.

Woodbright - A very affordable alternative to refinishing, refacing or replacing stained cabinets and woodwork. The average kitchen only costs $500. 18 years experience. Call Woodbright at (913) 940-3020.

Everything plumbing - Leaks, faucets, toilets, sinks, disposals, repairs and replacements. Over 20 years experience. Fully licensed. Service anytime – days/nights/wknds. Contact Mike at (913) 4884930. Member of Church of the Ascension Parish, Overland Park.

Detail construction and remodeling - We offer a full line of home remodeling services. Don’t move — remodel! Johnson county area. Call for a free quote. (913) 709-8401.

The Drywall Doctor, Inc. - A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean!

Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655.

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation* Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!!

Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376

Caregiving Do you or your parents need help at home?

- For as little as $60/week, Benefits of HomeSenior Care can provide assistance with personal care, shopping and many other daily needs. For details, visit our Web site at: benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

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

Vacation Colorado ski vacation - Winter Park. 2 BR, sleeps 6. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec. center with pool & hot tub. Bus to ski area. $125/night; $700/ week. Call Joe Frederick at (913) 385-5589.

Ski cabin in Winter Park, Colo. – 2 BR, 1 BA, on free ski shuttle route. $110/night. Call (913) 6423027. For pictures, visit the Web site at: cabin.forcade associates.com.

Misc.

Cat lover – Would like to employ a special person to board our cat, Boots, for 10 weeks this winter. Boots is house-trained and affectionate, and would prefer a home with no dogs. Call Mary Ann at (913) 299-4835. Boarding and all expenses paid.

Donate a vehicle. Make a difference. Donate your vehicle to Catholic Charities to support those in need. Your tax-deductible donation of a vehicle helps children and families served by Catholic Charities and is an environmentally responsible way to recycle your vehicle. Cars for KC Kids is a partnership between Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas and Catholic Charities of Kansas City - St. Joseph. Call 1 (866) 430-9499 or visit the Web site at: www.cars4kckids.com.

Wanted to buy Antique/Vintage Costume Jewelry ***Wanted to Buy*** * Member St. Joseph Parish Renee Maderak (913) 631-7179 Will buy firearms and related accessories One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. ***WANTED*** I buy coins, older watches, silverware, slot machines, old rifles and shotguns, stoneware crocks and jugs, old furniture from basement or attic.

Call Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269

For Sale American Girl-type solid wood doll furniture - Heirloom quality, built to last a lifetime.

Many types of beds – trundles, daybeds, canopy, bunk, and four-poster. Tables and chairs, clothes bars, and beautiful bedding. Custom orders welcome. Call John Hember at (913) 631-4060. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

Two burial plots - Side by side, at Chapel Hill Cemetery, Kansas City, Kan. Asking $2500 each.

Call (913) 724-3542.

Residential lifts - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood. Call Silver Cross KC at (913) 393-2042.

Entertainment New Years Eve all-city Catholic/Christian singles dance - Beginning Experience will sponsor a fundraising dance in the parish hall at St. Patrick Church, 94th and State Ave., Kansas City, Kan. Just two blocks east of I-435 at the Nebraska Furniture Mart exit. Doors open at 8 p.m.; dancing from 8:30 p.m. - 12:30 a.m. Tickets cost $30 in advance; $35 at the door. Beer, wine, soft drinks, and finger foods will be provided. Music by Zepster the DJ. To order tickets, send a check or money order, payable to Zepster’s A to Z Party DJ’s, to: P.O. Box 14321, Kansas City MO 64152. For information, call (816) 292-2848 or visit the Web site at: www.zepster.com/dances.

DJ Irishman - Colm Delahunt is available for parties, weddings, graduations, and any other function. Playing all your favorite hits from the Village People to U2. Call (913) 548-6765 or visit the Web site at: www.djirishman.com.

Want to help someone heal from an abortion?

Call Toll Free 888-246-1504

I

nf a brother or sister has nothing to wear and has no food for the day and one of you says to them, “Go in peace, keep warm, and eat well,” but you do not give them the necessities of the body, what good is it? So also faith of itself, if it does not have works, is dead.

— James 2:15-17

BE THE CHURCH Congratulations to The Leaven for documenting A Day in the Life of the Church, and sincere thanks to all whose generous gifts to the Archbishop’s Call to Share make the featured ministries, Catholic agencies and pastoral care possible.

Remember your recently deceased loved one by attending a Memorial Mass Saturday, Jan. 8, 2011 9 a.m.

Holy Family Chapel, Resurrection Cemetery, 83rd & Quivira Lenexa

CATHOLIC CEMETERIES 913-371-4040 Wyandotte County Mt. Calvary, Kansas City, Kan. St. John, Kansas City, Kan. Gate of Heaven, Kansas City, Kan. Johnson County Resurrection, Lenexa, Kan. St. Joseph, Shawnee, Kan. St. John, Lenexa, Kan. Mt. Calvary, Olathe, Kan.

Mt. Calvary-K C KS Donald L. Allen Ludmila Baric Agnes A. Behen Clarence M. Brooks Jr. Margie A. Bunch Claude H. Burns William G. Brunsky Robert E. Calovich Allen E. Chase William H. Clark Morris Decaney Jr. Geraldo M. Delgado Eldin T. Golubski Ruth Greif Joseph Harris Nellie M. Kovich Helen G. McSorley Ruben Muro Sr. Joseph J. Panjada Sr Leonard P. Palumbo Dorothy L. Rank Ernest Roschitz William A. Shaw Jr. Joseph J. Soptic Frank A. Sosna Eugene Smith Anida E. Stewart Ivan Sudac James R. Yurchak Elvira Valdivia Rojelio Vargas Ray M. Walsh Carolee T. Werner

RESURRECTION Carle E. Baker Sr. William J. Beyer William P. Biggins Geraldine M. Bridges David P. Brown Christine M. Cheatham Sergey Y. Cheranov Cheryl R. Cody Richard Cook Samuel M. Cornelius Jr. Mary L. Couch Megan Currie Robert D. Curtis Monica Anne Daily Susan V. Davis Michael DeCoursey Joyce A. Degnan Jean T. Deters William Detrich James F. Dinneen Leo Judah Espolong

Henry A. Hagedorn Sr. Anton Hauschild Hildagard E. Hendry J.B. Hill Kenneth E. Hoffman Sr. Troy H. Holck Kevin W. Horst Lucille M. Jensen Thomas M. Lacy Sr. Paul F. Lee Melody L. Lesher Beverley A. Lombardo Ivy S. Luden Dennis L. Martens Richard Martinez Robert McEnerney Sr. Barbara Meitner Joan A. Mohrman Margaret A. Morgan Rosalia A. Neal Betty M. O’Grady James P. O’Shea Jr. Betty Jo Perrine Doro R. Petrocco John R. Pitnick Danny Radakovich Jaiden Rojas Gabriella Marie Runnebaum Dwight E. Sisney Patricia A. Stanek Gerald B. Stephanz Victoria A. Stobie Adelynn Justina Stone Sang K. Suk Edgar L. Walden III Joann F. Walden Joyce G. Waters Harvey R. Wilson Dorothy A. Woods Teresa M. Woods ST JOSEPH Charles J. Dobbels Sr. Jahwaundah G. Gardner Darrell C. Morgan Becky A. Nicks George Van De Berghe MT CALVARY – OLATHE Joseph E. McNamara

GATE OF HEAVEN Richard D. Carlin V. Louise Green Lois E. Surbaugh Wayeng Yang Zelda D. Ziman

701 North 94th Street * Kansas City, Kansas 66112 * (913) 334-3366 Funeral Home * Cemetery * Cremation Services

“I

tt is indeed an exacting discipline to try to be the Church in a culture such as ours. All the assumptions upon which we could rely, which we could take for granted in other times and places, are missing. It is therefore necessary to demonstrate, in the face of cultural skepticism, what a community of loyal and committed believers is really like.”

W

e have the newest and nicest funeral home in Wyandotte County, right across the street from St. Patrick’s Church. Personalize a Funeral, Cemetery or Memorial Service all from one office, instead of driving all over town making plans. We even accept many pre-arranged plans from other funeral homes. To receive a free Personal Planning Guide, call or stop in today.

K E AT I N G Mud Jacking

Serving NE Kansas Since 1976 Photo Courtesy of Katlin Spain, Immaculata High School, Leavenworth, KS

FOUNDATION REPAIR

Cracked • Bowed • Settled Wall Repair v Wall Bracing v Waterproofing FREE ESTIMATES v Steel Underpinning

MUD JACKING

Raise & Level v Patios v Drives v Garage Floors v Slab Houses

Locally Owned & Operated Kansas City (913) 262-9352

Piers Driven to Load-Bearing Strata or Bedrock

Lawrence Topeka (785) 865-0006 (785) 246-0128

www.calltoshare.org

— Stewardship A Disciple’s Response A Pastoral Letter on Stewardship, 10th Anniversary Edition, USCCB.

Concrete Work

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

Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co. Specializing in Foundation Repairs Mud-jacking and Waterproofing.

Serving Lawrence, Topeka and surrounding areas.

Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696 In business since 1963

Villa St. Francis

16600 W. 126th Street • Olathe, Kansas 66062 Phone: (913) 829-5201 Fax: (913) 829-5399 Daily Mass in the Chapel at 10 a.m.

• Medicare and Kansas Medicaid certified • 24 - hour nursing care • Dementia/Alzheimer’s unit • Physical, occupational and speech therapist on staff/ Rapid recovery • Nutritious Home cooked meals • Private and Semi Private rooms • Beauty and Barber Shop • 24 hour snacks Affiliated with the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas

Want to help someone heal from an abortion?

Call Toll Free 888-246-1504

The Leaven | December 24, 2010 | page 32

[ A day in the archdiocese ] Meet the photographers JD Benning is the art director for Kansas Monks magazine at St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison. He recently married Lauren Carrigan in June of 2010.

Joe Bollig has been a reporter for The Leaven for more than 18 years. During that time he has racked up numerous Catholic Press Association awards as well as awards from the Propagation of the Faith, Priests for Life and the Knights of Columbus. Joe has been an active participant in the Boy Scouts for many years.

Elaina Cochran is an award-winning photographer who has been with The Leaven as a freelancer for six years. She lives in Waldo, Mo., with her husband Jeff, daughter Saphira and stepdaughter Airesa. In her free time, she likes to eat chocolate and Hula-Hoop.

Todd Habiger is an award-winning designer for The Leaven where he has worked for the past 17 years.

He and his wife Lori have two children: Paige, 12, and Connor, 7. In his spare time, Todd can be found either shuttling his children between activities or on the Frisbee golf course.

Susan McSpadden has been a freelance photographer in Kansas City for eight years, specializing in corporate, editorial and event photography. When not behind the camera, Susan enjoys supporting the Kansas City art and music scene, in addition to running, strength training, time with friends and family, and being a proud aunt to a new nephew.

Jill Ragar Esfeld is a freelance writer with 30 years experience in magazine, technical and directmarket writing. Her copy has won several advertising and feature-writing awards. She’s been a regular contributor to The Leaven since April 2004.

Fernando Ugarte is a practicing surgeon in Marysville. He is an avid “amateur” photographer, but his pictures have been published and have won many photo awards.

His photo collection has almost 1 million images. When he is not in his office or in the operating room, he is always with his Nikon camera.

Don Wolf got his start in photography in 1955 with the U.S. Navy as an aerial photographer. He worked for a number of years with other photographers before starting his own business. Don has been a mainstay in Wyandotte County photography for many years now.

After more than 12 years working in the editorial side of the Catholic press, Lori Wood Habiger found a new career as a portrait photographer, opening her studio, Center Stage Photography of Shawnee, four years ago. She enjoys occasional photojournalism assignments to keep her connected to her previous career. The mother of two, she’s married to Leaven production manager Todd Habiger and lives in western Shawnee.

Stats about the day Photos: 3,634 Miles driven: 1,541 Hour worked: 133 Places visited: 86 Cameras: 7 Nikon; 2 Canon Most photos: Susan McSpadden - 798 Most miles: Joe Bollig - 273 Longest day: Don Wolf - 18 hours Most places visited: Don Wolf - 15