11 03 17 Vol. 39 No. 13 by The Leaven

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 39, NO. 13 | NOVEMBER 3 , 2017

IT TAKES ALL KINDS

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Students at St. John the Evangelist School in Lawrence come from all over the world, including the continents of South America, Africa, Europe and Asia. Some of the students now call Lawrence home, while some are in Lawrence for just the year.

St. John School in Lawrence offers rich diversity

By Doug Weller Special to The Leaven

L it.

AWRENCE — Some schools talk a lot about diversity. St. John the Evangelist School in Lawrence lives

It is not just that Spanish is taught from preschool through eighth grade. Or that students proudly share that they were born in another country, or that their parents were. It’s that the administration both invites diversity and encourages students to share their cultures with others. “We’ve worked very purposely to attract Spanish-speaking students, especially students whose parents came from Spanish-speaking countries,” said principal Patricia Newton. And while most of those students are from Mexico, children

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Clockwise from bottom right, Gabriela Carttar, Gina Lee and Hanna Yokota work with their teacher Jessica Dunn on shading 3D objects in art class. Gina is from South Korea, Hanna is from Japan and Gabriela is the daughter of Spanish teacher Claudia Olea. from Central and South America, Europe, Africa and Asia also attend the school sponsored by St. John

the Evangelist Parish. Students born in another country or whose parents were born elsewhere, in

fact, account for 18 percent of St. John’s enrollment. “The diversity really makes it special here. Everyone knows someone who speaks Spanish,” said Claudia Olea, a Chilean native who has taught Spanish at the school for 10 years. Native English speakers are encouraged to attend a Spanish Mass, cultural events like the feast day of Our Lady of Guadalupe, the patron saint of the Americas, or El Día de los Muertos (“Day of the Dead”) celebration, when Mexican Catholics remember their ancestors and pray for the souls of the deceased. “I don’t have to convince them that Spanish is useful,” Olea said. “They see it.” The school’s effort to expose students to a variety of cultures doesn’t end with Latin America. In the upper grades, volunteers teach six-week segments of French, >> See “ST. JOHN” on page 6

NOVEMBER 3, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ARCHBISHOP

The top five reasons why it’s great to be Catholic

ast week, I shared the tenth through sixth of my top 10 reasons why I love being Catholic. This week, I complete the list with reasons five through one. 5. Church of truth and rich intellectual tradition: There are some who believe that we are living in a post-truth society. In a culture where relativism reigns — where you can have your truth and I can have my truth even if we contradict each other — there is no objective truth. In a society in which we claim not to know when life begins, what marriage is, and we celebrate individuals who claim to be a gender that does not correspond to biological reality, I find the Catholic Church’s defense of objective truths accessible to everyone through reason to be both refreshing and brave. Catholicism asserts that faith and reason are siblings, not enemies, because they share a common desire to seek truth. We are blessed to have a catechism that offers a coherent understanding of reality and explains the breadth and depth of our Catholic faith based on reason and revelation. The Catholic Church has a rich intellectual tradition that includes both extraordinary theologians — e.g., St. Augustine, St. Anselm, St. Thomas Aquinas, St. John Henry Newman, G.K. Chesterton, etc. — as well as distinguished scientists, such as St. Albert the Great, Roger Bacon, Nicholas Copernicus, and Father Georges Lemaitre, to name only a few. In our Catholic understanding, faith and reason are partners in the pursuit of truth. 4. Sacrament of reconciliation/penance: Al-

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN though facing the reality of our sinfulness is never easy or pleasant, the ability to confess our sins to a priest, delegated by a bishop — a successor of the apostles to whom Jesus himself empowered to continue his ministry of mercy — is a great comfort and source of peace. I once heard a Lutheran seminary professor describe his understanding of this sacrament as the opportunity to preach the Gospel to the individual. Jesus came to liberate us from the enslavement of sin and separation it created between us and our creator. When we go to confession, we admit our sins. In effect, we are expressing our particular and unique need for God’s forgiveness in our lives. When we hear the words of the prayer of absolution pronounced by the priest, we experience in a very personal way the freedom from the tyranny of sin and the healing of our alienation from God. Jennifer Fulwiler, the former atheist who is now a devout Catholic, made her first confession as a young adult in her 20s. She describes leaving the confessional thinking: “I

cannot believe this is for free.” What a grace to be able to experience the joy and peace that comes from receiving the sacrament of reconciliation. 3. Mary, Queen of All Saints: On the cross, Jesus entrusted his mother Mary to John, and John to Mary. In so doing, Our Lord gave his mother to the church as our mother also. We are so blessed to have such a rich tradition of Marian devotions through which we honor the mother of Jesus — the mother of God. Mary is also considered the first disciple. Mary’s “fiat” to being the mother of Jesus models for us the willingness to embrace God’s will, no matter how difficult or complicated it may seem. Another of Mary’s titles is Queen of All Saints. In our Catholic spirituality, we not only have the opportunity to have a relationship with Mary, but with thousands upon thousands of saints who provide us with incredible examples of following Jesus. Through prayer, we can develop friendships with these saints and receive from them support and encouragement. It is great to have friends and intercessors in heaven! 2. The Eucharist: What an incredible gift to have the living Christ become present to us in the sacrament of the Eu-

charist! At Mass, not only do we touch Our Lord’s sacrifice on Calvary, but also his victory of life won on Easter. Our God desires to commune with us so intimately that he gave himself to us in this Blessed Sacrament. Every time we receive Our Lord in the Eucharist, we are afforded the opportunity to experience a profound encounter with the second person of the Trinity. Through this Blessed Sacrament, Jesus renews his life within us and we become living tabernacles, living temples of the Lord. I am pleased that so many of our churches have eucharistic adoration chapels, where parishioners can come any hour of the day or night to be in the presence of our eucharistic Lord. What a blessing to have this unique opportunity to come into the presence of the living God! Eucharistic adoration is a time where we allow Our Lord to penetrate us with the miracle of his unique presence in the Eucharist. 1. Friendship with God: The most beautiful element of our Catholic faith is our belief in a God who desires to have a personal relationship and friendship with us. We believe in a God who created our world, the universe and the entire cosmos. However, we do not believe in a God who set the cosmos in motion and now is dispassionate about his creation, remaining aloof and indifferent to what happens on our tiny planet — Earth. We believe in the God of revelation who made us the masterpiece of his creation, fashioning us in his divine image. Unlike any other creature, God gave us free will — the ability to choose to love him or not.

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN

Annual Holy Sepulcher Mass and dinner — St. Ann, Prairie Village

Nov. 3 Holy Hour with Deacon Justin Hamilton and seminarians

Nov. 9 Religious Alliance Against Pornography conference call

Red Mass — Our Lady of Sorrows, Kansas City, Missouri Nov. 4 Priesthood ordination of Justin Hamilton — Christ the King, Topeka

Nov. 10-16 U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops meeting — Baltimore

Annual Bishop Miege High School Foundation Mass and dinner

Nov. 4 Priesthood ordination of Justin Hamilton — Christ the King, Topeka

Nov. 5 Pastoral visit — Immaculate Conception in St. Marys and St. Stanislaus, Rossville

ARCHBISHOP KELEHER

Nov. 5 Mass — Federal prison camp

Nov. 6 Mass for special-needs conference — Savior Pastoral Center

Nov. 8 Annual Holy Sepulcher Mass and dinner — St. Ann, Prairie Village

Priests small group meeting

Nov. 9 Confirmation — Corpus Christi, Lawrence

Confirmation at Sts. Peter & Paul — Seneca Nov. 7 Archbishop’s Call to Share homily recording Priests Personnel meeting Administrative Team meeting Nov. 8 Presbyteral Council meeting

Even after our first parents had rebelled against God, desiring to become their own gods and lords of their own universe, the Lord does not abandon us or allow us to wallow in the misery resulting from our sin. In the person of Jesus, God came on a rescue mission to heal our broken hearts and our alienation from him. Pope Emeritus Benedict described the

Concrete Work

Nov. 10 St. Martin of Tours Mass — St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood Nov. 11-14 U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops meeting — Baltimore Nov. 16 Confirmation — Immaculate Conception, St. Marys

essence of our Catholic faith as an encounter with a person, the person of Jesus Christ. We believe in a God who knows us by name and loves each of us uniquely. God desires to have friendship with us. He wants us to have abundant life in this world and eternal life with him and all his saints forever. It is great to be Catholic!

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NOVEMBER 3, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

KAIROS 2017

Cardinal Daniel DiNardo speaks at conference for unity, renewal

“

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

R A N D V I E W, Mo. — People from over 40 countries and a variety of faith backgrounds came together Oct. 24-26 for Kairos 2017 — a unity and revival conference at Forerunner School of Ministry here. “There were several purposes of this gathering,” said Deacon Dana Nearmyer, director of evangelization for the archdiocese and master of ceremonies for a portion of the event. The anniversaries of the Ecumenical Charismatic Conference in Kansas City, Missouri, the Catholic charismatic renewal, the Messianic Movement and the Protestant Reformation were just a few. “It [comes from] the command of Christ that even if we don’t all worship in the same house, at least we would be children that aren’t warring with each other,” said Deacon Nearmyer. Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and archbishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, was one of several speakers at the event. “There’s something about us,” said Cardinal DiNardo. “We want unity, we pray for it, we’d love to have it — and we still fight.” Discussing how to overcome differences and work together was a major theme of the entire event, said Deacon Nearmyer. “The kind of unity this conference talked about was that we have faith in Jesus and [in] the basic message of Jesus,” he said. “What was said over and over was that our theology, our practice, our ideologies may not be unified,” he continued. “But we should be able to respectfully have incredible conversations over those things knowing we’re unified in the cross.” Cardinal DiNardo touched not only on Jesus’ cry for unity, but his entire life, death and resurrection. “The whole world is transformed because of what Jesus starts [at the Last Supper] and what he finish-

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) President: Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

“IF WE ARE ENGAGED IN JESUS CHRIST AND HIS MERCY, THE LOVE OF THE FATHER AND THE GIFT OF THE HOLY SPIRIT, THEN WE WILL FIND A WAY TO THE EMBRACE OF EACH OTHER WITH THE LORD JESUS.” Cardinal Daniel DiNardo

LEAVEN PHOTOS BY DOUG HESSE

Above, Cardinal Daniel DiNardo, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and archbishop of the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston, talks about Jesus’ cry for unity at Kairos 2017. Right, Deacon Dana Nearmyer, director of evangelization for the archdiocese, was master of ceremonies for a portion of the event. es on the cross the next day,” said Cardinal DiNardo. He stated his hope that bridges will be built within the body of Christ.

“If we are engaged in Jesus Christ and his mercy, the love of the Father and the

gift of the Holy Spirit, then we will find a way to the embrace of each other with the

Editor Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org

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Lord Jesus,” he said. That embrace never seemed as possible as it did when keynote speaker Will Ford spoke, said Deacon Nearmyer. Ford’s talk centered on a kettle pot, in which his ancestors, who were slaves, used to cook their meals. But they also used it for something greater. “They would put the pot on rocks and pray under the pot two inches from the ground so their prayers could rise up, but they wouldn’t be heard by the [slave]master,” said Deacon Nearmyer. Ford began to research the family that owned his ancestors and prayed for healing between his family and theirs. Eventually, he met a descendant of the slaveholders, and now the two are great friends. “I think it was representative that through prayer, those guys became very best friends,” said Deacon Nearmyer. The talks from both Cardinal DiNardo and Ford extended hope toward a Christianity that works together despite its differences, and Deacon Nearmyer believes that is pertinent for the future of the church. “This generation demands an authenticity that is humbling, and it’s purifying,” he said. “If we’re going to connect with young people, we’ve got to be unified,” he added.

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.

NOVEMBER 3, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Maur Hill-Mount Academy harnesses Hollywood magic By Erin Hunninhake Special to The Leaven

TCHISON — Deran Sarafian, a 1976 Maur Hill graduate and accomplished producer and director in Los Angeles, recently volunteered his time to teach a twoweek minicourse for Maur Hill-Mount Academy students here. Students met with Sarafian and MH-MA music and theater director Erin Wolf to learn how to write scripts, analyze movies, shoot and edit a short film, and direct talent. Sarafian said his main goal for this class was to inspire. Sarafian developed a love for film at an early age, thanks to James Bond and other action heroes of his youth that graced the big screen. That desire for a creative outlet followed him to his days as a boarding student at Maur Hill Prep School. “We used to take plays and put a different twist on them,” Sarafian said. “Theater became very popular,” he said. “We had a lot of fun, and I think that got me wanting to continue on this path.” In an industry not always known for its embrace of the importance of faith, Sarafian has never shied away from proclaiming his. “A lot of my themes represent my Catholic upbringing,” he said. “You’ll see in my new project that it’s more about hope than disaster. It’s more about the human condition than the weather condition.” It is also common to see scenes of people praying and the clergy in Sarafian’s work, an environment he was used to while growing up and at Maur Hill. After graduating from Maur Hill, Sarafian set his sights on the City of Angels and enrolled in classes at UCLA. He soon realized, however, that if he really wanted to turn his dreams into reality, he was going to have to take some more immediate action. This took him overseas to Italy

PHOTO BY ERIN HUNNINHAKE

Deran Sarafian, a 1976 Maur Hill, Atchison, graduate and producer and director in Los Angeles, volunteered his time to teach a two-week minicourse for Maur Hill-Mount Academy students. The students wrote scripts and adapted them into short films. where he met famous directors like Federico Fellini. Before he knew it, he was selling his first film script, propelling his career forward. Sarafian is known primarily for his work in the action and thriller genres. Some of his most popular work includes “Death Warrant,” starring Jean-Claude Van Damme, “House,” “CSI,” “The District,” “Without a Trace,” “Buffy the Vampire Slayer,” “Nash Bridges,” “Fringe,” “The Cape” and “Rosewood.” When MH-MA president Phil Baniewicz first reached out to Sarafian with the invitation to return and teach a short course, the latter gladly accepted. “Everyone has the dream of coming back to help out after having done something you’re proud of,” Sarafian

said. “Even showing off a little bit.” Sarafian’s years of experience in the film and TV industries offered the MH-MA students a rare and unique opportunity to learn real techniques from a successful professional. During one class period, the students got the chance to watch a trailer Sarafian created to promote a new show he is slotted to executive produce. The show had been officially picked up by NBC the day before. Sarafian credited this good news to his new students, telling them they must be good luck for him. “It’s a really great group of kids,” he said. “I wish I could continue [the class]. I’m luckier than the kids are.” The rest of that day’s class time was spent working on scripts in small

groups. Sarafian and Wolf circulated between the students, giving feedback and providing suggestions. These scripts were then adapted into short films, shot and edited by the students. Sarafian made it clear to the students early on that his expectations for these films were high. “Let’s make them great,” he said. “I expect masterpieces.” The two-week course ended with a screening of the students’ finished projects at the school’s first-ever film festival, which they christened The Philm Phestival, in honor of Baniewicz. An award was given to the group with the best film, voted on by the rest of the student body. More information on Sarafian can be found online at: www.deransarafian.com.

Sisters of Charity attend international symposium By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven

EAVENWORTH — Six Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth (SCLs) were among the 9,500 participants gathered in Rome Oct. 13-15 for the exhilarating experience of the International Vincentian Family Symposium, celebrating the 400th anniversary of the Vincentian spirit/charism. The SCLs included Sisters Janet Cashman, Ramacca, Sicily, Italy; Katherine Franchett, Ashland, Montana; Eileen Haynes, Leavenworth; Bernadette Helfert, Ashland; and Mary Jane Schmitz and Elizabeth Skalicky, Leavenworth. In describing the gathering, Sister Janet said that from the opening moments, registrants were greeting one another and finding ways to communicate despite the many different languages spoken. “It was being family,” she said. Sister Eileen appreciated experiencing the passion for the Vincentian charism/ spirit: serving those in need and wanting to develop and strengthen relationships around the world. She found the presentations and small group conversations thought-provoking and enlivening.

PHOTO COURTESY OF THE SISTERS OF CHARITY OF LEAVENWORTH

Awaiting the audience with Pope Francis in St. Peter’s Square, left to right, were Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth Mary Jane Schmitz, Elizabeth Skalicky, Katherine Franchett and Bernadette Helfert. “Overall, we reflected on the anniversary year theme of ‘Welcoming the Stranger’ (refugees/migrants/homeless) whenever and wherever we can,” she said, “recognizing that we are called to be conscious of the stranger within ourselves before stepping out to serve.”

“The experience was awesome!” added Sister Mary Jane. The symposium in its entirety was special for her, along with the realization that “we are Vincentian, strong in our commitment, with strength in numbers, giving us the power to influence and to make a real difference.”

The Vincentian family includes religious congregations, charitable organizations and other groups that trace their roots and spirit to St. Vincent de Paul who lived and ministered in 17th-century France. The 400th anniversary marks life transformations that turned Vincent toward service of the poor. The symposium presentation by a Vincentian priest and an architect resonated with several of the SCLs. They reminded participants of the need to honor traditions and to take action. The fact that Pope Francis had a special audience for the Vincentian family — all 9,500 of them — was thrilling for Sister Bernadette. “We were only five rows away from where his popemobile passed,” she said. “It was also exciting to see our own Sister Eileen shaking the hand of Pope Francis as projected on one of the large screens.” A spirit of great joy and enthusiasm during the symposium left a lasting impression with Sister Janet. “From the opening prayer to the presentations, to the encounter with Pope Francis to the Mass that closed the symposium, this joy and enthusiasm was apparent,” she said.

NOVEMBER 3, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Dance instructor enjoys sharing both the art and culture By Jan Dixon Special to The Leaven

EA — The theatrical show “Riverdance” brought the art of Irish dancing to a worldwide audience. Emily Fuchs McCarty brought it to Wea. After watching Irish dancers in a parade, McCarty started taking lessons at the age of 9. She performed in many parades, competed all the way to the world-stage level and danced with world-renowned groups like The Chieftains, Irish Tenors and The Elders. Eventually, she took a step back from dancing and teaching to focus on her family. And she moved to Wea, where she soon became part of the Queen of the Holy Rosary family. “I was blown away by the sense of community here,” she said. “The more I was a part of the parish and school, the more I wanted to give back.” Offered the opportunity and space to teach Irish dance at the school, McCarty began with pre-K through eighth-graders. Students started with soft-shoe dances in order to gain the basic foot control and motor planning needed. Once the young dancers developed muscle and body control, hard-shoe dances were introduced. “Irish dance is a combination of athleticism and artistic balletic form,” said McCarty. “We concentrate on finding the balance between the two.” The main types of Irish dancing are formal and regimented, with little upper body movement, precise and quick foot movement, and a certain number of required steps. McCarty was taught that the shoe is the drumstick and the floor is the drum. Each and every beat of the music is sounded out with the foot. “It will make your soccer kicks stronger and your basketball jumps higher,” she said. Irish dancing has stayed true to its original form. McCarty likes that the dances are the same here in Kansas as they would be anywhere in the world. “I like that we are doing the same

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

Emily Fuchs McCarty teaches Irish dance at Queen of the Holy Rosary School in Wea to, from left, Mary Knight, Maddox Knight, Megan Benne and Audrey Knight. Pre-K through eighth-grade students have the opportunity to learn Irish dance, which is a combination of athleticism and artistic balletic form. dances that were done generations ago,” she said. History and culture are also part of the classes. Dancers weave like knots in the “Book of Kells,” move like the waves of Tory and the walls of Limerick. They wear soft shoes called ghillies and costumes embroidered with the claddagh. Jigs, reels, hornpipes and sets are just a few of the solo and group dances learned by the students. A favorite is the ceili (pronounced kaylee), a group dance based on those done at the crossroads in Ireland hundreds of years ago, where people would meet and dance around a bonfire. “The kids love this group dance,” said McCarty. “They let loose, spin with a partner and build arches through which they all pass.” Nick Antista, school principal, sees benefits from the program.

“It improves each child’s social skills as they work together as a group, helps them to develop confidence as their skills improve, and builds community as our students get to know peers throughout the parish,” he said. Kathy Benne, parent of 12-year-old Megan, said her daughter was excited to try a new type of dancing and that she really enjoys the moves and the music. “We have seen benefits of her being exposed to a different type of dance and culture and appreciate the added health benefits she gets from Irish dancing,” she said. In November, dance classes will also be offered for students not attending the Catholic school. This will allow McCarty, known to students as Mrs. Emily, to pass on her love for Irish dance to a larger audience and will bring the community

into the parish school. McCarty recently started a dance company called Heartland Irish Dancers located in Peculiar, Missouri, and Bucyrus. All ages are welcome. “Try it out,” she said. “If you like it, I will help you become good at it.” Parents have been very pleased with the Irish dancing. And it’s not just for girls. Megan White has an 8-year-old son in the program who likes the style of music and the fast pace of movement. “Mrs. Emily is a very patient instructor. She notices even the smallest improvements,” she said. Parades and performances are in the near future for these dancers. “Irish dancing is really joyful,” said McCarty. “I am excited to pass this on to a new generation.”

Topeka art festival draws 60 artists, 3,000 visitors

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

OPEKA — Sometimes inspiration comes from unexpected sources. Such is the case with Jeanine Wyatt, a member of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Lawrence. Wyatt was one of nearly 60 artists, writers and craftspeople from across the country who participated in Stone’s Folly, a two-day art festival held Sept. 29-30 to benefit Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in southwest Topeka. The event drew approximately 3,000 people. Earlier this year, Wyatt, who grew up in Atchison, released her first book under her pen name J.A. Kiehl. Titled “Amelia: The Town and The People Who Loved Her,” the book’s inspiration came from an unlikely source, two little girls from Kansas City. Wyatt, a docent at the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum in Atchison, recalled sharing with the girls how she, as a young girl, often rode her bicycle to the bluff near what is now the museum. She would sit on the bluff at the edge of the Missouri River and dream her dreams in almost the exact same spot as Earhart

had done as a girl. The girls left the museum, and Wyatt never thought she’d see them again. She was wrong. “It was about four o’clock in the afternoon, and we were almost ready to close,” Wyatt recalled, when the girls returned to the museum. The girls excitedly told Wyatt that they, too, had gone to the river bluff and sat dreaming about their futures. Suddenly, Wyatt was struck with an idea. She would write authentic children’s books about Earhart, her longtime heroine. “She was a motivator for me. She had goals, and she would try to achieve those goals,” Wyatt said, adding that she wants to inspire others to dream their dreams and achieve their goals. While Wyatt’s first book is not a children’s book but a keepsake volume to display on a coffee table, she still plans to write children’s books. “It’s my first published book, but it’s not my last, by any means,” she said. In the girls’ honor, Wyatt adorned her booth at Stone’s Folly with a statue of two little girls. And if the inspiration to write books came from an unexpected source, so did the idea of applying for booth space at the art festival.

Jeanine Wyatt, a member of St. John the Evangelist Parish in Lawrence, signs copies of her book, “Amelia: The Town and The People Who Loved Her” at the Stone’s Folly art festival in Topeka. Even though Wyatt and her husband have lived in Lawrence for more than four years now, they once belonged to St. Matthew Parish in southeast Topeka. Sometime during their years there, they

joined St. Brendan’s Community, a small faith-sharing group formed as a result of the parish’s participation in a Light of the World retreat. Every week, they drive to Topeka to join the other community members, including Maureen Leiker, for fellowship and friendship. Leiker suggested Wyatt should call Carol Naylor, one of the art festival’s cochairs. Naylor said she thought Wyatt’s book sounded like a great fit for the festival and encouraged Wyatt to submit her application. And because Wyatt did, Michelle Stuffelbean, a city resident who lives just a few blocks away from the parish grounds, was able to spend time at the author’s booth as well as all the other booths. “I’m not a big fan of art,” said Stuffelbean. “I’m just really impressed. . . . It’s just amazing.” Wyatt, who is also a painter, said it’s important for people to find comfort and meaning in art. She’s glad the parish hosted the festival and looks forward to her future participation in it. “I think it’s great. I am so happy because I truly believe fine art feeds the soul,” she said.

NOVEMBER 3, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

TOOLS FOR FAMILIES Growing as Disciples of Jesus

Staying connected to your spouse Start a daily ritual to reconnect after your day apart. Agree on a set time for each day. Pick a quiet corner where you can relax over a glass of wine or a cup of coffee. Turn off the TV, laptops and phones. Put on your favorite love songs. Relax and talk about ARTWORK BY NEILSON CARLIN, 2015 your day. Find out what it’s like to be him or her. Just listen! Your children will see a mom and dad who are in love and feel secure!

— Deacon Tony Zimmerman, lead consultant for the archdiocesan office of marriage and family life WEBSITE EXCLUSIVE

CHURCH OF THE WEEK

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Claudia Olea, a Chilean native, has taught Spanish at St. John for 10 years. “I don’t have to convince [students] that Spanish is useful,” Olea said. “They see it.”

St. John embraces cultural differences >> Continued from page 1

St. Paul, Olathe Address: 900 S. Honeysuckle Drive Phone: (913) 764-0323 Pastor: Father Michael Hermes Mass times: Saturday, 5 p.m. at St. James Academy, Lenexa; Sunday, 8 a.m., 10 a.m. (signed), 12:30 p.m. (en español) and 5 p.m. Website: www.spcatholic.org MORE PHOTOS AND A VIDEO TOUR of this church can be seen online at: www.theleaven.org.

WEBSITE EXCLUSIVE

TEAM OF THE WEEK

CROSS-COUNTRY

Class 5A & 3A state meet The Kansas Class 5A and 3A state crosscountry meet was held Oct. 28 in Lawrence, featuring runners from St. James Academy, St. Thomas Aquinas and Maur Hill-Mount Academy. The Leaven’s Jay Solder captured the action. To see his photos, go to The Leaven’s Facebook page.

German, Latin and Mandarin. Parents have supported the offerings, and the approach often is the “selling point” when families are trying to decide whether to try a parochial education, the principal said. It was Olea, in fact, who — as a parent — first suggested that a foreign language be taught. With Newton’s blessing, Olea began a before-school Spanish club. When other parents suggested a foreign language be part of the curriculum, Newton told them there wasn’t enough funding to hire a teacher. Until there was. Parents raised enough money to pay Olea to teach Spanish part time. “Now she’s full time and teaches Spanish from preschool through eighth grade. By the time students get to high school, they’re ready for Spanish II,” Newton said. Not only do native English speakers get a head start on a foreign language, but Spanish-speaking students learn to read and write in Spanish, something many have not had the opportunity to do, said Olea. It takes more than teaching Spanish to encourage Hispanic families to enroll their children,

however. Spanish-speaking families moving to Lawrence were attending St. John’s Spanish Mass, but sending their children to public schools, Newton said. “Because of the language and cultural barriers,” she said, “some of the parents couldn’t advocate for their kids if there was a problem. “We tried to reach out, and the word got out that we would be open and helpful.” Most importantly, she believes, is her philosophy that their cultural differences should be embraced, not pushed aside, as they become part of American society. “I told them that speaking Spanish at home is a good thing. Give them all your culture and history and knowledge,” Newton said. “They’ll learn English at school. “If you follow that, you raise children who are fully bilingual and bicultural. Everyone is better off if we can do that.” That philosophy has attracted other families from around the world, many who come to Lawrence because of the University of Kansas — either to teach or to study. “I love that it’s not just a Spanish community,” Olea said. “They get to know kids from all over the world. The majority are Catholic, but we have students from other religions.”

Father Jeff Ernst, a Capuchin Franciscan, is pastor of St. John Parish and an ardent supporter of the diversity initiative. He is fluent in Spanish, which he previously used when ministering in inner-city Denver, where his Capuchin province is based. Here, he has a native Spanish speaker on staff who oversees religious education in Spanish for both children and adults and incorporates their traditions during the reception of the sacraments. Father Jeff said Lawrence tends to be “very open to begin with,” which has helped the parish and school embrace new residents. But Olea said it also is the Capuchins’ charism of serving missions and marginalized communities that has helped the parish and school successfully open its doors. “It’s our community, church and Lawrence, but it’s also the Capuchin Franciscans. They encourage that,” she said. The principal said the school’s philosophy produces well-rounded students who can help change the world. “It’s just treating people with respect,” said Newton. “If we can teach these 300 kids that, and they teach 300 kids . . . think what we could do.”

Sister Marietta Huppert, SCL

EAVENWORTH — Sister Marietta Huppert, 90, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth for 48 years, died on Oct. 17 at the motherhouse here. Sister Marietta ministered many years as a nurse, social worker and discharge planner in SCL hospitals. She was born on March 31, 1927, in Mildred, Montana, to Fredrick W. and Mary Ellen (Foy) Huppert. She attended grade school in Mildred and high school in Terry, Montana.

She entered the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth on Aug. 14, 1946. She professed vows as Sister Jerome on Aug. 15, 1948, and later returned to her baptismal name. Sister Marietta began her health care ministry at St. James Hospital in Butte, Montana, as a student nurse. In subsequent years, she worked in medical-surgical nursing, obstetrics, infection control and social services at hospitals in California, Colorado, Iowa, Kansas, Montana, Nebraska and

New Mexico. She especially enjoyed social work and discharge planning — roles that allowed her to connect people with services they needed. Known for her quiet demeanor, Sister Marietta was friendly and gracious. She consistently sacrificed her time to help others. A gifted seamstress, she mended and altered Sisters’ clothing. Sister Marietta returned to the motherhouse in 2010. She had great devotion to the Sacred Heart and the Blessed Mother and always had her rosary at hand.

NOVEMBER 3, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Tongie parishioners take stock, send youth to NCYC By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

ONGANOXIE — High school youth at Sacred Heart Parish here are putting a twist on the typical fundraiser and giving back to donors in the process. Jennifer Eastes and Nancy Lanza, directors of religious education at the parish, decided to try a different route to funding this year’s National Catholic Youth Conference trip, which will take place Nov. 16-19 in Indianapolis. “We thought it would be great to have the kids ‘share’ their experiences with the people who helped send them,” said Eastes. So the group created a “stock board,” which they decorated with envelopes and hung in the church hallway. Each envelope was labeled with a dollar amount — or a “share” — ranging from $1-$100. Parishioners were encouraged to take an envelope with the amount they wanted to “invest” in the project and bring it back with the money. “One of my favorite parts about this whole idea is when we’ve done other fundraisers, you’ve got certain people who probably won’t be able to participate,” said Lanza. Either they don’t have a need for the product or service offered or they don’t have enough money to give, she

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

Mark Richards takes an envelope from the “stock board” at Sacred Heart Church in Tonganoxie. Each “share” allows a parishioner to invest in the youth group’s trip to NCYC in Indianapolis. Repp Braun (center) and Tucker Isaacs are just two of the teens Richards’ investment will benefit. said. “What was nice about this fundraiser is that if you could afford $1, you

could participate,” she continued. If you wanted to spend $100, you could participate.”

Donors are absolutely guaranteed a return on their investment. >> See “DONORS’” on page 15

BACK to SCHOOL High school chaplains connect to students on their own turf

Story by Moira Cullings Photos by Joe McSorley

Deacon Hamilton now serves as acting chaplain of Bishop Miege in RoVERLAND eland Park in addition to his PARK — They duties at Curé of Ars Parish eat lunch in in Leawood. (He will be orthe school cafdained to the priesthood eteria, attend Nov. 4.) Friday night football games Deacon Hamilton wasn’t and sit in on classes. alone in his initial hesitation. If you didn’t know any Father Jaime Zarse, chapbetter, you might mistake lain of Hayden High School some for students. in Topeka and associate But high school chaplains pastor at Christ the King in the Archdiocese of Kansas there, never wanted to be a City in Kansas are on minishigh school chaplain. try duty, and their efforts go “I simply did not think far beyond giving high-fives I would be able to make an in the hallways. impact on the students at Hayden,” he said. Father Zarse attended St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park and looked When Deacon Justin up to Father Mitchel ZimmerHamilton was ordained a man and Father Gary Pentransitional deacon, he renings, who served as chapceived a letter from Archlains there during his time. bishop Joseph F. Naumann “Father Mitchel was telling him young and full what his first of energy — assignment “[THE STUDENTS] he was confiwould be. dent and great ARE BRIMMING Like Archat engaging bishop Nauthe students WITH POTENTIAL; mann often on a big scale, does, he while Father THEY ARE asked Deacon Gary was Hamilton BEAUTIFUL much more of while he was a sage,” said SOULS. AND in the semiFather Zarse. nary if he was “His wisdom BECAUSE OF open to being and experience a high school in life made for THIS, I FIGHT chaplain. a great witness FOR THEM.” “He asked of stability for me, ‘On a the students.” Father Jaime Zarse, scale of one “Both were chaplain at Hayden to five — five exceptional being terriand were anfied and one other reason I being superexcited — where was nervous about becomdo you fall?’ I was closer to ing a high school chaplain,” a three or four on that one,” he added. said Deacon Hamilton. But Father Zarse accepted “But I said at the end that the challenge and has since I want to be open to anything found joy in it. because I think that’s the “[The students] are brimright approach,” he added. ming with potential; they “So I said, ‘If you want me to are beautiful souls,” he said. go to a high school, I will do “And because of this, I fight my very best to be chaplain for them.” there.’” “I knew at the end of the night when I was going to sleep that he would send me to a high school,” he said, smiling. When it comes to being a And he did.

The letter

Ministry of presence

From left, Eli Berggren, Cristhian Consuegra and Anthony DiGirolamo, juniors at St. Thomas Aquinas in Overland Park, chat with their chaplain, Father Matt Nagle, during a passing period. Deacon Justin Hamilton, acting chaplain of Bishop Miege in Roeland Park, stops in during a class to preach to the students. chaplain, relating to young people in a tangible way is key. Father Nagle, who taught at St. Pius X in Kansas City, Missouri, before he entered the seminary, was excited to work with students again. “I thought some of the skills as a teacher would translate well as a chaplain,” he said. Father Anthony Ouellette, chaplain of Bishop Ward in Kansas City, Kansas, and pastor of All Saints Parish there, was also happy to bring his past experience to the job. “I had worked in high school youth formation at Camp Tekakwitha before and during seminary,” he said, “so the thought of chaplaincy filled me with joy.” Father Nagle has found that the greatest quality a chaplain can bring to the job is being a good listener. By that, he means “letting them know that you’re somebody who they can talk to and they can say things that normally maybe they wouldn’t.” “I think the most important

thing is to be willing to listen and be present,” he said. A ministry of presence is something the priests agree is one of the most important parts of a chaplain’s work. Like many of the chaplains, Father Dan Morris, who serves at St. James Academy in Lenexa and as associate pastor at Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee, spends his mornings at the high school and afternoons at the parish.

“The primary responsibilities [at the high school] are sacramental — Mass, confession, being on retreats and traveling with the students when we go to the March for Life,” he said. Dividing time between school and parish responsibilities is overwhelmingly the chaplains’ biggest challenge. But they make it a priority to attend student activities and sporting events.

Father Dan Morris, chaplain at St. James Academy in Lenexa, poses with senior football player Matthew Maurer. Father Morris can often be seen at St. James sporting events.

“Every priest is going to have some background that’s going to relate to some students,” said Father Morris. “My love for sports and my background in design [are things] I like to plug in to the practices and games and connect with the students on that level,” he said. Father Zarse’s past four years at Hayden have demonstrated that connecting with his students is the most meaningful while on

retreats, field trips, mission trips, etc. “The best evangelization takes place outside of the classroom,” he said. But the priests will connect with students wherever they find them — in the chapel, classroom, lunchroom and hallways. “I’m being almost a student and fitting into their natural lesson for the day,” said Father Morris. “And I’m there to answer questions.”

Preaching in the classThey’re “tough on the much time on their phones rooms is one of Deacon outside — survival mode — as they do interacting with Hamilton’s favorite parts of but longing for deep and aureal people, chaplains are chaplain life. thentic relationships on the posed a complicated task. “It’s awesome to go into inside,” he said. “I think social media is a a classroom and share a Like his fellow priests, big challenge,” said Father little bit about my faith, and Father Ouellette finds frusNagle. “One of the things I really think tration in the kids’ often low that’s hard they’re listenperception of themselves. about social “I THINK SOCIAL ing,” he said. “When my students can’t media is it can D e a c o n see how God sees them and isolate you.” MEDIA IS A BIG Hamilton’s treat themselves poorly be“That creyoung age has cause of it [it’s difficult],” he ates some CHALLENGE. ONE been a gift for said. unique chalthis ministry. “[Or] when they buy into lenges for our OF THE THINGS “I’m on a what the world says they kids and how THAT’S HARD similar waveneed to be happy, and they to reach them length in terms must endure all the pain and in an age where ABOUT SOCIAL of pop culture frustration when it proves technology — being able itself to be a lie,” he added. has become MEDIA IS IT CAN to bring in Father Morris agreed. a dominant ISOLATE YOU.” movies or TV “The culture around force in their shows when I us isn’t a friendly culture life,” he added. Father Matt Nagle, can and what’s if you’re trying to live the F a t h e r chaplain at Aquinas going on in Christian life,” he said. Zarse agreed. the world,” he But that’s what makes “The culsaid. communities like St. James ture we live in Many of the schools have and the other high schools has been largely successful traditions when it comes to even more special, he added. in convincing the students to sports and special events, “Out of 940 students, settle for some second-rate and Bishop Miege makes a there’s never less than 100 version of themselves, [their] point to include their chappeople in the chapel every friendships and love, while lain in those times. morning [for daily Mass],” encouraging them to always “Before the football he said. pass the buck games, they have a pep rally “There’s and avoid reand they plug me into it,” an intentionsponsibility,” “I’M BEING said Deacon Hamilton. al desire to he said. “This ALMOST A Deacon Hamilton, who grow in hois difficult to was home-schooled, wasn’t liness living tackle.” STUDENT AND even sure what a pep rally itself out But Father was when he started at here,” he conZarse strives FITTING INTO Miege. tinued. to lead his And although it can draw And, ultistudents in THEIR NATURAL him out of his comfort zone, mately, the the right diLESSON FOR jumping into activities is one students have rection. of the easiest ways he can demonstrated “I warn THE DAY. AND reach the students. a resilience them con“My theory is that kids unique to stantly that I’M THERE TO don’t remember 90 pertheir generthey are living ANSWER cent of what you say,” said ation — one in and being Deacon Hamilton. that has left heavily inQUESTIONS.” “They remember you out the chaplains fluenced by on the floor doing something inspired. a culture of Father Dan Morris, goofy,” he said. “Otherwise, I “They can death,” he chaplain at St. James might come across as intimigo through said. “This is dating or out of touch.” some pretty usually met unique strugwith a smile gles,” said Father Nagle. and the words, ‘Don’t worry “But helping them and so much, Father Z.’” talking to them has helped Father Ouellette’s work me grow in my priesthood,” at Ward has given him a he added. unique look into his stuIn a time where many high dents’ lives. school students spend as

Getting to know ‘iGen’

NOVEMBER 3, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NATION

Concern rises over impact of expected tax cuts on programs for poor By Dennis Sadowski Catholic News Service

ASHINGTON (CNS) — Tax policy is not a simple matter. It almost never has been and

may not ever be. Still, Congress is trying to simplify the tax code to deliver on President Donald Trump’s campaign promise to cut taxes for the middle class. Working under the “Unified Tax Reform Framework” introduced by congressional leaders Sept. 27, efforts are underway to reduce the number of tax brackets, resulting in a tax cut for most Americans, and to incorporate numerous other provisions that some observers say primarily benefit the country’s top wage earners and largest corporations. Some Catholic observers are concerned. They fear that large cuts in health care and other public services will follow as tax revenues fall under the tax reform plan expected to be unveiled Nov. 1 by Rep. Kevin Brady, R-Texas, chairman of the House Ways and Means Committee. Their concerns are fueled by projections of lost tax revenues and the reaction of conservative lawmakers who may try to lessen the impact on the federal debt by seeking cuts in spending on vital social services. The Senate Finance Committee expects a $1.5 trillion reduction in tax revenues under the framework by 2027. A more pessimistic outlook comes from the nonpartisan Tax Policy Center, which estimated that the potential impact of proposals under the framework would reduce revenue by $2.4 trillion over the same period. Three guiding principles on tax policy are offered in the U.S. Catholic bishop’s 1986 pastoral letter, “Economic Justice for All.” Paragraph 202 outlines key provisions, saying tax policy should be “continually evaluated in terms of its impact on the poor.” The document said the tax system should raise “adequate revenues” to pay for society’s needs, be progressive in nature so that people with higher incomes pay higher tax rates, and exempt families living below the federal poverty line from paying income taxes. Any shortfall that comes about because of tax reform worries Presentation Sister Richelle Friedman, director of public policy at the Coalition on Human Needs. Cutting programs that primarily benefit poor people fails to adhere to moral principles on tax policy longespoused in Catholic social teaching and the U.S. bishops, she said. The “Compendium of the Social Doctrine of the Church” maintains that “tax revenues and public spending take on crucial economic importance for every civil and political community.

CNS PHOTO/TYLER ORSBURN

People are seen near the Washington Monument in Washington Aug. 10. Congress is trying to simplify the tax code to deliver on President Donald Trump’s campaign promise to cut taxes for the middle class. The goal to be sought is public financing that is itself capable of becoming an instrument of development and solidarity.” Jesuit Father Fred Kammer, director of the Jesuit Social Research Institute at Loyola University New Orleans, told CNS that in the analyses he has seen, the framework under which Congress is drafting its plan falls short of church principles. The expected cuts for most taxpayers and corporations “adds to the debt of future generations,” he explained to CNS. “It’s only going to provide more revenues to the wealthy and contribute more to the inequality in American society.” David Hebert, assistant professor of economics at Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan, called for tax reform so that the tax code would be simplified, but cautioned that Congress should protect vital public programs. “We can simplify the tax code without doing away with some of the important programs in the country,” he said. “What’s ridiculous are taxes we use to steer people’s behavior in particular ways,” Hebert added. “The tax code is there to provide goods and services to the community. It is not [its] role to steer people toward doing one thing or another.” The major questions about tax reform revolve around who benefits most. The Tax Policy Center analysis

found that the 50 percent of the total tax benefit will go to the top 1 percent of taxpayers, those with incomes of more than $730,000 annually. Their after-tax income would increase an average of 8.5 percent. The bottom 95 percent of taxpayers would see average after-tax income increase between 0.5 percent and 1.2 percent. Taxpayers earning between $150,000 and $300,000 would see a slight tax increase on average because they would lose most of the deductions currently allowed, according to the center’s study. For businesses, tax liability would be significantly reduced under the framework. Tax cut proponents have argued that such cuts will help businesses become more competitive in the world market, giving them the opportunity to expand — and that means more jobs and higher wages for the country’s workforce and, overall, higher tax revenues. As the tax plan was being developed, Bishop Frank J. Dewane of Venice, Florida, chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development, sent a letter Oct. 25 to each member of Congress reminding them of key moral principles and church teaching about tax policy. He reminded lawmakers that the needs of poor Americans must remain foremost in any tax code revision and urged that programs benefiting poor people not be cut to pay for any potential tax cuts.

The letter offered six principles for consideration and quoted the 1986 pastoral letter, the words of Pope Francis and St. John XXIII’s 1961 social encyclical, “Mater et Magistra.” In the end, Bishop Dewane wrote, lawmakers and the country overall must remember why taxes exist. “National tax policy is complex and its effects far-reaching. As the country wrestles with how best to raise adequate revenues to serve the common good and provide increased financial stability, you are urged to recognize the critical obligation of creating a just framework aimed at the economic security of all people, especially the least of these,” the bishop’s letter said. Father Kammer said efforts in the past to reduce taxes for corporations and people in the highest income brackets have been reversed. He recalled that the 1981 tax cuts under President Ronald Reagan’s administration were reversed within five years after U.S. budget deficits soared and human services experienced deep roll backs. Rather than invest in expansion then, corporations bankrolled the extra revenues. The same has traditionally held true for individuals, he added. “When you give tax breaks to wealthy people, it doesn’t affect their spending. They save it and invest it. When you give tax breaks to low- and middle-income people they spend it and they spur economic growth.”

NOVEMBER 3, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

WORLD

French priest receives human rights award for genocide research By Carol Zimmermann Catholic News Service

ASHINGTON (CNS) — An Oct. 26 ceremony on Capitol Hill honored French priest Father Patrick Desbois for his work for nearly two decades in researching and telling the story of genocides past and present. But the event also challenged the audience to be vigilant and to take more responsibility for the world around them. “We have an obligation to follow the path of Father Desbois,” said Rep. Jamie Raskin, D-Maryland, noting that the French priest continuously proved every human life matters and that everyone should speak up for human rights. “We need people like you,” Rep. Randy Hultgren, R-Illinois, told the priest after urging the audience to always be vigilant because “so much evil is still present.” Father Desbois is the Bramanendowed professor of the practice of the forensic study of the Holocaust at the Center for Jewish Civilization of Georgetown University. He is the founder of Yahad-In Unum, an organization based in Paris dedicated to identifying and commemorating the sites of mass executions in Eastern Europe during World War II. At the Hill ceremony, he was awarded the 2017 Lantos Human Rights Prize for uncovering lost stories of those killed in the Holocaust and placed in mass, unmarked graves and for collecting evidence of the genocide of Yezidis, a Kurdish religious minority in Iraq, by the Islamic State. The award, given by the Lantos Foundation for Human Rights and Justice, aims to bring attention to heroes of the human rights movement and honors the memory of Congressman Tom Lantos, a human rights advocate who served for nearly three decades as a Democratic representative of California. Lantos was the only Holocaust survivor to be elected to the U.S. Congress. Previous recipients of the Lantos Foundation honor include the Dalai

CNS PHOTO/CHRIS KLEPONIS COURTESY LANTOS FOUNDATION

CBS correspondent Lara Logan and Father Patrick Desbois attend the Lantos Human Rights Prize ceremony in Washington Oct. 26. Logan introduced the priest and presented him with the Lantos prize, awarded by the Lantos Foundation for Human Rights and Justice. Lama, Nobel Laureate Elie Wiesel and Vian Dakhil, a Yezidi member of Iraq’s parliament. At the award ceremony held in a congressional office building for the U.S. House of Representatives, Father Desbois spoke briefly about the need to “work hard” to convince the world to care. He said his research has unearthed a key discovery about the evils that have happened in the world, mainly: “There is no genocide without the neighbors.”

The priest talked with people who witnessed shootings of Jews in their villages as teens or young children, and took part in small ways, by digging mass graves, moving bodies or throwing dirt on them. That made him realize “if you know you are safe, you will watch” even gruesome killings. CBS correspondent Lara Logan, who interviewed Father Desbois for a “60 Minutes” segment in 2015 about the priest’s work called “The Hidden Holocaust,” said her takeaway from his

work is that everyone has a role to play to stop atrocities. “In an act of walking away, you let people get away with it,” she said. Logan, who introduced the priest at the award ceremony and presented him with the medal, told the assembled crowd that Father Desbois stressed after hundreds of interviews with bystanders at mass shootings that “nothing is more human than the capacity to kill.” For the “60 Minutes” piece, Logan and the CBS crew went with Father Desbois to the former Soviet republic of Moldova, where he showed the unmarked gravesites where, witnesses told him, more than 1,100 victims have been secretly buried for more than 70 years. The priest’s group marked the site by GPS so history will have a record of these forgotten dead. In a video shown at the ceremony, the priest said when he finds these sites he simply speaks to the ground and says: “I found you.” He doesn’t offer prayers out of respect for their own faith tradition. The priest’s findings are outlined in his 2008 book, “Holocaust by Bullets: A Priest’s Journey to Uncover the Truth Behind the Murder of 1.5 Million Jews.” To date, his group, Yahad-In Unum has identified more than 600 mass killing sites and had interviewed more than 1,700 witnesses. The priest is currently working on a book to be published next year about the killings of Yezidis. The priest has been director of the Episcopal Committee for Relations with Judaism of the French bishops’ conference and also has been a Vatican consultant on relations with Judaism. Although he has received numerous awards, he said getting the Lantos Foundation honor was a “proud moment to be recognized by such an active organization in the fight for human rights and decency.” “It is a fight we must, unfortunately, carry on, as the lessons of World War II have fallen on deaf ears on so many in Europe, the U.S. and across the world,” he said in a statement. “However, I accept this award with steadfast hope that human decency coupled with history will eventually cure us of the disease called genocide.”

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NOVEMBER 3, 2017 | 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. Youth ministry coordinator - Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church is seeking a full-time youth ministry coordinator (YMC) to provide vision and coordination of the parish’s efforts to minister to young people grades 6 - 12. This includes inspiring and helping form young disciples through hospitality, prayer, formation and service. The YMC will provide vibrant spiritual and social support for the current YDisciple program with future plans to add consistent youth activities and administration of youth opportunities external to the parish. Utilizes and cooperates with a staff resource committee and a parent resource committee for support. This person must demonstrate a passion for youth ministry; basic knowledge of youth development; ability to communicate and work with people of all ages; ability to find effective individuals to volunteer to assist the program in various ways, as well as manage and supervise their work. Other skills needed include: marketing, organization, time management and a genuine interest in responding to the needs and concerns of youth. The ability to work well with the pastor and be flexible with the pastor’s vision and potential need to continually evaluate and make changes in the program if necessary. Requirements: be a practicing Catholic who is faithful to and accepting of the magisterium (teaching authority of the church); bachelor’s degree from a Catholic university/college in theology, youth ministry or similar degree required; a master’s degree in the same or similar is preferred but not required; past experience in youth ministry is also preferred but not required. Send cover letter and resume to: info@shoj. org. For full job description, go to the website at: shoj.org/ about-us/employment-opportunities. Director of resource development – Community Housing Wyandotte County (CHWC, Inc.) is seeking a director of resource development. The ideal candidate will know and love Wyandotte County. The director of resource development will enhance and oversee the implementation of CHWC’s strategic approach to fundraising. Duties for this position include resource development, event management and marketing and communications. A high degree of mastery over best practices in professional fundraising is required; an ability to be a persuasive, flexible, fearless, and a sensitive and professional communicator; organized, strategic and systematic relationship manager; strong technology skills and aptitude; excellent written communication skills; and meaningful experience in fundraising for Wyandotte County organizations preferred. Qualifications include: five-plus years in a progressively responsive fund development role; CFRE or comparable certification and training preferred; bachelor’s degree in relevant discipline, master’s preferred. This position is permanent, salaried and full time. Hours will be flexible. Base salary $65 – 75K DOQ. This position is eligible for CHWC’s health, dental, vision and retirement benefits. For a complete job description, go to the website at: www.chwckck. org/careers-. To apply or inquire about the position, send a resume and cover letter to: hr@chwckck.org. Teacher assistant - Special Beginnings, Lenexa, is seeking full- or part-time after school teacher assistants at all locations. We are looking for a teacher assistant candidate who has an excellent work ethic, heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. Experience and/or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Teacher assistants will work with the lead teacher to care for and educate the children. Primary responsibilities include assisting the lead teacher with: care and supervision of children, lesson plan implementation, parent communication, and cleanliness and organization of classroom. Starting hourly pay ranges based on experience and education. Pay increases are based on job performance. Opportunities for advancement are available, as the company prefers to promote from within. Apply by sending an email to: chris@specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215. Drivers - Special Beginnings Early Learning Center is seeking part-time drivers for its school-age program located in Lenexa. Candidates must be able to drive a 13-passenger minibus, similar to a 15-passenger van. CDL not required, but must have an excellent driving record. Candidates would pick up children from area schools and then work directly with them when arriving back at the center. Experience preferred. Must have strong work ethic and the ability to work with children. Insurance provided. Background check will be conducted. Great opportunity for retired persons or those seeking a second job. Job responsibilities include: ensuring safety and well-being of children who are being transported at all times, including loading and unloading. Driving short, round-trip routes to elementary schools in Lenexa/Olathe area. Summer only: Driving short, round- trip routes to two Lenexa city pools. Maintaining mileage log. Keeping interior of vehicle clean. Apply by sending an email to: chris@ specialbeginningsonline.com or in person at 10216 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa, KS 66215. Praise and worship music leader - St. John the Evangelist Church in Lawrence is currently looking for someone to be responsible for planning and leading music for the Sunday 5 p.m. Mass. Music is largely contemporary praise and worship style, but also includes traditional hymns. The leader coordinates a group of 5 - 10 singers and instrumentalists. Piano playing and singing capabilities are preferred. Other opportunities for leading worship will also be available throughout the year. Monthly stipend. Send an email to Lisa Roush, director of liturgy and music, at: lroush@saintjohns.net.

International student coordinator - This is a work-fromhome opportunity. Twinn Palms is seeking a part-time international student coordinator to manage local host families and international high school students. Qualifications: must be personable, detail-oriented; must have valid driver’s license; must be willing to host student(s) until host family is found. Additional compensation will be awarded. If interested, send an email to Erin Martinez at: erinm@twinnpalms.com. Do you enjoy driving? - The Kansas City Transportation Group is looking for chauffeurs to drive our guests to events, airport, dinner, etc. Business is growing and we are in need of workers with flexible hours, those who are retired, etc. Great pay and benefits. Send resume to: jkalbert@kctg.com or in person at Carey, 1300 Lydia Ave., Kansas City, MO 64106. Accounts payable/payroll accountant - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has an immediate opening in the chancery accounting office for a full-time accounts payable/ payroll accountant. The position is responsible for processing approved invoices utilizing the DocuWare software and accounting system. The position is also responsible for payroll for the chancery staff. One to three years of accounts payable and payroll experience required, accounting degree preferred. Candidate must have strong computer skills with proficiency in MS Office Suite; must demonstrate strong organizational skills, including attention to detail and accuracy. A complete job description and application are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume and application by Nov. 22, to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Accounts Payable/Payroll, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: jobs@archkck.org. Assistant coaches - Bishop Miege High School is in need of assistant coaches for the 2017-18 school year in the sports of wrestling, baseball, diving, and track and field. Persons interested in any of these positions should contact athletic director Mike Hubka at (913) 222-5802, or send an email to: mhubka@bishopmiege for further information. Caregivers - Daughters & Company is looking for several compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to ambulatory seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide light housekeeping/light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation services for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. A CNA background is helpful, though not mandatory. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match hours desired. Contact Pat or Murray at (913) 341-2500 to become part of an excellent caregiving team. Custodian - Sacred Heart Church in Shawnee is seeking an individual to fill a full-time maintenance/custodian position. General duties include general maintenance, repair, and the care and cleaning of the campus buildings. This position is eligible for the archdiocesan benefit plan. For further information, send an inquiry email and resume to: julie.krause@ shoj.org. Health and wellness advocate for clergy – The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking an experienced nurse, case manager or social worker to fill the part-time (approximately 10-20 hours per week) position of health and wellness advocate for clergy. Duties include: visiting retired priests on a regular basis; managing priests’ conditions and care; serving as an advocate during appointments and hospitalizations; and assisting priests with health insurance and Medicare. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing and have a minimum of five years’ experience in adult health care, case management or social work; one year of health care management preferred. College degree in related field required, registered nurse preferred. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/ jobs. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume, application and pastor’s letter of support to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Health and Wellness Advocate Search, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: jobs@archkck.org. Executive director - The Archdiocese of Omaha has an opening for an executive director of FOCCUS Inc. USA. FOCCUS offers marriage inventory tools for use in marriage preparation and enrichment. This is a key position that offers a challenging opportunity to contribute your talents and expertise in business management, marketing, life cycle management, e-commerce and technology to further enhance FOCCUS’ competitive position in the marketplace. The executive director will develop the vision and strategies for the FOCCUS product. The desired candidate will demonstrate proven leadership of large e-commerce projects, including: directing business planning; content strategy and development; promotional campaigns and other online marketing; website design; customer service; web analytics; and web technologies. Qualifications include a bachelor’s degree (master’s degree preferred) from an accredited college or university in business administration, IT, e-commerce or related program; strong background in B2C and B2B e-commerce, including business planning, content strategy development, website design, web analytics and promotional campaigns; 5 - 10 years’ experience in utilizing e-commerce industries; active, practicing Roman Catholic in full communion with the Catholic Church, with demonstrated commitment to the mission of the church and full assent to all magisterial teaching. Apply online at: www.archomaha.org/careers.

SERVICES Water damage restoration - Framing, insulation, painting, Sheetrock, mold treatment and lead-safe certified. Insurance claims welcome. Serving Wyandotte and Johnson counties for 25 years. Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144.

Tree Trimming Tree Trimming/Landscaping Insured/References Free Estimates/Local Parishioner Tony Collins (913) 620-6063 Memorials for the Holy Souls We will place a candle, rosary and holy card at the grave of your loved one - $25 Personalized grave-care services available for all occasions PERPETUAL LIGHT (785) 816-0054 www.perpetual-light.net 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. Senior hairstyling - Haircuts, perms, roller sets. Savvy Salon, 5910 W. 59th Terrace Mission, KS, one block south of Johnson Dr. $5 off any service on 1st visit. Bonnie (816) 769-8511 Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, mulching, Hedge trimming, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002 Speedy Guzman Moving and delivery Licensed and insured Anytime (816) 935-0176 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.

HOME IMPROVEMENT The Drywall Doctor, Inc. – A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655. EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 935-0176 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. 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. 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) 491-5837 or (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa. 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 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. 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. HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com

Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 829-4336. Thank you for another great year - Through your support, my family has been blessed and my business has grown. We do windows, trim, siding, doors, decks, interior and exterior painting, wood rot, bathroom renovations, tile and Sheetrock. If you need work done around your home, we can do it. Josh (913) 709-7230. 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

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 - One plot in Mount Calvary Cemetery in Topeka. Located in Henry Garden, lot 824, space east. Current market value is $1500, selling price is $1300. Call (714) 308-2585.

FOR RENT For rent - House recently remodeled. Entry level BR, large loft BR, kitchen with dishwasher, basement garage with opener. Large yard, quiet secure neighborhood. No smoking, no pets. References required. Call (913) 238-2470. Serious interest only. Shawnee Sacred Heart member, owner.

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, prints, sterling, etc. Renee Maderak (913) 475-7393 St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee Wanted to buy - Cucina LLC is an entity that buys commercial real estate. Lou Serrone, a member of Good Shepherd, and Tom Disidore, a member of St. Agnes, are members of Cucina LLC. Tom and Lou are licensed brokers in both Kansas and Missouri. If you are a seller of commercial real estate, call Lou at (913) 219-9924.

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. Home for lease - Brick ranch in Lenexa; completely renovated three BR, one BA (marble), granite kitchen. New hardwood floors throughout, full basement, one-car garage, stainless steel appliances, washer and dryer; lawn care included. $1500/month. Call Matt, Holy Trinity parishioner, at (913) 721-6543.

CAREGIVING Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary. Retired nurse - Can work days, nights, do hospice care. 30 years’ experience. Currently available. Call Pam at (913) 5795276. Situation wanted - Retired nurse will do private care. Experience with hospice, Swedish massage and cosmetology. $20 per hour. Superior personalized care. Call (913) 938-4765. Medication support - Need help filling weekly pill boxes? Need daily medication reminders? We can provide these services in your home with daily or weekly visits. Call to learn about our exciting new medication solutions that allow you to continue living safely at home. Call Home Connect Health at (913) 627- 9222. Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 4221591.

VACATION Branson condo - Great for couples or families. Enjoy fall colors, Christmas lights and entertainment. No stairs, fully furnished; no cleaning fee. Free WiFi, indoor pool; on the golf course. Call (913) 515-3044.

NOVEMBER 3, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR CRAFT SHOW AND BIEROCK SALE St. Rose Philippine Duchesne School 520 E. 4th St., Garnett Nov. 4 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

country store with food items, a pot of gold, crafts and handwork items.

Fresh-baked “famous St. Rose bierocks” and packaged, frozen bierocks will be sold during the day. There will also be many craft booths.

BISHOP WARD TACO LUNCH AND DINNER St. Patrick Parish (center) 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 4 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m. and 5 - 7 p.m.

Bishop Ward High School seniors will host a taco lunch and dinner to raise money for Project Grad, a safe celebration of graduation. The cost is $5 for three tacos, rice and drink. Dessert is available for an additional fee. Takeout orders will also be available.

FALL FESTIVAL Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 106 Exchange St., Emporia Nov. 5 from 10:30 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

The meal will include turkey, sides, dessert and drinks. The cost is $9 for adults; and $5 for kids ages 3 - 10.

FALL BAZAAR Holy Family Parish Alma Community Center 244 E. 11th St., Alma Nov. 5 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

The cost to attend is a freewill donation. There will also be a raffle for a quilt created by parishioner Marie Lamb, cash and other donations. Carryout orders will be available at the door.

There will be 25 booths featuring items from dried flower arrangements to jewelry and Christmas crafts. Refreshments will be available. For more information, call Annie Clark at (913) 724-2212.

SANCTUARY OF HOPE BENEFIT DINNER AND LIVE AUCTION Abdallah Shrine 5300 Metcalf Ave., Mission Nov. 4 from 5 - 10 p.m.

SOUP LUNCHEON St. Patrick’s Parish Corning Community Center 5th and Main St., Corning Nov. 5 from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m.

There will be a variety of soups, sandwiches, hot dogs and chili dogs, as well as homemade pies and cupcakes. Following lunch there will be an auction, bingo, cards and games for kids of all ages.

On Nov. 4, there will be a marketplace that includes homemade arts and crafts, a silent auction that includes a wine auction, a book nook, home-baked goods and a concession stand. On Nov. 5, after the 10:30 Mass, the groundbreaking for the new parish hall will be held. There will be a traditional turkey dinner for the cost of $9 for adults ages 13 and up; and $4 for kids ages 4 - 12. The country store will be open, and there will also be kids games.

TURKEY DINNER Annunciation Parish Cigna Center 402 N. Maple, Frankfort Nov. 5 from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

A turkey dinner with all the trimmings will be served. The cost is $10 for adults; $5 for kids ages 10 and under. There will also be a

There will be a turkey dinner. The cost is $9 for adults; $4 for kids ages 10 and under. Takeout dinners are available from noon 2:30 p.m. and are $10 for adults; $5 for kids ages 10 and under. There are other activities for adults and kids as well.

‘MANAGING GRIEF DURING THE HOLIDAYS’ Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 8 from 2:30 - 4 p.m.

The loss of a loved one is always painful, and holidays bring lots of memories. These times make us especially aware of our losses. This support group will meet each Sunday in November.

K E A T I N G Mud Jacking FOUNDATION REPAIR

MUD JACKING

v Wall Bracing v Waterproofing v Steel Underpinning

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Cracked • Bowed • Settled Wall Repair

Kansas City (913) 262-9352

CHILI SUPPER/TURKEY BINGO Holy Family Parish (Mejak Hall) 513 Ohio Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 11 at 5 p.m.

A $15 donation includes one bingo card (attend Mass at 4 p.m. and receive an extra bingo card free), chili supper, dessert and beverages. There will also be three blackout games. For tickets, call Sandy Cannon at (913) 396-1564 or Cathy Schneider at (913) 371-1561. Ages 21 and over only.

POLKA DANCE Knights of Columbus Hall 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee Nov. 11 at 7:30 p.m.

The Brian McCarty Band will be playing polka music and timeless dance music. The cost to attend is $10 per person. Beer setups and snacks will be provided or BYOB. Proceeds go to the priest and seminarians fund. Call Dan Nicks at (913) 406-8717 for table reservations for six or more.

Bingo will be hosted by the Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus. The entry fee to play 12 games is $12. Concessions will be sold. For more information, call Bob at (913) 850-3348.

FALL BAZAAR Holy Trinity Parish 501 E. Chippewa St., Paola Nov. 5 from 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

Raise & Level

Lawrence (785) 865-0006

Topeka (785) 246-0128

POTLUCK HOLIDAY LUNCHEON Most Pure Heart of Mary (Formation Room) 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Nov. 12 from 1 - 3 p.m.

The Christian widow and widowers organization will host a potluck dinner. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call (785) 233-7350.

FALL LUNCHEON Grand Street 4740 Grand Ave., Kansas City, Missouri Nov. 12 at 11 a.m. for social hour 2 p.m. for lunch

The KC Alumni Council of the University of St. Mary invites all alumni, family and friends to attend its fall luncheon honoring Sister Anne Callahan. The cost is $30 per person. Register and pay online at: stmary.edu/KCcouncil or RSVP to Maxine Mitchell Staggs at (816) 304-3286. Mail checks by Nov. 7, payable to Kansas City Alumni Council, to: Penny Lonergan, 736 Seneca St., Leavenworth, KS 66048.

BINGO Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 11 at 7 p.m.

Tickets for a delicious meal and a fun evening are $50 per person. To purchase a ticket, call Julie at (913) 321-4673 or send an email to: julie@sanctuaryofhope.org.

FALL BAZAAR AND GROUNDBREAKING Mater Dei Parish 934 S.W. Clay St., Topeka Nov. 4 at 4 - 8 p.m. Nov. 5 at 11:30 a.m.

An open house will provide an overview of the school and include campus tours led by students. Coaches and club sponsors will be available to answer questions. The whole family is welcome. If you would like to schedule a personal open house tour, call the office at (913) 254-4228 or send an email to: kmaginn@sjakeepingfaith.org.

There will be soup and homemade desserts for the cost of a freewill donation. There will also be a country store, children’s games, drawings for prizes and much more. Proceeds will benefit the church building fund. For more information, call (785) 449-2841.

TURKEY AND TRIMMINGS DINNER St. Benedict Parish 676 St. Benedict Rd., Bendena Nov. 5 from 11 a.m. - 1:30 p.m.

CRAFT FAIR Holy Angels Parish 15440 Leavenworth Rd., Basehor Nov. 4 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

FALL OPEN HOUSE St. James Academy 24505 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa Nov. 11 from 9 - 11:30 a.m.

GIFT GALLERY Curé of Ars School 9403 Mission Rd., Leawood Nov. 10 from 6 - 8 p.m. (preferential shopping evening. Tickets: $20) Nov. 11 from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. (Tickets: $5)

This is a premier shopping event that brings together more than 40 artisans and vendors selling unique and upscale items. This fundraising event is hosted by Curé of Ars Mothers of Young Children in partnership with Country Club Bank. Proceeds benefit local children’s charities and scholarship funds.

PANCAKE MEAL St. Mary Parish 9208 Main St., St. Benedict Nov. 12 from 7:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

There will be pancakes, eggs and sausage, juice and coffee. The suggested donation is a freewill offering. Everyone is welcome.

‘PRAYING ON PAPER: A THANKSGIVING SEASON RETREAT’ Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison Nov. 15 from 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

This workshop introduces a way to pray that is meditative, active, visual, serious and playful. Participants will learn a prayer practice that is for the word-weary, the antsy or distracted pray-er. No artistic ability necessary. The fee is $65 ($20 deposit). For more information or to register, call (913) 360-6173 or go online to: www.sophiaspiritualitycenter.org.

TURKEY BINGO All Saints Parish (hall) 815 Vermont Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Nov. 18 at 5 p.m.

Food will be served from 5 - 6 p.m. Bingo will follow. A $10 donation includes one bingo card, a Polish sausage and kraut sandwich and a drink. For more information, call Pat Waliczek at (913) 371-4728.

FALL FEST St. Joseph-St. Lawrence Parish (St. Lawrence Hall) 211 W. Riley, Easton Nov. 18 from 4 - 7:30 p.m.

Join us for home-cooked soup and chili. There will be ham and turkey prizes for bingo as well as great socializing. The suggested donation is a freewill offering.

CHILI, TURKEY, BINGO Holy Angels Parish (Father Quinlan Hall) 15440 Leavenworth Rd., Basehor Nov. 18 at 5:30 p.m.

Come enjoy chili, a nacho bar and desserts. The suggested donation is a freewill offering. Bingo cards are $5 each. Prizes are a whole frozen turkey. The event is sponsored by the Holy Angels Knights of Columbus.

‘TAKE-A-LOOK THURSDAY’ Holy Spirit School 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park Nov. 30 from 9 - 11 a.m.

Come join us for information, tours and refreshments. For more information or to let us know you are coming, call Anita Pauls at (913) 492-2582 or send an email to: apauls@ hscatholic.org.

NOVEMBER 3, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

This life will be the death of us

THIRTY-FIRST WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Nov. 5 THIRTY-FIRST SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Mal 1:14b – 2:2b, 8-10 Ps 131: 1-3 1 Thes 2: 7b-9, 13 Mt 23: 1-12 Nov. 6 Monday Rom 11: 29-36 Ps 69: 30-31, 33-34, 36 Lk 14: 12-14 Nov. 7 Tuesday Rom 12: 5-16b Ps 131: 1cde, 2-3 Lk 14: 15-24 Nov. 8 Wednesday Rom 13: 8-10 Ps 112: 1b-2, 4-5, 9 Lk 14: 25-33 Nov. 9 THE DEDICATION OF THE LATERAN BASILICA Ez 47: 1-2, 8-9, 12 Ps 46: 2-3, 5-6, 8-9 1 Cor 3: 9c-11, 16-17 Jn 2: 13-22 Nov. 10 Leo the Great, pope, doctor of the church Rom 15: 14-21 Ps 98: 1-4 Lk 16: 1-8 Nov. 11 Martin of Tours, bishop Rom 16:3-9, 16, 22-27 Ps 145: 2-5, 10-11 Lk 16: 9-15

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magine you’re the pastor of a very poor parish. A notorious Mafia mobster has just died and his brother approaches you with an offer that, hopefully, you can refuse. “I will give you $250,000,” says the mobster’s brother, “if, during the funeral homily, you say that my brother was a saint.” How would you handle this? One particular pastor, although an honest man of deep faith, couldn’t let this opportunity pass. He accepted the money and the deal. After reading the Gospel, the priest walked down the aisle and stood by the casket. He cleared his throat and said, “We all know that this man we’ve come to bury today was a terrible mobster. He robbed millions, cheated on his wife, did violence to others, drank too much, gambled and never paid his taxes.” “However,” continued the wily priest, “compared to his brother, this guy was a saint!” Bravo! It’s the month of November, when the church directs our attention to the end times,

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.

specifically asking us to reflect on an uncomfortable topic: death. As Christians, though, this topic is not all gloomy darkness; it’s not something hopeless. Rather, we believe that, at death, “life is changed, not ended.” That’s no doubt why we began this month with the festive celebration of All Saints’ Day and we’ll end it with the glorious feast of Christ the King. That’s not to say that there aren’t tears when we reflect on death. But there can be both tears of sorrow from missing our loved ones and tears

of joy in knowing that they’re in the loving company of Jesus and the saints. I believe it’s in our DNA to know that this earthly life isn’t all there is. That’s why we can dare to laugh even in the face of death. As proof, take a gander at these humorous sayings on tombstones: • “Here lies Ezekial Aikle/Age 102/The Good Die Young” (Nova Scotia) • “Here lies an Atheist/All dressed up/And no place to go” (Maryland) •”The children of Israel wanted bread/ And the Lord sent them manna/Old clerk Wallace wanted a wife/And the Devil sent him Anna” (England) • “Here lies Johnny Yeast/Pardon me/For

not rising” (New Mexico) • “Sir John Strange/ Here lies an honest lawyer/And that is Strange” (England) • “Here lies the body of our Anna/Done to death by a banana/It wasn’t the fruit that laid her low/But the skin of the thing that made her go” (Vermont) • “Harry Edsel Smith/ Looked up the elevator shaft to see if the car was on the way down/It was” (New York) Or how about the tombstone with a recipe on the back for “Mom’s Christmas Cookies”? The family said whenever someone asked for her recipe, their mom’s response was “over my dead body.” Ironically, the recipe omits how long to bake the cookies! Guess Mom got the last laugh. On a more serious note, have you ever thought what people would put on your tombstone to describe you? Check out this story about Albert Nobel, the inventor of dynamite. Apparently, back in 1888, Albert’s brother Ludvig died while in Cannes, France. A French newspaper mistakenly thought that it was Albert who died

and wrote an obituary describing him as the “merchant of death,” saying that Albert “devised a way for more people to be killed in war than ever before. He died a very rich man.” This obit apparently caused Albert to do some deep soul searching. Today, most people may not know of Nobel’s connection to dynamite, but they’re aware of his initiating the Nobel Prize, an award for scientists, writers and others who promote the cause of peace. A quote attributed to him says, “Every man ought to have the chance to correct his epitaph in midstream and write a new one.” During this month, plan to visit a cemetery. Pray at the graves of your loved ones and think about what words you might chisel on their headstones, based on the lessons, virtues and memories they left behind. Reflect, too, on what you’d want your tombstone to read. Live in such a way that yours will be more inspirational than one in Georgia that reads: “I told you I was sick!”

Deacons called to illustrate Christ’s instruction to serve

hat do you call your male biological parent? Do you call him “Father”? If you do, that would appear to go against Jesus’ saying in Sunday’s Gospel reading, Mt 23: 1-12, where he tells us: “Call no one on earth your father.” Some fundamentalist Protestants latch on to the verse in order to denigrate the Catholic practice of addressing a priest as “Father.” Formerly, in English-speaking countries, that title was reserved for religious order priests. But it was extended to diocesan priests during the 19th century, to increase respect for them. In any case, we do not interpret the words of Christ literally. For exam-

THE GOSPEL TRUTH

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

ple, St. Paul claims the title of father for himself when he writes: “Even if you should have countless guides to Christ, yet you do not have many fa-

POPE FRANCIS

Working for economic growth based on increased consumption without concern for creating dignified jobs and protecting the environment “is a bit like riding a bicycle with a flat tire: It’s dangerous,” Pope Francis said. The dignity of workers and the health of the environment “are mortified when workers are just a line on a balance sheet, when the cries

thers, for I became your father in Christ Jesus through the Gospel” (1 Cor 4:15). If St. Paul can do it, so can we. In the Gospel reading, Jesus is cautioning religious leaders against taking pride in any titles they are accorded — whether it is rabbi, father, monsignor or your excellency. Similarly, he warns against places of honor that they might receive

at dinners or other public events. Focusing on these honors can detract them from their true purpose. At the same time, Jesus encourages religious leaders to temper their authority with mercy. He criticizes their harshness toward their flocks: “They tie up heavy burdens hard to carry and lay them on people’s shoulders, but they will not lift a finger to move them.” In contrast, Jesus instructs us: “The greatest among you must be your servant.” The role of servant, to which all Christians are called, receives formal recognition in the ministry of deacons. The word “deacon” derives from the Greek word for “servant.” Deacons are called to exemplify that aspect of the Christian by their

of the discarded are ignored,” he said Oct. 26 in a video message. Addressing participants at a weeklong Italian conference on Catholic social teaching, Pope Francis noted how many people in the Bible are defined by their work: sowers, harvesters, vine dressers, fishers, shepherds and carpenters, like St. Joseph. Work can give people dignity by allowing them to use their talents to support themselves and their fam-

service to the church. Their lives are meant to illustrate for us all how to carry out that instruction of Christ. In his criticism of religious leaders, Jesus says in the Gospel reading: “For they preach but they do not practice.” In contrast, at their ordinations, deacons are handed a copy of the Book of the Gospels and told: “Believe what you read, preach what you believe, and practice what you preach.” By practicing what they preach, deacons and all religious leaders can avoid the pitfalls that Jesus discusses in the Gospel reading. Pride goes before a fall. Similarly, the Gospel reading reminds us: “Whoever exalts himself will be humbled; but whoever humbles himself will be exalted.”

ilies and contribute to society, the pope said. But “there are jobs that humiliate human dignity” like prostitution and child labor or “offend the worker’s dignity,” like jobs that pay under the table, offer only a series of temporary contracts or do not pay enough attention to worker safety. “This is immoral,” the pope said. “This kills. It kills dignity, kills health, kills the family, kills society.”

NOVEMBER 3, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS Corrections In the Oct. 27 issue of The Leaven, the high school at which Deacon Justin Hamilton is serving as chaplain was misidentified in the caption. He is the chaplain at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park. Also, in the article about the Our Lady & St. Rose gospel choir, the wrong photographer was credited. Joe McSorley was the photographer.

Sisters of Charity to host Advent day of prayer LEAVENWORTH — Take a pause in the midst of the upcoming holiday rush for a retreat day to reflect on four gifts that Advent can hold: peace, courage, playfulness and hope. Sister Melannie Svoboda, SND, will facilitate the Advent 2017 Day of Prayer on Dec. 2 from 10 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in Ross Chapel at the motherhouse of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. Using Scripture, music, stories and humor, Sister Melannie will lead sessions with time for input, personal reflection and sharing focused on “Unwrapping the Gifts of Advent.” She is a Sister of Notre Dame from Chardon, Ohio, and the author of 13 books, including “Gracious Goodness” and “Traits of a Healthy Spirituality.” Marillac Center is hosting the day of prayer. The cost of $35 includes lunch. Register by Nov. 27 by email at: retreats@ scls.org or by calling (913) 758-6552.

Donors’ dinner will be first dividend >> Continued from page 7 The 12 kids attending NCYC will host a dinner for their donors at the church after the trip. They will help prepare and serve a meal and clean up after the dinner, said Lanza. More importantly, she said, they will share what their NCYC experience meant to them in front of those who helped get them there. Heather Coit, one of the trip’s chaperones, is excited her daughter Emma will have the opportunity not only to attend NCYC, but also to give back to those who gave to her. “I think it will be rewarding for the donors to see how this trip has enhanced and grown the faith of our youth in the parish,” said Coit. “I also think it is a nice way of saying ‘thank you’ for the generosity of our parishioners who sponsored our youth to attend,” she said. Emma is a freshman in high school and actively involved in the parish youth group. She was happy to take part in the stock board fundraiser and noted it’s much different from how the group normally raises money. “It’s really amazing to see the parishioners donating money to help us take this trip,” said Emma.

“The parishioners have always been very supportive to the youth group,” she added. “It means a lot to everyone in the youth group to have that support from the church.” Eastes hopes that hosting a dinner — not just receiving donations — will open the eyes of the youth even more to the love their parish family has for them. “I feel like having our youth share their experiences with the donors is a good way to help [them] make connections with the members of our parish, to build community,” she said. Lanza agreed. “When our youth see that older people are behind them, that they want to support them and help them, it makes the parish a real home for them,” she said. “Our goal with any youth group, with any religious education program, is that the kids will stay in the church.” Positive experiences like the dinner helps make that happen. And the parish is all in. The stock board was wiped clean of every envelope within a month. “If we get them all back, we’ll have made $5,050,” said Lanza. That’s $5,050 that she hopes will pay big dividends — now and for years to come.

Jerry and Carol (Foltz) Schmidt, members of Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 26. The couple was married at St. James Church, Chamberlain, South Dakota. Their children are: Geoffrey Schmidt, Olathe, and Garry Schmidt, Chandler, Arizona. They also have four grandchildren. They celebrated with family on the Jersey Shore and in New York City. Mary Ann (Brokamp) and Robert B. Henry, members of St. Bede Parish, Kelly, will celebrate their 60th anniversary on Nov. 12. The couple was married Nov. 13, 1957, at St. Bede. Their children are: Diane Flanders, Topeka; Jeanie Kramer, Seneca; and Glen Henry, Netawaka. They also have 10 grandchildren and 11 great-grandchildren. They will celebrate with family. Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or email: todd.habiger@ theleaven.org.

NOVEMBER 3, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

EVANGELIZING ART

Competition celebrates artists’ role in evangelization By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — It’s an artist’s nightmare: shipping your artwork thousands of miles to an exhibition only to be discovered upon arrival that it was somehow damaged in transit. That’s what happened to Kate Marin, a 2012 graduate of Benedictine College in Atchison. The St. Francis native is now studying at the Sacred Art School in Florence, Italy. Marin shipped her plaster statue of Jesus, entitled “Ecce Homo” (“Behold the Man”) to be part of “Duc in Altum: Put Out Into the Deep,” the 2017 Regional Christian Arts Competition and Exhibition held Oct. 17 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas. The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas and the Catholic Fine Arts Council of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas sponsored this first-time event. The CFNEK donated the prize money and the award plaques. That’s when one of the council’s board members, Eva Reynolds, used her connections. Reynolds, owner of the Eva Reynolds Fine Arts Gallery in Overland Park, asked Kansas City, Missouri, sculptor Jennifer Walker for help. Walker specializes in ornamental plaster and has done statue repair for churches before. She contacted CFNEK in the archdiocesan stewardship and development office and agreed to examine the statue at Savior. “It was very weak and broken at the knees, so I stabilized it, touched it up and made it look as if it never happened,” said Walker. Lesle Knop, executive director of CFNEK and CFAC, offered to pay for the services, but Walker refused, saying that she hoped another artist would do the same for her in a similar situation. “I thought the statue was so beautiful that I just wanted to help her,” said Walker. All the effort was worth it. “Ecce Homo” won the competition’s St. John Paul II Award and Marin, the $1,500 prize. The CFAC, established in 2009, has held a high school level art exhibition and competition for four years, said Knop. The council wanted to extend that opportunity to adult artists. “The council felt that we were missing an opportunity to engage the lay faithful who were not associated with Catholic high schools,” said Knop. “So, after some brainstorming, we established the guidelines for the first Regional Christian Arts Competition and Exhibition.” The guidelines and invitation for submissions were sent to bishops in Kansas, Nebraska, Iowa and Missouri. Somehow,

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG

Peggy Shopen won the St. Bede Award and $500 for her piece, “King David.”

Viewing and buying Several works shown at the exhibition and competition are for sale, although some are for display only. The price, name of the work, name of the artist, and whether it is sold or not is on the information tag with each piece of art. Marin’s winning piece, “Ecce Homo,” can be recast. To purchase art, go to the front desk of the Savior Pastoral Center. Payment may be made by cash, check or credit card there. The artwork, which is in the north hallway outside the large chapel, may be viewed during normal business hours, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. For information, call Tim Chik, Savior Pastoral Center director, at (913) 647-0370.

the word spread a lot farther, and the CFAC began to receive submissions from the four target states, plus New York, Kentucky, Virginia and Texas. “It says to us that there is a thirst for this opportunity, and I’m very pleased Archbishop Naumann encouraged us to mount this competition,” said Knop. More than 90 works were submitted by 45 artists, and a panel whittled these down to 52 works and 24 artists. The artists were allowed to submit up

to three works. The final judging was done by Denis R. McNamara, assistant director of The Liturgical Institute and associate professor of art and architecture at the University of Saint Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary, Mundelein, Illinois. Michael Shirley, CFNEK board director, introduced honorary chairpersons John and Pat Menghini. “The artist has played an integral part in evangelizing God’s people,” said John Menghini. “Just think. During the Middle Ages or through the Renaissance years, if you were trying to teach someone about a theological concept how much more helpful it would be if you could show them a graphic or show them a beautiful painting that depicted that thing. “We sometime don’t give [artists] credit for their role in evangelization. In fact, they are, I think, integral catechists throughout history. This is a way for our archdiocese in our area to recognize that and celebrate that.” Menghini said that he hoped this exhibition and competition would be a model for other dioceses in the United States. “If we want to promote Christian art we have to do something about it,” said Menghini. “We have to

give artists an opportunity to showcase their works, we have to give artists a reason to do that work, and they have to be able to make a living doing it as well. “As Catholics interested in that, we all have an important role in supporting those artists.”

Artists, works and awards • St. John Paul II Award, $1,500: Kate Marin, “Ecce Homo” • St. Thomas the Apostle Award, $250: Dan Dakotas, “The Face of Christ” • St. Cecilia Award, $250: Oscar Alonzo, “Mary’s Presence” • St. Luke Award, $500: Jason Jenicke, “Pietà” • St. Bede Award, $500: Peggy Shopen, “King David” • People’s Choice Award, $250: Jason Jenicke, “Pietà”

Kate Marin’s plaster statue of Jesus, entitled “Ecce Homo” (“Behold the Man”), won the 2017 Regional Christian Arts Competition and Exhibition’s St. John Paul II Award on Oct. 17 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas.