THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 40, NO. 18 | DECEMBER 14, 2018
‘LIFE IS A LOVE STORY’
Speaker ‘reboots’ in Horton By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org
H
ORTON — Life-changing. That’s how 17-yearold Sarah Hutfles, a member of St. Leo Church in Horton, described “Reboot,” an evening featuring internationally acclaimed Catholic apologist Chris Stefanick. Planning for the event started a year ago when Ronda Smith, another parishioner, attended the National Catholic Youth Conference in Indianapolis. “Chris was the keynote speaker at the opening session, and I just liked how he shared the Gospel,” said Smith. He was simple, honest, authentic, direct and entertaining. Later, Smith found his booth and worked with his Denver-based nonprofit, Real Life Catholic, to schedule an event. Sponsored by St. Leo’s, Reboot was held Nov. 15 at Horton High School. Nearly 600 attended the event. Geared toward anyone age 12 and older, the evening consisted of two talks, the first of which focused on the Gospel. “Life is a love story,” Stefanick said. “Now why is that amazing? Because think about this: You and I were made for love.” Showing a baby picture of one of his six children, he continued, “We’re always looking for love.” Calling the Gospel “the most amazing love story ever,” Stefanick said if the love story is removed from the Christian faith, then the faith becomes a set of rules, rituals and doctrines disconnected from real life. “That’s how the world has come to see it,” he said, “because they forgot the love story.” If Christians remember the love story, he said, they will experience a
LEAVEN PHOTOS BY MARC ANDERSON
Catholic apologist Chris Stefanick speaks to nearly 600 people gathered for his “Reboot” talk on Nov. 15 at Horton High School. The event was sponsored by St. Leo Parish in Horton. “joy that doesn’t depend on people, a peace that doesn’t come from circumstances and a hope that not even death can take away from you.” There is a longing, he added, in everyone’s hearts to know and love God — and all the riches and material success in the world will not satisfy that longing. How do we come to know God? The same way babies learn who they are. “You know how they learn who they are?” he asked. “It’s not by look-
SWEET CHURCH
Topeka church gets remade with sugary treats. Page 3
ing in a mirror. It’s not by looking at their accomplishments. . . . It’s not by looking at their failures. “They learn who they are by looking at Mom and Dad . . . They learn right away they are precious.” The Gospel, he said, is like that. “When we remember the Gospel of Jesus Christ,” he continued, “we remember who wins, what life’s about and who we are.” Of course, Stefanick said, that requires a response from us.
CRIME & POVERTY
The criminalization of poverty is discussed at a public forum. Page 4
Comparing it to a marriage proposal where a “yes” changes everything, he said, “Let’s say ‘yes’ right now so we can enter a love story that’s amazing.” In his second talk, entitled “Live the life you were made for,” Stefanick shared five habits of holy people, the first of which is that holy people love themselves. “You’ve got to love yourself with >> See “FOSTER” on page 4
NEWSMAKERS
Kids at Nativity School in Leawood start a morning show. Page 16
DECEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
ARCHBISHOP
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Let the Lord use you to change a life this Christmas
or a significant part of their adult lives, my maternal grandparents were C&E Catholics. For those not familiar with the term, C&E stands for Christmas and Easter Catholics. These are individuals who only come to Mass on Christmas and Easter. On the solemnity of Christmas, we will get an idea of the potential of our parishes each Sunday. Many will come to Mass on Christmas Eve or Christmas Day who do not regularly attend Sunday Mass. Sometimes, those who come to Mass faithfully can resent the Christmas and Easter Catholics for invading the church and taking their preferred parking space or sitting in their favorite pew. In the book “Rebuilt,” Father Michael White, a Baltimore pastor, urged his regular parishioners to walk to church on Christmas or to park in the furthest spaces from the church entrance. Father White invited his faithful parishioners to do this small sacrifice in order to help their Christmas “guests” feel welcome and to do everything possible to make Christmas Mass for those who attended infrequently a very positive experience. With Christmas approaching, I encourage
LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN you to pray for family, friends or neighbors who do not participate regularly in Sunday Mass. Consider inviting them to attend Christmas Mass with you. Think about inviting individuals who are not Catholic and do not belong to any church to join you for Christmas Mass. Also, I suggest you pray about what you can do to make Christmas visitors to your parish feel welcome. Members of the Legion of Mary visited my grandparents regularly and encouraged them to become more active in the parish. Eventually, this resulted in my grandparents enrolling my mother and my aunt in the equivalent of the school of religion. As a result, my mother’s faith blossomed.
When my father served in the military during World War II, my grandparents began attending Mass regularly with my mother, praying for my dad’s safe return. By the time I knew my grandparents, they not only attended Mass every Sunday, but my grandfather faithfully spent the 2 a.m. hour every Saturday in eucharistic adoration. My grandmother eventually became the parish secretary. If it were not for the members of the Legion of Mary making the effort to visit my grandparents, I doubt that I would be a priest today, much less a bishop. In addition to doing our part to make visitors feel welcome at Mass, family Christmas gatherings also provide a great opportunity to witness about the importance of our Catholic faith. If you are hosting a Christmas gathering, make the meal prayer special. It does not
have to be lengthy, but it should be prayed devoutly — a moment that focuses everyone’s attention on the religious meaning of Christmas. In conversation, bring up something that impressed you about the Christmas homily or talk about the meaning of your favorite Christmas carol. Share with others some of the parish initiatives to help people in need during this season or talk about the amazing work of Catholic Charities that is supported, in part, by the Christmas collection. If you are really brave, consider sharing the peace, joy and strength you received from going to confession during the Advent season. I am not suggesting you get into theological debates and certainly not religious arguments. I am encouraging you to share from your heart the blessings you experience from your Catholic faith. No doubt some family or friends may bring up the recent scandals in the church. This also provides an opportunity to witness that your faith is not because of the perfection of church leaders, but because Jesus promised to be with the church despite the weakness and frailty of its leaders and members. Share with others the peace and strength you
Archbishop Naumann Dec. 15 Ordination of Brother Luke Turner and Brother Thiago Ferreira Silva — St. Benedict’s Abbey Dec. 16 Pastoral visit — St. Bernard, Wamego; St. Joseph, Flush; Holy Family, Alma; and Sacred Heart, Paxico Dedication — St. Patrick, Scranton
Dec. 20 Priesthood golden jubilee of Bishop John Gaydos — Jefferson City, Missouri Dec. 21 Chancery staff Mass and lunch Dec. 22 Quo Vadis retreat Dec. 24 Mass — Cathedral Dec. 25 Mass — Cathedral Dec. 27 Serra parent/seminarian Mass and luncheon — St. Joseph, Shawnee
Dec. 17 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording
Dec. 29 St. Paul, Olathe, procession to new location
Dec. 18 Administrative Team meeting
derive from receiving Jesus in the Eucharist. Make sure that the Nativity scene has a place of prominence in your home. Our Christmas decorations should reflect our awareness of the true meaning of Christmas. Know the Christian symbolism that is the origin of most Christmas decorations. Who knows? The Lord may wish to use you to motivate a C&E Catholic to begin to take their faith more seriously. The Lord may use your invitation to come to Christmas Mass to
be the catalyst for an unchurched person to discover the beauty and richness of our Catholic faith. Whatever good I am accomplishing today through my ministry as a bishop is in part the fruit of those ordinary lay Catholics who more than 80 years ago made the effort to reach out to my grandparents. Our Lord can use you not only to change a single life, but the entire spiritual direction of a family. Think about it!
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DECEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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‘HOLY CANE CHURCH’
From left, Melina Stewart, Thomas Carmona, Beth Valdivia, Michael Scott and Ashley Newman are the design team that recreated Holy Name Church in Topeka out of gingerbread and icing.
Holy Name Church in Topeka is recreated in gingerbread
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By Carolyn Kaberline Special to The Leaven
T
OPEKA — As an architectural design firm, the Schwerdt Design Group here is used to planning buildings made of a variety of materials. But this December, the materials they were most likely to be working with were gingerbread, icing and a variety of sweet treats as they participated in TPAC’s (Topeka Performing Arts Center) annual Gingerbread Homes for the Holidays. “The Schwerdt Design Group (SDG) has submitted several gingerbread creations in the past, including Frank Lloyd Wright’s Fallingwater House,” said Beth Valdivia, AIA associate. “This year, however, we selected an identifiable Topeka building because it added to the challenge of the design and honored our city in a wonderful way,” he continued. “And we thought it would be exciting for the attendees to
“WE THOUGHT IT WOULD BE EXCITING FOR THE ATTENDEES TO SEE A LOCAL PLACE RENDERED IN DESSERT.” see a local place rendered in dessert.” Valdivia noted that after the group had created the cantilevered porches and roofs of the Famous Fallingwater House, they were prepared for the intricate work of building this year’s house: Mater Dei-Holy Name Church. “My daughter attends the Mater Dei preschool, and I am a member of their school board,” said Valdivia. “Megan Schwerdt-Williams, president of Schwerdt Contract Interiors, was married there. “Another of our architects, Thomas
President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann
Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)
Editor Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org
Carmona, suggested Holy Name because he had made a model of it while attending the University of Kansas School of Architecture. Additionally, Thomas’ wife Miranda Carmona was previously on the TPAC board. “Finally, SDG has donated countless hours of design services to the Holy Name-Mater Dei Parish. Given the beautiful architecture — and the community and SDG connections — Holy Name was an easy selection.” To recreate Holy Name Church accurately, the group obtained copies of the original blueprints. These were then redrawn to scale so that the model was perfectly proportioned. Valdivia noted that the actual building of the church was a team effort with architects, interior designers and administrative staff working together to create “a beautifully accurate and intricate design. “We must also thank Andrea and Shawn Hillebert with Holy Name and Mater Dei,” she added, “who were extremely helpful in this process. “The majority of the baking and
Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org
Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
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stained-glass window creation was done by Melina Stewart,” Valdivia explained. “The decorative detailing and icing work was done by Helen Phelps, and I created the Rice Krispies base and fondant items. Other SDG employees involved with the assembly and delivery were Melea Stone, Ashley Newman, Thomas Carmona, Kaylee Champagne and Michael Scott. ” A silent auction of the gingerbread houses on display saw “Holy Cane Church,” as it was named, receive a final bid of almost $200 — an amount that delighted its creators — with the money going to TPAC’s educational programs. “We hoped that by replicating a local building it would add excitement among the bidders,” Valdivia said, adding that supporting local institutions like TPAC is very important to SDG’s mission. “Many SDG employees,” she noted, “live and work in the community and are supportive of initiatives that provide a range of opportunities to its citizens.”
Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.
DECEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Panel examines the question: Is it illegal to be poor? By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
K
ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Is it illegal to be poor? That was the question on the table at “The Criminalization of Poverty,” a panel discussion and community forum held on Nov. 13 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas. The event was the third in a series of four that was part of KC Common Good, an initiative of the nonprofit organization American Public Square. Among the evening’s sponsors was the social justice office of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. “I always tell people that there are two ways to love,” said Bill Scholl, consultant for the social justice office. “The first way to love is mercy, where you help the person in need. “But the next way is justice, where we look at how we address the needs in the first place: What is causing people to suffer, and how we can organize to stop that suffering? I’m so glad the office of social justice could sponsor this event.” The four panelists included Jean Peters Baker, prosecutor for Jackson County, Missouri; Jalilah Otto, circuit court judge for Jackson County; Lavanya Madhusudan, a research analyst and policy developer from Seattle; and Wayne Smith, managing attorney of Legal Aid of Western Missouri. More than 200 people attended the event, and questions were taken from the audience to submit to the panelists. The first question, a request to define the term “criminalization of policy,” was given to Madhusudan. “There is no universally accepted definition,” said Madhusudan. “There are two aspects to it. The first is we’re talking about policies, laws and practices that result in consequences for low-income people, often penalties that are unnecessary in many cases without any benefit for these individuals. “The second component is situations where low-income people are arrested or detained simply because they are poor and cannot afford to comply with various legal financial obligations, even something as simple as paying a traffic ticket or a parking ticket.” It is, she said, the “criminalization of poverty.” People of color and impoverished persons have higher rates of encounter with the criminal justice system than other parts of the general population, said Madhusudan. And the consequences of those interactions result in disproportionately higher rates of conviction, longer periods of detention and longer sentences. Just being arrested — even without a
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG
Lavanya Madhusudan, a research analyst and policy developer from Seattle, answers a question from the audience during a panel discussion and community forum called “The Criminalization of Poverty,” held on Nov. 13 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas.
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“WE NEED TO HAVE MORE CONVERSATIONS ABOUT THE UNINTENDED CONSEQUENCES OF HOW WE ENFORCE THE LAW, PARTICULARLY HOW WE NEED TO APPLY THE CATHOLIC TEACHING OF THE PREFERENTIAL OPTION FOR THE POOR.” conviction — results in many “collateral consequences” that can severely affect these persons’ lives and limit their participation in society. Smith has seen the criminalization of policy, and poverty, in his work as a court-appointed legal counsel serving low-income persons. Annually, his office represents 10,000 to 11,000 persons. “Our clients . . . can’t afford a lawyer and can’t afford to post bond,” Smith said. “They’re not going to be able to
pay fines or probation fees. A lot of times we request those fees be waived . . . [and ask that our] clients do community service rather than pay a fine.” Sometimes, the courts agree to waive fines and court costs because they know the low-income defendants couldn’t possibly pay, and they don’t want to set them up for failure. Otto has seen the “snowball effect” that can occur when a low-income person encounters the criminal justice system. While a person with a higher income could simply pay a fine, a low-income person cannot — and this can lead to “collateral consequences.” “It could be a traffic offence,” she said. “If someone can’t pay a fine to get their car out of impound . . . they can’t get to work and may lose their job and can’t pick up their children on time. “Think of a ‘snowball effect.’ You or I may be fortunate to handle it with a phone call or writing a check, but a simple traffic ticket is not a simple affair for many members of our society.” The courts, she said, are beginning to realize that there can be alternatives to the traditional consequences of incarceration and financial penalties that better serve low-income persons — and society. Baker cautions that, while trying to
decriminalize certain behavior, “we have to be careful that we don’t leave out victims. “Victims deserve a system that is fair to them as well: fair to the criminal defendant, but also fair to victims.” Justice, she said, could be a variety of things: a prison term, no charges filed, or a neighborhood accountability board. “The whole idea is: Can we restore both sides of the equation back to where they were before the crime happened,” said Baker. The panel covered a lot of ground in the examination of this complicated topic, said Scholl, and he took a few things away from the event. “We need to have more conversations about the unintended consequences of how we enforce the law, particularly how we need to apply the Catholic teaching of the preferential option for the poor, and ask how policies like bail impact the poorest of the poor in our communities,” he said. “Is it right,” he continued, “for a person who is arrested for a minor infraction, if they don’t have the money for bail, [to] lose their job without having been convicted of a crime? “We need to ask: How does our enforcement of the law impact those of limited means?”
Foster holy habits, says speaker, to change your life >> Continued from page 1 your words,” he said. “The words you choose to speak to yourself shape your self-perception. Your self-perception shapes your actions. Your actions shape your life.” Cultivating a life of prayer, Stefanick shared, is the second habit. Even just 10 minutes spent in thanking God and talking to him about what’s in your heart can be beneficial. A third habit that Stefanick discussed is sharing the faith.
“You don’t have to be perfect to share your faith with your actions,” he noted. “You just have to be authentic.” Stefanick said God often places people in our paths so we might share our faith with them. When his wife’s grandmother was dying, Stefanick prayed for the right words. She had never gone to church, so he shared the story of the good thief with her. The next day, she was received into the church; a day later, she died. Often, people are afraid of sharing
their faith, he said, but he encouraged the crowd to pray God might send them someone to share the faith with every single day. The fourth habit to develop is the habit of friendship. “God is calling us to intimacy in our friendships,” Stefanick said. In order to develop intimate friendships, he encouraged those gathered to pick two to five people with whom they can get together monthly for conversation and prayer. The fifth and final habit, Stefanick
said, can be summarized in one word: reboot. “You have a right to forget yesterday,” he said. Repeating himself, he said, “If you miss that point, you miss the whole point of Christianity.” Concluding, Stefanick said he cannot promise practicing the five habits will make everyone’s problems disappear; rather, he can promise something else: “When you walk closer to Jesus in your daily life, it will change your life.”
DECEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
Art auction to benefit St. Benedict’s Abbey
By J.D. Benning Special to The Leaven
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TCHISON — The monks of St. Benedict’s Abbey here recently announced their 2018 art auction — an event to support the ministries of the monastic community. It features a piece by Brother Karel Soukup, OSB, a monk of the abbey. This Advent-themed painting, called “Noli Timere” — Latin for “Be not afraid” — depicts the angel visiting St. Joseph in a dream (Mt 1:20). Brother Karel credits his parents’ encouragement for inspiring his craft. “My parents always encouraged us growing up to try different things,” he said, “and my father inspired my interest in woodworking. “I’ve always been interested in language and music, bringing beauty into the world. But it wasn’t until becoming a monk in 2014 that I started painting.” As Brother Karel was considering what to paint, a conversation with his spiritual director inspired him. “My spiritual director encouraged me to contemplate my relationship with Mary through the other men in the Gospel,” he said, “and this led me to St. Joseph. “He embraced his role and trusted in God with no expectation of return
PHOTO BY JD BENNING
Brother Karel Soukup, OSB, a monk of St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison, will be auctioning off his Advent-themed painting, called “Noli Timere,” as part of the abbey’s 2018 art auction. or reward.” Brother Karel comes to the monastery from Lakin and is currently furthering his studies in art and music.
Funds from the Abbey Art Auction will go to support the prayer and work of the monks. The auction runs until Dec. 18.
For more information or to place a bid, visit the website at: Kansas monks.org/auction.
Book illustrates pervasive Catholic influence across the state By Beverly Schmitz Glass Special to the Leaven
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ODGE CITY — For Tim Wenzl, the Diocese of Dodge City’s archivist emeritus, discovering how settlements and communities throughout the state came by their names not only revealed a treasury of historical tidbits, but also demonstrated how pervasive the Catholic Church influence was and what led to the significant German, Irish and Czech-populated townships that are still active today. In his newly released book, “Angelus to Xavier, Catholic Place Names in Kansas, Obvious & Obscure,” Wenzl scoured books, parish sacramental registries, 19th-century Catholic directories, parish histories, newspapers, magazines, inventories of current and extinct geographical locations, maps and plat books. Now, all of that research and information is documented
in this one-volume work. “This book came about as I have always been interested in the ‘why’ behind a community’s name,” said Wenzl. “The answer to that question can only be discerned through extensive methodical and, at times, tedious research. But it was so rewarding when I discovered a link with the Catholic Church as the reason for a community’s name. It may sound hokey, but I really think this project was a gift of the Holy Spirit that became a passion to document and share the findings.” Wenzl said it seemed everyone got in on the namings since many places were dubbed after saints, popes, a cardinal, bishops, priests, monks and friars, religious Sisters, explorers, frontiersmen and ordinary Catholics. Readers will also notice that towns named by Catholics and Catholic settlements were often christened for the emigrant’s former towns and villages. “The church had a part in
Corrections The telephone number for Linda SlaterTrimble, the new archdiocesan victim assistance coordinator, published in the Nov. 23 issue was incorrect. The correct number is (913) 298-9244. In the Dec. 7 issue, Deacon Don Poole is displaying a miniature statue of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, not the St. Rose Philippine Duchesne Award.
assisting settlements of Catholic immigrants by national origin and language,” explained Wenzl. “The first Catholic naming in Kansas occurred during the 1541 Coronado Expedition. Today, we know El Rio de Santos Pedro y Pablo as the Arkansas River.” Over time, nearly 300 communities and sites were named — from Angelus in Sheridan County to Xavier in Leavenworth County. They all bear witness to the Catholic faith. The communities and geographical locations in the book are listed in alphabetical order together with their county. There are some specific places — namely buildings — that, because of their status with the National Register of Historic Places or the Register of Historic Kansas Places, are included and illustrated with photographs. “An interesting discovery that emerged from the extensive research was the ongoing role of the church in organizing and establishing Catholic colo-
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nies and settlements in the state by nationality and language,” Wenzl said. “It wasn’t an accident that large groups of Irish, Germans and Czechs settled in the same areas. And in the late 1800s, Bishop Louis Mary Fink, OSB, the first bishop of the Diocese of Leavenworth, encouraged this approach and priests in different regions of the state served as, well, de facto immigration agents.” Wenzl started a list of these names just to document them, but once this inventory grew to over 300 communities, he knew it was time to write the book. For him, the value of this project, which is book number 21 for him, is having all of the names from so many different sources documented in one publication. “As far as I know, this book is a first of its kind,” said Wenzl. “Other archivists and historians in each of the other 49 states could write a book on the same topic for their own state.”
How to purchase The book, “Angelus to Xavier, Catholic Place Names in Kansas, Obvious & Obscure,” is available on Amazon.com or by mail order through the Cathedral of Our Lady of Guadalupe gift shop by contacting the author at: twenzl@ dcdiocese.org.
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DECEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
FAMILY LIFE
Give your grandchildren the gift of time
“Grandchildren are the crown of the aged, and the glory of children is their fathers” (Prv 17:6).
Growing as Disciples of Jesus
clude them. Decide together with your spouse how and when to generously include them, then follow through. • Encourage your parents to share their stories, and train your kids to do the same.
T
he bond between generations is meant to be a great source of wisdom and joy for all the members of an extended family. Yet sometimes, these relationships can be difficult. While the intensity of these relationships will always result in some disagreements and hurt feelings, the great rewards are worth the effort we invest.
Tips for grandparents
General principles • Let God (and your spouse if you are married) fill you up with love, then love parents and children with the overflow. It is not fair to expect them to meet your emotional needs. • Loving someone isn’t always the same as pleasing them. If your children or parents have unreasonable expectations of you, learning healthy boundaries can help. (See the book “Boundaries”
TOOLS FOR FAMILIES
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by Dr. Henry Cloud.) • In many parent/adult child relationships, a sincere apology can go a long way. • Forgive! Forgiveness isn’t about the other person, but about us being free from hurt so we can love others. • Consider the other
party’s perspective, the use the Golden Rule.
Tips for adult children • When possible, allow
grandparents to spoil your kids. If your children have good routines and diets at home, a little extra screen time or fast food won’t harm them. • Make time for grandparents! In the thick of parenting, it can be easy to forget to in-
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• Respect the parenting decisions your children make, trying to abide by their wishes when you are baby-sitting. • As much as possible, hold back unsolicited advice. You will have more influence if you wait until they ask, or offer it only occasionally. • Time is the biggest gift you can give your kids and grandkids. If you are local, baby-sitting and chauffeuring kids are great opportunities to listen and be present. If you are far away, you can still be present by regular video chats, writing letters or even reading the same book or learning the same skill as the grandkids so you can discuss it later.
DECEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Prison ministry broadens its reach with seasonal gifts By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven
The Bethany Prison Ministry is associated with St. Francis de Sales Parish, Lansing. It includes the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth; several SCL associates; three priests — a Benedictine, a diocesan and a Precious Blood; a Benedictine Sister; and other volunteers.
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ANSING — What started small with three helpers over 25 years ago has continued as a regular and faithful ministry of 20 volunteers, approximately 12 of whom meet every Wednesday with inmates of the Lansing Correctional Facility here. In two different sections of the prison, inmates and volunteers pray, sing and study Scripture together in preparation for the upcoming weekend liturgy. Frequently, one of the priest volunteers offers Mass. Seven years ago at the request of the prison volunteer coordinator, the Bethany Prison Ministry expanded its reach beyond the 40-plus inmates served by these “Catholic call-outs.” The group assumed responsibility for a seasonal project to provide gift bags for inmates who are indigent. This year, with the help of generous donors, nearly 400 inmates will receive Christmas gift bags that include essential items and some holiday extras — all from lists pre-approved by prison officials. George Steger, who has been part of Bethany Prison Ministry since its inception, explains that the prison defines “indigent” as those inmates who have no source of outside income. They receive $20 a month from the state for essentials. “This amount doesn’t go very far in
Everett “Ed” and Charlotte (Texter) Kilgore, members of Holy Family Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on Dec. 21. The couple was married on Dec. 21, 1953, at St. Augustine Church, Chicago, by Father Gary Woltering, OFM. Their children are: David, Debra, Cheryl, Karen, Laurie, Maribeth, Ann, Gary and Steven. They also have 16 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. Mary Lou and John Simmons, members of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary in October with a family reunion, where they also repeated their wedding vows. The couple was married on Dec. 14, 1968, at St. James Church, Decatur, Illinois. Their children are: John, Katherine and Jennifer. They also have seven grandchildren.
PHOTO BY THERESE HORVAT
Sisters fill gift bags for prisoners with personal hygiene items and snacks. From left in back of photo (seated at the table) are Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth Jane Jackson, Mary Laura Huddleston, Kathleen Wood and Mary Lex Smith; coming forward from the back of the line, standing, are Sisters Kevin Marie Flynn, Mary Patricia Murry and Regina Deitchman; Father Dennis Schaab, CPPS; and Sisters Jean Lind and Lucy Walter. purchasing needed personal hygiene items,” said Steger. Because of this, there’s high demand — along with great appreciation — for the Christmas gift bags provided by Bethany Prison Ministry. The bags include soap, shampoo, deodorant, toothpaste, toothbrush, dental floss and a comb. And there’s more: coffee, creamer, cocoa, crackers, candy and other treats. Lana and Michael Moore, members of Church of the Nativity, Leawood, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Dec. 21 The couple was married on Dec. 21, 1968, at St. Anthony Church, Liberal, by Father John Lavrih. Their children are Christopher Moore and Ryan Moore. They also have two grandchildren. They will celebrate with their family in Overland Park and later with a trip to South Carolina.
ANNIVERSARY submissions submissions ANNIVERSARY POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas DEADLINE: eight days before the desired publication date. WHERE TO SUBMIT: Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or email: todd. habiger@theleaven.org.
Plus, Dan Dakotas and Ruth SchukmanDakotas, volunteers and artists, design a bookmark that each inmate receives. George, Dan and Ruth are associates of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. Critical to the impact of this corporal work of mercy are the many people who support it. “It’s wonderful how people bend over backwards to help us,” said Steger.
Major support comes from St. Francis de Sales Parish and its Knights of Columbus council, Lansing, and the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. A woman’s group of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee, purchases the toothpaste. This year, other large benefactors included the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica in Atchison, the Missionaries of the Precious Blood in Liberty, Missouri, and the Serra Clubs of Kansas City. An assembly line of volunteers and friends of the prison ministry filled and secured the bags on Dec. 4 at the Sisters of Charity motherhouse. On Dec. 7, Bethany Prison Ministry team members delivered the bags to the correctional facility. Prison staff takes it from there, distributing the gifts to inmates, many of whom don’t have regular visitors or receive phone calls or mail. “It’s all very heartwarming,” said Steger, “and reflective of what Christmas is all about.”
SANTA FINDS HIS FAITH
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Story and photos by Jill Ragar Esfeld
ENEXA — Even when he’s not wearing his Santa suit, Holy Trinity parishioner Chuck Fortunato is channeling the spirit of St. Nicholas. Outgoing, generous and full of holiday cheer, he actually has an app on his phone to ensure he watches every Hallmark Christ-
mas movie. Fortunato loves people and has the Italian gift for lighting up a room with his personality. And he’s always been that way “When I was a kid,” he confessed, “I got kicked out of catechism class for talking too much.”
Becoming Santa Raised in a devout Catholic family in Milwaukee, Fortunato has fond memories of working with his brother Jimmy in their parents’ Italian restaurant. “Back in 1983,” he said, “we got a Santa suit we used to entertain customers.” Playing Santa brought the brothers even closer. Jimmy played the starring role, and Chuck served as his understudy. In 2000, Fortunato made a career change which led him to Kansas City. “I wanted to do something to help people,” he said. So he opened Chuck’s Mobility, a business that provides home mobility products. Jimmy entrusted the Santa suit to his brother, so Fortunato could continue performing for friends and charities. And that’s what he’s done for almost 20 years. But Fortunato’s cheerful spirit was recently challenged when his dad died in March, just three years after the death of his mother. Then this past year, Jimmy was stricken with cancer. “With my parents,” said Fortunato, “I was more prepared. “But Jimmy was really, really a shock.” It was if all joy was being sucked from his life. Fortunato didn’t know if he could ever play Santa again.
In God’s hands Just a little over a year ago is when they learned the news. “I flew home the weekend Jimmy was diagnosed with leukemia,” said Fortunato. “It hit me really hard.” And the prognosis wasn’t good. From that point on, Fortunato found it
difficult to concentrate on anything but the devastating news. “My mind was so scattered,” he said. “I just kept thinking there’s nothing I can do! I’ve got to leave it in the hands of the doctors. “And what’s left is up to God.” But Fortunato had fallen away from the church when he left home and hadn’t attended Mass in many years. “I really don’t know why,” he said. “It’s like being married for years and falling out of love. When exactly did it happen? “I don’t remember.” A friend suggested Fortunato might find solace in the Holy Trinity eucharistic adoration chapel, where he could go at any time. “It was just a real peaceful place,” Fortunato said. “That’s what got me in there. “I was grasping. I thought maybe praying would help. “And it did.” Fortunato said prayers he remembered from his youth. He read books available in the chapel, picking out a message or lesson to reflect on. “I went there virtually every single day for 60 days straight,” he said. “I had no idea what I was doing. “But I knew it was a place where I could calm my mind as I tried to cope with losing somebody close to me.”
A quilt filled with prayers In the foyer outside the chapel, Fortunato noticed prayer quilts hanging with an invitation for adorers to tie knots and pray for the needs of recipients. “I thought it was amazing that so many people pray for someone they don’t know,” he said. The Trinity Threaders, who make the quilts, heard about Jimmy and had a quilt delivered to Fortunato. He took it to the hospital on his next trip to Wisconsin.
LOTS OF QUILTS
Chuck Fortunato in the guise of Santa admires the many prayer quilts crafted by the Trinity Threaders wa Jimmy was overwhelmed by the gesture — a quilt filled with prayers. “He just couldn’t believe it,” said Fortunato. “He sat down and wrote a thankyou card that day.” Fortunato took a picture of Jimmy wrapped in the prayer quilt, with his hand on his heart. When he returned to Kansas, Fortunato decided to start going to Mass again. Then one day, when exiting church, he noticed the Threaders were having a craft sale. “I was excited to meet them,” he said. “I showed them the picture of my brother, and one of them said, ‘Karen, this is your quilt.’” Indeed. Karen Boyd, who made Jimmy’s prayer quilt, just happened to be working the craft sale at that moment. “He came up to me and said, ‘I want to thank you very much for this prayer quilt,’” she recalled. “I was so excited
because you don’t usually know who gets the quilts you make.”
Treasured keepsake When Jimmy died on Sept. 12, his body was cremated, and his family wrapped his urn in the prayer quilt he had come to treasure. After laying his brother to rest, Fortunato continued to pray, do eucharistic adoration and attend Mass, relying on his renewed faith to help him cope with the loss. The week of his brother’s birthday this October was particularly hard. After praying for the repose of Jimmy’s soul that Sunday, Fortunato left Mass to find the Threaders again — this time having their annual Christmas quilt raffle. “And I happened to be there again,”
BLESSED THREADS
Father Ron Livojevich blesses prayer quilts made by the Trinity Threaders on display at their 10year anniversary celebration.
QUILTED TREASURE
Jimmy Fortunato wraps up in his prayer quilt in the hospital while fighting leukemia. The quilt was a treasured item of Jimmy’s. After his death, the family wrapped his urn in the quilt.
waiting to be blessed. said Boyd. “Chuck told me the story about his brother’s ashes and the quilt being wrapped around the urn. “I almost broke into tears. It just filled my heart.” Chuck offered a donation to the Threaders out of gratitude. “I really feel like they do such a great thing,” he said. But the Threaders insisted he fill out raffle tickets. “I told them, ‘That’s OK; I don’t ever win anything,” said Fortunato. “But they gave me all these tickets.”
Continuing the tradition That evening, Fortunato got a call telling him he’d won the Christmas quilt. Though he thought grief would make it difficult for him to play Santa this year, winning the quilt gave him a reason to
try. A month after the Christmas-quilt raffle, the Threaders had a party to celebrate their 10-year anniversary. And Santa Claus dropped by to thank them for all the generous work they do. “It was really fun,” said Fortunato. “They had no idea Santa had won the Christmas quilt. “And it helped me a lot to have a reason to put on the suit again.” Fortunato continues to grieve for his brother, but finds solace now in his church. He recently registered as a member of Holy Trinity and looks forward to getting more involved, forming a new family. “I feel like I’m legal now,” he said. “When I do the handshake of peace, I feel like saying, ‘Peace from your fellow parishioner!’”
THREAD WINNER
Chuck Fortunato, out of his Santa costume, shows off the Christmas quilt he won from the Trinity Threaders of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa.
DECEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
NATION
Pilgrimage lets peacemaker spread light By Katie Rutter Catholic News Service
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AFAYETTE, Ind. (CNS) — Brian Duane’s maroon Subaru had already covered about 1,800 miles when he pulled into the parking lot at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Immaculate Conception in Lafayette Dec. 4. It was Duane’s 18th stop in what would be a weeklong, crosscountry journey for the resident of Pembroke, Massachusetts, and his car contained precious cargo with a radiance of goodwill. This road trip was a mission from Bethlehem carrying a message of peace, contained in a glowing lantern. This fire had originally been kindled at Christ’s birthplace, the Grotto of the Nativity in Bethlehem, West Bank. Duane is part of a national network of volunteers spreading this “Peace Light from Bethlehem” across the nation. “It is symbolic of Christ’s love for us and of the Prince of Peace,” Duane told Catholic News Service. “It serves as a reminder to us.” For more than a decade, volunteers like Duane have driven this flame from coast to coast, lighting hundreds of lanterns along the route. The effort to spread the Peace Light is spearheaded by Scouts and Scouting advisers, most often associated with Catholic churches. The goal is to kindle peace in all hearts by remembering Christ’s mission began in Bethlehem. “It’s symbolic, but it’s the effort, the coming together, the dedication to peace and heading home and spreading the message, even at the family level,” said Bob McLear, who lives west of Chicago.
CNS PHOTO/KATIE RUTTER
McLear planned to take the light from Lafayette back to his parish in Batavia, Illinois, and pass it off to another volunteer headed to Madison, Wisconsin. The Peace Light’s journey can be traced back to a tradition in Austria. For the past 32 years, the Austrian Broadcasting Corporation ORF has sent a child to Bethlehem to kindle a flame from the oil lamps hanging above Christ’s birthplace. The fire, stored in two explosionproof miner’s lanterns, is then flown with a safety adviser back to Europe, where it is spread to more than 30 countries. “The reaction of the people touched my heart,” said Wolfgang Kerndler, a security expert for Austrian Airlines, who has escorted the flame for about two decades. “Even the crew is proud to be part of the operation,” Kerndler told CNS in an email. “It’s an honor.” The Peace Light first arrived in
the United States in the wake of the terrorist attacks on 9/11. The Austrian government and national Scouting association sent the flame with a VIP delegation to comfort the grieving nation. “New York City really was devastated,” said Paul Stanton, the international representative for New York City with the Boy Scouts of America. “It was a great sign of kindness from the people of the world,” he told CNS in a phone interview from New York City. The light has been flown by Austrian Airlines to New York every year since. Stanton helps to organize the official reception at John F. Kennedy International Airport. This year, about 150 adults and children gathered at the airport’s Our Lady of the Skies Chapel to welcome the light of peace and kindle their own flames.
Venerating Cure d’Ars’ relic can help church ‘heal’ By Richard Szczepanowski Catholic News Service
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ASHINGTON (CNS) — The incorrupt heart of St. John Vianney, the patron saint of parish priests, “reminds us God uses instruments to be ministers of his grace and mercy,” said Archbishop Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the U.S. He celebrated a nearly two-hour Mass Dec. 9 at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception that opened a four-day public veneration, which he prayed “would help people ask for the grace to change their lives.” A six-month tour will take the holy relic of the saint — popularly known as the Cure d’Ars — across the United States. Sponsored by the Knights of Columbus, the “Heart of a Priest” tour was launched in wake of the clergy sexual abuse crisis in the Catholic Church. Supreme Knight Carl Anderson, CEO of the Knights of Columbus, said in a statement that St. John Vianney offers an example to help the church heal and rebuild. “We now welcome as providential this opportunity to invoke the intercession of the patron saint of parish priests, whose
Court won’t hear appeals over Planned Parenthood
W At Our Lady of Lourdes Church in Indianapolis, Karmin Shaw, a student at Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic School, watches as Brian Duane adjusts her lantern Dec. 4 after it had been ignited with the Peace Light, a flame kindled from the place in Bethlehem.
CNS PHOTO/BOB ROLLER
A relic of St. John Vianney is displayed before Mass Nov. 12 at the fall general assembly of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops in Baltimore. holiness and integrity is a singular model for clergy,” Anderson said in his statement. St. John Vianney was born in 1786 and served as a simple parish priest in the French town of Ars. He was known to spend as many as 18 hours a day hearing confessions from people who traveled
from throughout Europe to see the priest who was known for his holiness and piety. He also had a great love of and fostered devotion to St. Philomena. He died in 1859. Pope Pius XI canonized him in 1925 and proclaimed him patron saint of parish priests in 1929. His incorrupt body and heart are displayed at his shrine in Ars. With a trumpet fanfare and solemn procession, the holy relic was brought into the Crypt Church at the national shrine in Washington and placed at the altar in front of an icon of the priest. It was to be on display through Dec. 12. During the opening Mass, which drew 1,500 people, Archbishop Pierre called St. John Vianney “a man of faith.” He noted the saint “was not a particularly handsome man. He did not have a beautiful voice, and it was well known that he was not very clever or good at studies . . . but St. John Vianney had so much love. And, what did he offer the people? Forgiveness and mercy.” Veneration of the saint’s heart “offers prophetic witness in a country that does not want to hear about forgiveness or mercy,” Archbishop Pierre said. “He (St. John Vianney) was an authentic witness to those who seek a deeper union with God.”
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ASHINGTON (CNS) — Pro-life leaders said they were disappointed the U.S. Supreme Court declined Dec. 10 to hear appeals from Kansas and Louisiana on lower court rulings that have stopped the states from blocking Medicaid funds going to Planned Parenthood. “Complicated legal arguments don’t take away from the simple fact that a majority of Americans oppose taxpayer funding of abortion,” said Jeanne Mancini, who is president of March for Life. “Abortion is not health care, it is a human rights abuse,” Mancini added. “Until Planned Parenthood ceases to perform abortions, they should not receive any money from taxpayers.” Federal funds cannot be used to pay for abortion, but pro-life advocates say Planned Parenthood should not get Medicaid funding because its facilities primarily perform abortions. Also, the organization has been accused of making a profit on providing fetal body parts to researchers. Planned Parenthood officials and its supporters say the Medicaid funds are used only to help low-income women receive wellness services, cancer screenings, pregnancy tests and birth control. Marjorie Dannenfelser, president of the national pro-life group Susan B. Anthony List, said that despite the Supreme Court declining to take the two states’ appeals, the pro-life grassroots movement “will not stop fighting until every single tax dollar is untangled from the abortion industry led by Planned Parenthood.” She said the pro-life citizens of Kansas, Louisiana and other states “do not want Medicaid tax dollars used to prop up abortion businesses like Planned Parenthood.” “We support their right to redirect taxpayer funds away from entities that destroy innocent lives and instead fund comprehensive community health care alternatives that outnumber Planned Parenthood facilities at least 20 to one nationwide,” Dannenfelser added. The court issued the 6-3 order in the cases of Andersen v. Planned Parenthood of Kansas and Mid-Missouri and Gee v. Planned Parenthood of Gulf Coast. The three who dissented were Justices Clarence Thomas, Samuel Alito and Neil Gorsuch. New Supreme Court Justice Brett Kavanaugh was in the majority; if the order had been 5-4, the court would have heard the appeals. “So what explains the court’s refusal to do its job here? I suspect it has something to do with the fact that some respondents in these cases are named ‘Planned Parenthood,’” Thomas wrote in dissent. “That makes the court’s decision particularly troubling, as the question presented has nothing to do with abortion.” Kansas Gov. Jeff Colyer, who is a surgeon, said in a statement: “We regret today’s decision from the U.S. Supreme Court announcing that it fell one vote short of taking our case against Planned Parenthood. My support of the pro-life movement will not be diminished by today’s development, and I look forward to future victories in defense of the right to life.”
DECEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
VATICAN
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With migration, cooperation is better than isolationism By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service
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ATICAN CITY (CNS) — The Vatican praised the adoption by more than 160 nations of a key agreement on global migration, saying today’s migration challenges are better tackled together than with “isolationist” stances. The U.N. Global Compact for Safe, Orderly and Regular Migration “includes a comprehensive framework of best practices and policy instruments to increase international cooperation and sharing of responsibility in the governance of migration,” Cardinal Pietro Parolin, head of the Vatican delegation, told government leaders. The agreement, which is not legally binding, gives countries “the space to respond to their national circumstances and priorities, in full respect of international law and of the human rights of all migrants, regardless of their status,” he said at the gathering Dec. 10. “Its implementation will help all governments, as well as nongovernmental entities, including faith-based organizations, collectively to manage migration in a more safe, orderly and regular manner, something no state can achieve alone,” said the cardinal, who is the Vatican secretary of state. The Vatican released a copy of the cardinal’s remarks Dec. 11. More than 160 nations formally adopted the agreement Dec. 10 at an international conference in Marrakech, Morocco. The United States, Australia, New Zealand, Israel, Chile and a handful of European countries were among more than a dozen nations that did not support the pact and its provisions. Cardinal Parolin noted the refusal of some nations to take part in the conference or in the process of drafting the agreement. The Vatican, however, “is convinced that the enormous challenges that migration poses are best faced through multilateral processes rather than isolationist policies,” he said.
CNS PHOTO/LUISA GONZALEZ, REUTERS
A Venezuelan migrant brushes his teeth outside his tent at a makeshift camp Nov. 26 in Bogota, Colombia. The United Nations estimates there are more than 258 million migrants around the world living outside their country of birth. While the Vatican supported the compact, he said, it will present “its reservations in due time, specifically on those documents in the compact that contain terminology, principles and guidelines that are not agreed language, including certain ideological interpretations of human rights that do not recognize the inherent value and dignity of human life at every stage of its beginning, development and end.” Nonetheless, the global compact is still is a “significant advance in the international community’s shared responsibility to act in solidarity with people on the move, especially those who find themselves in very precarious
situations,” he said, as it allows states to “improve their respective migration policies and, together, the international management of migration.” “As we have seen in recent years,” he said, when challenges “are not managed well, crises can form, rhetoric can eclipse reason, and migrants can be seen more as threats than as brothers and sisters in need of solidarity and basic services.” “The Global Compact on Migration attempts to assist the international community to prevent crises and tragedies,” he said. “At the same time, it also seeks to improve the governance of migration, which is bound to in-
crease as the international community grows more economically, socially and politically interconnected.” The United Nations estimates that there are over 258 million migrants around the world living outside their country of birth, and, it said, that figure is expected to grow. The compact arose from the awareness that a more global and comprehensive approach was needed to promote the benefits of migration and tackle the risks and challenges facing individuals and communities in countries of origin, transit and destination.
Surprise! Pope makes several impromptu visits By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service
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OME (CNS) — Pope Francis made surprise visits Dec. 7 and 8 to people receiving medical care far from their homes, to a dozen intellectually challenged young people and to the staff of a major Rome newspaper. The late-afternoon visits Dec. 7 to the CasAmica residence for families with a member needing long-term medical care far from home and to Il Ponte e l’Albero, a therapeutic rehabilitation home, were part of the pope’s continuing “Mercy Friday” activities. Pope Francis began the Friday visits to hospitals, clinics, schools and residential communities during the 2015-16 Year of Mercy to demonstrate that mercy involves concrete acts of kindness and solidarity. Both the CasAmica and Il Ponte e l’Albero are on the extreme southern edge of Rome. The Vatican said most of the guests at the CasAmica are Italian families, mostly from the south, who cannot afford to stay in a hotel or rent an apartment while their family members are receiving treatment for cancer, leukemia or other
CNS PHOTO/VATICAN MEDIA
Pope Francis greets a child as he visits poor, sick people at a center run by the CasAmica Onlus organization on the outskirts of Rome Dec. 7. The visit continued the pope’s tradition of doing Friday works of mercy. serious illnesses. A few of the families, who were dumbstruck at the unexpectthough, come from North Africa and ed visit,” the Vatican said. Some of the from Eastern Europe. guests were in the kitchen and some “The pope rang the doorbell and was children were in the playroom. “The welcomed by the personnel on duty, Holy Father stopped to play and joke
with them” before listening to the parents of some sick children and offering them words of comfort. The visit to Il Ponte e l’Albero came in response to a letter from some of the young people describing “the daily difficulties that come from their mental disadvantages,” as well as their desire and efforts to follow the programs their doctors have designed for them. According to a Vatican statement, the pope sat with the young people, listened to them, responded to their questions and encouraged them. The parents of some of the young people heard the pope was there and arrived in time to embrace him and thank him for the visit. His visit to the newspaper, Il Messaggero, Dec. 8 also came in response to an invitation. The newspaper is marking its 140th anniversary. Pope Francis stopped at the newspaper’s headquarters in the center of Rome just after leading prayers for the feast of the Immaculate Conception. In a video of the visit, posted by the newspaper, Pope Francis confirmed Il Messaggero is his preferred daily paper, even though, he said, “I’ve been advised against” reading it by some people. “I wish you the best — another 140 years,” he told the staff.
DECEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CLASSIFIEDS
EMPLOYMENT Drivers - Ready for the summers off? Join our school transportation division and live like a kid again! Our drivers have the opportunity to serve our community and still get those precious summer breaks. Assisted Transportation seeks caring and reliable drivers to transport K - 12 students in Johnson and Wyandotte counties in our minivans. CDL not required. $12 per hour. Retirees encouraged to apply. Learn more or apply online at: assistedtransportation.com or call (913) 262-5190 for more information. EOE. DRIVERS NEEDED Seeking caring and reliable drivers. Work up to 40 hours per week. Transport elderly and disabled individuals to and from medical appointments. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Competitive wages and benefits. EOE. Learn more or apply online at: www.assistedtransportation.com (913) 262-5190 School office manager - Holy Spirit School is currently seeking a full-time temporary school office manager due to an upcoming maternity leave. This position would begin in January 2019. Hours are 7:30 a.m. – 4 p.m. Monday – Friday. This position requires an extremely organized, friendly, flexible face/voice for our school office. The office manager provides complex and confidential administrative and clerical support for the principal and the school office; conveys information regarding school functions and procedures; ensures efficient operation of support functions; coordinates projects and site activities; and handles any and all other duties as assigned. A college degree is preferred, along with a good working knowledge of Excel, Word and strong keyboarding skills. Virtus training is required. If interested, submit your resume and cover letter to: mwatson@hscatholic.org. Director of music - Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee seeks a full-time director of music. The candidate should be an accomplished musician with an appreciation of and experience in a wide variety of liturgical music; have a deep knowledge of liturgy and the liturgical year; have a strong sense of appropriate music selections for various liturgies, including funerals and weddings. The position requires expertise in vocal technique and choral conducting experience. Proficiency with keyboard accompaniment is required as is the ability to work with and coordinate volunteer instrumentalists. A desire to work with the Hispanic community is essential; familiarity with Spanish is beneficial. The position is available beginning in January, but alternative start dates will be considered. For further consideration, email a cover letter and resume to Father Kent O’Connor at: frkent@gsshawnee.org. Video links to performances/celebrations where you are demonstrating your skills are appreciated. Career opportunity – Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Topeka and Kansas City, Kansas, and Missouri metro areas. This is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual, who desires to serve others yet earn a better-than-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families, and will provide excellent benefits and training. This is a fulltime position. For more information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, General Agent, 1275 S.W. Topeka Blvd.; Topeka KS 66612; call (785) 408-8806; or send an email to: john.mahon@kofc.org. Holy Spirit extended day care assistant - Do you enjoy spending time with children? Holy Spirit School is seeking an enthusiastic person to be an assistant in our after-school care program. This well-established program runs from 3 - 5:45 p.m. each school day for our K - 8th grade students. We are looking for a responsible and creative person who enjoys working with children. The ability to communicate clearly with children, colleagues, and parents is most important in order to foster positive relationships. Applicant must attend a Virtus training and be at least 16 years old. If you are interested, contact Eileen Colling at (913) 492-2582 or send an email to: ecolling@hscatholic.org for more information. Director of the Cathedral Early Learning Center - Are you looking for the next step in professional growth as an administrator? The Cathedral Early Learning Center may be the right opportunity for you! We are searching for the next director for our center, which is familycentered within a vibrant Catholic faith community. The candidate should hold a BA in early childhood education (MA preferred) and have at least three years’ experience in the early education setting. The candidate must be a practicing Catholic in good standing. A pastor’s letter of reference as an active member of your current parish is required. The candidate must be organized, proactive and supportive with both staff and parents. We are looking for a visible leader in our community who enjoys the challenges of working with a professional staff. The director will supervise our 6-weeks to 5-year-olds classrooms, as well as the school-age after-school program. For more information and to apply, go online to: careers. hireology.com/thecatholicdioceseofkansascitystjoseph and scroll down and click on “Director Cathedral of St. Joseph Early Education Center.”
Resource center teacher - Holy Spirit School is seeking a part-time teacher in our resource center, Monday – Friday, 11:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. This candidate’s primary function is teaching K – 6th-grade small groups reading and math instruction and will also take on other duties as assigned. A college degree is required and a Kansas teaching certification is preferred. Virtus training is required. If interested, submit resume and cover letter to: mwatson@hscatholic.org. Sales position – Do you have sales experience? Are you well networked in the local community? J.S. Paluch Company, national publisher of church bulletins, has full- and part-time positions available. Excellent earning potential; medical benefits; 401(k); life and AD&D insurance available; excellent commission; compensation program. Interested? Call Kay Leane at (800) 621-5197, ext. 2823, or email resume to: Recruiting@jspaluch.com. WE LOVE OUR TEACHERS - COME SEE WHY YOU WANT TO WORK HERE! - The Goddard School Olathe Northwest is looking for dynamic, energetic, professional teachers to add to our faculty. The Goddard School is a premiere preschool where children from 6 weeks to 6 years are encouraged to develop at their own pace in a nurturing environment, lovingly guided by our highly skilled, professional teachers. Our staff is comprised of loving and dedicated teachers who understand each child’s needs. They are highly qualified childhood educators who use their creativity and the Goddard developmental guidelines as the basis for unique lesson plans that are brought to life in a fun and imaginative way. Education and experience are required for lead teachers. We offer training and mentoring for assistant teachers with little or no experience. We are hiring for the following positions: full-time preschool teacher; full-time toddler teacher; school-age teacher from 3 - 6 p.m.; and an assistant teacher for multiple classrooms. Retirement and disability specialist - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is accepting applications for a retirement and disability specialist. This position is an integral part of the successful operation of the human resources office. The primary responsibility is handling the day-to-day support of locations in the areas of disability and retirement processing, including the lay pension plan; lay 401(k) plan; priest 403(b) plan; and frozen 403(b) plans. The position also assists in the support of other general HR functions within the department, maintaining knowledge of HR and benefit programs and regulations that affect areas of responsibility. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing and have a minimum of four years of professional experience. Knowledge in human resources, insurance, disability or retirement is a plus. Application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should send cover letter, resume, and application via email to: jobs@archkck.org; or mail to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Retirement and Disability Specialist Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Data manager - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is accepting applications for a data manager within the stewardship and development department. The role works collaboratively in processing records for the various campaigns, funds and appeals; Leaven records and subscription invoices; and ensures that the records for constituents are kept current, accurate and organized. The position manages and maintains the Raiser’s Edge database for stewardship and development and assists in producing and maintaining accurate reporting and accounting records. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing; proficient in database management; and highly detailed with excellent communication and organizational skills. Knowledge of Raiser’s Edge is a plus. Application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should send cover letter, resume and application via email to: jobs@archkck.org with subject: Data Manager Search. Position open until filled. Business manager/accountant – St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kan., is seeking a business manager/accountant. This position manages all financial aspects of the parish and school. Duties include: payroll; deposits; accounts payable; reconciling bank accounts; monthly and annual reporting; budgeting; oversight of HR issues; and other financial duties. The ideal candidate is a Catholic in good standing, minimum five years’ accounting experience, effective communication skills, experience with Quickbooks Pro and a bachelor’s degree; CPA preferred. See the archdiocesan website at: jobs@archkck.org for a complete job description, application and benefits information. Submit a cover letter, resume and application by Dec. 31 via email to: jobs@ archkck.org.
HOME IMPROVEMENT EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 935-0176
Swalms organizing - downsizing - cleanout service - Reduce clutter – Any space organized. Shelving built on-site. Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp.; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115. WWW. SWALMSORGANIZING.COM. Ceilings only - Renew your old, yellowed ceilings with a fresh coat of white ceiling paint! No mess! Dependable, has 25 years of experience. 10% discount for seniors. Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 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. Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. – We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful. Woodwork will glow. Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125. DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time. Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com 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. 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. Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., staining, wood rot, power wash, decks, doors and windows, masonry, hardwood floors, gutter cleaning, water heaters, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, ceiling fans, mowing and more!! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118. NELSON CREATION’S L.L.C. Home makeovers, kitchen, bath. All interior and exterior remodeling and repairs. Family owned, experienced, licensed and insured. Member St. Joseph, Shawnee. Kirk Nelson. (913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net
SERVICES Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959. Tree Trimming Tree Trimming/Landscaping Insured/References Free Estimates/Local Parishioner Tony (913) 620-6063 Water damage: ceiling and walls - Drywall repair, retexturing. Dependable. Has 25 years of experience. 10% discount for seniors. Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com Handyman/Remodeler - Quality service with references. Kitchens, baths, tile, painting, garage doors and openers, decks and wood rot repair. Call Jeff at (913) 915-4738. Quilted memories - Your Kansas City Longarm shop Nolting Longarm machines, quilting supplies and machine quilting services. We specialize in memorial quilts - custom designed memory quilts from your T-shirt collections, photos, baby clothes, college memorabilia, neckties, etc. For information or to schedule a free consultation, call (913) 649-2704. Visit the website at: www.quiltedmemoriesllc.com. 8 to Your IdealWeight Get Real, Get Healthy, Get Empowered. Release your weight and restore your power in 8 weeks! Certified coach: kathioppold.8toyouridealweight.com. Win disability benefits - Disabled and no longer able to work? Get help winning Social Security disability benefits. Free consultation. Eight years’ experience. No fee unless you win. Call (785) 331-6452 or send an email to: montemace2000@yahoo.com or visit montemacedisability.com.
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Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@ kc.rr.com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlawyer. com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress. 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. Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, mulching, Hedge trimming, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002 Custom countertops - Laminates installed within five days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install! “Kevin of all trades” your professional organizer and “Honey-do” specialist. Call or email me today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055 or KOATorganizing@gmail.com. Insured. References.
CAREGIVING Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.benefits ofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591. Caregiver - CNA has many years of experience with elderly and dementia patients. Will do meal prep, doctor appointments, errands, medication setup and companionship. Call Johnna at (816) 786-1093. Just like family - Let us care for your loved ones in their homes. Two ladies with over 50 years’ combined experience. Looking for night shift coverage, some days. Great price, great references. Both experienced with hospice care. Call Ophelia at (913) 570-7279 or Kara at (913) 3431602. 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) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.
FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) For sale - Two side-by-side crypts; tier B, 13 and 15, located in the St. Joseph Chapel at Mount Calvary Cemetery, the only two left in the chapel. Call (913) 269-6176 for pricing.
REAL ESTATE Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it? We buy it all at once in as-is condition. Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com. We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family-owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000. I NEED HOUSES! - We are members of Holy Trinity Parish and we pay cash for any real estate without any realtor commissions or fees. We buy houses in any condition, including bad foundations. If you would like an easy, no-hassle sale at a fair price, please call me. We have 15 years of experience. Mark Edmondson, (913) 980-4905.
WANTED TO BUY Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
DECEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CALENDAR CAREGIVERS SUPPORT GROUP FOR MEN AND WOMEN Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas 1st and 3rd Tuesdays from 1:30 - 3 p.m.
Caring for a loved one is very difficult. Support helps. These sessions are facilitated by Jackie Tigges, MSW, LSCSW. For more information, call (913) 906-8990; send an email to: kwc@mountosb.org; or go online to www. keelerwomenscenter.org.
CHRISTMAS IN KOLOGRAD DANCE St. John’s Auditorium 420 Barnett, Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 15 from 6:30 - 10:30 p.m.
Admission is $10 for adults; kids 12 and younger get in for free. There will be sausage sandwiches, beer, soda and water available for sale all evening. The Kolograd band will be playing dance music. To purchase tickets, call Kenny at (913) 371-9690, Phil Ashley at (816) 210-9035 or Jim Baric at (913) 563-0625.
‘PEACE IN THE WOMB’ PRO-LIFE CHRISTMAS CAROLING Planned Parenthood 4401 W. 109th St., Overland Park Dec. 22 from 9 - 10 a.m.
ROSARY RALLY IN HONOR OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA St. Philippine Duchesne Parish 5035 Rainbow Blvd., Westwood Dec. 16 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.
We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary. Benediction will follow, as well as an opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scapular. For more information, visit the website at: www. rosaryrallieskc.org.
COPING WITH CHRONIC PAIN Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 17 from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
In the Christmas story, hope enters the world through the birth of a child, even in the midst of difficult circumstances. For more information, call Tina Jenkins at (785) 615-8373. This event is organized nationally by the Pro-Life Action League.
QUO VADIS RETREAT Savior Pastoral Center 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 21 - 23
Single men — high school seniors and up — who are seriously discerning a call to the priesthood are invited to the Archbishop’s Quo Vadis retreat. Father Bill Bruning will give the retreat, “In Mercy Called.” Meet Archbishop Naumann and inspiring priests, spend relaxed time with seminarians, pray together and discover what God is calling you to do with your life. Register by Dec. 17 by going online to: www.kckvocations.com or send an email to: vocation@archkck.org.
Resurrection School invites you to Breakfast with St. Nicholas. The cost is $6 per person and includes all-you-can-eat pancakes, hot and cold beverages, and sausages catered by Chris Cakes. Takeout orders will be available.
BREATHE RESPITE CARE PROGRAM Holy Cross School 8101 W. 95th St., Overland Park Dec. 15 from 4 - 8 p.m.
BREATHE respite care provides the gift of time away from caregiving for families who have a loved one with a disability age 5 years or older. If you have any questions, contact Tom Racunas, lead consultant of the special needs ministry, at (913) 647-3054 or send an email to: tracunas@archkck.org. To register a loved one for the program or to volunteer, go to the website at: www.archkck.org/ specialneeds and complete the online form.
HEALING MASS Curé of Ars Parish (Father Burak Room) 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood Dec. 20 at 7:30 p.m.
A Mass with prayers for healing, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held. Father Dennis Wait will preside. For more information, call (913) 649-2026.
‘DARKNESS AND LIGHT: LIVING THE MYSTERY’ Precious Blood Renewal Center 2130 St. Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri Dec. 21 from 6 - 8 p.m.
The winter solstice reveals a rhythm of life that teaches patience and nurtures hope as we wait for the coming of the Light. A meditative walk to the labyrinth with luminaries to light our path and a simple soup supper will be included. The suggested donation is $20. Scholarship funds are available. Register by Dec. 16 by going online to: info@ pbrenewalcenter.org or call (816) 415-3745.
NEW YEAR’S EVE DANCE Holy Trinity Parish (Quigley Center) 9201 Summit St., Lenexa Dec. 31 at 9 p.m.
The cost to attend is $40 per person. The doors open at 8:30 p.m. There will be great music, delicious snacks, soft drinks, wine and beer. Proceeds from the event help people who are unable to afford to attend the Beginning Experience weekends and the “Coping with Life Alone” sessions.
‘COPING WITH LIFE ALONE’ Church of the Ascension (St. Mark’s Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Jan. 5 - 16 on Saturdays from 2 - 4 p.m.
“Coping with Life Alone” is a Beginning Experience peer-to-peer grief support program that helps those who have lost a love relationship due to death, divorce or separation move through the experience of grief and loss into a future with renewed hope. For more information and alternate dates, go online to: www. beginningexperiencekc.org.
This two-hour workshop offers participants life skills to cope with chronic pain and its effects on their lives. Materials will be included in the workshop. For more information, call (913) 906-8990; send an email to: kwc@mountosb.org; or go online to www. keelerwomenscenter.org.
BREAKFAST WITH ST. NICHOLAS Holy Family Parish 513 Ohio Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Dec. 15 from 8 - 11 a.m.
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ICARE CHRISTMAS MASS AND LIVING NATIVITY Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park Dec. 22 at 6 p.m.
Mass will begin at 6 p.m. A social will follow in the church hall. All are welcome.
SILENT RETREAT FOR THE HOLIDAYS Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison Dec. 28 - 29
Arrive on Dec. 28 between 2 and 7 p.m. and stay through Dec. 29 at 4 p.m. Spend Friday night and Saturday in prayer in silence. Reflect on the blessings of the past and set goals for the coming year. The $75 fee includes a private room and meals. Call (913) 360-6173 or go online to: www.sophia spiritualitycenter.org to register.
‘TAKE-A-LOOK-THURSDAY’ Holy Spirit School 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park Jan. 10 from 9 - 11 a.m.
Come for information, tours of the school and refreshments. Choose a learning environment that is welcoming and Christcentered. For more information, call Anita Pauls at (913) 492-2582 or send an email to: apauls@hscatholic.org.
‘A TREASURE CHEST OF SPIRITUAL PRACTICES (SACRED BEADS)’ Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison Jan. 13 from 1:30 - 3:30 p.m.
Come learn creative ways to re-energize your spiritual practices. See how various faith traditions use sacred beads for prayer and meditation. New possibilities for prayer will open up as you experience these different practices. Call (913) 360-6173 or visit the website at: www.sophiaspiritualitycenter.org. Donations will be accepted.
Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co.
Specializing in Foundation Repairs Mud-jacking and Waterproofing. Serving Lawrence, Topeka and surrounding areas. Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696 In business since 1963 www.foundationrepairks.com
Call or text 913-621-2199
DECEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY THIRD WEEK OF ADVENT Dec. 16 THIRD SUNDAY OF ADVENT Zep 3: 14-18a (Ps) Is 12: 2-6 Phil 4: 4-7 Lk 3: 10-18 Dec. 17 Monday Gn 49: 2, 8-10 Ps 72: 3-4b, 7-8, 17 Mt 1: 1-17 Dec. 18 Tuesday Jer 23: 5-8 Ps 72: 1-2, 12-13, 18-19 Mt 1: 18-25 Dec. 19 Wednesday Jgs 13: 2-7, 24-25a Ps 71: 3-4a, 5-6b, 16-17 Lk 1: 5-25 Dec. 20 Thursday Is 7: 10-14 Ps 24: 1-6 Lk 1: 26-38 Dec. 21 Peter Canisius, priest, doctor of the church Sg 2: 8-14 Ps 33: 2-3, 11-12, 20-21 Lk 1: 39-45 Dec. 22 Saturday 1 Sm 1: 24-28 (Ps) 1 Sm 2: 1, 4-7, 8abcd Lk 1: 46-56
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Oh my, when will they deliver the goods?
eet! How’d that happen? It seems like I was just lamenting how early those Christmas commercials were airing on TV and now that wonderful celebration is almost here, leaving me scant days to get my shopping done . . . my cards written . . . my house spiffed up . . . and, well, you get it. If you find yourself in a similar situation or needing a quick gift to complete your list, here are some suggestions for presents of a more spiritual nature. A good book is always a great gift. Some of my recent favorites are: • “The Slow Work of God: Living the Gospel Today,” by Thomas P. Rausch, SJ (Mahwah, N.J., Paulist Press, 2017; 214 pgs.; $19.95), uses the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius and three recent texts of Pope Francis to help readers “become aware of God’s grace, beauty or presence breaking into our lives. They are transformative moments, always to be cherished.” • Sébastien Doane’s “Zombies, Unicorns, Cannibals: Strange Tales
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MARK MY WORDS
FATHER MARK GOLDASICH Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.
from the Bible” (Paulist Press, 2018; 142 pgs.; $15.95) highlights some 31 weird passages that you may not have seen before. The author puts these into their historical and literary context and relates them to contemporary issues. It’s an easy, engaging read, meant for all who have any interest in the Bible. No theology degree is needed. • A touching children’s book is “The Christmas Miracle of Jonathan Toomey,” by Susan Wojciechowski (Candlewick; 40 pgs.; $17.99). It’s the
story of a woodcutter who rediscovers his heart and his smile, courtesy of a young boy and a Nativity set. It’s always a treat to give a gift that “keeps on giving.” Two great choices in this category are subscriptions to either a monthly or a quarterly publication. “Give Us This Day,” a monthly produced by the Liturgical Press, contains morning and evening prayer for each day of the month, the daily Mass readings, a saint of the day and other short, inspirational articles. A one-year subscription (12 issues) is $39.95 and can be ordered online at: giveusthisday.org or by calling (888) 259-8470. There is also an app for it. “Living Faith” is a quarterly published by
Creative Communications for the Parish. It features an inspirational, brief daily meditation and lists the daily Scripture readings. Some short prayers and blessings are also included in each issue. A yearly subscription (4 issues) is $14.25 and can be ordered online at: www.livingfaith.com or by calling (800) 246-7390. For those who like to pray with their eyes, Monastery Icons offers beautiful ones in various sizes, featuring a whole host of saints and scenes from the Bible. They also offer incense, Christmas ornaments and even icon magnets. Its website is: MonasteryIcons.com; the phone number is (800) 729-4952. The Benedictines of Conception Abbey in northwest Missouri run the Printery House, which has greetings cards for various occasions, as well as a slew of religious items for all ages and tastes, from olivewood comfort crosses to rosaries to medals and holy cards. Its website is: printeryhouse.org; or call (800) 322-2737. For folks who love coffee, a seasonal treat called Jingle Bell Java is
made by Mystic Monk, who also sells a huge variety of other coffees and teas as well as mugs and gift cards. You can visit the website at: mysticmonkcoffee.com or call (877) 751-6377. And for those who like to enter into the “spirits” of this special time of year, the monks of the Abbey of Gethsemani might have just what you need. Among the various offerings of these Trappists — like preserves and creamed honey — you probably wouldn’t want to pass up their Kentucky Bourbon Fruitcake. I’m not a fan of fruitcake, but I might make an exception in this case! Their website is: gethsemanifarms.org or call (800) 549-0912. Obviously, we’re privileged to have a number of religious goods stores in the archdiocese, so don’t forget to patronize them for some last-minute gifts or stocking stuffers. Yeet, more time has just ticked off the clock. Boy, what I wouldn’t give for some Kentucky Bourbon Butter Walnut Fudge right now! I wonder if those Trappists have overnight delivery?
Sunday’s readings hint at ancient Hebrew feast
ust a few weeks ago, we celebrated the solemnity of Christ the King. By a strange coincidence, it appears as though the ancient Israelites also observed a similar celebration about the same time of the year, in the fall, to honor God’s kingship. It also appears that Sunday’s first reading, Zep 3:14-18a, bears a connection to that time of celebration. The prophet assures us: “The Lord has removed the judgment against you, he has turned away your enemies; the King of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst, you have no further misfortune to fear.” The Old Testament scholar Father Lawrence Boadt, CSP, suggests that connection: “Perhaps the whole series of
IN THE BEGINNING
FATHER MIKE STUBBS Father Stubbs is the pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.
oracles (of the prophet Zephaniah) were delivered during a week of celebration of the kingship of Yahweh, a feast for which we have no exact information but
many hints in the Old Testament. “It would have taken place in the fall, connected to the New Year’s festival” (from “Reading the Old Testament: An Introduction”). The timing of these prophecies during this feast of God’s kingship would explain why Zephaniah calls God “king.” But, there may be more to it than just that. After all, the country also had a human king,
Josiah. The Book of Zephaniah dates itself according to his reign: “The word of the Lord which came to Zephaniah, the son of Cushi, the son of Gedaliah, the son of Amariah, the son of Hezekiah, in the days of Josiah, the son of Amon, king of Judah” (Zep 1:1). The thing is, Josiah came to the throne when he was only 8 years old. Until he reached maturity, court ministers ruled in his place. Zephaniah condemns these regents because they allow other gods to be worshiped besides Yahweh. Speaking on behalf of God, Zephaniah tells them: “I will destroy from this place (the city of Jerusalem) the last vestige of Baal, the very names of his priests, and those who adore the host of heaven (the stars) on the roofs, with those who adore
the Lord but swear by Milcom” (1:4b-5) God is particularly angry with the nobility who are reigning in place of Josiah: “I will punish the princes, and the king’s sons, and all that dress in foreign apparel” (1:8b). Zephaniah’s prophecy warns Jerusalem of God’s impending punishment on its inhabitants because of their idolatry. At the same time, his prophecy ends with a note of hope. That is the section that we hear as Sunday’s first reading. Israel’s true king, God, will restore the faithful remnant to greatness and sanctity: “They shall do no wrong and speak no lies” (1:13). All this will happen, because God dwells in their midst: “The King of Israel, the Lord, is in your midst.”
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POPE FRANCIS
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The world needs leaders who are humble and willing to talk with their enemies with the aim of leading their countries toward peace, Pope Francis said. “Those politicians who do not know how to dialogue and confront each other are not leaders of peace,” he told residents and supporters of Rondine-Citadel of Peace, a peace and reconciliation project based near Arezzo in central Italy. “Leaders who do not make an effort to go meet
the ‘enemy,’ to sit with them at the table and do what you do, they cannot lead their people to peace. To do this requires humility and not arrogance,” he told the group of young people at the Vatican Dec. 3. The Rondine project hosts young people from nations that have experienced or still experience war and conflict; the young people live, study and work together, discovering their “enemy” is a human being like them, according to the organization’s website. The two-year program aims to give students the tools to be creative, active leaders even in complex, high-conflict situations. — CNS
DECEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY
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TurnStyles volunteers bring dignity to shopping experience
n December of 1952, the work of Stevan Dohanos adorned the cover of the Saturday Evening Post with an illustration titled “Bus Stop at Christmas.”
In the picture there are people of all ages waiting at the bus stop. Their arms are laden with presents, a tree, a wreath, and even a live Christmas goose snugly tucked in a basket. It’s a spectacular picture. But, what struck me most about the people in the painting is that none of them appear happy. Now, I can unquestionably understand the goose’s demeanor; his fate is almost certain Christmas dinner. However, the distaste on the faces of the people
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INSIDE CATHOLIC CHARITIES
LAUREN SOLIDUM Lauren Solidum is the executive director of Catholic Charities.
still perplexes me. I am certainly not an art connoisseur, so forgive me when I flippantly joke that perhaps it’s because they paid full price for all
those packages. (Cue shameless plug for TurnStyles.) TurnStyles Thrift, a ministry of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, sells gently used, donated items at reduced prices, with the proceeds going directly back to help fund agency programs.
TurnStyles contributes more than $1 million in annual revenue to the mission of Catholic Charities. TurnStyles shoppers can feel good that not only can they get a great deal on their purchase but, in doing so, they help support our neighbors in need. We have two TurnStyles locations in Overland Park: 135th and Nieman and 87th and Farley. In October, we were blessed to open a third store location in the Mission Mart Shopping Center in Mission. Stop by and check out our locations, while fulfilling your holiday shopping lists. Volunteers are crucial to our ministry. They serve our neighbors by
processing and organizing sale items. But, most importantly, they bring dignity to the shopping experience. We strive to make TurnStyles more than just thrift shopping. Our store personnel arrange items as they might be displayed in a boutique, giving consumers a feeling of high-end shopping at budget-friendly prices. Our efforts were validated when Cathy, a grandmother shopping for her grandchildren, expressed how appreciative she was for the cleanliness, quality items and welcoming environment offered. She mentioned how proud she was that she was able to buy select items for her family,
helping them stay warm and stylish this winter. When patrons support TurnStyles, they are supporting people like Cathy and — bonus — the 24 other programs Catholic Charities is honored to operate. Remember: Shop, donate, volunteer this season. If I were an artist, I’d paint my own rendition of “Bus Stop at Christmas.” In my version, there would still be a tree and a wreath with festive embellishments. There would also be a crowd of people with an armful of packages standing outside a TurnStyles storefront. Perhaps, best of all, they would be smiling.
Make your church irresistible — recognize the needs we all have
n Episcopal priest, who happens to have cerebral palsy, made a statement several years ago that I continue to hold in my heart. In fact, what he said, along with the Gospel values and pastoral statements from our bishops, forms the theological foundation for the special- needs ministry.
Here is what he said: There is no such thing as a person with special needs. We all have human needs. Some of us need accommodations to have our human needs met. If you know any person with a disability, if you know a frail and
REACHING OUT
TOM RACUNAS Tom Racunas is the lead consultant for the archdiocesan special-needs ministry. He can be reached by email at: tracunas@archkck.org.
elderly person, I would ask you to think about their day, their activity
and what they need to live with a sense of dignity and wholeness. Is any of their need not a human need — one that you also have? In recognizing the dignity and wholeness of that person, caregivers adapt what they do and how they do it so
the person can participate as fully as possible in the life of their home, their family, their school, their community and, hopefully, their church. If you became incapacitated in some way, even only temporarily — a broken leg or shoulder surgery — would there not be some human need you have for which you would require an accommodation? You might need help walking with the use of crutches. You might need help eating or bathing, or special seating at Mass. However, one thing is for sure. Your personhood would not be defined by your temporary disability. But yet,
we allow labels to define those of us who have permanent disabilities. That Down syndrome boy. That autistic girl. By saying the label first, we really deny the person. Labels do not allow us to see the strengths and gifts of the person that God created. We must look beyond the labels in order to see the face of Jesus in each other. If each parish adopted the notion that there are no parishioners with special needs among us, that all parishioners have spiritual needs and that some parishioners (and eventually, all of us) need accommodations to have our spiritual needs met, we would
become a much more irresistible and inclusive church. We would not see some of us as problems to be solved or conditions to be fixed. The only value of labels would be to tell us what kinds of accommodations a person might need in order to be more fully included in the life of the church. Then, our work will be to joyfully provide those. Convinced that we are made in the image and likeness of God, we will open our church doors to welcome and celebrate the unique and perfect wholeness of every person.
Concrete Work
Any type of repair and new work Driveways, Walks, Patios Member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish
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is affiliated with Warren-McElwain Mortuary, Lawrence, KS “Locally Owned and Operated Since 1904”
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DECEMBER 14, 2018 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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BREAKING NEWS
Nativity School KnighTV broadcast informs, builds community By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org
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EAWOOD — For decades, America’s morning routine has included a cuppa joe, a hearty breakfast and watching the morning news. That now includes the students at Church of the Nativity School here — with one exception. These kids not only watch the morning news — they produce it. This year, Nativity has traded its daily morning announcements via public address system for KnighTV.
What is KnighTV? With anchors and a production crew entirely comprised of 7th- and 8th-grade students, KnighTV is Nativity’s very first video announcement program. Every weekday at 7:30 a.m., a pair of producers and one of the 10 pairs of anchors arrive at school to film the morning’s announcements. “It usually takes them about 15 minutes with the taping and editing portion,” said David Kearney, Nativity School principal. After filming, the producers upload the video to a private YouTube channel and email a link to teachers. The teachers then project the video onto their classroom SMART Board at some point in the morning. Nativity has had no problem finding talented kids to contribute to the newscasts. Eighth-grader Matthew Schneerberger and seventh-graders Joseph Steven, Trevor Murphy and Max Morris are among the producers of KnighTV. “When Mr. Kearney made an announcement to the whole middle school about KnighTV and asked who wanted to do it,” said Steven, “I immediately signed up because I thought it would be a lot of fun. And I was right!” For Murphy, KnighTV was a natural continuation of the education he had received in sixth grade. “[Last year,] I was working with our sixth-grade teacher and we made a lot of greenscreen things,” he said. “Mr. Kearney recommended Max and me for KnighTV. “Every single kid I see now knows me as the KnighTV guy!”
Years in the making Kearney came up with the idea for a student-produced daily video announcement years ago, but it took the right group of kids and affordable technology to make it happen. “Our students today are so tech-savvy,” said Kearney, “and we need to provide them with as many opportunities and experiences as we can.” And that’s exactly what Nativity has done. With tools as commonplace as wireless internet and an iPad, KnighTV has been able to bypass the broadcasting cables, lines and specialty cameras of old. And when Kearney stumbled upon a newscasting app called “Do lnk,” KnighTV fell into place. “It was very affordable. . . . Everything you see here cost less than $200,” said
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Recording for the KnighTV morning announcements, Nativity seventh-grader Peyton Gillett, left, reads the special announcements for the day as Knight News anchors Landon Culler and Emmy Kopp, both seventh-graders, wait for their cue.
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“OUR STUDENTS TODAY ARE SO TECH-SAVVY, AND WE NEED TO PROVIDE THEM WITH AS MANY OPPORTUNITIES AND EXPERIENCES AS WE CAN.” Kearney, gesturing to the greenscreen, lights, iPad tripod and props around the classroom that doubles as the KnighTV studio.
Educating to aspire In addition to teaching basic videography, KnighTV has been an opportunity for students to grow as individuals. “I’ve learned to be myself,” said Olivia Oades, a seventh-grade news anchor. “When I’m filming, I’ve learned I can just be myself and I don’t have to be someone else or be perfect.” Grace Kiewiet, also a seventh-grade KnighTV anchor, agreed. “If you mess up,” she said, “people don’t really care; they just kind of find it funny.” “We really learn about leadership through this, too,” added Murphy. Each Wednesday, KnighTV has a special feature called Working Wednesday. A parent or parishioner is invited onto the show to talk about his or her career and how he or she lives out the Catholic faith in the workplace. The students also have seen how their willingness to participate in KnighTV
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
The seventh-grade production team of Trevor Murphy at the controls of the editing software, Joseph Stephen, back left, and Max Morris, right, work quickly after the day’s news is recorded. The team will have the KnighTV show ready to view by the time school starts. has encouraged other students to do so, said Schneerberger. And they’ve seen their good example impact the younger children. “With the little kids,” said Kiewiet, “you kind of feel like you’re leading them because you’re showing them your faith.
What’s on? A typical KnighTV newscast includes: • An announcement of reporting site • Date • Weather • Lunch menu selection • Special announcements • Birthdays • “Something to consider,” i.e., afterschool activities, Mass time, etc.
“At the end of the show we say, ‘Christ be our light.’ They recognize that. I’ve heard them repeat [it] in the hallways.” From plans to join high school newspaper staff to beginning to video journal, KnighTV has Nativity students looking to the future. “When I look at high schools,” said Murphy, “I look at their photography and videography programs.” And at the end of the day, the KnighTV crew wouldn’t have wanted to get their start in videography anywhere else. “We have a good community here,” said Morris, emphasizing that the support of the school is what makes KnighTV possible. “Nativity is just a great school all around,” said Steven. “All of the teachers here are awesome — there are no exceptions to that.”