3 24 17 Vol. 38 No. 31 by The Leaven

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 38, NO. 31 | MARCH 24, 2017

TRAGIC SHOOTINGS

led couple to re-examine their priorities

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Sometimes people ask for a sign from God. Sometimes they don’t — and they get

one anyway. Major Curtis Nicholson, of the Kansas City Kansas Police Department, received a sign that eventually put him and his wife Michele on the path to the Catholic Church. For the Nicholsons, the first steps down that path began with heartbreak. Curtis is a member of the department’s Criminal Investigations Division. Michele is a budget analyst with the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Department. The law enforcement community is like a big family. When one member is injured, the whole body feels the hurt. This was especially so when Detective Brad Lancaster was shot and killed in May 2016, and Capt. Robert D. Melton was shot and killed in July 2016. The Nicholsons knew both of the murdered officers. Curtis worked with Lancaster directly and he investigated both of the deaths. “Shortly thereafter, I was driving down I-70 on a hunting trip,” said

STORY BY JOE BOLLIG Curtis. “I saw this huge billboard, just as big as can be. It said: ‘Where will you spend ETERNITY?’ “I pretty much knew the answer,” he said, “and I didn’t like it.” So, where did he think he’d spend eternity? “In hell,” said Curtis. “I was never baptized or spent a day in church. I prayed on rare occasions. “So, yeah, that’s what really

propelled me to go forward.” The climate of hate and violence directed toward the law enforcement community also played a role in their conversion, said Michele. “Every day, it was another officer. . . . Like a big cloud of doom and gloom over us,” she said. “It was never-ending.” Not only did the Nicholsons not

go to church, they didn’t belong to one. Neither had ever been baptized and had only brief and incidental brushes with religion since they were children. Curtis had occasionally thought about going to a church, but never actually followed through on it. Now, things were different. “I told Michele that I wanted to start going to church, and she was open to it,” said Curtis. “I decided that I wanted to look at the Catholic faith instead of others.”

Churchless by design

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG

Major Curtis Nicholson, of the Kansas City Kansas Police Department, and his wife Michele, a budget analyst with the Wyandotte County Sheriff’s Department, are now on their way to entering the Catholic Church at the Easter Vigil.

“I was exposed to church at a young age by some family friends, and went to church periodically,” said Curtis. “I’d been to summer church camps and Bible studies.” His family, however, very rarely went to church. “My parents were good parents, but they never led me to anything — to church or down a career path,” he said. “It was up to me to make decisions about what I wanted to do with my life.” “It was the exact same for me,” said Michele. “I remember my mother saying that my father didn’t want to push any religion on us. He >> See “COUPLE” on page 5

MARCH 24, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Rome trip was both inspiring and gratifying

rior to my priestly ordination in 1975, I never had a one-on-one meeting with the archbishop of St. Louis, John Cardinal Carberry. For that matter, I never had a one-on-one meeting with the cardinal after I was ordained. It was a different era. The number of men in the seminary was still strong. I was one of 14 new priests ordained for the Archdiocese of St. Louis in 1975. The prior year, 22 men were ordained as priests for St. Louis. I understood the theology that priests only serve in communion with the local bishop. I had tremendous respect for bishops but, as a seminarian and a young priest, my goal was to avoid bishops as much as possible. I enjoyed each of my parochial assignments as a young priest. From my perspective, nothing good could come from catching the attention of the bishop, since he could transfer me from my present assignment. From my viewpoint, there were three probable reasons for a bishop to call me: 1) I was in trouble! 2) I was being transferred; 3) I was being asked to take on some additional responsibility. I was hoping for none of the above. I thought it best to do what I could to keep off the bishop’s radar screen. You can see how well that strategy worked for me! God definitely has a great sense of humor. When I arrived in the Archdiocese of Kansas City, I was impressed by the time and personal attention that Arch-

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN bishop Keleher gave to promoting priestly vocations and to spending time with seminarians and potential seminarians. I was grateful to Archbishop Keleher for the number and quality of seminarians for our archdiocese. It was clear to me that one of the most important responsibilities of a bishop is the ordination of priests. A dedicated and zealous priest can influence tens of thousands of individuals over the course of his priestly life. Nothing else that I do has the same potential for a long and lasting impact. I attempt to visit all of our seminaries at least once a year and to schedule one-on-one meetings with all of our men in pre-theology and theology. My recent trip to Rome was primarily to spend time with our two seminarians (Carter Zielinski and Joe Heschmeyer) studying at the Pontifical North American College as well as to meet with their formators. I have not been in Rome since Carter and Joe began their studies. Unfortunately, I am not

able to go this coming fall, when Carter and Joe will be ordained transitional deacons. God willing, I will ordain them priests in the spring of 2018. The faculty and students of the North American College have for decades sponsored English-speaking Masses at the stational churches in Rome during Lent. The custom of visiting the stational churches dates back to Pope St. Gregory the Great (590-604). A different stational church is designated for each day of Lent. I was given the privilege to celebrate Mass for Tuesday of the Second Week of Lent at the Basilica of St. Balbina. According to legend, St. Balbina was the daughter of Quirinius, a tribune in the Roman army. Having been cured from a debilitating disease by kissing the chains that once shackled St. Peter, Balbina and her father converted to Christianity. A statue of St. Balbina is one of those that adorn the roof of the colonnade surrounding St. Peter’s Square. The 7 a.m. Mass at St. Balbina was packed with seminarians from the North American College, as well as many other American col-

Discover Help after Abortion Unfailing Mercy Retreats April 8

lege students who are studying in Rome. It was beautiful to see the faith and love for Our Lord in the Eucharist evidenced not only by the seminarians, but by so many other young American students. Since the seminarians and other students had to catch breakfast and get to classes, my homily was brief — another miracle attributed to St. Balbina. Actually, it was a bit intimidating to give the homily after attending the Carl J. Peter Lecture on Homiletics given by Bishop Charles Jason Gordon of Bridgetown, Barbados. Bishop Gordon gave a powerful and challenging talk on the importance of the Sunday homily. I was also able to attend a reflection on celibacy given by Father Joseph Carola, SJ, who had given the January retreat to the bishops of Kansas, Missouri, Iowa and Nebraska. Father Carola gave a very thoughtful explanation of the meaning and importance of celibacy. He reminded the seminarians that the purpose of celibacy is not a utilitarian one so that they are freer to serve wherever the church most needs them, but the witness it gives to God’s people of giving God primacy in our lives. It was good for me to catch a glimpse of the formation that Carter and Joe are receiving at the North American College. I hope and pray that my time in Rome was a source of encouragement to Carter and Joe as they are just a little more than a year away from priestly ordination. I hope it helped them develop a better attitude toward bishops

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN March 25 Parish Benchmark workshop talk March 26 Pastoral visit — St. John the Evangelist, Lawrence Baptism of third or more children — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas March 27 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording

April 1 Institute for Missionary Activity Symposium — Benedictine College April 2 Pastoral visit — St. Paul, Olathe April 3 St. Paul Parish confirmation — St. James Academy

Mass — Curé of Ars School, Leawood

April 4 Installation to the ministry of reader — Kenrick-Glennon Seminary, St. Louis

Confirmation — St. Francis de Sales, Lansing

ARCHBISHOP KELEHER

March 28 Eucharistic adoration — St. James Academy, Lenexa

March 26 Mass — Federal prison camp March 28 Confirmation — St. Mary-St. Anthony, Kansas City, Kansas

Administrative Team meeting Confirmation of students of Resurrection School and Kansas City, Kansas, religious education students — Cathedral of St. Peter March 29 Presbyteral Council meeting March 30 Priests small group meeting

than I did as a seminarian and a young priest. My time spent with the seminarians at the North American College certainly renewed my hope for the future of our church, not just in northeast Kansas, but throughout the entire United States. Please keep Carter, Joe and all our Kansas City, Kansas,

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April 2 Mass — Federal prison camp April 3 St. Paul’s Outreach Mass — St. Agnes, Roeland Park April 4 Catholic Radio radiothon

seminarians in your prayers. I am grateful to God for blessing us with so many and such high quality seminarians. Please pray for me that I may do my part in attempting to form priests who will serve the people of our Archdiocese for many decades to come.

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MARCH 24, 2017

NATION

WAX WORKS

Ohio company’s candles helping church celebrate Easter for generations By Katie Breidenbach Catholic News Service

EDINA, Ohio (CNS) — Dozens of little wax flowers lay on the table in front of her. With a gentle grip, Judy Hamrick picks up each one and covers the back in glue. “It’s very peaceful work,” Hamrick said. “I’ve worked here 24 years and every paschal season I’ve been out here and we enjoy it out here.” Nearby are countless other wax decorations in the shape of lambs, crosses, numbers and Greek letters. Tubs of wax, rulers, brushes and boxes of pins lay strewn on Hamrick’s desk and the desks of her co-workers. “It’s exciting when you put it all together,” added another decorator, Rose Marie Dixon. Each element is carefully measured and attached, by hand, to a long wax pillar. After about 45 minutes, the women finish decorating one paschal candle. Their factory, the A.I. Root Co. in Medina, will create over 1,500 of these liturgical works of art and ship them to churches across the country. “We probably make about 25 to 30 a day,” said Brad Root, president and chairman of the A.I. Root Co. “It’s the 15 weeks leading up to Easter that the majority of the paschal candles are made and shipped.” The paschal candle is a central part of the Easter season, placed in a prominent location in each church’s sanctuary to symbolize Christ and the light of his resurrection. During the Easter Vigil, the celebrant will light the candle for the first time and insert five grains of incense into the wax to recall Christ’s five wounds. He will then carry the flame through the darkened church, spreading the light as he processes. When the Easter season concludes, the paschal candle will be present at baptisms and funerals, recalling the new life given by Christ. “It’s supposed to be a candle that shows a certain amount of dignity within the church,” Root told Catholic News Service. “It’s an important part of the spiritual message not only at Easter with the Resurrection, but to each person’s funeral throughout the year.” The origin and traditions associated with the paschal candle date back to at least the fourth century and are described in writings by St. Jerome and the historian Venerable Bede. For the Medina factory, the ancient tradition has become a family tradition. The A.I. Root Co. was founded in 1869 by Amos Ives Root and is still owned by his direct descendants. “I’m the fifth generation of the business,” explained Root, who is the founder’s great-great-grandson. “The company actually started up in the town square where A.I. was a jeweler and a bunch of bees landed on his window.” The providential insects launched A.I. Root into the beekeeping business and inspired him to build the first bee supply

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

Above, production employee Rose Marie Dixon adds decorations to a paschal candle March 10 at the A.I. Root Co. in Medina, Ohio. The candles are made to order and shipped to churches across the United States. Left, production employee Phil Demiter makes a cut on a paschal candle at the A.I. Root Co. in Medina, Ohio. CNS PHOTO/KATIE BREIDENBACH

company in America. The oldest part of the brick factory is still emblazoned with a huge stone beehive surrounded by the words “In God We Trust” and the year it was built, 1878. The Roots shifted from beekeeping to candle-making after another providential encounter. A local priest told the founder’s son, Huber Root, that he needed quality candles for his worship space. Gleaning beeswax from the family hives, the young Root hand-rolled the company’s first liturgical candles. Now seasoned experts with a whole line of church and consumer products, the Root family has modernized and expedited the candle-making process. Today, paschal candles are molded by

machines through a process called extrusion. “[Wax] shavings are being forced under a tremendous amount of pressure to push out a candle almost like a Play-Doh machine,” described Root. The resulting pillars of wax are cut to size, then sharpened or melted into a pointed candle. Though most of the process is mechanized, paschal candle decoration still requires the touch of craftsmen. Decorators pour colored wax into tiny molds and, once cooled, pop them out and coat them with glue. The workers then carefully place each item on the candle and tack it down with pins. Sometimes foil is rubbed against the candle to create a me-

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

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Reporter Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

tallic background, or hot wax is brushed on just like paint. The decorations themselves are steeped in tradition and symbolism. The cross figures prominently, as does the current year, reminding the faithful that Christ is present in the here and now. The candle also includes the first and last letters of the Greek alphabet — alpha and omega — recalling that Jesus is the beginning and the end of all. “The ladies that decorate these candles take pride in these candles,” said Hamrick. “They do their very best with them.” Carefully wrapped and boxed, the completed waxen works of art are finally shipped to churches across the country. In the coming weeks, the company will dedicate long hours to completing all the paschal candles before Easter. “I think he’d be very proud,” said Root, speaking of the factory’s founder. “We’re providing something that’s important to the spiritual needs of people.” “It gives off love, you know,” summarized Hamrick. “It’s just something that’s beautiful and something that God wants us to do to make the occasion special.”

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.

MARCH 24, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Grace equips us to work for the kingdom By Cackie Upchurch Director of Little Rock Scripture Study

epeatedly, we who consider ourselves disciples of Jesus are called to examine our lives. What motivates us? What shapes our sense of right and wrong? How are we progressing on this path that we call faith? Where do we find our deepest joy? What causes us anxiety and how are we learning to trust more deeply? Are we committed to building the kingdom of God, or as Matthew calls it, the kingdom of heaven? The words of Paul come to mind when I think of the radical nature of God’s kingdom. He reminds us: “Do not conform yourselves to this age but be transformed by the renewal of your mind, that you may discern what is the will of God, what is good and pleasing and perfect.” (Rom 12:2) The danger is falling into the trap of confusing our cultural values with the values of God’s kingdom. The beatitudes are surely a touchstone for the kind of transformation and renewal that Paul encouraged. They help us to discern where we are in touch with God’s kingdom and where we may have lost touch. They challenge us to see and think and act as God does. They illustrate that, for the follower of Christ, the cultural messages about the drive for success and power and vindication are in themselves meaningless. The kingdom of God turns on its head the values of other kingdoms. The first of the Beatitudes is stated in Mt 5:3 as “Blessed are the poor in spirit, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” and in Lk 6:20 as “Blessed are you who are poor, for the kingdom of God is yours.” We might be tempted to draw a distinction be-

tween the poor and the poor in spirit, and orphans as in Mk 12:38-40? assuming that one refers to financial Material poverty is not praised or poverty and one to spiritual poverty. idealized in the Bible, nor is it seen However, that just might be a false as a spiritual virtue. We would be distinction. misguided if that was our concluIn his ministry, Jesus sion after reading and embodied the anointpondering the first beThis is the ed one described in Is atitude. The poor are second column 61, the one who brings not “blessed” because in a 10-part good news to the opthey are poor. In fact, series. pressed, healing to the throughout both the brokenhearted and libOld and New Testaerty to captives. In realment, God’s people are ity, oppression and captivity and descharged to care for the poor, to help olation are all forms of poverty, as is alleviate the kind of poverty that is the inability to sustain one’s life. Why crushing. else would Jesus defend the widows The prophets of Israel chastised their leaders for neglecting and even abusing the poor, noting, for example, that Israel’s elders and princes decorated their homes with “loot wrested from the poor” (Is 3:14), and charging In your prayer, your conversathem with criminal acts when they tions with God, do you find yourself enslaved the poor as payment for acknowledging where your values debts (Am 2:6). are being challenged? What values No, poverty in itself is not a virtue. in our culture today do you find The virtue lies in one’s ability, most difficult to reconcile with the whether rich or poor, to touch and values of the Gospel? understand the need for God’s overWhat events in your life have whelming love and generosity. It’s helped you discover your own povabout discovering within ourselves erty of spirit, your own reliance on a poverty that allows us to receive God’s generosity? what God offers so generously, deWhat experiences with physscribed in this beatitude as “the kingical poverty (your own or that of dom of heaven.” others) have helped to become This receiving of God’s blessing is more compassionate and more likely to find ways to be a source of not just for our benefit but it equips healing or justice? us to do the work of the kingdom — How do you ensure that you to show compassion, to extend peace, remain open to more deeply emto fight for justice and to proclaim bracing God’s values? What practhat what God offers far outweighs tices (e.g., Bible study, sharing anything we might earn by our own faith with others, spiritual direcability. In fact, the poverty of spirit tion, spiritual reading, prayer, etc.) that Jesus praises would acknowldo you find most valuable in this edge that even our abilities and acregard? complishments are gift rather than This article was originally pubpersonal achievement. lished in Arkansas Catholic March “Blessed are the poor in spirit.” 11, 2017. Copyright Diocese of Little Does that describe you? Does that Rock.

STUDY QUESTIONS

describe your parish community? Are we engaged in doing God’s will even when it is difficult? Can we ask for the grace to detach from our possessions so that we may possess what God has in store for us? Are we open to continual conversion, a renewal of mind that will not allow us to be conformed to this age and its values? The beatitudes are not easy to digest, but they will nourish us in ways we may not yet understand. They are riches for our poverty.

Sister Lou Whipple, OSB

Archdiocesan council discusses special needs ministry By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Helping parishes create awareness of the needs of persons with disabilities and for special-needs ministries was the dominant theme of the most recent meeting of the archdiocesan pastoral council meeting, held on Feb. 13 at Savior Pastoral Center here. Eighteen members, representing five of the eight archdiocesan pastoral regions and certain constituencies, were present. Two new members were welcomed: Ronda Smith, a member of St. Leo Parish in Horton, and Mike Stadler, a member of Christ the King Parish in Topeka. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann gave the welcome and made opening remarks. Tom Racunas, after being introduced as the lead consultant for the archdiocese’s special-needs

ministry spoke about the need, noting that there are between 7 and 14 million persons with special needs in the United States. He estimated that there are between 400 to 800 Catholics in the archdiocese who face various challenges relating to special needs. The archdiocese, he said, having established an office for specialneeds ministry, needs to build an infrastructure in parishes that is sustainable and manageable. In its mission statement, the special-needs ministry calls for “the fullest participation possible for all parishioners in parish life,” regardless of their disability. Racunas also shared the results of a survey of special needs in the archdiocese done by the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate at Georgetown University in Washington, D.C. The survey, in which 57 percent of parishes responded, found the following: 97 percent had accessible entrances, 60 percent had accessible parish halls and 34 percent

had accessible sanctuaries. Racunas said parishes need to be aware of accessibility issues as they renovate existing structures. He also said pastors and staff need to have greater awareness of the needs of persons with special needs, specifically in terms of sacramental preparation. Directors of religious education need training to serve persons with special needs. Following Racunas’ presentation, discussion was opened among the council representatives for their advice and comments. The council also held a facilitated discussion and brainstorming session on the topic that will be addressed at the synod of bishops in October 2018: “Young People, the Faith and Vocational Discernment.” Council members answered three questions that will be posed to bishops at the synod. Afterward, the meeting was adjourned.

TCHISON — Sister Lou Whipple, 50, a Benedictine Sister of Mount St. Scholastica here, died March 8 at the monastery. Raised in Jetmore, Sister Lou earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education from Kansas State University and a master’s degree in early childhood education from Wheelock College in Boston. She was a primary teacher for 17 years in Catholic schools in the Kansas City area: at St. Pius X in Mission, and at St. Monica, Holy Cross and Visitation schools in Kansas City, Missouri. She served on several education committees in the Kansas City-St. Joseph Diocese and on committees of her monastic community. Since 2008, she has been business manager at the monastery. Sister Lou took joy in the simple pleasures of life: being with her nieces and nephews, playing with the community’s dog, beekeeping, gardening, baking and reading. Facing her battle with cancer bravely, she continued to be engaged in monastery activities and faithful to the daily community prayers until her death. She would have celebrated her 25th anniversary of monastic profession this summer.

MARCH 24, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Couple attracted by formal ritual, context of faith >> Continued from page 1 wanted us to make up our own minds when we got older.” Occasionally, she joined friends on a Sunday School bus sent out by a Baptist church. Later, she tagged along with a school friend who would go to a nearby Catholic school to take religious education classes. She had relatives who were Protestant and her maternal grandmother may have been a lapsed Catholic. The only time the Nicholsons went to church together was when they got married in a Nazarene church.

Why be Catholic? The Nicholsons ended up on the path to the Catholic Church because of positive and negative church experiences. On the negative side, the Nicholsons experienced cliquishness, rudeness and judgment at some Protestant churches they attended for one reason or another. At one place, a friendship was even ended when the Nicholsons declined to join that church. “In my career I go to a lot of different churches for different functions,” said Curtis. “The other [non-Catholic] ones I’ve been to seem sometimes circus- like. “It’s more of a show than getting closer to God,” he said. “It’s more fanfare and lots of wild and crazy music, and people dancing and running around on stage.” “I’ve been to Catholic weddings and funerals on a few occasions,” he continued, “and I like the formalness. I’ve done some research and found that the Catholic faith was the founder of all the other [Christian] denominations.” Curtis was also turned off by the idea that one can be “saved” by faith alone — that a single moment of being “saved” meant that whatever they did afterward didn’t matter. “I wasn’t convinced by that,” he said. “Surely, that’s not really the case.” On the positive side, Curtis heard a lot of good things about the Catholic Church from recent converts he worked with. They were excited to become Catholic. Michele also saw positive examples of Catholicism from her Catholic co-workers, but she also was a little hesitant. Some people would say only negative things about the Catholic faith. “I just wanted to go to a church where I could listen and learn, and nobody would come to my house to give me pamphlets,” she said. “When [Curtis] said [he wanted to join the Catholic Church], I was hesitant, but I

Appointments Father John Riley, chancellor, announces the following appointments made by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann: Father Harry Schneider, rector of the Cathedral of St. Peter Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, returned from a medical leave of absence on Feb. 28 after successfully attending to several medical needs. Father Edward Oen, CPPS, has retired

LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE

Major Curtis Nicholson signs the Book of the Elect on March 7 at the Rite of Election at Church of the Nativity in Leawood. His sponsor, at left, is Bill Vogt of Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee.

“

“THE BIG THING I LOVE ABOUT THE CATHOLIC RELIGION IS YOU DO HAVE TO LEARN WHY YOU’RE IN IT. THEY WANT YOU TO GO TO THESE CLASSES AND LEARN WHY YOU’RE DOING THESE THINGS.” kept an open mind.” Curtis began to research the Catholic parishes in the metro area and found out about the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA). He deliberately chose to look a little beyond the town that employed them both. “I wanted to see the best fit for us,” he said. “We wanted our church life to be separate from our work life. And in all the churches in Kansas City, Kansas, we know everybody. We wanted to meet a new group of people. That’s why we chose the church we did to go through the process, and are thankful that we did.” He eventually landed on the program at Sacred Heart of Jesus in Shaw-

as pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, Baileyville, and St. Mary Parish, St. Benedict, due to health concerns. Father Arul Carasala, continuing as pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Seneca, has been appointed as parochial administrator of Sacred Heart Parish, Baileyville, and St. Mary Parish, St. Benedict, effective March 6, until such time as a pastor is appointed. Father Jonathan Dizon, continuing as parochial vicar of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, Topeka, and chaplain at

nee and shared the news with Michele, asking her to attend classes with him. “He just told me one day, ‘I’ve set up an appointment about getting into the program,’” said Michele. “I was a little surprised. I wasn’t sure if he was going to do it, for sure. “I thought, ‘OK, it’s for real.’”

Welcome to the Catholic Church So far, they’ve liked what they have found. “People have been very welcoming,” said Michele. For the first evening class, they had to stand up and tell about themselves. “When we told everyone we were unbaptized and had never been to church, it was like, ‘Oh, wow.’ But not like, ‘Sinner, get out of here’ like we had experienced at other churches,” said Curtis. “Everyone is really excited for us.” Learning about the Mass and “Catholic calisthenics” (sit, stand, kneel) are challenges. They’re also learning new words — like “homily,” “liturgy” and “Eucharist.” “So, all the basic terminology they spoke of — we had no idea what those words meant, like acronyms in the military,” said Curtis. “It was like a new

Hayden High School, Topeka, has been assigned to offer weekend sacramental assistance at Sacred Heart Parish, Baileyville, and St. Mary Parish, St. Benedict, until a pastor is appointed. Father Rafi Kuttukaran, Archdiocese of Imphal, India, formerly serving as Catholic chaplain at Barnes-Jewish Hospital, St. Louis, has accepted a position as Catholic chaplain at the University of Kansas Hospital, Kansas City, Kansas, effective April 3. Deacon David Gaumer, ordained a

language. “The big thing I love about the Catholic religion is you do have to learn why you’re in it. They want you to go to these classes and learn why you’re doing these things, whereas with other churches you walk in, do what you do, and you leave.” Their lives are already changing. “I’m lower-stress now and can deal with difficult people easier,” said Curtis. “I can deal with people better now. “I know there are still evil people out there who do evil stuff, and my job is still to put them into prison and protect people, but [the Catholic faith] helps me deal with stress.” Michele feels more forgiving and sympathetic for the people she sees and encounters. “It’s been uplifting for me,” she said. “It feels like a weight off my shoulders. There’s something more out there than hatred and evil. It opened my eyes to good and see all the people who believe in God and practice their religion. It’s refreshing for me.” Their sponsors and RCIA classmates have been very supportive. “Everyone has been so accepting, and supportive of us, and helpful, and nonjudgmental,” said Curtis. “It’s just everything we could ask for.”

permanent deacon for the archdiocese in April 2011, has petitioned the Holy See requesting dispensation from the obligations of the clerical state. Archbishop Naumann has been notified that the Congregation of the Clergy has granted the dispensation, and Deacon Gaumer has signed the rescript making the dispensation effective immediately. Gaumer is returned to the lay state and no longer expected to fulfill the obligations of a cleric and may not present himself as a Catholic cleric.

MARCH 24, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS TOOLS FOR FAMILIES

WORKERS thein VINEYARD

Growing as Disciples of Jesus

Home is where the humble are

umility means seeing oneself honestly, and it is the cornerstone of holiness. Luckily for us who live in families, opportunities to practice humility abound! Try one of these: • Ask a question that is boring for you, but lights up your child or spouse. • Bite your tongue before saying, “I told you ARTWORK BY NEILSON CARLIN, 2015 so.” • Be the first to apologize. • When confronted with a family member’s weakness or sin, pray for grace to remember your own. — Libby DuPont, consultant for the archdiocesan marriage and family life office

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CHURCH OF THE WEEK

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE MCSORLEY

Michael Bartkoski, a member of Church of the Nativity in Leawood, gives Communion to fellow Nativity parishioner Gerry Mellon at Brookdale Overland Park.

Eucharistic minister finds recipients ‘wired for God’

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

L Holy Name, Kansas City, Kansas Address: 1001 Southwest Blvd., 66103 Phone: (913) 236-9219 Parochial administrator: Msgr. Gary Applegate Mass times: Saturday, 5 p.m.; Sunday, 8:30 a.m. and 11 a.m. Email: holynamechurchkck@gmail.com Website: http://holynameparishkck.org MORE PHOTOS AND A VIDEO TOUR of this church can be seen online at: www.theleaven.org

Fran and Ron Grauer, members of St. Gregory Parish, Marysville, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 1. The couple was married in 1967 at St. Gregory. They have a daughter, Paige DeRuyscher. They also have three grandchildren. A family celebration will be held later this summer.

EAWOOD — Michael Bartkoski’s “second career” as a barnstorming eucharistic minister to the sick and homebound began in the most innocuous way — as a favor to a friend. Bartkoski, an extraordinary minister of the Eucharist at the Church of the Nativity in Leawood, was approached for a favor six years ago. “A friend asked me to take holy Communion to an old high school buddy who had a stroke,” said Bartkoski. “I took holy Communion to him one day, and the next day, and when he moved to another facility — the one I’m currently at doing most of my ministry.” One day, a person at the facility came up to him and said, “Mike, I’ve found another Catholic for you.” “I didn’t know I lost any,” Bartkoski responded. But the staff at the facility kept feeding him names until he was taking Communion to anywhere from 15-25 people nearly every day except Saturdays.

Pat and Ed Brady, members of Annunciation Parish, Frankfort, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 1 with a Mass. The couple was married on April 1, 1967, at St. Joseph Church, Lillis, by Father Richard Vering. Their children are: Jannie Taylor and Mark Brady (deceased). They also have two grandchildren.

Thus Bartkoski discovered one of the great truths of Catholic lay ministry: Sometimes you don’t find the ministry — the ministry finds you. Bartkoski takes the Eucharist to individuals at two Brookdale Senior Care facilities in Overland Park, to Villa St. Joseph in Overland Park once a month on a Thursday, to a woman at Delmar Gardens senior care facility in Overland Park, and to a few other homebound individuals. “The vast majority [of them] are extremely appreciative,” he said. “I don’t spend a lot of time talking with them, but I chitchat and listen. Some don’t say a lot, depending on how they’re feeling.” Even individuals in the memory care unit, who appear to have largely retreated inwardly, perk up when Bartkoski kneels beside them or makes the sign of the cross. “When you make the sign of the cross and pray, they all do it,” he said. “They take the Eucharist and go back to being who they are. They’re wired for God and they don’t forget it. It’s been a blessing.” Family members, if they’re

present, are happy that their relatives — often faithful Catholics their entire life — are receiving the spiritual benefits of the Eucharist. “The hospice chaplain, if he has a Catholic, will let me know if someone needs to be anointed, and I’ll get a priest from Nativity to come over,” he said. “I also let the residents know that I can arrange a visit from a priest or for reconciliation.” He has also brought ashes on Ash Wednesdays. If he’s asked, he will pray with non-Catholics, too. The majority of Catholics he visits are there on a temporary basis, but some in assisted living, hospice and memory care will be at the facility for the remainder of their lives. Why does he do it? Because God wants him to, he said. “I think God looks to see what skills you have,” said Bartkoski. “This is where he led me, and that’s the best I can tell you. It wasn’t anything I planned.” “Six years ago, if anyone told me I’d be doing this, I’d have told them they were nuts,” Bartkoski continued. “For whatever reason, I said ‘yes’ to this,” he added.

Scout earns rank of Eagle

MPORIA — Grant Thomas Swanson, of Boy Scout Troop 158, received his Eagle Scout March 5 at Sacred Heart Church here. Swanson has achieved the highest award bestowed by the Boy Scouts of America. For his service project, Swanson cleared an overgrown trail and made a low-water crossing for Camp Wood YMCA in Cottonwood Falls.

Grant Swanson

THE WAY OF THE CROSS

our years ago this month, a cardinal from Argentina named Jorge Bergoglio came out onto the balcony overlooking St. Peter’s Square and greeted the crowd as Pope Francis. One of his earliest public acts was to lead the traditional Way of the Cross liturgy at

the Colosseum in Rome two weeks later. Although the liturgy at the Colosseum is held every year on Good Friday, the devotion is practiced every Friday evening of Lent in many churches throughout the archdiocese — and around the world. To participate in this Lenten devotion

even from home, study each Station, then read and meditate on the accompanying prayer. The prayers are taken from Pope Francis’ first Way of the Cross liturgy, and each Station was photographed in a church within our archdiocese.

Jesus is condemned to death Lord Jesus, do not allow us to be among those who act unjustly. Do not allow the strong to take pleasure in evil, injustice and tyranny. Do not allow injustice to condemn the innocent to despair and death. Confirm them in hope and illumine the consciences of those with authority in this world, that they may govern with justice. Amen.

Immaculate Conception Church, Leavenworth

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

Jesus takes up the cross

Lord Jesus, who accepted humiliation and stood alongside the weak, we entrust to you all who are humiliated and suffering, especially those from the tormented East. Grant that they may find in you the strength to be able to carry their cross of hope with you. We place into your hands all who are lost, so that, thanks to you, they may find truth and love. Amen.

St. Dominic Church, Holton

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

III

St. Joseph Church, Shawnee

Jesus falls for the first time

Lord Jesus, raise us from our own falls, lead our wandering spirit back to your Truth. Do not allow human reason, which you created for yourself, to be satisfied with the partial truths of science and technology without seeking to pose the fundamental questions of the meaning of our existence (cf. "Porta Fidei," 12). Grant, Lord, that we may open ourselves to the action of your Holy Spirit, so that he may lead us to the fullness of Truth. Amen.

VII

Jesus meets his mother

Lord Jesus, in our families we, too, experience the sufferings caused to children by their parents and to parents by their children. Lord, grant that in these difficult times our families may be places of your presence, so that our sufferings may be turned to joy. Support our families and make them oases of love, peace and serenity, in the image of the Holy Family of Nazareth. Amen.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

Christ the King Church, Kansas City, Kansas

Simon helps Jesus carry the cross

Lord Jesus, you have involved man in the carrying of your cross. You have invited us to share your sufferings. Simon of Cyrene is like us and he teaches us to accept the cross that we encounter on the paths of life. Following your example, Lord, we, too, carry the cross of suffering and illness today, but we accept it because you are with us. It can nail us to our chair, but it cannot prevent us from dreaming; it can obscure our vision, but it cannot touch our conscience; it can deafen our ears, but it cannot prevent us from listening; it can bind our tongue, but it cannot suppress our thirst for truth; it can weigh down our spirit, but it cannot rob us of our freedom.

Jesus falls for the second time

Lord Jesus, in your second fall, we recognize so many of our situations from which there seems to be no way of escape. Among them are those that derive from prejudice and hatred, which harden our hearts and lead to religious conflicts. Enlighten our minds so that they recognize, despite “human and religious differences,” that “a ray of truth shines on all men and women,” called to walk together — with respect for religious freedom — towards the truth that is in God alone. Thus, the different religions can “join one another in service to the common good and contribute to the development of each person and the building of society” (“Ecclesia in Medio Oriente,” 27-28). Come, Holy Spirit, to console and strengthen Christians, especially those from the Middle East, so that, united in Christ, they may be witnesses of your universal love in an area torn apart by injustice and conflicts. Amen.

Lord, we want to be your disciples so as to carry your cross every day; we will carry it with joy and hope because you are carrying it with us, because you have triumphed over death for us.

St. Joseph Church, Wathena

We give you thanks, Lord, for every sick or ailing person who knows how to bear witness to your love, and for every “Simon of Cyrene” whom you place on our journey. Amen.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG

Church of the Nativity, Leawood

Veronica wipes the face of Jesus LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE

Lord Jesus, it is your face that we seek. Veronica reminds us that you are present in every person who suffers and goes forward along his or her path to Golgotha. Lord, grant that we may find you in the poor, in the least of your brethren, in order to wipe away the tears of those who weep, to take care of those who suffer and to support those who are weak. Lord, you teach us that a wounded and forgotten person loses neither worth nor dignity and remains a sign of your hidden presence in the world. Help us to wipe away from his or her face the marks of poverty and injustice, so that your image in him or her may be revealed and may shine forth. We pray for those who are seeking your face and who find it in those of the homeless, the poor and children exposed to violence and exploitation. Amen.

Holy Trinity Church, Lenexa

Jesus falls fo the third tim

Lord Jesus, the church, born from your open side, is oppressed under the cross of the divisions that distance Christians from one another and from the unity that you willed for them; they turn away from your desire “that they may all be one” (Jn 17:21) as the Father is with you. This cross bears down with all its weight on their lives and on their common testimony Grant us, Lord, the wisdom and the humility to rise once more and to move forward along in truth and love, without succumbing to the temptation to have recourse merely to the criteria of personal or sectarian interests, in the face of our divisions (cf. “Ecclesia in Me

Grant that we may renounce the mentality of "lest the cross of Christ be emptied of its pow Amen.

X LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Seneca

Jesus is stripped of his garments

O Jesus, Son of Man, who were stripped so as to reveal to us the new creation raised from the dead, tear in us the veil that separates us from God and weave in us your divine presence. Grant us to conquer fear before the events of life that strip us and leave us naked, and to put on the new man of our baptism, in order that we may announce the good news, proclaiming that you are the only true God who guides history. Amen.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

Sacred Heart Church, Shawnee

VIII

Jesus meets the women

Lord Jesus, by your incarnation from Mary, “Blessed among women” (Lk 1:42), you raised the dignity of every woman. With the Incarnation you unified the human race (cf. Gal 3:26-28). Lord, may the encounter with you be the desire of our hearts. Let our path, filled with sufferings, always be a path of hope, with you and towards you who are the refuge of our life and our salvation. Amen.

G HESSE

St. Stanislaus Church, Rossville

or me

Jesus is nailed to the cross

Lord Jesus, you were crucified for our sins. You pray to God the Father and you intercede for humanity. Each hammer blow echoes like a beat of your immolated heart. How beautiful upon the mount of Calvary are the feet of the One who proclaims the good news of salvation. Your love, Jesus, has filled the universe. Your pierced hands are our refuge in distress. They embrace us whenever the abyss of sin threatens us, and in your wounds we find healing and forgiveness.

y. the path of unity,

O Jesus, we pray to you for all those young people who are overcome by hopelessness, for young people who are the victims of drugs, of sects and of perversions.

edio Oriente,” 11).

f division, wer" (1 Cor 1:17).

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

St. Louis Church, Good Intent

Free them from their enslavement. May they lift up their gaze and accept Love. May they find happiness in you; save them, our Savior. Amen.

XII

Jesus dies on the cross

May every one of us be able to cry out: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Yesterday I was crucified with Christ; today I am glorified with him. Yesterday I died with him; today I live with him. Yesterday I was buried with him; Today I have risen with himâ&#x20AC;? (Gregory Nazianzen). In the darkness of our nights, we contemplate you. Teach us to turn towards the Most High, your heavenly Father. Today, let us pray that all those who promote abortion may become aware that love can only be a source of life. Let us think also of those who defend euthanasia and those who encourage techniques and procedures which endanger human life. Open their hearts to know you in the truth and to work for the building of the civilization of life and love. Amen.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

St. Matthew Church, Topeka

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

XIV

Jesus is laid in the tomb

Lord Jesus, make us children of the light who do not fear the darkness. We pray to you today for all those who search for meaning in life and for all those who have lost hope, that they may have faith in your victory over sin and death. Amen.

Didde Catholic Campus Center, Emporia

XIII

Jesus is taken down from the cross and given to his mother Let us pray for the victims of the wars and of the violence which in our days devastate various countries in the Middle East, as well as other parts of the world. Let us pray that the displaced and the forced migrants may soon return to their homes and lands. Grant, Lord, that the blood of innocent victims may be the seed of a new East, ever more fraternal, peaceful and just, and that this East may recover the splendor of its vocation as the cradle of civilization and of spiritual and human values. Star of the East, show us the coming of the Dawn! Amen.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

St. John the Evangelist Church, Lawrence

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MARCH 24, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Freelancers needed - Great for retired journalists, and writers/photographers looking to supplement their income! The Leaven, the official newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, is looking for freelance reporters and photographers to assist staff in covering this busy beat. Story and photo shoots are assigned on an as-needed basis. Applicants from all parts of the archdiocese welcome. For freelance reporting, a working knowledge of the Catholic Church and excellent writing and reporting skills are a must. Actual professional journalism experience is a plus. For photography, a diverse portfolio with a working knowledge of the Catholic Church is required; experience in low-light photography and professional photojournalism experience is a plus. To be considered for freelance reporting, send a letter of interest, a simple resume and published clips or links to what you’ve written. To be considered for freelance photography, send a letter of interest, a simple resume and samples of your work or a link to an online portfolio. Send all materials by email to: freelanceforleaven@gmail.com. Web manager – The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is accepting applications for a full-time web manager. Duties include managing and maintaining internal websites and managing the digital media center. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing. Position requires bachelor’s degree in related field, and the candidate must have past experience in web design and management. Knowledge of Blackbaud Net Community a plus. A complete job description and required application are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should mail cover letter, resume and application to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Office of Human Resources, Webmaster, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or send via email to: jobs@archkck.org. Child care - Seeking care for 6-month-old in our home. Located in Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park. The hours are from 7 a.m. - 5 p.m., three to four days per week. No weekends. References and reliable transportation required. Starting at $11 per hour. Email Lauren at: aps1035@yahoo.com.

Director of special events and development - The Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) seeks to hire a director of special events and development (cefks.org). The director will work with the executive director and staff of the CEF to envision, plan and execute events and to develop and cultivate donor and community relations in support of CEF’s mission of providing scholarships for students in need in targeted Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. The director of special events and development should have highly polished marketing and presentation skills, a charismatic communication style, exceptional organizational abilities, the capability of working with limited direction, and the ability to speak authentically about the importance of Catholic education. The director will facilitate, plan and manage all aspects of CEF fundraising events, including: advertising and promotion; preparing event budgets and tracking event finances; securing event sponsors and donors to meet event budget goals; coordinating event-related internal and external communication; recruiting and managing event volunteers; and coordinating event-related donor relations. The director will also assist the executive director with CEF general development activities, including: prospecting and cultivating new donors; coordinating existing donor relations; and maintaining accurate development databases. Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree or higher; demonstrated success in event planning, sales and/or fundraising and donor development; and competency with Microsoft Office. A working knowledge of Catholic school operations is preferred. Must be a practicing Catholic in good standing. Individuals interested in this full-time position should send a cover letter and resume to: CEFAdmin@archkck.org. Full-time openings - Padre Pio Academy in Shawnee, which offers a classical curriculum, has full-time openings for the 2017-18 school year. For more information and details, contact Joanne at (913) 530-6553. Bookkeeper position – Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas has an immediate opening for a full-time bookkeeper position. The bookkeeper will assist with month-end closing activities, balance-sheet account reconciliations, account analysis, a/p, a/r, as well as manage the external audit of financial statements. The position requires a high school diploma or equivalent, two years’ related experience and excellent communication skills. Qualified individuals should email resume to: svallejo@cathcemks.org or mail to: Catholic Cemeteries, Attn: Sharon Vallejo, PO Box 2327, Kansas City, KS 66110. 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 - Assisted Transportation is now hiring caring and reliable drivers to transport K-12 students to and from school and other activities in company minivans. Positions are now available in Olathe, Overland Park and Kansas City, Kansas. Competitive wages and flexible schedules. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Call (913) 262-3100 or apply online at: AssistedTransportation.com. EEO.

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Parish administrator - Prince of Peace in Olathe is seeking an exceptional and experienced leader to be our parish administrator. This is a full-time, key leadership position that would work closely with the pastor and would be responsible for the leadership and management of the business operation of the parish. This position includes administration of parish finances, facilities and personnel. Seeking an individual with working knowledge of accounting principles, familiarity with archdiocesan policies and proven management and personnel skills. Full job description and application details may be found at: www.popolathe.org.

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Librarian/media specialist - Saint Thomas Aquinas High School has the following opening for the 2017-18 school year: librarian/media specialist. Qualified candidates must have or be able to obtain the proper Kansas teaching license for the position. If interested, send a letter of application and resume to Dr. William P. Ford, President, St. Thomas Aquinas High School, 11411 Pflumm Road, Overland Park, KS 66215 or send an email to: wpford@ stasaints.net.

Cafeteria/catering manager - Bishop Miege High School is accepting applications for the 2017-18 school year for a cafeteria/catering manager to supervise the preparation of daily breakfast and lunch during the school day, as well as catered events throughout the school year. Qualified applicants should have experience in menu preparation, supply management, financial accounting, as well as strong organizational, supervision and personal skills. Email letter of interest and resume to Mariann Jaksa at: mjaksa@bishopmiege.com. Service technician – Looking for a qualified part-time or full-time candidate in the science field. Job candidate must be mechanically inclined and have dependable transportation. Travel required. Send resume to: yourcareer101@ gmail.com. 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, roundtrip 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. Principal/administrator – Sacred Heart School (PreK12) in Sedalia, Mo., is entering its 135th year of Catholic education with remarkable achievements that few schools can rival. Last year alone, the accomplishments of our dynamic student body included numerous state and regional awards in math, science, speech and athletics, to name a few. Our faith community of 380 students, a full-time assistant principal and 33 faculty members are seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic leadership for its next phase of growth. Applicants must be practicing Catholics. Requirements include a master’s degree and principal’s certificate. Applicants should email an application to the Diocese of Jefferson City at: www.diojeffcity.org and send a letter of interest to Father Mark Miller at: millermcpps@gmail.com. Review of applications will begin on March 15 and will continue until the position is filled. Early childhood director - Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe seeks a director for our Early Education Center with strong leadership, communication and motivational skills. This is a full-time year-round position. The program has full-time child care/preschool, part-time preschool and afterschool care for children 2 to 12 years. Applicant must be a practicing Catholic, have a degree in ECE, taught for a minimum of three years or have administrative experience in early childhood. Full job description and application details may be found at: www.popolathe.org. Adult faith formation - Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe is seeking a coordinator of adult faith formation to be responsible for all adult faith formation such as RCIA, ChristLife, CRHP and to assist in a new “Family First” approach to religious education for youth. This is a full- time year-round position. We seek a committed Catholic knowledgeable about RCIA and adult evangelization in a Catholic setting. Seeking an individual with a degree in theology, pastoral studies, religious education or related field with a minimum of three years’ experience. Full job description and application details may be found at: www.popolathe.org

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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. DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time. Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dan deeconst@aol.com. Kansas City’s Premier Deck, Fence & Concrete - We repair, powerwash and stain wood decks and fences. We power wash and seal concrete drives, walkway, pool decks and more. Call Brian at (913) 952-5965. Member of Holy Trinity Parish. 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. 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. HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com NELSON CREATIONS L.L.C. Home remodeling, design/build, kitchens, baths, all interior and exterior work. Family owned and operated; over 25 years experience. Licensed and insured; commercial and residential. Kirk and Diane Nelson. (913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net 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. 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. 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.

CAREGIVING Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591. 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. Experienced CNA - Excellent references, flexible schedule, light housekeeping, cooking, errands. Can assist with medications and distribution; can also provide transportation to and from doctor appointments. Can cut and style hair as well as do massages and shaves. Call Chris at (913) 5487656.

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 - Serta adjustable-base twin bed, frame and mattress. Like new. Mattress pad and sheets included. Asking $1250. Call (913) 342-4027. For sale - Religious articles – pictures, statues, rosaries. A large assortment. April 1 and 2 from noon to 4 p.m. at 1545 N. 85th Pl., Kansas City, Kansas.

>> Classifieds continue on page 13

MARCH 24, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR ST. PAT’S IRISH FEST St. Benedict Parish 1001 N. 2nd St., Atchison March 25 at 9 a.m.

There will be a 5K fun walk/run for all ages and a 10K trail run that is challenging. A pancake breakfast will be available during and after the run event. The $30 entry includes a T-shirt as long as supplies last. Register online at: active. com; type in “St. Benedict” and Atchison, KS. There will also be a Texas Hold ’em tournament and games of Bunko. For more information, call Jason Johnson at (913) 683-8029.

josephcatholic. Walk-in donors welcome. For more information, call Virginia Wiedel at (913) 268-2874.

SUPPORT GROUP FOR CAREGIVERS Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas March 28 from 1:30 - 3 p.m.

Caring for a loved one is difficult and support helps. The facilitator for these ongoing Tuesday sessions is Jackie Tigges.

SACRED HEART SCHOOL BID ’N’ BITE ‘FOOLS RUSH IN’ Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 101 Cottonwood St., Emporia April 1 at 6:30 p.m.

at 9 a.m. The presentation, “Spirituality and the Moral Life,” will be given by Sister Jean deBlois, CSJ. The cost is $15, including breakfast. Register online at: www.csjsl.org or call (816) 501-2944.

TAIZE PRAYER Annunciation Chapel 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth April 6 at 7 p.m.

Taize prayer is a meditative, candlelit service that includes simple chants sung repeatedly, silence and prayer of praise and intercession. These prayer services emerged from an ecumenical community of monks in Taize, France. For more information, call (913) 680-2342 or go to the website at: www.marillaccenter.org.

There will be a catered dinner, provided by Bruff’s, with a choice of either a 10 oz. KC strip or herbed baked chicken. The cost is $30 per person. Reservations may be made online at: shsemporia.ticketleap.com and then click on 2017 Sacred Heart School Bid ’n’ Bite.

BISHOP WARD SENIOR CLASS TACO DINNER St. Patrick Parish (center) 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas March 25 from noon - 5 p.m.

The cost for a plate of four tacos and rice is $5. Drinks, desserts and raffles will be available for sale. Proceeds benefit the Bishop Ward senior class Project Graduation festivities.

A DAY OF SPIRITUAL REFLECTION St. Joseph Parish (Knights Hall) 308 Iowa St., Olpe March 25 from 9 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Monsignor Swetland will present a day of reflection on “Living Life to the Full.” Topics include: “Faith in Secular Life,” “Why Bother with Church?” and “Becoming Who You Are.” Reservations are required by March 22 to plan for food. Call (620) 475-3767 or send an email to: st.joseph_olpe@yahoo.com.

‘OUR LAST STAND’ St. James Academy 24505 Prairie Star Pkwy., Lenexa March 25 at 7 p.m.

This is a documentary about Middle Eastern Christians in Syria and Iraq. The film’s producer, Jordan Allott, will be available for a Q&A session after the film. This event is sponsored by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas office for social justice. For more information, send an email to: cap. lweinberg@gmail.com.

BLOOD DRIVE St. Joseph Parish (Knights of Columbus Hall) 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee March 27 from 1 - 7 p.m.

Schedule an appointment online at: www. savealifenow.org, using sponsor code: st

SPIRE FEST InterContinental Hotel 401 Ward Pkwy., Kansas City, Missouri April 1 at 6 p.m.

This event is the largest scholarship fundraiser for the University of Saint Mary, Leavenworth. Over 500 guests come together for a formal dinner, silent and live auctions, entertainment, red carpet activities and more. Sponsorships and auction items are still being accepted. For more information and for tickets, call Sharon Clay at (913) 758-6108; send an email to: Sharon.clay@stmary.edu; or go to the website at: www.stmary.edu/spirefest.

COMMUNITY GARAGE SALE Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 1405 2nd Ave., Leavenworth April 1 from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Sacred Heart and St. Casimir parishes are hosting this garage sale. There will be many items for sale along with concessions.

WOMEN’S DAY OF REFLECTION Holy Trinity Parish 13615 W. 92nd St., Lenexa April 1 from 8 a.m. - noon

This is an opportunity to listen, pray and reflect on the topic: “The Dignity of Women — The Role of Our Blessed Mother” with guest speakers, Sister Marie Hessed and Sister Anne Marie Walsh of the Society of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity. The cost is $10 for early registration and $15 at the door. For more information, call Kathleen at (913) 269-5369.

LINGER OVER BREAKFAST St. Teresa’s Academy (Windmoore Center) 5600 Main St., Kansas City, Missouri April 1 at 8:30 a.m.

Doors open at 8:30 a.m.; presentation begins

>> Continued from page 12 For sale - Double crypt at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa. Prince of Peace Mausoleum, Mother of Church corridor, tier C, #103. July value was $12,715, including two opening and closing fees. Asking $9,750. Call Don at (913) 522-2714. For sale - Double niche at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa. Holy Family Mausoleum, Jesus Son of God corridor, tier A. Includes bronze diamond companion urn. Current price $6690, selling price $5000. Call (913) 897-6433. For sale - Single crypt at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa. Holy Family Mausoleum, St. Joseph corridor, tier D, #13. Valued at $6850, selling price is $6250 including opening and closing. Holy Spirit parishioner. Call (913) 642-1017. For sale - Double lawn crypt at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa, Garden of Hope section, double lawn crypt, lot 78 C, space 4. Conveyance fee included. $8100. Call Lou at (512) 294-2869.

REAL ESTATE For sale - Maintenance free home. Backs up to Ascension Catholic Church. Two bedroom, 2.5 bath, study, open floor plan. Great for entertaining. Call for appointment. (913) 669-8178.

DRESS LIKE A DIVA ON A DIME Holy Spirit Parish (Martha/Mary Room) 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park April 6 at 7 p.m.

This jewelry/accessory fundraiser will be held to benefit the Wyandotte County Pregnancy Clinic. Cash or checks only will be accepted at the sale. For more information, call (913) 4381404.

COPING WITH LIFE ALONE Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish 2014 N.W. 46th St., Topeka April 18 from 7 - 9 p.m.

This is a Beginning Experience grief support program that meets each week for seven weeks to help those who have lost a loved one due to death, divorce or separation. For more information or to register, call Michelle at (785) 640-1177.

SUMMER LEADERSHIP CAMP University of Saint Mary 4100 S. 4th St., Leavenworth June 10 - 21

Young women entering sixth, seventh and eighth grades are invited to the Summer Leadership Camp hosted by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth and the Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica in Atchison. The registration fee of $125 covers lodging, meals, special activities and a T-shirt. Partial scholarships are available. Registration deadline is April 1. For more information, call Sister Vicki Lichtenauer at (816) 718-2660; send an email to: vickiL@scls.org; or visit the website at: www. scls.org for a brochure with registration form.

For sale - Three bedroom, 2.5 bath, fenced yard, 2-car garage, w/d, other amenities in Lawrence. Perfect for first-time home buyer or student. $137,500 Call for details. (785) 764-9466.

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. Will buy houses in any condition - We pay cash and you sell as-is with no warranty. You can leave anything behind if you don’t want to move it. My name is Mark and my family is part of Holy Trinity Parish. I hope I can help you. (913) 980-4905. Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, lighters, fountain pens, post card collections, paintings/prints, pottery, sterling, china dinnerware. Renee Maderak, (913) 631-7179. 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.

Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co. Specializing in Foundation Repairs Mud-jacking and Waterproofing. Serving Lawrence, Topeka and surrounding areas. Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696 In business since 1963 www.foundationrepairks.com

MARCH 24, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY FOURTH WEEK OF LENT March 26 FOURTH SUNDAY OF LENT 1 Sm 16: 1b, 6-7, 10-13a Ps 23: 1-6 Eph 5: 8-14 Jn 9: 1-41 March 27 Monday Is 65: 17-21 Ps 30: 2, 4-6, 11-12a, 13b Jn 4: 43-54 March 28 Tuesday Ez 47: 1-9, 12 Ps 46: 2-3, 5-6, 8-9 Jn 5: 1-16 March 29 Wednesday Is 49: 8-15 Ps 145: 8-9, 13c-14, 17-18 Jn 5: 17-30 March 30 Thursday Ex 32: 7-14 Ps 106: 19-23 Jn 5: 31-47 March 31 Friday Wis 2: 1a, 12-22 Ps 34: 17-21, 23 Jn 7: 1-2, 10, 25-30 April 1 Saturday Jer 11: 18-20 Ps 7: 2-3, 9b-12 Jn 7: 40-53

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ejoice! Why? Well, the headline above has given the secret away: As of last Thursday, we’ve passed the halfway point in Lent! Now, that’s something to be happy about. Are you shocked that I’m so giddy that Lent is rolling right along? Actually, it’s the church that calls us to be joyful this Fourth Sunday of Lent, known traditionally as Laetare Sunday. “Laetare” is Latin for “rejoice.” This Sunday gets the name from its entrance antiphon (usually replaced by an opening hymn): “Rejoice, Jerusalem, and all who love her. Be joyful, all who were in mourning; exult and be satisfied at her consoling breast” (Is 66: 10-11). According to the 2017 “Sourcebook” from Liturgy Training Publications: This special Sunday “marks a joyful relief amidst the seriousness and somberness of the many weeks of preparation for Easter. . . . Even in Lent, a time of fasting and repentance, we rejoice, because we know that God is love, and our loving God will provide for all our needs.” You may notice a few different things in church this weekend. There may be flowers around the

Woohoo, Lent is halfway over! 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.

normally bare altar and the celebrant may wear rose vestments, instead of the traditional Lenten purple. “The color rose is used as a sign of the joy which characterizes this Sunday,” said Father Matthew Ernest, a liturgist who helped with the new translation of the Roman Missal. “The use of rose vestments probably stems from an ancient papal tradition of blessing golden roses which would be sent to Catholic heads of state in Europe on the Fourth Sunday of Lent.” While this information about the liturgical history of Laetare Sunday

is nice, what does it mean for Catholics today? Father Ernest has some practical ideas. He suggests having a nice Sunday brunch, complete with roses on the table, in anticipation of our Easter feast. If you’re into gardening, this Sunday would be an appropriate time to plant a rose bush. Finally, he tells of a medieval tradition that stemmed from this Sunday’s other name: Mothering Sunday — a time when people would make a visit on the Fourth Sunday of Lent to their “mother church,” the place where they were baptized. Father Ernest suggests that this ancient practice might make for a great family road trip. Another priest, Father Joseph Sachs, SJ, has this wonderful suggestion for Laetare Sunday. Why not use it as an “opportunity to think of Lenten prac-

tices that open you up to become a more joyful person. . . . You might do something new that adds more joy to your daily routine.” Bravo to all these suggestions. Let me add a few more ways to celebrate this Sunday after Mass. Because the weather looks to be pleasant, head to a park or the zoo, pack a picnic lunch, fly a kite, or just pretend you’re a tourist in your own town and check out the sights. If you’d prefer to stay indoors, visit a museum, go bowling or dancing, or invite your neighbors over for dessert or a visit. To do something as a family, resurrect some old photos and relive your past, spring clean with the intention of donating your unwanted “treasures” to a charity, play a board game or put together a jigsaw puzzle, or maybe just have an old-fashioned pillow fight. Or just pull out your bucket list and do something from it. Now, just to whet your appetite for rejoicing, check out this story: A woman received a call that her daughter was sick. She stopped by the pharmacy to get medication. Coming back out, she realized that she’d locked her keys

inside the vehicle. Seeing an old, rusty coat hanger on the ground, she picked it up. Although she thought it might be helpful in opening the door, she had no idea how to use it. At her wit’s end, she bowed her head and asked God for help. Within five minutes, a beat-up, old motorcycle pulled up, ridden by a bearded man wearing a dew rag. He dismounted and asked the woman if he could help. Relieved, she said, “That would be wonderful. You see, my daughter is sick, and I’ve locked my keys in the car. I’ve got to get this medicine home to her. Could you use this hanger to unlock my car?” “Sure,” he said. In less than a minute, he had the door open. The woman hugged the man and tearfully said, “Thank you so much! You are a very nice man!” “Lady, I am not a nice man,” the biker replied. “I just got out of prison yesterday. I was in for grand theft auto.” The woman hugged the man again and said, “Oh, thank you, God! You even sent me a professional!” Now, that’s funny, I don’t care who you are!

Jesus opens blind man’s eyes, as well as our own

t is easy to play the blame game. Instead of trying to fix a problem, we try to pin the blame on who is responsible for it. That doesn’t really help the situation, but it can take the heat off of us and make us feel better. And that is what really counts, isn’t it? So, we might ask, why are so many who live in the inner city so poor? Is it their own fault because they lack initiative, or is it because they have grown up in an environment which does not enable them to make a better life for themselves? In Sunday’s Gospel reading, Jn 9:1-41, the disciples ask Jesus, “Rabbi, who sinned, this man or his parents, that he was born blind?” They

POPE FRANCIS

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.

assume that the man’s blindness must be punishment for sin. It made sense for them to assume this. They might suspect the

People need to listen more if they want there to be peace in the world, Pope Francis said. Open “ears are missing, there’s a lack of people who know how to listen,” which is essential before there can be dialogue, he said during an audience March 11 with vol-

parents on the basis of Ex 20:5: “For I, the LORD, your God, am a jealous God, inflicting punishment for their fathers’ wickedness on the children of those who hate me, down to the third and fourth generation.” Besides, the man could not have sinned before he was born, and he was blind at birth. That would rule out the man as the sinner and leave his par-

ents as the candidates for committing sin. On the other hand, another passage in the Bible refutes the idea that a person could inherit guilt: “The son shall not be charged with the guilt of his father, nor shall the father be charged with the guilt of his son. The virtuous man’s virtue shall be his own, as the wicked man’s wickedness shall be his” (Ez 18:20). This approach might fit in better with our view of justice. At the same time, we recognize that our choices have consequences, and that children sometimes suffer because of the bad choices that their parents have made. At any rate, Jesus rejects the idea that God is purposefully punish-

unteers for a national help hotline, Telefono Amico Italia. “If only there were more dialogue — true dialogue, that is — in families, in the workplace, in politics, so many issues would be more easily resolved,” he told members of the association, which was celebrating its 50th anniversary. The helpline offers “an

ing the blind man for anyone’s sin. Instead of looking at the past for an explanation of the man’s blindness, Jesus points to the present possibilities: “It is so that the works of God might be made visible though him.” By giving sight to the man, Jesus will also be opening the eyes of the crowd to God’s greatness. Notice the choice of words that Jesus uses in making his point. Jesus does not say, “that the works of God might be made known though him.” Instead, Jesus says, “that the works of God might be made visible though him.” Whenever we do not see the works of God, whenever we do not see the potential for God working miracles in our world, then we are spiritually blind.

important service,” the pope said, especially given the degree of isolation and indifference that exists in the world, particularly in large cities. So much communication, he said, is increasingly “virtual and less personal,” and the culture stresses “having and appearances” over solid values. — CNS

MARCH 24, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

Deacons-to-be prepare to ‘close’ on service to archdiocese

y family bought a new home a few months ago and to consummate the deal we had to attend the closing. It’s amazing how many different documents we had to sign to “seal the deal.” After a while, I was tempted to just keep signing and stop looking at what I was signing. However, I realized that I needed to understand what I was doing and not gloss over the necessary details. The ordination of our next cohort of permanent deacons is rapidly approaching. The 17 deacon candidates are experiencing a “closing” themselves, as there are some very important

LEON SUPRENANT Leon Suprenant is the pastoral associate for administration in the office of the permanent diaconate. For more information on the diaconate, visit the website at: www.archkck.org/deacons.

documents they need to sign before they may be ordained.

In fact, an ordination is even more important — and more permanent — than a real estate transaction. Therefore, I thought I would describe a few of the required documents, as they all teach us something about becoming a deacon. Petition for Holy Orders In the weeks leading

up to ordination, the candidates petition the archbishop, requesting the reception of holy orders. They complete this petition in their own handwriting and then wait for the archbishop’s response. Nobody has the “right” to ordination. Rather, each man humbly seeks the affirmation of his call from the church, represented by the archbishop. In the petition, the candidates — all of whom are married — also state that they understand and accept the fact that they will remain celibate if their wife predeceases them. Wife’s consent Even though it’s the husband who is being ordained, the church

requires the wife of a married deacon candidate to give her consent to the ordination in writing. At minimum, the church wants to ensure that the husband’s prior vocation to marriage is not harmed by this new commitment. That said, in most cases diaconal formation and ordination tends to strengthen marriage. Oath of Freedom All candidates for ordination should be free to say “yes,” and not be motivated by any sort of fear or coercion. Profession of faith The deacon candidate affirms his acceptance in faith of all that the church proposes for belief. After all, the deacon is called to be a representative of the

church, and not merely a representative of his own opinions. Oath of Fidelity With this oath, the deacon candidate builds on the “oath of freedom” and pledges his fidelity and obedience to the church. If the bishop is the shepherd, the deacon is certainly his sheepdog, loyally assisting the bishop in his pastoral duties. These documents show the candidates’ acceptance of the call to generously, joyfully and faithfully hand on what they have received. As the deacon candidates prepare to minister to a culture that needs to be evangelized, please pray that they will be ready to “close.”

Prayer and Action: a mission trip in your own backyard

s a Catholic parent, do you share my fears: Are my teens going to grow up to serve others? Is the virtual world of memes going to have more sway than real reality? Are they going to grow up to be more reactive than proactive? The church, as parent, calls our children to something higher. In an address to young people, St. John Paul II once said, “Look to Mary to see how to respond to Jesus’ call. First, she kept all things, pondering them in her heart. She also went in haste to serve her cousin Elizabeth. Both

DO UNTO OTHERS

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

attitudes are essential parts of our response to the Lord: prayer and

action. That is what the church expects of her young people.” This quote became the clarion call that impelled a group of seminarians to start a summer mission trip called Prayer and Action. Prayer and Action, a program founded

through the Diocese of Salina, was soon adopted by our archdiocese along with many others. The idea was formed by seminarians who wanted to accomplish three things: Offer a low-cost mission trip experience, provide service to the people in their own communities and encourage young people to listen for a call to a priestly or religious vocation. Prayer and Action sessions last five days, with teens arriving on Sunday evening and staying until Friday morning. Throughout the week, young people will paint, clean, do yard work and perform other meaningful tasks for the

poor, disabled and elderly. The students will spend the week in an atmosphere that is free of distractions in order to foster their faith, inspire charity and lead them closer to Christ. The experience will also allow them to get to know seminarians, as well as other high school students from other parts of the archdiocese who share their Catholic faith. One teen said this after a Prayer and Action week: “We helped an elderly woman clean out years of collected papers and magazines. Her home was dark when we came, with papers stacked to the ceiling, piles covering

the windows. When we left, her house was light. We literally brought the light of Christ when we helped her.” The Prayer and Action mission team consists of three of our seminarians and some dynamic young women. Prayer and Action weeks begin June 11 with a break for the Fourth of July weekend. We have a few spots still available, with our final week (July 16-20) mostly open. If you are interested in your teen or your teen group responding to Our Lord through prayer and action, go online to: archkck.org/socialjustice to learn more.

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MARCH 24, 2017 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG

Larri Brooks,left, leads the computer club at Santa Marta retirement community in Olathe. The club helps residents meet the challenges that come in the digital age. Pictured, clockwise from left, are Santa Marta residents: Bill Poehling, Wally Drone, Naomi Kennedy, Louis C. Rasmussen, Howard Earnhardt, Marie James, Mary Duerst and Jerry Stephenson.

CAN YOU HEAR ME NOW?

Santa Marta helps residents connect digitally to family, wider world By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

LATHE — They might be “digital immigrants,” but that doesn’t stop them from settling nicely into the vast world of technol-

ogy. Residents at Santa Marta retirement community in Olathe are meeting the challenges that come with the digital age head-on through a monthly computer club. “Digital immigrants,” unlike “digital natives” who have grown up in a world of smartphones, Google and social media, were born before the widespread use of digital technology and have had to make a conscious transition into the digital world. But it’s not slowing the Santa Marta folks down. “I probably won’t keep up with all of [the changes],” said resident Wally Drone, “but I’ll have my foot in the door.” With positive attitudes and a patient instructor, residents like Drone are taking the tech world by storm.

One lesson at a time After moving to Santa Marta with his wife Louanne this past November, Drone began taking advantage of the club to stay up-to-date on emails and Microsoft programs. Before his move to Santa Marta, Drone was an active parishioner at Queen of the Holy Rosary in Overland Park.

“

“I PROBABLY WON’T KEEP UP WITH ALL OF [THE CHANGES], BUT I’LL HAVE MY FOOT IN THE DOOR.”

Wally Drone

“I played the organ there and directed the choirs through the years,” he said. “I just completed 57 years as the music person at Queen.” Now, Drone plays for the weekend Masses at Santa Marta. “I put all [the music] on the computer, and then we distribute it to the cantors,” he said. Understanding how to use programs like Microsoft Excel and Microsoft Word are essential to Drone’s music ministry, as they provide him simple ways to track and distribute each Sunday’s music. That’s where the computer club comes in. Created around 2010 by community residents, the club is now instructed by Larri Brooks, who began her work at Santa Marta five years ago while she was a technician for Microsoft. Now that she works for the University of Kansas Hospital, Brooks continues to dedicate one day a month — and sometimes more, depending on the residents’ needs — to teaching the computer class at the retirement community.

Resident Mary Duerst also attends the class. She says Brooks not only gives them lessons on how to use various software, but also addresses issues like security. Duerst manages the club and schedules its monthly class, which includes computer training as well as help with other technological devices like smartphones and iPads. Twelve residents attend the class regularly, and the current focus is on mastering Microsoft Windows 10. “We’re still just learning the bare necessities of it,” said Drone. “For most people, probably their big thrust will be the internet and emails." “As far as the phones, [the focus is] smartphones and technology for messaging, that sort of thing,” he continued.

Staying connected For the majority of the computer club members, knowing how to connect with family and friends through Skype, email and other outlets is a main reason they participate. Many residents have family members who can’t visit as often as they’d like, so being able to connect via technology is very important. Often, those loved ones are surprised by how up-to-date their family members at Santa Marta have stayed on technological advancements. “Our kids can’t believe it!” said Duerst. A challenge the club helps its members overcome is adapting to the constant changes of their devices.

“I was a computer teacher for [Notre Dame de] Sion High School (in Kansas City, Missouri) for 20 years,” said Duerst. “But I taught on Macintosh, and now we’re using Windows, so I’m like a baby,” she added. But Brooks meets them where they’re at. “She seems to bring it down to our level, which is not at a really high point,” said Drone. “But everybody seems interested in the program.” For Brooks, the residents at Santa Marta are like family. “Our computer club grows daily,” she said. “These ladies and gentlemen are fun and always full of questions. They love technology and [are] always ready to learn.” Brooks goes above and beyond her duties by making apartment visits to residents who can’t make it to the class. “My motivation is watching the face of someone when you fixed their problem or taught them something they think is amazing,” she said. The residents are grateful for the work Brooks puts into their club. “The most helpful thing she does is come when we have an emergency,” said Duerst. “She’s so available to us — that’s our blessing,” she added. In turn, Duerst’s favorite part of the club is ”the fact that we’re helping so many residents.” That help, she hopes, will continue to enable these “immigrants” to find their way around this digital world for many years to come.