01 13 23 Vol. 44 No. 21

LAYING A POPE TO REST

By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY (CNS) —

Pope Benedict XVI “spread and testified to” the Gospel his entire life, Pope Francis told tens of thousands of people gathered Jan. 5 for his predecessor’s funeral Mass.

“Like the women at the tomb, we too have come with the fragrance of gratitude and the balm of hope, in order to show him once more the love that is

undying. We want to do this with the same wisdom, tenderness and devotion that he bestowed upon us over the years,” Pope Francis said in his homily.

The Mass in St. Peter’s Square was the first time in more than 200 years that a pope celebrated the funeral of his predecessor. Pope Pius VII had celebrated the funeral of Pius VI in 1802 when his remains were returned to Rome after he died in exile in France in 1799.

Pope Benedict, who had retired in 2013, had requested his funeral be

simple; the only heads of state invited to lead delegations were those of Italy and his native Germany.

However, many dignitaries — including Queen Sofia of Spain and King Philippe of Belgium — and presidents and government ministers representing more than a dozen nations were in attendance, as were most of the ambassadors to the Holy See.

Members of the College of Cardinals sat on one side of the casket, while, on the other side, sat special guests, including the late pope’s closest collaborators

as well as representatives of the Orthodox, Oriental Orthodox, Anglican, Protestant and U.S. evangelical communities. Jewish and Muslim organizations also sent delegations.

Pope Francis presided over the Mass and Cardinal Giovanni Battista Re, dean of the College of Cardinals, was the main celebrant at the altar. Some 120 cardinals, another 400 bishops and 3,700 priests concelebrated. The vestments and stoles were red in keeping with the

CNS PHOTO/VATICAN MEDIA

Pope Francis presides over the funeral Mass of Pope Benedict XVI in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican on Jan. 5.

CNS PHOTO/PAUL HARING

Pallbearers carry the casket of Pope Benedict XVI into St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican at the conclusion of his funeral Mass Jan. 5.

At funeral, pope remembers Benedict’s ‘wisdom, tenderness, devotion’

Benedict taught us to seek friendship with Christ above all else

The death of Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI was hardly a surprise. He was 95 years old and had been frail for many years.

At the time of his resignation of the papal office in early 2013, some thought his death was imminent. He lived for almost 10 more years, spending those years praying and interceding for the church he had already served so ably and selflessly for the better part of 60 years.

I first met Pope Benedict XVI in June of 1998. At the time, I was an auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of St. Louis for less than a year. I was in Rome participating in the “ad limina” visit for the bishops of Missouri, Kansas, Iowa and Nebraska.

Every five years, a diocesan bishop must submit to the pope a report on the state of the church in his diocese. A few months after sending the report, the bishops come to Rome to pray at the tombs of the great apostles, Peter and Paul, and to meet with the Successor of Peter.

During the visit, the bishops meet with the prefects of the major dicasteries (the departments of the Roman Curia). We met with the prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine for the Faith, who was Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the future Pope Benedict XVI.

I had read some secular media reports describing Cardinal Ratzinger as Pope John Paul’s Doberman Pinscher or pit bull, who was a bully in fiercely defending the faith and treating harshly those with whom he disagreed. I was amazed by the contrast of the actual Cardinal Ratzinger to these false media portrayals.

Cardinal Ratzinger was one of the most gentle, kind and unassuming human beings that I had ever met.

Indeed, Cardinal Ratzinger was a great defender of the faith, but not by intimidation and bullying. He defended the faith by articulating what we believe as Catholics in a very compelling and persuasive way. I left the meeting with Cardinal Ratzinger

LIFE

four Gospels. Pope Benedict, with the publication of “Jesus of Nazareth,” gave direction to future Catholic biblical studies, utilizing the best in modern scriptural analysis, while always reading the biblical text through the eyes of faith.

ARCHBISHOP

JOSEPH F. NAUMANN

A note from the archbishop

Just a week ago on Jan. 13, in the late afternoon, thenAttorney General Derek Schmidt released a summary report conducted by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation on Catholic clergy abuse in the state of Kansas. The investigation was undertaken because of my written request on Nov. 15, 2018, to Attorney General Schmidt. In this issue of The Leaven, you will find an initial archdiocesan response to the summary report. I am still digesting the summary report. I will address it in greater detail in future editions of The Leaven.

impressed not only by his intellectual brilliance but his interest in how he could assist us in our responsibility of being the primary teachers of the faith in our dioceses.

During his tenure as prefect of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, he was the architect of the Catechism of the Catholic Church. The catechism was a remarkable achievement, providing a masterful, comprehensive articulation of the full breadth of our Catholic faith.

Even before becoming a bishop, the future Pope Benedict had an enormous influence on the Second Vatican Council. George Weigel in his recent book, “To Sanctify the World — the Vital Legacy of Vatican II,” gave a glimpse of the contribution then-Father Ratzinger

made to the council by serving as a “peritus,” an expert consultant, to Cardinal Joseph Frings of Cologne, Germany.

Cardinal Frings was a member of the Council’s Central Preparatory Commission and delivered a pre-conciliar speech in Genoa, Italy, describing the purpose and aspirations for the council. The speech had been written by Father Ratzinger. Several months later in Rome, Pope John XXIII embraced Cardinal Frings and said: “Eminence, I must thank you. Last night, I read your speech. . . . You have said everything that I’ve thought and wanted to say but was unable to say myself.”

Decades later, as Pope Benedict XVI, the former speech writer played a crucial role in helping the church correctly understand and implement the teaching of Vatican II.

Pope Benedict understood well the danger of what he termed the “dictatorship of relativism,” a belief that there is no truth. Relativism holds that each person can define his or her own truth, even if our particular truths contradict each other.

Combating the mistaken notion of the human person that results from relativism — namely, that each person can define themselves to be whatever they desire to be — Pope Benedict promoted a robust Christian humanism that appreciated the dignity of every human being created in the divine image and of such worth that God in the person of Jesus Christ immersed himself in our humanity and gave his life on Calvary for each of us.

Before becoming the Successor of Peter, Pope Benedict XVI was working on what became a three-volume description of Jesus of Nazareth based on his prayerful study of the

I consider Pope Benedict’s greatest legacy to the church to be his clear teaching that our Catholic faith is not simply or primarily an intellectual assent to a set of propositions.

At the beginning of his very first encyclical letter, “Deus Caritas Est” (“God is Love”), Pope Benedict wrote: “Being a Christian is not the result of an ethical choice or a lofty idea, but an encounter with an event, a person, which gives life a new horizon and a decisive direction.”

Pope Benedict certainly appreciated the importance of ideas, dogmas, catechisms and creeds. After all, he had spent his entire life articulating and protecting the doctrines of our Catholic faith. However, he did not believe that the essence of Catholicism was an intellectual understanding.

Pope Benedict also appreciated the profound importance of striving to live an ethical and moral life. However, once again he did not believe the foundation of our Catholic faith was living a virtuous life. A life of virtue is the fruit of Christian faith, not its heart.

The core of what it means to be a Catholic is an encounter with a living person, Jesus Christ. The heart of our Catholic faith is developing a friendship with Jesus that can only happen through the sacraments and a life of

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR

Jan. 15 Mass and blessing of new eucharistic adoration chapel and Marian grotto — Immaculate Conception, St. Marys

Jan. 17

Administrative Team meeting — chancery

Priests Personnel meeting — chancery

Annual high school administrators Mass and dinner — residence

Jan. 18

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

Presbyteral Council meeting — chancery

Jesus Covenant Prayer Partner call Jan. 19

National March for Life vigil Mass — Washington, D.C.

Jan. 20 March for Life — Washington, D.C.

prayer. Such a friendship with Jesus can give us joy in the everyday events of life as well as serenity in the midst of adversity and difficulty. It can give us tranquility and an expectant joy even in the face of death.

Less than a year ago, Pope Benedict gave this description of his state of mind in approaching the reality of his impending death: “Even though, as I look back on my long life, I can have great reason for fear and trembling, I am nonetheless of good cheer, for I trust firmly that the Lord is not only the just judge, but also the friend and brother who himself has already suffered for my shortcomings, and is thus also my advocate, my Paraclete. In light of the hour of judgment, the grace of being a Christian becomes all the more clear to me. It grants me knowledge, and indeed friendship,

with the judge of my life, and thus allows me to pass confidently through the dark door of death. In this regard, I am constantly reminded of what John tells us at the beginning of the Apocalypse: He sees the Son of Man in all his grandeur and fell at his feet as though dead. Yet he, placing his right hand on him, says to him: ‘Do not be afraid! It is I.’” (see Rev 1: 12-17).

The nurse, who attended Pope Benedict during his final hours, testifies that his last words were: “Lord, I love you.”

I give thanks for the incredible leadership of Pope Benedict XVI. I hope that someday he will be recognized and honored as a saint and doctor of the church. If we wish to honor Pope Benedict, then let us follow his example and pursue friendship with Jesus above all else.

WILL BE VICTORIOUS

REMEMBERING BENEDICT

Archdiocesan priests share their memories of Pope Benedict

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

Habemus papam!

Father Steve Beseau, a priest of the archdiocese and rector of the Pontifical College Josephinum in Columbus, Ohio, said he never expected to hear those words in person.

Still, on April 19, 2005, Father Beseau found himself in St. Peter’s Square hearing the first words of Pope Benedict XVI, who began his pontificate by saying, “Dear brothers and sisters, after the great Pope John Paul II, the cardinals have elected me — a simple, humble worker in the vineyard of the Lord.”

Although he met Pope Benedict XVI only once for just a moment, Father Beseau said the pope’s impact on his life cannot be overstated.

“I look at my bookshelves, and my shelves are filled with his books. That’s really where I came to experience him, through his writings,” he said.

Father Nathan Haverland, pastor of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka, agreed.

“His writings, his reflections are incredibly profound and yet very simple,” he said. “Whether it be on liturgy, on Scripture or the life of a saint, he had a true gift of teaching and insight.”

Among some of his favorite writings and reflections are interview-style books which the pope participated in with journalist Peter Seewald. Chief among them is “Last Testament: In His Own Words,” initially published in late 2016.

“I love those because it’s just listening in to a conversation, just getting a little insight into the journey of him and his thoughts and his reflections outside of a liturgical or formal writing,” Father Haverland said.

Pope Benedict proclaimed a Year for Priests beginning on June 19, 2009, on the solemnity of the Sacred Heart of Jesus; it continued through June 11, 2010. The year impacted at least two archdiocesan priests, including Father Carter Zielinski, pastor of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Emporia.

“That was when the first foundations of a vocation started to develop in prayer, and I started to feel a call to the priesthood. . . . I’m convinced that it was the fruit of the church’s prayer,” Father Zielinski said.

The Year for Priests also had a profound impact on Father Haverland.

Already in the seminary, as part of a summer trip to Rome, he visited the Congregation for Clergy where he received a gift, a stole with Pope Benedict’s seal or crest on it. He only uses it for special occasions.

Similarly, Father Anthony Saiki, rector of the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Kansas City, Kansas, has a cherished papal memento.

“When I was in Rome,” Father Saiki said, “I was blessed to be able to

exchange a zucchetto (skullcap) with him through a priest friend who had an audience with the retired pope.

“I asked him to exchange zucchettos with the pope emeritus, and so, he did. It has a certificate of authenticity from his secretary, Archbishop Georg Gänswein. . . . Pray God, if he’s in heaven, it’s a second-class relic.”

The memento reminds him of times he was in the presence of the Holy Father, including the 2008 apostolic visit to the United States at a rally for seminarians and young people. At the end of that talk, Father Saiki said, he remembers Pope Benedict saying, “Dear seminarians, I pray for you daily.”

“He was speaking to thousands of

us, but I knew that in that moment, he meant it,” Father Saiki continued. “Even though he didn’t know who I was, he was praying for me. He was praying for me every day. It was such an expression of fatherhood, such an expression of being our spiritual father. . . . And then at the very end, he said, ‘As a pledge of my love for you and your families, I

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Father Anthony Saiki, rector of the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle in Kansas City, Kansas, shows a zucchetto that he received from Pope Benedict XVI along with the certificate of authenticity. The zucchetto was on display Jan. 4 at the cathedral, which held a special Mass for the pope.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Father Nathan Haverland, pastor of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka, displays a stole with Pope Benedict’s crest on it that he received as a gift. He only uses it for special occasions.

HE DEMONSTRATED THAT [HOLINESS] BY HIS SILENT PRAYERS BEFORE AND AFTER MASS. . . . HE WAS WRAPPED UP IN PRAYER BY HIMSELF BEFORE AND AFTER MASS, AND THAT WAS JUST BEAUTIFUL. IT VERY MUCH INSPIRED ME.

FATHER RICHARD MCDONALD PASTOR OF HOLY ANGELS, BASEHOR

School office to host first-ever career fair, open house

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — “There are many questions and misconceptions surrounding Catholic education, and we want to address that,” said Felicia Holcomb, consultant for marketing and enrollment for the archdiocesan school office.

The school office will do just that at its first-ever Discovery Day on Feb. 4 at Savior Pastoral Center, located at 12601 Parallel Pkwy. in Kansas City, Kansas.

The event will include a career fair for teachers interested in learning more about Catholic schools from 9-11 a.m.

Then, families will have the opportunity to take part in an open house from 11 a.m.-1 p.m.

“Families think [Catholic education is] not a financially feasible option,” said Holcomb, “but that’s not the case. There are tuition assistance and scholarship options that make our schools affordable.”

At the Discovery Day open house, families can learn more about the archdiocese’s 42 schools; academics and curriculum; faith formation; enrollment; tuition; and scholarships and financial aid.

Educators can learn about salary and benefits, current and future job openings, the application and hiring process, and more during the career fair portion of the event.

Holcomb said that even though the salary at a Catholic school is different from a public school, “there are benefits that we believe make up for the pay

difference — personal faith formation, teacher autonomy and living your faith.”

Teachers with children in kindergarten through twelfth grade also have opportunities for tuition remission, said Holcomb, and “that alone can save a family thousands each year.”

At Discovery Day, representatives from the school office will be joined by

members of the archdiocesan human resources department and the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF), as well as school leaders and parents, who will be available to share their perspectives on Catholic schools.

Participants are encouraged to drop by the event; no registration is necessary.

Holcomb hopes that many educators and families will check out all that archdiocesan schools have to offer.

“This event is hopefully the first conversation that will lead to families and teachers contacting a school for more information,” she said.

To learn more about archdiocesan schools, go online to: archkckcs.org.

CEF parents share gratitude for scholarships and the deeper faith that follows

to The Leaven

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — “I knew that we needed to make a change, but my income was stretched to its limit,” Jessica Woosley shared with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and others over dinner at the archbishop’s home here on Dec. 19.

Through teary eyes, Woosley admitted that when she and her husband experienced the loss of a child, it impacted her faith and her parenting. She yearned for the supportive Catholic community she’d grown up with as a student at Holy Trinity School in Paola. But she didn’t think they could afford tuition for their two sons until a teacher at Holy Trinity told her about scholarships available through the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF).

“Them going to Catholic school helped pull me back to the faith,” said Woosley. “I needed that. And now, they’re flourishing in this faith-centered environment.”

The other parents around the dinner table could relate. Like Woosley, their children were attending Catholic schools thanks to scholarships from CEF.

CEF provides need-based scholarships

to help students receive a Catholic education at K-12 schools in the archdiocese.

This year, nearly 1,800 students throughout northeast Kansas are receiving scholarship support through CEF.

“Christmas is an ideal time to celebrate gratitude,” said Jeff Jaworski, chair of the CEF board of directors. “Sharing a meal with the archbishop and parents who sacrifice so much to put their kids through Catholic

schooling is incredibly rewarding.”

Before dinner, the group attended Mass in the chapel at the archbishop’s home. In his homily, Archbishop Naumann shared how his mother’s vocation as a Christian parent and educator shaped his life.

“She always had hope,” he said, “and taught me that God had a plan for me.

“Our schools partner with parents to help children grow in knowledge and

to know that they are beloved sons and daughters of God and that they carry the life of Jesus Christ within them.”

This sentiment resonated with Daniel Alvarado. His children attend Christ the King School in Kansas City, Kansas, with scholarship support from CEF.

“At Christ the King, Jesus is present every day,” he said.

Over dinner, Alvarado said that when he was growing up in Guatemala, his parents could only afford to send one child to school. As a boy, Alvarado volunteered to work and help the family financially so that his sister could go to school.

“My opportunity is gone,” he said, “but my kids, they have opportunities now.”

Erin Cronin agreed. Her three children receive CEF scholarships to attend John Paul II School in Overland Park.

“Yes, it’s a sacrifice but it’s one that I’m grateful for,” said Cronin. “I’m learning about my faith from my kids.”

“There’s a ripple effect,” CEF executive director Vince Anch told the parents. “Our schools help guide kids in their faith, but they also help drive families to the faith or back to church.”

Special

COURTESY PHOTO

Jeff Jaworski (to the right of Archbishop Naumann), chair of the CEF board of directors, speaks to CEF families during a special dinner following Mass at the archbishop’s residence.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

The archdiocesan school office will host its first-ever Discovery Day on Feb. 4 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas. The day will include a career fair for teachers as well as an open house for families considering a Catholic school. The above photo is from St. John Paul II School in Overland Park’s annual MakerSpace Day in 2022 — just one of the many unique offerings at Catholic schools across the archdiocese.

IGNITE rally will light up Topeka with pro-life message

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

TOPEKA — Ignite. The word means “to catch fire” or “to begin to glow.”

And that’s what Deb Niesen, the archdiocese’s pro-life consultant, wants to happen here in northeast Kansas. She wants people to catch the fire of the pro-life message, especially given that abortion remains a right in Kansas. With that in mind, she invites everyone in the archdiocese to join her on Jan. 24 at the annual IGNITE for Life rally to be held at the Topeka Performing Arts Center.

For more information about the IGNITE for Life rally, visit the website at: archkck.org/pro life/activities/ ignite.

This year’s featured speaker is Lila Rose, founder and president of Live Action, a nonprofit organization with “the largest digital footprint for the global pro-life movement.”

“Our theme this year for IGNITE is ‘Celebrating Life’s Heroes.’ Part of it is that we’re going to be celebrating the overturning of Roe that happened in 2022. We have all the life heroes and prayer warriors since 1973 who have been standing for life during all of these years. So, we’re recognizing those people and their tireless effort for the past 50 years,” Niesen said, adding that Rose is among those internationally known voices advocating for the sanctity of life.

Rose’s investigative report-

ing on the abortion industry has been featured in major news outlets including the Los Angeles Times, the Washington Post, the Atlantic, CBS and ABC “Nightline.” She is also the author of “Fighting for Life: Becoming a Force for Change in a Wounded World,” in which she shares her own personal story as well as tips for “finding the passion you need to make a difference — and draw closer to the One who truly saves.”

“I think Live Action plays a big part in this because some-

thing that Live Action has been doing recently is creating videos, sharing all of the different stories of people who have chosen life, even amid difficult circumstances,” Niesen said. The videos highlight some of the more difficult scenarios people use to justify abortion, such as rape, incest and life of the mother.

Of Rose herself, Niesen said, “Right now, she is probably one of the most influential advocates for pro-life in the country. . . . What I love about her is that she’s extremely pas-

IGNITE

for Life

Date: Jan. 24

Place: Topeka Performing Arts Center

Schedule: 8:30 a.m. – Doors open 9 a.m. – Speaker presentation 10:30 a.m. – Mass with Kansas bishops Noon – March to Kansas Capitol for rally on the south steps

sionate but she’s also extremely compassionate in her message and she teaches us how to stand firm in our defense of

all life, but she does it in a very loving and respectful way.”

Pope Benedict will be remembered for his holiness, kindness

impart to you my apostolic blessing.’

“Even though he was responsible for the entire church on the planet, I really believed it — that when he said, ‘As a pledge of my love,’ he meant it. He did love us. . . . So, that was a very, very powerful moment.”

While Fathers Zielinski, Haverland and Saiki never met him personally, there is at least one archdiocesan priest who encountered Pope Benedict XVI numerous times.

Father Richard McDonald, pastor of Holy Angels Parish in Basehor, first met the man who became Pope Benedict XVI during a conference on St. John Henry Newman.

“He was so gracious,” said Father McDonald, “and he signed and autographed my program. So, I have an autograph of him as Cardinal Ratzinger underneath a nice drawn portrait of Cardinal Newman from that occasion.”

That’s not all.

After the conference, Cardinal Ratzinger arranged for everyone in attendance to attend a private audience with Pope John Paul II.

“It was all the doing of Cardinal

As a

in

Then there was the time he served as the deacon at a Corpus Christi Mass and procession outside of

the Abbazia di Rosazzo, since just the day before he had been ordained to the transitional diaconate.

Father McDonald recalled feeling extremely humbled, honored and blessed serving in that capacity if, for no other reason, than being in the presence of a man of holiness.

“He demonstrated that [holiness] by his silent prayers before and after Mass,” he said. “He just recollected himself in the sacristy. . . . He was just such a man of prayer. . . . He didn’t let anything else distract him. He was wrapped up in prayer by himself before and after Mass, and that was just beautiful. It very much inspired me.”

Years later, Father McDonald was in the presence of the man he’d known as Cardinal Ratzinger for a private papal audience arranged as part of the 150th anniversary of the Pontifical North American College.

And that’s when he got a surprise from Pope Benedict XVI.

“I got to spend time [with him], and he greeted me. He recalled me serving as deacon for him so many years before,” he said. “He was just an amazing man in every way. There will be no one else like him.”

Ratzinger

and how kind and considerate he was of others because he didn’t have to go out of his way to do that,” he said.

seminarian studying

Rome, Father McDonald had Thursdays off from classes. On those days, he often

wandered over to the cardinal’s morning Mass celebrated in the German chapel, just off the south side of St. Peter’s Basilica.

Florence, Italy, at

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann celebrates a Mass in honor of Pope Benedict XVI on Jan. 7 at St. Michael the Archangel Church in Leawood.

LEAVEN FILE PHOTO

The annual IGNITE for Life rally is to be held at the Topeka Performing Arts Center on Jan. 24. The event will feature speaker Lila Rose, founder and president of Live Action; a Mass with the bishops of Kansas; and a march and rally on the south steps of the Kansas Capitol.

By Lisa M. Hendey

Even after loss this senior is still standing Statement from the archdiocese

or the past three months, I’ve enjoyed a delightful new Monday ritual. After coffee with my husband and morning prayer, I pack my brown bag lunch, gather my backpack and walk a mile to a nondescript brick building on the UCLA campus.

Tucking myself into a corner of the immense lecture hall, I spend the next five hours engaged in “Introduction to Film and Television,” a prerequisite for freshman film majors. I audit the course as a “Senior Scholar,” a program that provides older adults with an opportunity to connect with UCLA’s academic community as part of their ongoing research on and promotion of longevity and brain resilience.

At almost 60, I earn no credit but have gained a lot of street cred.

At a June 15, 2022, papal audience, Pope Francis pointed to his own mobility limitations and reminded those gathered of the unique challenges and opportunities of aging. “The vigor of the body fails and abandons us, even though our heart does not stop yearning,” said the Holy Father, who had just celebrated his 86th birthday. “One must then learn to purify desire: Be patient, choose what to ask of the body and of life.”

I am asking a lot of life these days. My heart yearns.

After losing both of my parents in the past 18 months, I thought I had given up yearning.

I struggled simply to emerge from a tunnel of grief. On my bad days during those long years of parental caregiving, I did the mental math and was tempted toward despair.

Mom died just after her 81st birthday after battling Parkinson’s disease. Daddy, also only 81, followed her months later, debilitated by complications of Lewy body dementia. Both were far too young with far too much living yet to do. I rest a bit easier knowing that their way home was made along a path of unwavering faith. But I couldn’t help but fear my own mortality.

Lately, rested a bit and motivated by the ways in which my parents had truly lived every moment while they could, I have decided to embrace my “Senior Standing.” In university parlance, academic “standing” is earned through the accrual of course credit. Over my past few years of matriculation in the School of Hard Knocks, I

figure I’ve earned plenty of hours from so many unexpected life lessons.

So rather than giving into the soul-crushing temptation to see aging as loss, I have vowed to make a new course for my life and whatever years I have ahead of me.

Surrounded by celebrity culture in our Los Angeles neighborhood, I’ve let my locks grow gray. Unimpacted by the sea of influencers telling me what creams to use to fix my face, I’ve decided to let my smile shine for others to see. I try to live my story rather than chronicling it on Instagram. And when folks ask me why I’m in such a good mood, I’m likely to invite them for a walk to share with them the reasons for my hope.

I’ve always been an adventurer, the type of person to say yes to invitations and to try the crazy stuff just for the pure joy of living. These days, that returned yearning to live life to its fullest is tempered

with a bit more maturity, but no less desire to partake of God’s bounty all around me. My faith is childlike and simple, but my prayer life is peppered with the type of intense and trusting supplication that comes with knowing that God understands me and loves me just as I am.

All too soon, my first semester “back to school” will be in the books. Searching the course catalog for next term, I’m determined to give some of the math and science classes I eschewed during my undergraduate years at Notre Dame a try. As a perpetual senior set free of grades and limits, the upsides feel endless. What are you asking of life? Come and let us journey together.

Lisa M. Hendey is the founder of Catholic Mom. com, a bestselling author and an international speaker. Visit her online at: www.Lisa Hendey. com or on social media @ lisahendey.

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas learned from media reports Jan. 6 that the Kansas Attorney General has released a report by the Kansas Bureau of Investigation of its investigation of historical allegations of sexual abuse made against Catholic clergy in the state.

Although there has not been sufficient time to carefully study the report, it reflects a detailed fouryear investigation of all four dioceses (or church jurisdictions) in Kansas covering more than 70 years.

The trauma experienced by the victims is clear from the KBI report, said Archbishop Joseph Naumann, leader of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

“You cannot read this report without your heart breaking,” he said.

The archbishop expressed his gratitude to the Kansas attorney general for the professionalism and thoroughness he and the Kansas Bureau of Investigation brought to the study. It was Archbishop Naumann who initially requested the investigation of archdiocesan files by the attorney general in 2018.

And he joins bishops across the state of Kansas in offering his deepest apologies to the victims, their families, the faithful of the church, and the Kansas Catholic community at large.

“The Archdiocese has openly collaborated with the KBI from the moment we initiated an extensive and thorough review of our internal files by an independent, outside law firm,” said Vicar General Father John Riley. “We shared the full results of our independent review with the KBI and have continued to provide additional information throughout the investigation.”

Like other dioceses across the country, the dioceses in Kansas have for some 20+ years implemented programs to protect children and vulnerable adults in its parishes and schools, and the report indicates a steep decline in allegations in recent decades.

But the most significant change Archbishop Naumann has introduced locally has been adopting a victim-centered approach using restorative principles to address the grave harm of abuse. He prays these efforts will be successful and provide a new avenue to bring healing to victims in the future.

In January 2019, the archdiocese published a list of substantiated allegations of abuse against archdiocesan priests, or other priests who had served within the archdiocese, and continues to maintain and update that list publicly.

If you suspect abuse or neglect, make a report to the Kansas Protection Report Center at (800) 922-5330. If you or someone you know has been abused by a cleric, employee, or volunteer of the Archdiocese — regardless of when the abuse may have occurred — call the archdiocesan confidential report line at (913) 647-3051 after calling local law enforcement. You can also make a report using the online form at: www.archkck.org/reportabuse.

Walking With Purpose event set for Jan. 19

WICHITA — Are you feeling untethered and overwhelmed? Some women are, but there is something that might help.

Nationally known Catholic speaker and Bible study program creator Lisa Brenninkmeyer will offer a talk for women experiencing anxiety, woundedness and stress called “Strong Yet Tender: Building Resilience in an Age of Trauma.”

The hourlong talk will be at 7 p.m. on Jan. 19 at the Church of the Magdalen, 12626 E. 21st St. N., Wichita. The cost to attend is $25. Registration is required.

Brenninkmeyer, who lives in St. Augustine, Florida, is the creator of the Walking With Purpose Catholic Bible Study program for women used at almost 600 parishes across the nation. More than 50,000 women have participated in the program. Brenninkmeyer was a speaker at the 2019 archdiocesan convocation Enflame.

“It is possible to be strong despite the most challenging circumstances,” said Brenninkmeyer. “Yes, your life is wild and messy, but that doesn’t mean you’re going to go under. Come and join us and see how, through God’s help, you can build resilience in an age of trauma.”

To register, visit the website at: walkingwithpurpose.com. At the top of the homepage, click on “The Latest” drop-down menu, then click on “Events.” Scroll down that page to the Jan. 19 event and click on “Register” or “Learn More.”

Leavenworth native, Father John C. Maier, dies

LEAVENWORTH — Father John. C. Maier, 87, a retired priest of the Archdiocese of Des Moines living here, died on Nov. 18, 2022, at St. John Hospital.

Father Maier was born on July 22, 1935, in Leavenworth, one of five children of William and Theresa Maier.

He was ordained a priest on July 27, 1990, by Bishop William Bullock of the Archdiocese of Des Moines. He served in several Iowa parishes until his retirement on July 10, 2003. He returned to Leavenworth to serve part time at various archdiocesan parishes and in ministry to prisoners. He was a priest for 32 years.

He is survived by his brother Joseph. A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated by Father Glenn Snow, O.Carm., on Nov. 23, 2022, at St. Joseph Parish in Leavenworth. Burial was at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Leavenworth.

Lyle and Glenda (Sawin) Stohs, members of St. Gregory the Great Parish, Marysville, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Jan. 21 with family. The couple was married on Jan. 13, 1973, in Washington. Their children are: Cara Baker, Susan Turner and Tracy Wright. They also have five grandchildren, four stepgrandchildren and three step-greatgrandchildren.

Katie Scott-inspired Blood Drive set for Feb. 3 at Sheraton Hotel

OVERLAND PARK — In 2018, Katie Reynolds Scott, a graduate of Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park and Benedictine College in Atchison, lost her fight to Ewing sarcoma, a rare bone cancer.

During her battle, she received multiple blood transfusions, which helped her recover from chemotherapy and radiation treatments and keep fighting.

Before she passed away at age 29, Scott created a plan to start a local blood drive to help others in need of transfusions. Since then, the Katie Scott-inspired drive has become the largest Red Cross blood drive in the Kansas City area.

The sixth annual drive will take place on Feb. 3 from 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m. at the Sheraton Overland Park Hotel, located at 6100 College Blvd.

To schedule a blood donation appointment, call 1 (800) 733-2767 or visit the website at: redcrossblood.org and enter the sponsor code “katiescott.”

Holy Family Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with a dinner and gathering of relatives and close friends at the parish’s Mejak Hall. The couple was married on Jan. 6, 1973, at Christ the King Church in Kansas City, Kansas. Their children are: Nicolas, Evan, Stephen, Kana, Bethany, Mark, Jamison and Sara. They also have 20 grandchildren.

Dick and Rita (Noll) Farmer, members of St. Paul Parish, Olathe, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on Jan. 4. The couple was married on Jan. 4, 1958, at Corpus Christi Church, Mooney Creek. Their children are: Dianne Hall, Michael Farmer and Mark Farmer. They also have six grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren.

Martha and Alan Nilges, members of

‘IF YOU HEAR HIS VOICE’

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — For a while, it seemed that Andrew “Drew” Stanley’s course was set.

He fell in love with ministry as a teenager at camp. While pursuing his bachelor’s degree, he fell in love with theology. And then, he made the big jump to go to the seminary — a Protestant seminary.

It made sense. After all, he was Protestant, although in a vague way — a fruit salad mix of American Baptist, Nazarene, Wesleyan and Evangelical Covenant.

“I used to take pride in calling myself a theological mutt,” said Stanley. “I would just pick and choose whatever theology sounded good and try to make my own plate.

“In Protestantism, it’s easy to view church history and teachings as a buffet and you just pick and choose whatever you want, but also adding random things on the side and taking important things out.”

He left the seminary not because of a crisis of faith, but a crisis of church.

“I saw that my view of church was not working, and my view of Christianity was distorted and not correct,” he said.

And then, Stanley and his father discovered a church of goodness, beauty and truth: the Catholic Church. Stanley entered the church in October 2021.

Today, Stanley is a part-time youth formation associate at St. John Paul II Parish in Olathe. He is a catechist for confirmation students and guides the high school youth group. He’s also a part-time substitute teacher for the Olathe public schools.

A return to the seminary — a Catholic one this time — may be in his future.

Stanley is undergoing a process of discovery. The process is called discernment, which comes from a Latin word meaning to “sift” or “sort out,” and refers to an effort to understand or “discern” God’s will for his life. Maybe he’ll go to the seminary and continue his discernment — maybe not.

But he feels compelled to consider a call to the priesthood.

“Consistently meditating on Christ’s outpouring of himself, I cannot be the same,” said Stanley.

“Whenever I reflect on Christ’s crucifixion and how he gives himself in the holy Eucharist, I have to ask how I can give myself,” he said. “The more I learn about the priesthood, the history of the church and the

sacraments, the more I get excited. . . . There’s a need for priests and I see this desire in myself for what the priest is and what they do. . . . And I can’t stop thinking about it.”

And he isn’t the only one. He, with 54 other young men from across the archdiocese, met to “sift and sort out” the question together at a retreat called “Quo Vadis.”

Where are you going?

“Quo Vadis” in Latin means “Where are you going?” It is taken from an apocryphal encounter between St. Peter and the risen Christ as the former was fleeing arrest in Rome.

This year’s annual “Quo Vadis” retreat, sponsored by the archdiocesan vocation office, was held Dec. 16-18 at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas. Its theme was: “If You Have Seen Me: Becoming an Icon of God the Father,” taken from the Gospel of John (14:9).

The retreat is for young men junior high age and older who exhibit the qualities of spiritual maturity.

“I think they are intelligent, bright and gifted in many other ways, and there are many other things they could do,” said Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, who attended the retreat. “But these men were asking the right questions — not so much about what they would like to do or what would be perhaps the easiest thing to do, but what does God, what does Jesus, want them to do.”

The retreat attendees were either known to their pastors or Father Dan Morris, the archdiocesan vocation director. Each young man received an invitation from Father Morris.

“‘Quo Vadis’ is a discernment retreat for men serious about following Jesus Christ,” said Father Morris. “By serious I mean open to the Lord’s will and wanting to grow closer to him. To grow in friendship with Jesus Christ and follow him wherever that path leads.”

As a young man attains a deeper level of relationship with Jesus Christ, he might move toward a more committed stage in contemplating a vocation to the priesthood while in the seminary. That is why Father Morris invited some archdiocesan seminarians to “Quo Vadis.”

“It’s going to give a guy exposure to [the] seminary in a way he probably hasn’t experienced yet by hanging out with our seminarians, to get to know them on a deeper level, but also give

them exposure to the formation that occurs at a seminary,” said Father Morris.

Continuing that effort to bring the seminary to the young men, Father Morris invited Father Brady Wagner, director of the spirituality year at St. John Vianney Seminary in Denver, to give three 40-minute talks at “Quo Vadis.”

“I simply hope [the young men] learn to live in the grace of their baptism,” said Father Wagner. “That’s the foundation of their whole life. And the inner dynamism of their response to God is thanksgiving — true ‘eucharistia’.

“As the Lord gives us every spiritual blessing in the heavens, as Saint Paul says in the Epistle to the Ephesians, and how he gives us grace upon grace in Christ, our lives just go from gratitude to gratitude, thanksgiving to thanksgiving.”

In addition to meeting the seminarians and listening to Father Wagner, the retreat attendees participated in small group discussions and panel discussions; eucharistic adoration and Mass with Archbishop Naumann; prayer in front of a Kansas City, Kansas, abortion clinic; several other

prayer opportunities; social time with each other; and oneon-one meetings with Father Morris, Father Wagner and Archbishop Naumann.

“I was impressed by their seriousness and, for the most part, they were joyful young men and very generous in wanting to do something good with their lives and wanting to do what God willed for their lives,” said Archbishop Naumann about his oneon-one meetings.

“My encouragement [to them] was to have a spiritual director and to give God time, especially to pray in front of the Blessed

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann talks to seminarian Juan Vazquez at breakfast. In addition to offering Mass, the archbishop

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER While “Quo Vadis” offered time for discernment, prayer and spiritual growth, there was also time for some fun and games. Above, attendees play a board game called Catan.

Young men open their hearts to the Lord’s call at ‘Quo Vadis’

Sacrament and ask the Lord to reveal to them what his desire is for them, what his dream, if you will, is for them.”

Sifting and being sifted

Who were these young men who attended “Quo Vadis”? What were they like? Archbishop Naumann had a chance to find out.

“Each man is different, and they are in different places in trying to discern their vocations,” said Archbishop Naumann. “Some asked how to pray better; how do they come to understand what God is calling them to do.

“Some of them were already pretty convinced that they were called to enter the seminary, and their questions were more practical ones about when and which seminary they might go

to. I found all the men to have very insightful and thoughtful questions.”

Caleb Brenyer, 15, a member of St. Augustine Parish and a sophomore at Sabetha High School, got permission from his wrestling coach to skip practice so he could attend “Quo Vadis.”

Why was he there?

“To better my discernment process and understand what God’s calling me to be,” said Brenyer.

He hoped to get something specific from his participation in “Quo Vadis.”

“The main thing I hope to get out of this is just an ease at heart,” he said. “By that, I mean trust in God. That sounds easy, to trust in God, but I think what I mean by that is an ability to give my future up for what his plans are, sacrificing my plans for his.”

William Anderson, 19, a member of St. Agnes Parish in Roeland Park, is finishing his

first semester at Benedictine College in Atchison. He has been intensively considering the seminary for a year.

“I had, last year as a senior in high school, originally thought God was calling me to [the] seminary,” he said. “Actually, I was fairly certain of that. Then, through the discernment process, the vocation office and I both found I needed to take a year of college first and reassess.

“That really challenged me to grow in my faith. This is the first discernment retreat I’ve gone on since my decision not to go to [the] seminary. I’m able to look at it in a new light. And that’s where patience comes into play. God and I are in a relationship, and he will reveal to me what he wants in his own time, and he will take care of me through the whole process.”

Anthony Brown, 15, a homeschool sophomore and member of St. Benedict Parish in Atchison, went to “Quo Vadis” for relaxation, peace, fellowship and a better understanding of how to move forward in his life — but he’s not ready to say in which direction.

“I figured I should decide or get an idea of what I’m going to do, and where I’m going to go after high school, whether it’s seminary or college,” said Brown.

“I’ve given the priesthood

some thought. I’m still deciding. I’m always open to it, but I’m not sure God is calling me to it. I’m not closing down the idea, but I’m pretty sure I’m not going to be a priest. It’s too early to say.”

Thomas Bagley, 26, a Scout camp ranger and member of Christ the King Parish in Topeka, was encouraged by his pastor and associate pastor to attend “Quo Vadis.”

“I heard about it but wasn’t able to sign up for the past two years,” said Bagley.

“I guess, a couple of years ago and presently, I have questioned what God was inviting me to do and what would be the best fit for me in God’s plan,” he said. “I guess [I am here to] just try to gain more insight and information about [the] seminary but not ruling out married life.”

Every young Catholic man should ask if God wants him to pursue a vocation in the priesthood, he said.

“I hope to get a little more clarity [this weekend] how to pray for my discernment,” said Bagley. “That’s one thing. I just want to spend some good time in prayer and reset away from the world.”

Father Morris hoped what the young men who attended “Quo Vadis” would take away was not only a deeper prayer life and relationship with Christ, but also less fear and a feeling of freedom to consider the priesthood.

Archbishop Naumann hopes more young men will sift and allow themselves to be sifted among their choices in life.

“We need more priests,” said the archbishop. “I think every young man should at least consider the possibility of a vocation to the priesthood. Our primary vocation is our baptism and confirmation. Nothing more important will happen to us than what was given to us [then]. We are all empowered to share in the mission of Jesus, which is not just to keep the faith, but to go and make disciples.

“I would encourage all the people of the archdiocese to pray for more priestly vocations and to pray especially for priestly vocations coming from your own family and your own parish

The outlook for priestly vocations

What is the outlook for priestly vocations in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas? Good, although it could be better, said Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.

“As a bishop, you never have enough seminarians and you never have enough priests,” he said. “We are blessed to have 25 men in [the] seminary. We had 10 new ones enter last year, which was very good. We will ordain three priests this year.

“I am hopeful, but it is too early to say, how many men will come into [the] seminary this year. I do not know that we will have 10, but I would hope that we would have five or six new seminarians.”

The vocation picture in the archdiocese is good relative to other parts of the country but he wants improvement.

“I think there are more young men being called to the priesthood,” he said, “but culture and society create a lot of distractions and pull them in a lot of other directions or create a lot of noise so they cannot hear God’s voice.”

The archbishop pointed to the Diocese of Wichita, which has a smaller Catholic population but more seminarians and ordinations than the archdiocese in recent years. The same is true for the Diocese of Lincoln, Nebraska.

“We hope we can create an environment where our young men can pray about this and think about this, and they are open to God’s call,” he said.

community, and to encourage young men that you know to think about and consider the possibility of a vocation to the priesthood.”

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

archbishop was available for one-on-one meetings with attendees.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Father Anthony Saiki, rector of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas, leads a rosary in front of Planned Parenthood in Kansas City, Kansas. “Quo Vadis” attendees prayed in front of the clinic with Father Saiki during the retreat.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Participants were able to take part in small group discussions as well as larger gatherings and panel discussions.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER Seminarian Cesar Gomez gives a pro-life talk to the group following the rosary in front of Planned Parenthood.

Scroll in Benedict’s casket summarizes his life and ministry

By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY (CNS) —

Pope Benedict XVI was a renowned theologian, a “recognized authority,” who left “a rich legacy of studies and research on the fundamental truths of the faith,” said the official summary of his life and papacy.

The 1,000-word text, known as a “rogito,” was rolled up, slipped into a metal cylinder and placed with his body in a cypress casket late Jan. 4 after an estimated 195,000 people had passed by his body in St. Peter’s Square to pay their respects.

The text, released in Latin and Italian shortly before the pope’s funeral Mass on Jan. 5, highlighted his work as a theologian, his ecumenical outreach, his relations with the Jewish community and his efforts to deal with the clerical sexual abuse scandal.

The short biography about his birth, childhood and education also noted that “the time of his youth was not easy. His family’s faith and his upbringing prepared him for the difficult experience of the problems associated with the Nazi regime, knowing the climate of strong hostility toward the Catholic Church in Germany.”

However, it said, “in this complex situation, he discovered the beauty and truth of faith in Christ.”

The text spoke of his ordination and his career as a professor of theology and noted his role as a “peritus” or theological adviser at the Second Vatican Council, his appointment as archbishop of Munich and Freising in 1977 and his creation as a cardinal by St. Paul VI later that same year.

“On Friday, April 8, 2005,” it said, “he presided over the Holy Mass for the funeral of John Paul II in St. Peter’s Square.”

Elected St. John Paul’s successor on April 19, 2005, it said, “he presented himself as ‘a humble worker in the vineyard of the Lord’” when he greeted the

crowds from the central balcony of St. Peter’s Basilica.

“Benedict XVI placed the theme of God and faith at the center of his pontificate in a continuous search for the face of the Lord Jesus Christ,” the text said. He tried to help “everyone to know him, particularly through the publication of the three-volume work ‘Jesus of Nazareth.’”

“Endowed with vast and profound biblical and theological knowledge, he had the extraordinary ability to elaborate enlightening syntheses on major doctrinal and spiritual themes, as well as on crucial issues in the life of the church and contemporary culture,” the

rogito continued.

Turning to his efforts at dialogue, the document said that “he successfully promoted dialogue with Anglicans, Jews and representatives of other religions, as well as resumed contacts with the priests of the St. Pius X community.”

The mention of Anglicans seemed to refer to initial tensions and then a resumption of dialogue after Pope Benedict made special pastoral provisions for Catholics coming from the Anglican tradition, establishing in 2009 personal ordinariates, jurisdictions similar to dioceses, which recognize their full communion with Rome while preserving some of their Anglican heritage.

The “resumed contacts with the priests of the St. Pius X community,” referred to the traditionalist Society of St. Pius X and other Catholics attached to the “extraordinary” or pre-Vatican II form of the Mass. Pope Benedict lifted the excommunications of four of the society’s bishops who were ordained illicitly in 1988 and launched a long and intense dialogue with the group.

Pope Benedict’s papal teaching, in encyclicals, apostolic exhortations, catechesis at his general audiences and speeches and homilies “delivered during his 24 apostolic journeys around the world” also were mentioned.

Funeral rite adapted from model of customary papal funeral

color of mourning for deceased popes.

More than 1,000 journalists, photographers and camera operators from around the world were accredited to cover the funeral in St. Peter’s Square. An estimated 50,000 people filled the square for the Mass.

Just as Pope Benedict dedicated his pontificate to directing the faithful’s focus to the person of Christ, Pope Francis dedicated his homily to Christ’s loving devotion and suffering witness as the “invitation and the program of life that he quietly inspires in us,” rather than on a summary of his predecessor’s life.

Pope Francis spoke of Jesus’ grateful, prayerful and sustained devotion to God’s will and how Jesus’ final words on the cross, “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit,” summed up his entire life, “a ceaseless self-entrustment into the hands of his Father.”

“His were hands of forgiveness and compassion, healing and mercy, anointing and blessing, which led him also to entrust himself into the hands of his brothers and sisters,” he said.

“Holding fast to the Lord’s last words

and to the witness of his entire life, we too, as an ecclesial community, want to follow in his steps and to commend our brother into the hands of the Father,” he said of Pope Benedict. “May those merciful hands find his lamp alight with the oil of the Gospel that he spread and testified to for his entire life.”

“God’s faithful people, gathered here, now accompany and entrust to him the life of the one who was their pastor,” the pope continued. “Together, we want to say, ‘Father, into your hands we commend his spirit.’”

“Benedict, faithful friend of the Bridegroom, may your joy be complete as you hear his voice, now and forever!” he concluded, as the crowd prayed in silence.

Among the people in the crowd was Georg Bruckmaier who traveled nearly 10 hours by car to come to the funeral from his home in Bavaria, not far away from where the late pope was born.

Wearing a Bavarian flag around his back, he told CNS, “There are a lot of Bavarians here today. I’ve seen people I know from university. I wanted to be here for the atmosphere.”

“People felt very close to him, because he is a Bavarian, so this is a really big event to be here,” Bruckmaier said,

adding that being able to pay his last respects before the pope’s remains in St. Peter’s Basilica, “is a different thing than seeing it on television. It’s something I won’t forget in my whole life.”

Fiona-Louise Devlin told CNS she and her companions were wearing scarves from the late pope’s visit to Scotland in 2010. She said they traveled to Rome from Scotland specifically for the funeral, booking their flight the day the pope passed away.

“He’s the pope of our generation. Like, how so many people say that John Paul II was their pope, he was mine. I’ve traveled around the world to go to celebrations that he’s been a part of, so I wanted to be here for this,” she said.

As the day began, the thick morning fog obscuring the cupola slowly began to lift as 12 laymen emerged from the basilica carrying the pope’s casket. The crowd applauded as the cypress casket was brought into the square and placed before the altar.

The pope’s master of liturgical ceremonies, Msgr. Diego Giovanni Ravelli, and Archbishop Georg Gänswein, the late pope’s longtime personal secretary, together placed an opened Book of the Gospels on the casket. The simple casket was decorated with his coat of

arms as archbishop of Munich and Freising, Germany, which depicts a shell, a Moor and a bear loaded with a pack on his back.

While the funeral was based on the model of a papal funeral, two key elements normally part of a papal funeral following the farewell prayer were missing: There were no prayers offered by representatives of the Diocese of Rome and of the Eastern Catholic churches, since those prayers are specific to the death of a reigning pope, who is bishop of the Diocese of Rome and is in communion with the leaders of the Eastern-rite churches.

A bell tolled solemnly and the assembly applauded for several minutes — with some chanting “Benedetto” — as the pallbearers carried the casket toward St. Peter’s Basilica.

Pope Francis blessed the casket and laid his right hand on it in prayer, then bowed slightly in reverence before it was taken inside for a private burial in the grotto of St. Peter’s Basilica, in the same tomb that held the remains of St. Pope John Paul II before his beatification.

After the funeral Mass, the pope’s casket was taken to the chapel in the crypt of St. Peter’s Basilica where he was to be buried.

CNS PHOTO/VATICAN MEDIA

Archbishop Georg Gänswein, private secretary to Pope Benedict, signs a scroll known as a “rogito” to place with the body of Pope Benedict XVI in his cypress casket in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican on Jan. 4. In addition to containing his biography, the legal document, written in Latin, also attested to his death and burial.

Veteran Catholic journalist reflects on defining moments of Benedict papacy

By Joe Towalski OSV News

ST. CLOUD, Minn. (OSV News) — John Thavis, retired Rome bureau chief for Catholic News Service, described what he sees as some key moments in the pontificate of Pope Benedict XVI in an interview with The Central Minnesota Catholic, St. Cloud’s diocesan magazine.

A veteran Catholic journalist and book author, Thavis headed the bureau from 1996 to 2012. His books include “The Vatican Diaries: A Behind-theScenes Look at the Power, Personalities, and Politics at the Heart of the Catholic Church” (2013).

He is a 1973 graduate of St. John’s University in Collegeville, which is in the Diocese of St. Cloud.

The following interview, conducted Dec. 31, was edited for length and clarity:

The Central Minnesota Catholic: You covered Pope Benedict for almost his entire tenure. What interactions with him do you remember most?

Thavis: One of the key moments was right before he was elected pope, when he presided over Pope John Paul II’s funeral. He spoke very eloquently and with real love, and I think that was a defining moment for him. Some thought of [Cardinal Ratzinger] as a kind of grand inquisitor who would transition to being a pope as grand inquisitor. In fact, Benedict switched gears quite dramatically.

His first encyclical was titled “God Is Love.” Basically, that was the thrust of his papacy: God is love. We shouldn’t be afraid of God. Modern society needs to reconnect with God, and here’s the way this can be done. It was kind of a gentle teaching approach, I think, to the Catholic faithful.

He stopped his dissection of theology in favor of a much broader approach. In addition to his encyclicals — he wrote two more on hope and charity — he wrote his series of books on Jesus of Nazareth because he thought that’s what the church had lost -- this idea of a personal relationship with Jesus — and so he turned to that.

In his everyday appearances, Benedict dropped the kind of language that he used as a cardinal, which was rather dark in some ways about modern society and modern cultures. And, instead, he started to use more inviting language.

He started to explain to Catholics themselves the basics of their own faith. I think he felt that people had lost touch with, for example, the saints. He spoke continually about the saints, their importance. He gave a whole series of talks about the history of the church Fathers. He talked about the significance of the Sign of the Cross. These are very fundamental things that he felt Catholics and others had lost touch with.

TCMC: Are there other moments that stick in your mind?

Thavis: I remember his flight to the United States (in 2008). There weren’t many times when reporters saw a deeply personal side of Pope Benedict. But one of them was on this flight.

I’m sure he knew the questions were coming: “What about the sex abuse cases?” “What about your record on this?” What is the Church going to do?” And he gave a very moving answer in which he talked about the personal pain he had felt while reading over the files of accused priests. That these files were now, thanks to a decision he made, taken over by the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. I think that was a moment where people saw the personal side and a very vulnerable side of Pope Benedict.

Pope Benedict’s pontificate experienced ups and downs. At one point, he spoke about Islam, and the blowback to that was terrible. . . . On another occasion, he lifted the excommunication of some traditionalist bishops, one of whom had denied the existence of the Holocaust. The reaction from the Jewish community was very strong.

I also remember when he presided over his first World Youth Day in Cologne, Germany (in 2005). It was a homecoming visit for the pope, and he had hundreds of thousands of young people holding candles in the dark under the moon. John Paul II would use those occasions to banter, to engage the young people, to let them make a ruckus. Pope Benedict asked people to please be quiet. There were moments of silence. I think that’s a hallmark of his approach to spiri-

tuality in general — that we need silence sometimes. We need silence for prayer. We need silence for thought.

TCMC: So much has already been written about Pope Benedict’s legacy. But do you look at his legacy any differently today than maybe you did in 2013 when he retired?

Thavis: Pope Benedict probably has many legacies. He was a great theologian. Then he moved from that to Vatican official, then to pope, and then this latest chapter as retired pope. When he announced his retirement, almost every journalist I spoke with said, “Oh, he’s not going to live long. He’s very ill.”

That wasn’t true, of course. It wasn’t the reason he resigned. He resigned because he recognized that the papacy is not some kind of divine status. It is an office that sometimes should be set aside. The fact that he lived almost 10 years as a retired pope is a huge part of his legacy now.

He will be remembered not only as the pope who retired, but as the pope who lived as a retiree. The way he did that is going to make a difference in the church’s future. He said immediately that he would be absolutely obedient to his successor, and he made good on that promise. He went out of his way to express his loyalty, his obedience to Pope Francis and to say in no uncertain terms, “There is only one pope.”

Doctor of the church? Scholars say Benedict stands the test of time

(OSV News) -- Beginning well before he was elected pope in 2005, Pope Benedict XVI made substantial contributions to theology and Catholic thought through his prolific writing, academic lectures and long-form interviews, say scholars who study his work. In the wake of his Dec. 31 death, Benedict has been heralded as one of the most important theologians of the 20th century, one whose scholarship will stand the test of time.

Pope Benedict was “very intellectually gifted,” said Tracey Rowland, a theologian at The University of Notre Dame Australia and author of “Ratzinger’s Faith: The Theology of Pope Benedict XVI,” published in 2008 by Oxford University Press.

“He was a great gift to the church, and I think in the future, he will be a doctor of the church,” she said. “In a hundred years’ time, he will be seen to have laid the foundation for a theological renewal.”

Father Emery de Gaál, chairman and professor of dogmatic theology at University of St. Mary of the Lake/Mundelein Seminary in Mundelein, Illinois, described Pope Benedict as a scholar who surrendered his whole life to academic work. He authored “no less than 1,600 theological titles, books, articles, essays, book reviews,” Father de Gaál said. Among those works is the 1968 book “Introduction to Christianity,” which has been widely translated and called a “masterpiece.” He also oversaw the compilation of the Catechism of the Catholic Church, published in 1992, under Pope St. John Paul II.

ROME (OSV News) — In what looks like a continuation of pontifical legacy, Pope Benedict XVI was buried in the crypt where his Polish predecessor, St. John Paul II, was first buried. St. John XXIII also was buried there prior to his beatification.

The place of burial is unique for many who knew the fond relationship of St. John Paul II and Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the future pope who was the Vatican’s chief doctrinal official under the Polish pontiff.

“It is a sign of friendship that goes way beyond their earthly life,” Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, prefect of the Dicastery for the Service of Charity, told OSV News. The cardinal was master of papal ceremonies under both St. John Paul II and Pope Benedict.

“I think it truly symbolically closes the earthly symbiosis of the two popes — the Polish and German pontiff,” added Yago de la Cierva, professor at the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross in Rome.

The Holy See Press Office predicted the crypt where Pope Benedict was laid to rest will be ready for the faithful to visit after Jan. 8.

The two popes had a unique intellectual friendship throughout St. John Paul’s papacy. They also were close collaborators. In 1981, the pontiff made Cardinal Ratzinger prefect of what was then called the Congregation for the Doctrine of Faith and since renamed a dicastery.

OSV NEWS PHOTO/CATHOLIC PRESS PHOTO, POOL

Pope Benedict XVI waves to pilgrims from a cruiser as he arrives on the Rhine River for World Youth Day in this Aug. 18, 2005, file photo.

Benedict laid to rest where two canonized popes were buried

EMPLOYMENT

Administrative assistant - The archdiocesan office of protection and care (OPC) is seeking a part-time administrative assistant. This position will provide general office administrative duties such as answering phone calls, assisting with travel arrangements, scheduling interviews, submitting expense reports and maintaining department databases. This is a part-time position with the opportunity for a flexible work schedule. For a complete job description or to apply, please visit: https://archkck.org/jobs.

Administrative assistant/office of stewardship and development - The office of stewardship and development is seeking a full-time administrative assistant for general assistance in many areas, such as answering calls, managing donor inquiries, maintaining the department email account and helping with special projects. For a complete list of office duties or to apply for this position, please visit: https://archkck.org/jobs.

Board members – Santa Marta, Johnson County’s premier life care community, sponsored by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, is actively seeking board members for the current term. Applicants selected will begin serving April 1. The board meets during the business day six times a year, and each board member also serves on a committee that meets six to 12 times a year. We are seeking applicants who have experience serving on a not-for-profit board and have a concern for our senior citizens. In particular, we are seeking individuals who have a background in law, board governance and finance to serve a three-year term with the option to extend for a second three-year term. Those who wish to be considered for appointment to the board are encouraged to submit a letter of interest, resume or details of relevant experience and home parish to Heidi Abeln at: habeln@santamartaretirement.com by Jan. 31. Any questions regarding the application process can also be emailed to this address. Be sure to include your phone number and mailing address. Additional information about Santa Marta can be viewed at: www. santamartaretirement.com.

Administrative HR assistant - Electrical Associates is accepting applications for a full-time administrative/HR assistant for its office in Olathe. Requirements include: being proficient in computer skills; ability to deal with confidential matters with discretion; and having strong communication/relationship-building skills. Job duties include: employee on-boarding; managing benefits; processing payroll; entering AP invoices; safety training management; and managing company iPads, etc. Electrical Associates offers paid health insurance; 401(k) and HSA contributions. Send resume with work history and references to: dbrown@eamidwest.com.

Manager assistant - St. Mary’s Food Kitchen has an immediate opening for a Manager Assist. Duties include: work closely with the manager, provide support to the day’s coordinator, ensure policies and procedures are followed and operational standard are achieved, participate in the frequency and scope of required daily cleaning tasks, availability to fill in for manager when absent, perform other work-related duties as assigned, interact with guests for improved service. This position is part-time. Weekends and holidays (time and a half). 9am-2pm with the occasional start time of 8:30am. $20/hour. To apply, please send a resume along with two references to Amelia Cortes, kitchen manager, at: stmfoodkitchen@gmail.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

SERVICES

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

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

Garage Door Repair

New Garage

Doors

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

A Total Door (913) 236-6440. (913)205-0926 cell

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

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

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

Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your T-shirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

TAKE-A-LOOK-THURSDAY

Holy Spirit School

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

Come join us for information, a tour of the school and refreshments. Choose a learning environment that is welcoming and Christ-centered. For more information, call Anita Pauls at (913) 492-2582 or send an email to: apauls@hscatholic.org.

‘THE VOLUNTEER PARISH: TEAM PLAYING AND ACCOUNTABILITY FOR ALL INVOLVED IN MUSIC MINISTRY’

Good Shepherd Parish 12800 W. 75th St., Shawnee Jan. 14 from 9 a.m. - noon

The National Association of Pastoral Musicians Chapters of Kansas City, Kansas, and Missouri will host Kathleen Basi, a flautist, composer, speaker, writer, choir director and disabilities activist, to speak about how to be more intentional with your church ministry by being more that just a volunteer. Registration for the workshop includes a $10 donation, payable at the door, and a food item to share for the potluck breakfast. For more information and to sign up, go online to: www.npminkc.com.

ICON RETREAT

Conception Abbey 37174 State Hwy. VV

Conception, Missouri Jan. 13 - 15

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

SPAGHETTI DINNER AND BINGO

St. Patrick’s Parish (center) 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Jan. 14 at 6 p.m.

There will be spaghetti, meatball, Italian sausage link, salad, breadstick, dessert and drink for $10; extra $10 for 10 games. For more information, call Fritz at (913) 515-0621.

BINGO NIGHT

Sacred Heart Parish 2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas Jan. 14 at 7 p.m.

The Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus will be hosting bingo for cash prizes. Refreshments will be sold. For more information, call Bob at (913) 850-3348.

WILL AND TRUST WORKSHOPS

St. Pius X Parish (Father Glowacki Room) 5500 Woodson, Mission Jan. 19 from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. or Jan. 24 from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

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

SOCIAL SECURITY WORKSHOP

Corpus Christi Parish

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

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

POTLUCK DINNER

Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish (Culhane Room)

3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Jan. 22 from 3:30 - 5:30 p.m.

The Christian Widow and Widowers Organization will host the potluck dinner. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call Jen at (785) 213-0374.

DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE

Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall) 5972 S.W. 25th St., Topeka Jan. 22 at 12:40 p.m.

A rosary will be followed by the business meeting and social time. If anyone knows of a member or family member of the Daughters of Isabella in need of the circle’s prayers, call Diana Ortiz at (785) 554-4256 or chancellor Gen Orozco at (785) 213-0374.

KANSAS MASS AND MARCH FOR LIFE

Topeka Performing Arts Center 214 S.E. 8th Ave., Topeka Jan. 24 at 9 a.m.

This event will begin with keynote speaker Lila Rose, president of Live Action, a human rights nonprofit. At 10:30 a.m., there will be a Mass for Life. Following

Mass, there will be a March for Life from the performing arts center to the Capitol building for a rally. To register, go online to: archkck.org/ignite.

HEARTACHE TO HEALING - A SUPPORT/SOCIAL GROUP FOR THOSE WIDOWED EARLY IN LIFE

Pinstripes

13500 Nall Ave., Overland Park Jan. 26 at 6:15 p.m.

Men and women around 35 - 65, come join us for some bowling and beverages. Meet new people who have walked in your shoes. Bowling is optional and is $15 per person starting at 6:30 p.m. (6:15 to get shoes, name tags, snacks and beverages before we begin.) For more information and to RSVP (appreciated, but not required), send an email to Laura at: khaeus1@hotmail. com; Heather at: hmbimpens@gmail.com; or Damon at: damon452@yahoo.com.

RETROUVAILLE

Jan. 27 - 29

Kansas City

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

‘

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

Church of the Nativity 3800 W. 119th St., Leawood Jan. 28 from 9 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Mass will be at 8:15 a.m. followed by a light breakfast. Kelsey Skoch will be the speaker, focusing on topics of evangelization and missionary discipleship. Skoch is best known for her ministry and talks helping women in their personal purity. Space is limited. The cost is $20. Register at: kcnativity/org/journey.

TASTE OF KCK AT RESURRECTION SCHOOL

Resurrection School 425 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kansas Jan. 28 from 6 - 9 p.m.

The event will begin with a social followed by an ethnic buffet and then a program. Proceeds benefit students through academic programming, classroom supports, need-based scholarships and operations. Ticket are $100. For more information, go online to: rcskck.org/taste-of-kck or call (913) 371-8101.

NATIONAL CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK Schools across the archdiocese Jan. 29 - Feb. 4

During National Catholic Schools Week, schools and parishes take time to recognize and celebrate those in the community who make Catholic education possible. For many schools, this week is the kickoff to enrollment for the next school year, and special activities take place. Contact a school directly for more information.

SEASONS OF HOPE GRIEF GROUP

Sts. Peter and Paul Parish

411 Pioneer St., Seneca Sundays at 5 p.m.

Anyone dealing with the loss of a loved one is welcome to join the Seasons of Hope Grief Group. For further information, contact Roger Becker at (785) 364-6393.

SIXTH ANNUAL KATIE SCOTTINSPIRED BLOOD DRIVE

Sheraton Overland Park Hotel

6100 College Blvd.

Feb. 3 from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

In February of 2018, Katie Scott, a graduate of Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park and Benedictine College in Atchison, lost her fight to Ewing sarcoma, a rare bone cancer. During her battle, she received multiple blood transfusions, which helped her recover from chemotherapy and radiation treatments and keep fighting. Donate blood in her honor with the American Red Cross at the sixth annual drive she inspired before she passed away. Call 1 (800) 7332767 or visit the website at: redcrossblood. org and enter the sponsor code: KatieScott to schedule an appointment.

CATHOLIC ESTATE PLANNING WITH WILLS AND TRUSTS WORKSHOP

St. Michael the Archangel Parish 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood

Feb. 1 from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m.

Casey Connealy, estate planning attorney, will share ways to help families reduce estate taxes, minimize probate and finetune an estate plan that will benefit each family’s lifestyle, profession and specific circumstances. RSVP to: plannedgiving@ archkck.org or call (913) 647-0365.

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

Popcorn ceiling texture removal

Interior painting

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

STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 5791835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

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

Handyman - Home repair; skilled labor; remodeling; handyman work done in a timely manner. References available on request. Call Jeff Mauk at (913) 9154738.

FOR SALE

Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC).

For sale - One plot at Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Topeka. Located in the Rossiter Section near the road. Asking $2000. Call (785) 478-3556.

For sale - One plot at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa. Located in Queen of Heaven Garden, lot 143, space 3. Asking $2000. Contact Paul at (913) 5229818.

CAREGIVING

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

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

Homecare - CMA, 15 years’ experience, background check available, references available from past employers. Call (913) 999-4340.

WANTED TO BUY

Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.

Wanted to buy - Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME! I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.

REAL ESTATE

We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house has never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000.

WE WANT TO BUY YOUR HOUSE - There are so many new companies in town advertising to buy houses. But we’re the only ones that have been here and we’re local Holy Trinity parishioners. I will give you a fair price on any conditions you are up against. Call Mark Edmondson. (913) 980-4905.

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DAILY READINGS

SECOND WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME

Jan. 15

SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME

Is 49: 3, 5-6

Ps 40: 2, 4, 7-10

1 Cor 1: 1-3

Jn 1: 29-34

Jan. 16

Monday

Heb 5: 1-10

Ps 110: 1-4

Mk 2: 18-22

Jan. 17

Anthony, abbot

Heb 6: 10-20

Ps 111: 1-2, 4-5, 9, 10c

Mk 2: 23-28

Jan. 18

Wednesday

Heb 7: 1-3, 15-17

Ps 110: 1-4

Mk 3: 1-6

Jan. 19

Thursday

Heb 7:25 – 8:6

Ps 40: 7-10, 17

M 3: 7-12

Jan. 20

Fabian, pope, martyr; Sebastian, martyr

Heb 8: 6-13

Ps 85: 8, 10-14

Mk 3: 13-19

Jan. 21

Agnes, virgin, martyr

Heb 9: 2-3, 11-14

Ps 47: 2-3, 6-9 Mk 3: 20-21

Every year I lie to myself: Once the busyness of December is over, the new year will be calmer. And, doggone it, I fall for it every time.

So far, 2023 is galloping right along! Is it any wonder that many of us live in a state of constant stress? With our cellphone practically glued to our bodies, we’re reachable 24/7. And, like Pavlov’s dogs, we’re conditioned to respond immediately to its every buzz, ring or ding.

Sadly, even when in bed at night, we can’t stop the mental swirl of undone things on our to-do list or unresolved issues.

l take comfort, though, and find inspiration in this story: A harried young mom almost lost it when the phone rang. One more interruption, she thought. But her mood lightened when

Like

In one moving sentence of his spiritual testament, published after his passing, Pope Benedict XVI looked back on his life with intense gratitude: “Above all, I thank God himself, the giver of all good gifts, who has given me life and guided me through all kinds of confusion, who has always picked me up when I began to slip, who has always given me anew the light of his countenance.”

I can’t stress this point enough

MARK MY WORDS

office and tell him to come home early.”

“George?” the overwhelmed housewife said. “Who’s George?”

“George! . . . You know, George, your husband!”

“But my husband’s name is Frank,” said the housewife.

come over to help this would-be daughter.

SEBASTIAN

died c. 288

According to the many legends surrounding Sebastian, he was born in Gaul and raised in Milan. Though a Christian, he joined the imperial army at Rome about 283. He made converts of officials and jailers, effected cures and urged Christian prisoners to stay strong in their faith.

He was named captain of the Praetorian Guards, but the emperor, upon finding out that he was a Christian, ordered his execution. Shot with arrows and left for dead, Sebastian survived and was nursed back to life. Later, he denounced the emperor for his cruelty to Christians, and the emperor had him beaten to death. A favorite subject of Renaissance artists, Sebastian is the patron saint of archers, soldiers and athletes.

From his youngest days, the pope lived out a clear, strong sense of his vocation — to serve the God who guided him to his supreme service as shepherd of the universal church.

Scripture reveals that God is the origin, the purpose and the goal of each human

she heard the kindly voice on the line, “Hi, sweetheart! How are you?”

“Oh, Mother,” said the young mom, breaking into tears, “it’s been an awful day. The baby won’t eat, the dishwasher broke, and I tripped on the stairs and sprained my ankle. I ha-

ven’t had a chance to go shopping and the house is an absolute mess. And, to top it off, we’re having company over for dinner tonight.”

“Stop crying, darling, everything will be OK,” said the soothing voice. “Sit down, relax and close your eyes. I’ll be over in 30 minutes. I’ll pick up a few things on the way and cook dinner. I’ll take care of the house and feed the baby. Also, I’ll call a repairman to fix the dishwasher. I’ll take care of everything. In fact, I’ll even call George at the

After a brief pause, the voice on the phone asked, “Excuse me, is this 555-1758?”

A tearful reply said, “No. This is 555-1788.”

“Oh, I’m so terribly sorry,” apologized the voice on the phone. “I must have dialed the wrong number.”

Another brief pause was followed by the would-be daughter saying, “Uh, does this mean that you’re not coming over?” (Story adapted from one in Brian Cavanaugh’s “Sower’s Seed That Nurture Family Values: Sixth Planting.”)

I’d bet money that the sympathetic voice on the phone did indeed

If you laughed at that story, that’s a great first step in dealing with stress. Equally helpful is to share your struggles with a caring friend. Just knowing that you’re being listened to lightens the load. Then, it helps to write down the stressors to determine which one needs to be dealt with first. Finally, figure out what is the one next step you need to take . . . and do it.

On my kitchen table is a prayer card written by Sister Pat Bergen, CSJ. It thanks God for the “gift of today.”

Toward the end is my favorite line (used often): “When life is overwhelming, call me to Sabbath Moments to restore Your Peace and Harmony.”

Whoops! Gotta go! My phone is ringing and someone’s at the door . . .

mission

,

endured in order to proclaim the name of Jesus to the Gentiles were rooted in his deep sense of God’s call and the divine grace that was sufficient for him.

live a more meaningful and purpose-driven life. We desire to hear God’s call and to know his divine purpose for us and our lives: our vocations.

life. God calls each one by name with a unique purpose and mission in life. God loved us into existence and gives each one the gift of a unique vocation of service.

In Sunday’s first reading, the prophet Isaiah tells of his

vocation when he says: “The Lord said to me: You are my servant, Israel, through whom I show my glory. Now the Lord has spoken who formed me as his servant from the womb.” And the psalmist invites us to pray: “Here am I, Lord; I come to do your will.” St. Paul, in Sunday’s second reading, reminds the Corinthian community that he was “called to be an apostle of Christ Jesus by the will of God.” The many personal hardships that Paul willingly

In the Gospel, John the Baptist points to Jesus saying, “Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world.” The Baptist’s entire life was lived from his unique vocation to prepare the way of the Lord.

At the start of a new year, we look to begin afresh with resolutions to improve our health, habits and relationships. We make spiritual promises to pray more consistently, to read God’s word more faithfully and to love others more genuinely. We long for a second chance, to turn a new page, and

From the graces unfolding through the Christmas season, the church’s return to Ordinary Time is anything but ordinary. The extraordinary mystery of God taking human flesh in Jesus, the divine Child born in Bethlehem, overflows into Ordinary Time to transform the ordinary moments of our day with the radiance of God’s extraordinary love and mercy.

Throughout this new year, may God’s word be a light on the path of discovering our God-given vocation as we pray, “Speak to me, Lord.”

Pope remembers predecessor as a ‘great teacher of catechesis’

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Benedict XVI was a “great teacher of catechesis” whose “sharp and gentle thinking” led others to encounter Jesus, Pope Francis said.

To begin his Jan. 4 general audience, the pope asked pilgrims to join the tens of thousands of people gathered in Rome to pay their respects to Pope Benedict, who died Dec. 31 at the age of 95.

At the audience, Pope Francis noted

that his predecessor’s teachings were not “self-referential, but ecclesial, because he always wanted to accompany us to an encounter with Jesus.”

The living and resurrected Christ “was the goal to which Pope Benedict led us, taking us by the hand,” the pope said. “May he help us to rediscover in Christ the joy of believing and the hope of living.”

Pope Benedict had held 347 weekly general audiences during his nearly eight-year pontificate.

In his first talks, he had continued a weekly catechesis series on the Psalms begun by his predecessor, St. John Paul II. Each week from 2007 to 2011, Pope Benedict discussed the lives of various saints moving from the early church fathers and theologians of the Middle Ages to great women in the life of the church.

In 2011, he turned his attention to different ways of engaging with Christian prayer, before beginning his final catechesis series on faith.

JEM SULLIVAN

Sullivan is a professor at The Catholic University of America.

FATHER MARK GOLDASICH

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

John the Baptist, God calls each of us to a unique

Young Catholics were created for precisely this moment

hat is universally evident is that we are all seeking something.”

Paul J. Kim shared this insight from a stage at the St. Louis Convention Center in early January to a crowd of over 18,000 Catholics (most of them college students) attending the SEEK23 Conference. SEEK is hosted annually by the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS).

This is the 25th anniversary of FOCUS, founded by Curtis Martin and launched in a dorm room at Benedictine College in Atchison.

meaning? What more am I looking for?

EMILY LOPEZ

I’m writing this article from my hotel room, attending SEEK23 with a group of lay leaders (young adults and adults) from our archdiocese. Over the

past five years, FOCUS has developed a specific track for post-college attendees — Making Missionary Disciples.

Kim’s talk was a reminder of the deepest desire of every human heart. We feel very small and finite in a vast world of incredible beauty. What is my place? How do I find

This quest for understanding is meant to fuel our desire toward a relationship with God. We were made to seek: to desire more than a surface existence filled with temporary pleasures. Our restlessness propels us toward searching for better. This same desire is at the heart of our resolutions for the new year. We want to be more (healthy, organized, peaceful, prayerful) of whatever it is we’re yearning to achieve in 2023. Our resolve is a reflection of our ability to analyze our life and work for improvement.

However, fulfilling these small desires cannot fulfill that deep longing of our heart.

C. S. Lewis wrote, “If we find ourselves with a desire that nothing in this world can satisfy, the most probable explanation is that we were made for another world.” As Catholics, we believe this world to be eternal life with Christ — but do our resolutions reflect this goal?

In celebrating Mass yesterday, I was deeply moved by the reverent participation of so many young people witnessing the deep desire of their hearts. The palpable joy of the crowd reflects a clear presence of the Holy Spirit. Their joy is a

reason for my great hope — not only for the future of our church but for the community that my young adult children will find as they take ownership of their Catholic faith. We can quickly become negative in assessing the current culture and overall loss of Christian ideals.

However, I have peace in knowing that the next generation of our church was created for exactly this time in history (Est 4:14), as Mordecai reminded Esther in filling her role.

We trust God’s providence in guiding this generation to witness the redemptive joy of knowing Jesus.

Join us in ‘Celebrating Life Heroes’ in Topeka Jan. 24

Ilove the start of a new year. I enjoy reflecting on the highs and lows of the closing year, anticipating with excitement what the new year might hold and making resolutions for a simpler and healthier life.

Just as Christmas brings a message of hope through the birth of a child, our Savior, the new year also brings new beginnings and the hope for joy and goodness.

The pro-life message is also one of hope. Each new life brings feelings of joy, awe and anticipation of the potential and goodness to come. “For I know the plans I have for you,” declares the Lord, “plans to prosper

“WALONG THE WAY LIFE MATTERS

DEBRA NIESEN

you and not to harm you, plans to give you hope and a future” (Jer 29:11).

2022 brought both tremendous highs and

lows in our effort to build a culture that cherishes all life and protects the health and dignity of expectant women. The highest was the overturning of Roe v. Wade. We celebrated for our country that this erroneous ruling responsible for tremendous suffering, loss of life and damage

to families came to an end as the Supreme Court restored power to the states to protect human life.

Unfortunately, shortly after, we experienced the low of Kansans failing to pass “Value Them Both,” which would have safeguarded our state’s existing life-protective laws.

Sadly, we are seeing the real and tragic consequences of the “no” vote. The abortion industry has already sued three laws — the ban on live-dismemberment or “D&E” abortion (see the website at: abortion procedures.com); the clinic licensing and inspection law, and, most recently, the in-person doctor requirement for

chemical abortions — and all are now blocked, though on appeal.

By suing these laws, the abortion industry is putting its profits over the health and safety of women. Abortions are rising in Kansas and women are at increased risk. Kansas children and women, and those coming from out of state, deserve better.

Most who choose abortion do so because they feel a lack of hope. The birth of Christ at Christmas confirms that hope can emerge even from difficult circumstances!

Our 2023 resolution is that we will not abandon women and preborn children to the

despair of abortion. When we cannot protect their lives through laws, we will rescue them with love. In Kansas, we still value both woman and child!

On Jan. 24 in Topeka, Kansans will gather to rally, pray and share this message of hope. Join us at IGNITE for Life to hear keynote speaker Lila Rose, one of the most respected life advocates in the country, and celebrate Mass with the bishops of Kansas. Our theme this year is “Celebrating Life Heroes” in recognition of all who live this message of hope! (Go online to: archkck. org/ignite.)

Christ can make all things new — but we must help

This new year started out rough with the death of Pope Benedict XVI at the end of 2022.

I had the privilege of attending World Youth Day in 2011.

During our last few days there, millions of people walked together for several miles to the papal site where that night we had eucharistic adoration.

The entire night, it was pouring rain and the winds were so strong that the umbrella covering the pope was blown away several times.

The moment that the Blessed Sacrament was

JOSHUA RUOFF

exposed, there was complete stillness and calm. It was probably

the first time in my life where I felt completely at peace.

I am a big sports fan, and like millions of others I had to watch the terrible incident during the Monday Night Football game on Jan. 2. As terrible as that was — and still

is — as I write this just a few days later, it already has brought out so much good.

The whole country and world have come together in prayer. This incident has been a witness to all of us that our lives are not in our control and we must rely on Our Lord to watch over us and guide us.

Our lives are filled with so much chaos and anxiety; the new year is a good time for us to look back on the prior year and reflect on both the good and the bad. Then we decide to make changes that will hopefully bring about more of

the good times and the good feelings in the year ahead.

A lot of us will decide we are going to lose weight, spend less time at work and more time with family. Hopefully, we all have planned to make changes to improve our spiritual life and our relationship with Christ.

If you haven’t, you don’t need to wait for 2024 to come around to decide to make those changes. You can make that choice today.

Jesus tells us that he makes all things new (Rv 21:5) and we are told that anyone who is in Christ is a new creation (2 Cor 5:17).

This is a promise to us that if we choose here and now to live for Christ, we are made new. But, much like deciding to lose weight requires serious commitment on our part, so does living for Christ. We must commit to pray, fast and participate in the sacraments we have been given.

So, whatever your New Year’s resolutions are, make sure you are always keeping your relationship with Christ as the first priority, and allow each day to be a new opportunity to grow closer to him.

¡Viva el Papa!

Emily Lopez is the lead consultant for adult evangelization.

Debra Niesen is the archdiocesan consultant for the pro-life office.

LEARNING TO LOVE LIKE HIM

Joshua Ruoff is the lead consultant for the archdiocesan special-needs ministry. He can be reached by email at: jruoff@ archkck.org.

Conference informs, renews college-age Catholics

By Jack Figge Special to The Leaven

ST. LOUIS — After two days of listening to breakout sessions and keynote speakers, and connecting with thousands of other Catholics, 30 members of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas gathered for an intimate dinner with fellow participants from the archdiocese. There, they testified to how the Lord had encountered them so far, shared impactful messages heard during sessions and discussed what they still hoped to gain over the final two days of the SEEK23 conference.

Since its founding in 1998, the Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) has been dedicated to inviting college students into a relationship with Jesus Christ and active participation in the Catholic faith through sending recent college graduates to be missionaries on campuses across the world. Currently, FOCUS serves 216 locations through the ministry of 861 individuals.

Beyond the on-campus evangelization efforts, FOCUS hosts the SEEK conference every year, bringing in prominent Catholic speakers and leaders to inspire and speak to attendees about the struggles and joys of being Catholic. Due to the COVID-19 pandemic, SEEK had been canceled for the past two years. The conference returned this year on a large-scale, hosting over 19,000 attendees at America’s Center Convention Complex in downtown St. Louis.

“The first year I went to SEEK, there were maybe 3,000 people. And I thought, ‘Oh my gosh, this is so cool,’ to see how it has grown is a testimony to the work of FOCUS on campuses,” said keynote speaker Father Mike Schmitz in an interview with The Leaven. “The reason people are here is because every single day, on a college campus, there are missionaries who are reaching out to college students and calling them higher and inviting them into relationship with the Lord.”

For college students, the week offered plenty of opportunities to grow in their faith, both through hearing the testimony of speakers who shared practical ways to practice their Catholic faith on their campuses and through time for prayer and reflection through eucharistic adoration, Mass and confession. Throughout the week, FOCUS also provided students with numerous opportunities to relax and socialize with other Catholics, through events from swing dancing to a concert by the popular musical artist Ben Rector.

“The biggest realization for me this week was that my life and how it goes [are] directly related to how my prayer

life or my lack thereof goes,” said Nate Jones, a freshman at Benedictine College in Atchison.

Topics treated by the speakers ranged from the Catholic view on suffering to how to make a good confession. This variety allowed participants to personalize the conference and learn about subjects that fit their interest.

“The most impactful part of SEEK were the impact sessions,” said Ben Stove, a senior at the University of Kansas in Lawrence. “I really enjoyed having the freedom to learn more about the Catholic faith with uncommon topics. I was able to take a lot of notes and now have a lot to pray about over the next couple of weeks.”

Benedictine College sent the largest group of attendees out of any school represented at the conference, with over 200 students traveling to St. Louis. The University of Kansas sent 75 students from its Catholic Campus Center to the conference.

Included in the conference this year was a separate track designed for parish leaders and members who desired to learn how to effectively evangelize

within their own parish communities. This track attracted over 3,500 participants, including many from the Kansas City area such as Angie Bittner, the rural youth ministry outreach coordinator for the archdiocese.

“I hope to take back a renewed vigor to build the kingdom for Christ,” said Bittner. “I want to really know him better so that I can tell his story to people. I want to be bold, to be courageous, to be informed, to have a relationship with him so I can work for him in every aspect of my life.”

On the final day, attendees were tasked with a mission: to continue to

foster the types of experiences and encounters they’d had this week and go out to their parishes and college campuses sharing the Gospel with others. Church leaders including Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann saw the positive response that attendees gave this call to action and the conference itself as a great sign of hope for the future of the Catholic Church.

“SEEK gives me great hope for the future of the church,” said Archbishop Naumann. “When you see this many young people really engaged and the prayerfulness of the liturgies, it provides a great sense of hope.”

Above, Benedictine junior John Welte proudly waves the Benedictine flag before a keynote session.

Right, Father Mike Schmitz prays with Edward and Elizabeth Sri before recording a live podcast episode at the SEEK23 conference.

LEAVEN PHOTOS BY JACK FIGGE