01 14 22 Vol. 43 No. 22 by The Leaven

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 43, NO. 22 | JANUARY 14, 2022

LEAVEN FILE PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Ordinary Time is the part of the liturgical year that falls outside the two great seasons of Christmas and Easter, and their respective preparatory seasons of Advent and Lent. Green is the liturgical color assigned to Ordinary Time.

ORDINARY TIME TELLS . . . the rest of the story

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By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org ANSAS CITY, Kan. — The Catholic Church’s liturgical year has wonderful seasons that fill the hearts of Catholics with awe, joy and anticipation. And each season has marvelous symbols. Advent has a wreath with colored candles and a countdown calendar. Christmas has the star, the tree and the creche. Lent and the Triduum have ashes, the crown of thorns, palms and white candles. Easter has the empty tomb and lilies. And Ordinary Time has . . . uh . . . hold on. Nothing in particular, to be honest. People get excited about Christmas. People even get engaged with Lent. But when was the last time you met someone who was pumped about Ordinary Time? Ordinary Time has its own color — green — but other than that, most Catholics would be hard-pressed to think of a symbol for Ordinary Time and may not even be sure what it is. Could it be that Ordinary Time is the Rodney Dangerfield of the liturgical calendar? Perhaps that’s not quite right — Ordinary Time does get respect, but it may have a “branding” problem, beginning with the name. “‘Ordinary’ is a term that most people associate with nonessential, common or perhaps even uninteresting. But the real meaning behind that term Ordinary

ORDINARY TIME DOES NOT COMMEMORATE ONE PARTICULAR ASPECT OF THE MINISTRY OF CHRIST, BUT RATHER THE MINISTRY OF CHRIST ALTOGETHER. MICHAEL PODREBARAC ARCHDIOCESAN CONSULTANT FOR LITURGY AND SACRAMENTAL LIFE

Time actually comes from the Latin word ‘list’ or ‘ordo,’” said Michael Podrebarac, archdiocesan consultant for liturgy and sacramental life. “It simply means they are the numbered Sundays of the year.” Ordinary Time is a relatively recent invention. For most of church history, the weeks known as Ordinary Time were known as the “Time after Epiphany” and the “Time after Pentecost.” That changed in 1969, when the Lectionary for Mass was revised into a threeyear cycle of readings and St. Pope Paul VI issued a new General Roman Calendar to go with the new order of the Mass. Those “after” weeks were renamed Ordinary Time. This year, Ordinary Time consists of a smaller eight-week slice consisting

of most of January and February, and a larger slice of 25 weeks from early June to almost the end of November. Draw a mental picture of the church year, if you will, as a pie. The biggest slice — half the year — is Ordinary Time. Add the little slice, and most of the church year is Ordinary Time. Taken as a whole, Ordinary Time is in some ways the most instructive part of the church year — and that’s what makes it special. “The calendar reformers in the 1960s decided that . . . the so-called period of Ordinary Time would be not a focus on a particular aspect of the work of Christ in our salvation but would take his ministry as a whole and present it in its various recordings in the Gospels,” said Podrebarac. “Ordinary Time does not commemorate one particular aspect of the ministry of Christ, but rather the ministry of Christ altogether. That is why on any given Sunday during the ‘green season,’ as it is often called, we can hear anything from Jesus healing someone, teaching parables to arguing with Pharisees.” “You might call it ‘a day in the life of Jesus’ in terms of the Gospel focus,” he added. Catholics can and should observe Ordinary Time, said Father Carter Zielinski, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Emporia. “It’s a blessed time when we can deepen our life in virtue,” he said. “We can grow closer to God through sanctifying grace in the sacraments, as in every other season as well.”

Catholics can profitably live Ordinary Time by frequenting the sacraments and growing in a life of discipleship of Christ by prayer, fasting, almsgiving and living a life of service to others, he said. As a rural pastor, Father Mike Peterson appreciates how Ordinary Time echoes the rhythms of agriculture and the life cycle of the seasons. Green, the color of Ordinary Time, reminds him of “newness of life,” new growth that will someday be harvested — analogous to our own human lives and ultimate destiny. “We can’t live our entire lives in an energetic or excited state,” said Father Peterson, pastor of St. Bernard Parish in Wamego and St. Joseph Parish in Flush. “Life has to have its slower times, and that’s part of the reality of life. We need that as people.” Most of our lives, said Father Peterson, are lived in the ordinary events of everyday life. Even so, our ordinary lives have special events that are meaningful — birthdays, anniversaries, weddings, deaths and various achievements to be celebrated. These, too, are holy times. Ordinary Time is just the Catholic Church going about its business and doing the work of proclaiming the Gospel, said Podrebarac. And if the pope ever asks him to give Ordinary Time a new name, he’s ready. “If I had to name the time, maybe I’d call it ‘Sundays of the Kingdom,’” he said. “Because it’s really about us doing everything we can to ready the kingdom of God, which is what Jesus was proclaiming.”

ARCHBISHOP

JANUARY 14, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG

January celebrations are united in defense of the sanctity of life

ach year, on the third Monday of January, our nation observes Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Day, commemorating the life and legacy of a great American hero. Dr. King was recognized as the leader of the United States civil rights movement of the 1950s and 1960s that successfully fought against the evil of racism and worked specifically to end laws and public policies that allowed, promoted and often mandated racial segregation. January 22 is the anniversary of the 1973 U.S. Supreme Court twin decisions (Roe v. Wade and Doe v. Bolton) that struck down every state statute restricting abortion. Consequently, for the past almost 50 years, abortion has been legal in the United States through all nine months of pregnancy for virtually any reason. Every year around the time of this anniversary, the national March for Life occurs in Washington, D.C. Hundreds of thousands of pro-life Americans gather each year in Washington as well as in state capitals to advocate for legal protection of children and women from the human tragedy of abortion. For the first time in 49 years, there is a well-founded hope that the U.S. Supreme Court in 2022 will allow states greater authority to determine policies regulating abortion and protecting the lives of unborn children. These two annual national events are occasions when many are inspired to advocate for the defense of some of the most fundamental of human rights. Martin Luther King Day celebrates the right of every American to have equal protection under the law, no matter their race or ethnicity. The March for Life is a reminder that every human life is sacred, no matter age or stage of development. Without the right to life, no other right matters. While the moral teachings of our Catholic faith give clear guidance for

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN the formation of our consciences on both racism and abortion, neither racial discrimination nor legalized abortion are primarily religious matters, but rather are first and foremost fundamental human rights issues. The evil nature of both institutionalized racism and legalized abortion are accessible to everyone through reason alone and are not dependent on the moral teaching of any particular religion. One of the great flaws with the founding of our nation was the continued acceptance of slavery. While many of our founders opposed slavery, they judged that an attempt to abolish slavery at the moment of our nation’s founding would fracture the fragile coalition of former British colonies seeking independence and thus jeopardize the success of the American Revolution. Sadly, this failure of the founders to address the human rights abuse of slavery postponed an inevitable conflict within our nation that eventually resulted in a bloody Civil War. Tragically, for almost a century after the Civil War and the emancipation of slaves, the Congress, state Legislatures and the courts permitted racial discrimination in our laws and public policies. The courage and determination of Dr. King and many other civil rights leaders in the 1950s and 1960s resulted in victories in the courts, the Congress and state Legislatures. Fortunately, today an overwhelming majority of Americans oppose racism. Consequently, expressions of racial bigotry have become culturally unacceptable.

Nevertheless, vestiges of past institutional bigotry, as evidenced by the explosion of racial tensions over the past 18 months in so many urban areas, reveal the wounds inflicted by racism are not yet healed. Avoidance of addressing fundamental human rights abuses results in great harm not only to its victims but also undermines the moral and legal authority of government. The pre-Civil War failure of a unified condemnation of slavery by the Catholic bishops in the United States remains a disgrace and embarrassment for our church. The lack of a united and energetic effort by Catholic bishops in the United States for decades after the Civil War to combat racial injustice remains a grave failure of leadership. In our November 2018 “Open Wide Our Hearts — A Pastoral Letter Against Racism,” the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops acknowledged and asked forgiveness for our past failures. “Therefore we, the Catholic bishops in the United States, acknowledge the many times when the church has failed to live as Christ taught — to love our brothers and sisters. Acts of racism have been committed by leaders and members of the Catholic Church — by bishops, clergy, religious and laity — and her institutions. We express deep sorrow and regret for them. We also acknowledge those instances when we have not done enough or stood by silently when grave acts of injustice were committed. “We ask for forgiveness from all who have been harmed by these sins committed in the past or in the present.” At the same time, our church can be proud

of many American Catholics who were advocates for the victims of racism and fought vigorously against racial injustice, e.g., Father Augustus Tolton — the first African-American Catholic priest; Sister Katharine Drexel; Sister Thea Bowman; and a host of lay leaders. Growing up in St. Louis, I am proud of Cardinal Joseph Ritter’s decision to desegregate the Catholic schools in St. Louis in the late 1940s. Similar to proponents of slavery who predicted economic and social disaster for our nation if slavery was banned, legalized abortion advocates today make dire predictions of a negative impact upon women if the U.S. Supreme Court allows states greater latitude to regulate, much less prohibit, abortion. Abortion advocates pit the welfare of women against the lives of their children. In truth, once a child is conceived in the womb of a woman, the welfare and best interests of mother and child are intimately linked. Catholics in the United States can be justifiably proud that for the past 50 years their church has been a leader in efforts to protect both mother and child from the abortion industry. At the same time, the Catholic community has also been a leader in developing practical resources to help and accompany women with difficult or untimely pregnancies. The sanctity of each and every human life as well as the dignity of every human person are fundamental truths. One does not need any religious affiliation to acknowledge that no one has either the right to destroy another human life or to discriminate against another member of the human community based on race and ethnicity. These two great human rights movements — the protection of the right to life of the innocent unborn child and defense of the civil rights and innate dignity of every human being, no matter the race or ethnicity — are naturally, deeply connected.

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR Jan. 14 High school Mass — St. Thomas Aquinas, Overland Park Jan. 15 Snow Ball Mass and banquet — Overland Park Convention Center Jan. 18 ACTS Pastor and Parish In-Pew training — virtual Priests Personnel meeting — chancery Administrative Team meeting — chancery Annual high school administrators Mass and dinner — residence Jan. 19 Youth send-off to March for Life Mass and bus blessing — Savior Pastoral Center National Committee for Human Life Amendment board meeting — virtual Jesus Covenant Prayer Partner meeting — virtual Recently ordained priests vespers and dinner — residence Jan. 20 Pro-life leadership Mass and reception — Franciscan Monastery of the Holy Land in America, Washington, D.C. National Prayer Vigil for Life opening Mass — Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, D.C. Jan. 21 Mass for March for Life group from Kansas — St. Dominic Church, Washington, D.C. Brunch and meet and greet with young adults from the archdiocese — Holiday Inn Washington Capitol, Washington, D.C. March for Life — Washington, D.C. Jan. 22 Blessing of the new Nativity House 10th anniversary of the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ in the archdiocese — Mass Jan. 23 Baptism of third or more child — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas

For 10 years of my priesthood, I had the privilege of serving as a leader in our church’s pro-life efforts as well as serving as a pastor in predominantly African-American communities. Reason alone makes clear to us both the dignity of every human being no matter their race or ethnicity as well as the right to life of every human being, no matter age or stage of development. Our Christian faith adds to what reason reveals. Christians believe that every human being is made in the divine image and every human life is of such worth in God’s

eyes that Jesus gave his life on Calvary for each one of us. Martin Luther King Day and the March for Life celebrate equally self-evident truths: 1) the sacredness of every human life, no matter age or stage of development; and 2) the dignity of every human person, no matter race or ethnicity. These annual January celebrations remind us of certain inalienable rights that are not bestowed by the government, but which our laws and public policies have an obligation to protect.

LOCAL NEWS

JANUARY 14, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COME TOGETHER

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity seeks to foster ecumenism By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven

Week of Prayer for Christian Unity

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — During this time of intense polarization and division on many issues, Catholics are invited to join in prayers for unity among Christian church traditions. The annual Week of Prayer for Christian Unity, which seeks to foster ecumenism a m o n g Christians, is celebrated this year from Jan. 1825. S i n c e 1993, Sister S u s a n Sister Susan Wood, a Wood, SCL Sister of Charity of Leavenworth, theologian, university administrator and author, has served on national and international ecumenical commissions and study groups. She defines ecumenism as “the effort to achieve full visible unity among Christians and to grow what we share in common.” “This doesn’t mean that we erase the historical differences,” she said, “but rather that we overcome the animosity and division that have kept us suspicious of one another. We reflect on the rich differences, and we become a community of reconciled differences.” Uniformity among Christian denominations is not the goal of ecumenism, nor is the perspective held in the past that all churches and Christians should become Roman Catholic. “We share belief in Jesus and his word, and we need to find the categories that transcend our differences,” said Sister Susan. “Ecumenism is organic and dynamic.” She cites the LutheranCatholic dialogue in which she participated from 2008 to 2019. Appointed by the Vatican as a member of the International Lutheran-Catholic Dialogue, Sister Susan was part of an indepth, discerning study of the history of the two faith traditions, divisions and efforts to overcome them. The resulting document, “From Conflict to Communion,” demonstrates that Lutherans and Catholics are “on the way” on this journey of faith and that they share beliefs — among them, that baptism is a basis for unity. The document identified ecumenical imperatives going forward. These imperatives include that Catholics and Lutherans should commit to

• When: Jan. 18-25 • Cosponsors: The Commission on Faith and Order of the World Council of Churches and the Pontifical Council for Promoting Christian Unity • Theme: “We saw the star in the East, and we came to worship him” (Mt 2:2), emphasizing the Epiphany and God’s invitation to all of humanity to a new covenant in the incarnation of Christ • Theme development: Ecumenical groups in different countries are invited to produce the theme for each year’s Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. The Middle East Council of Churches selected this year’s theme that originated from the churches in Lebanon. This country faces extremely difficult, economically disastrous and stressful times. The power of prayer in solidarity with those who suffer is a demonstration of Christian unity and a sign of communion. (From the Graymoor Ecumenical & Interreligious Institute website; see below.) • Prayers, resources, more information: • U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops; go online to: usccb.org and type “Week of Prayer for Christian Unity 2022” in the search box. • World Council of Churches; go online to: www.oikou mene.org and type “Week of Prayer for Christian Unity” in the search box. • Graymoor Ecumenical & Interreligious Institute; go online to: geii.org, and look for “2022 Week of Prayer for Christian Unity Information” on the homepage.

strive repeatedly toward the goal of seeking visible unity, “jointly rediscovering the power of the Gospel of Jesus Christ for our time” and “witnessing together to the mercy of God in proclamation and service to the world” (“From Conflict to Communion,” 2013). Sister Susan emphasized that dialogue is an essential component of working toward unity. “We need to talk with one another and understand where the other person is coming from,” she explained. “We need to keep the communication flowing in our work to strengthen Christian community with

one another.” From her personal experience, Sister Susan has also learned that ecumenism is about relationships. She has developed personal friendships with people of different church traditions through her ecumenical work. This opens doors to sharing, understanding and healing divisions. Sister Susan said that many marriages today are between people from different churches or faiths; couples are living ecumenical marriages. This is another concrete reason to work for Christian unity and to look for practical ways to share President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 7215276; or email at: sub@theleaven.org. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

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the good of different church traditions in people’s everyday lives. Prayer is another key endeavor that supports ecumenism and movement toward unity. Much as Jesus prayed “that they may all be one” (Jn 17:21), Christians today are urged to pray for unity among their churches on a year-round basis, and especially during the Week of Prayer for Christian Unity. While engagement of local parishes and churches in ecumenical initiatives often depends on the efforts of individual priests and pastors, Sister Editor Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Susan believes that working for unity is an important ministry. Although the global pandemic has disrupted the studies in which she is involved, Sister Susan remains active in Roman Catholic dialogue with the Baptist World Alliance and with the Orthodox tradition. Additionally, she is teaching a doctoral seminar on ecumenical method and achievements at Regis College in the Toronto School of Theology in Canada, where she is academic dean and professor of systemic theology.

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

Social Media Editor/Reporter Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

FEATURE

JANUARY 14, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CNS PHOTO/JAMES KENNEY, COURTESY THE WESTERN KENTUCKY CATHOLIC

Bishop William F. Medley of Owensboro, Kentucky, celebrates Christmas Eve Mass in a 20-by-25-foot metal outbuilding Dec. 24, 2021, for the displaced community of Resurrection Parish in Dawson Springs, Kentucky.

KENTUCKY STRONG

Even tornadoes couldn’t keep Christmas from coming By Elizabeth Wong Barnstead Catholic News Service

WENSBORO, Ky. (CNS) — Celebrating Mass in a 20-by-25-foot metal outbuilding on Dec. 24, 2021, for the displaced community of Resurrection Parish in Dawson Springs, the image that came to mind for Owensboro Bishop William F. Medley was “there was no room at the inn.” But parishioners did find room in a structure shared by a couple in the parish for Christmas Eve and Masses in the new year as well. “I felt the gratitude that the congregation could be together again — but that they were still stunned,” Bishop Medley told The Western Kentucky Catholic, diocesan newspaper of Owensboro, of the Christmas Eve Mass. The bishop had driven the 90 minutes to Dawson Springs from Owensboro that day, wanting to open the Christmas season with the Resurrection community. Resurrection Church was among the buildings lost to the historic tornadoes that hit western Kentucky during the night of Dec. 10, 2021. The strong winds had torn out windows and ripped off parts of the roof, exposing the interior of the little church to the elements. In the following days, parishioners

Donnie and Rhonda Mills offered the use of their outbuilding, which is used primarily as an exercise room, as a substitute church for the time being. The parish gathered for Mass for the first time since the tornadoes on Sunday, Dec. 19. Their second gathering was that Christmas Eve. “Their doors have always been open to everybody,” said Deacon Mike Marsili, who with pastor, Father David Kennedy, serves Resurrection and also its sister parishes of Holy Cross in Providence and Immaculate Conception in Earlington. Deacon Marsili said that over the years, the metal building has seen poker games, barbecues, post- volleyball dinners and weightlifting. Now, it would see the celebration of the Eucharist. The deacon, whose children grew up alongside the Mills’ children, said it is a Mills family tradition to welcome everyone, Catholics and Protestants alike, for community. “Donnie’s dad always barbecued or did fish fries on the weekends and Donnie has continued that,” the deacon said. And so, on Christmas Eve 2021, the people of Resurrection Parish came together to celebrate their resilient community and their faith. Approximately 45 people filled the space snugly, but the weather was mild and several people stood outside the doorway.

The bishop became “really choked up when he talked about seeing the damages,” said Deacon Marsili. Two weeks before that Mass, Bishop Medley spent a day driving 400 miles across western Kentucky to visit the impacted communities. And just one week earlier, he had flown in an airplane over the tornadoes’ paths with a monstrance containing the Blessed Sacrament, blessing all those below. “I’ve had several parishioners come up to me and say they had never seen the bishop like that before, and that it meant a lot to them,” the deacon said. He added that “it was more than the fact that he got emotional; it was that he was really, really compassionate.” Deacon Marsili said that other than his ordination to the permanent diaconate in 2017, this was the most meaningful liturgy he has ever participated in. At the end of Mass, the bishop offered a few words to the congregation, telling them the cross is not the end of the story, the resurrection is. “Your church is named for that and your church will rise again,” he said. The deacon said he had wondered if they would rebuild the church, considering that it was small and in a more outlying area: “But when the bishop said that, it sealed the deal. It meant a lot to the parishioners to hear that.” Since then, the makeshift “church”

CNS PHOTO/JAMES KENNEY, COURTESY THE WESTERN KENTUCKY CATHOLIC

Bishop William F. Medley of Owensboro, Kentucky, gets ready for Christmas Eve Mass at the home of Donnie and Rhonda Mills of Dawson Springs, Kentucky. Also pictured are Audri Scott, 8, far right, and Deacon Mike Marsili of Resurrection Parish. has hosted Mass every weekend as well as every Thursday morning. “That was our tradition so we are continuing that,” the deacon said.

JANUARY 14, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Lenexa parish celebrates church’s silver anniversary By Jill Ragar Esfeld Special to The Leaven

ENEXA — At a Mass celebrating the 25th anniversary of the dedication of their main church, Holy Trinity parishioners here joined with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann in thanking all those involved in the building effort. “It’s good to have Msgr. Ray Burger with us tonight,” said the archbishop. “He led this effort to create this beautiful church.” Msgr. Burger was pastor in 1994 when the master plan for the church was presented to the archdiocese. To him, the anniversary event involved much more than commemorating a wonderful building. “It is rather a time to reflect upon the graces of the Spirit within this church community, which brought about this building,” he said. “The parishioners of Holy Trinity have always been responsive to the gifts of the Spirit. “And the 25th anniversary should remind us of the work of that Spirit even today.” The anniversary fell on the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. Mary, under this title, is the principal patron of the archdiocese, and Archbishop Naumann told parishioners she is the example for “becoming living tabernacles that carry the very life of God within us.” He also addressed why churches — the actual physical places of worship — are so important.

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa celebrated the 25th anniversary of its new church recently. At the altar are, from left: Deacon Dana Nearmyer, Deacon Steve Lemons, Father Michael Koller, pastor, Msgr. Ray Burger, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, Father Keith Chadwick and Father Richard McDonald. “What we try to do in our churches,” he said, “is create a space that recognizes the mystery of the Incarnation, the mystery of God’s presence with us. “And how blessed we are to experience and encounter him in the Eucharist tonight.” Concelebrant Holy Trinity pastor Father Mike Koller spoke at the end of Mass, recalling the long history of the

parish, and the community effort that went into building this main church. All the furniture, aside from the pews, was handmade by Holy Trinity parishioners led by Nick Disidore, he said. Parishioner Cookie Moffitt painted the icon that hangs above the altar. The 12 stained-glass windows surrounding the interior were recovered from Msgr. Burger’s childhood church

of St. Thomas, in the Armourdale neighborhood of Kansas City, Kansas. “So, this evening,” said Father Koller, “we give thanks and praise to almighty God for having this beautiful structure that we call our home church. “And Msgr. Burger, we want to thank you especially for your leadership and vision in making it all possible. “And praise be to God.”

Local video hopes to inspire vocations

SCREENSHOT FROM YOUTUBE

“I Will Give You Shepherds” is a 16-minute video by Michael McGlinn of Sistine Films in Kansas City, Missouri, produced for the archdiocesan vocations office. It features several archdiocesan priests and parishioners. It can be found on YouTube. the academy. In discussions with Nearmyer and Tylicki on how to celebrate the ordinations, the idea for a video came up. Not a little video shot with a smartphone, but a high-quality video made with cinematographic technique. “I had been in contact with filmmaker Michael McGlinn of Sistine Films . . . the great-nephew of the late Father Charles McGlinn,” said Father Morris. “He’s a Catholic filmmaker who does Catholic work through and through. “I approached him and said we’d like to capture the story. . . . Before we knew it, we realized it was not about St. James Academy; it was much bigger.” It really came down, he continued, to answering the question asked in the film: “What was going on in the homes that these three guys came out of that helped cultivate their vocation to the priesthood?” That would be the “homes” of their family, their school, their parish — and ultimately, the homes of their hearts. The name of the video came from another major inspiration, the 1992 apostolic exhortation of St. John Paul

“

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — If archdiocesan vocations director Father Dan Morris seems a little more upbeat than usual lately, there’s a good reason why. The vocations office began showing its own, locally produced video “I Will Give You Shepherds” soon after National Vocations Week, Nov. 7-13, 2021. He hopes the video will spark inspired conversations in homes, parishes and schools about vocations to the priesthood. The 16-minute video, which can only be seen on YouTube by searching “I will give you shepherds,” was made by Michael McGlinn of Sistine Films in Kansas City, Missouri. One version is in English, one in Spanish and another with subtitles. The video features veteran priest Msgr. Raymond Burger; newly ordained Father Keith Chadwick, Father Luke Doyle and Father Thomas Maddock; director of faith formation Deborah Nearmyer and president Andrew Tylicki from St. James Academy in Lenexa; and Thomas and Jeanne Doyle, parents of Father Doyle. “The inspiration to do a film really came about when we realized the three men we ordained [this year] had a common story,” said Father Morris. “Initially, that was simply that two of the guys would be the first graduates of St. James Academy to be ordained to the priesthood.” Although Father Chadwick and Father Maddock had been students, Father Doyle — a graduate of Hayden High School in Topeka — had taught at

ULTIMATELY, IT WAS REVEALED TO ME IN EDITING THAT THIS FILM IS ABOUT THE ACTION OF THE HOLY SPIRIT PRIMARILY REALIZED IN FAMILIES. MICHAEL MCGLINN SISTINE FILMS II, “I Will Give You Shepherds” (“Pastores Dabo Vobis”), itself a quote from the Book of Jeremiah (3:15). The video wasn’t shot with a script, said McGlinn, director and co-producer with Father Morris. Rather, shooting the video became a process of revelation. It took nine months to put it together. “What Father Morris and I discussed, and what we’re always looking for, is the dramatic focus of the film,”

said McGlinn. “It’s something you have to discover as you go through the process, because you’re listening for what the Holy Spirit wants. Ultimately, it was revealed to me in editing that this film is about the action of the Holy Spirit primarily realized in families. “Once I had that clarity in mind, it was very simple to put the film together and edit it, because I had the dramatic focus.” Tom and Jeanne Doyle thought the video was wonderful and were pleased to talk about vocations and their son. “It gave us a chance to tell the story about Luke and the need to have families involved in vocations,” said Tom Doyle, a member of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka. “My wife and I truly believe vocations — of marriage, the priesthood or religious life — come from holy families,” he added. “We want to promote that. People, especially nowadays, seem to not want to take the responsibility of what has been given to us by God, to raise our children for him.” Already, Father Morris has gotten some good feedback. He showed it to some students in theology classes at St. James, and the message seemed to hit close to home, because they were sitting in the same classrooms where two of the newly ordained men once sat. Also, an eighth-grade boy, attending a Serra Club meeting in Atchison, said he was really struck that priests don’t have to come from perfect families. And Father Morris heard that one young man from Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas, who is considering a vocation, literally shed tears and said, “Wow, I didn’t realize how many people impacted one vocation.” “This has the potential to bear a lot of fruit,” Father Morris said.

LOCAL NEWS

JANUARY 14, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Make 2022 the year you make your marriage a sacramental one

he woman calling the radio show identified herself as Mary. She wanted to talk about her marriage. She and her school sweetheart married shortly after high school graduation, but divorced after seven years. Later, she and her two children moved in with her boyfriend George and, as time passed, they married civilly. Mary explained to the radio show host that in the years that followed, she and George were happy, but deep in her heart she wanted more. She wanted her family life and her marriage to be connected in a special way with God. She spoke to a priest and with his help she applied and received a church annulment of her first marriage, and George and Mary were married at their parish. Today, 15 years after being married in the church, Mary feels that Christian marriage gives her relationship

JOHN BOSIO John Bosio is a former marriage and family therapist, director of religious education and diocesan family life coordinator. He is a member of the National Association of Catholic Family Life Ministers.

with George the spiritual connection and meaning that she was looking for, and it gives her the graces she needs to grow in her relationship with God and with her husband. If you are living together or are married civilly and want your life to be more connected with God, consider having your relationship blessed by the Catholic Church.

Here are some of the benefits of being married in the church with a sacramental marriage. 1. Your marriage relationship will be intimately connected with God — a sacrament. During the wedding ritual, God transforms your relationship. He unites the two of you to each other and to himself. Christ becomes, in a special way, your faithful companion during the ups and downs of life. He is there every day to guide you. He teaches you how to love each other and gives you the graces you need. The Catechism tells us: “Christ dwells with [the spouses], gives them the strength to take up their crosses and to follow him” (No. 1642). However, the effect of the sacrament is not something magical. The couple needs to work at building their relationship and keeping God in their life. 2. Your marriage will have a renewed

sense of purpose. In a Christian marriage, spouses love each other not just to be happy together, but to serve God. Your relationship with your spouse takes on a mission: to serve God by becoming living icons of God’s love to the people in your life. Your mission is to help your spouse, your children and the people around you experience the goodness of God’s love through your loving. As a couple, you are ambassadors of God’s love. 3. Christian marriage will bring you many blessings and graces through your participation in the sacraments. Marriage is difficult. Pope Francis describes marriage as a man and a woman walking together, helping each other become ever more a woman or a man. This is difficult work because it requires courage, humility and many sacrifices, day after day. Regular Mass attendance will provide you with a reminder of Christ’s

ACROSS 1 Hose down 6 Admiral (abbr.) 9 Stools 14 Tylenol’s competitor 15 Legume 16 Heron 17 “Star Wars” creator 18 Charged particle 19 Quick 20 soot 21 Villain in book of Esther 23 Ointment 24 First patriarch 26 North American nation 28 2:1, for example 30 Big cats 34 Movie 2001’s talking computer 37 Elite intellectuals’ society 39 Punitive 40 OT book 42 Fall mo. 43 __ your neighbor 44 Struck (KJV) 46 City Boca ___ 49 Tailor 50 Shaddock 52 Jewish teacher 54 Santa’s helper COPYRIGHT © BY CLIFF LEITCH, THE CHRISTIAN BIBLE REFERENCE SITE, WWW.CHRISTIANBIBLEREFERENCE.ORG. USED BY PERMISSION

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presence in your marriage. There at the eucharistic table, you can renew your marital commitment and feel closer to God and to your spouse. Mark H. Butler, a professor at Brigham Young University, writes that God’s presence in a couple’s life helps them, through his graces, to mediate conflict and reach resolutions. Many research studies conducted by social scientists have shown that when couples recognize God’s presence in their relationship, they are more satisfied and are more likely to achieve a lifelong marriage. So, where do you begin? I encourage you to contact a parish near you and talk to a priest or deacon about your desire to have your marriage blessed in the church. You may have to attend marriage preparation classes, and, if divorced, you may need to revisit your previous marriage

55 Along the beach 59 Cain’s brother 62 A tenth part 65 Law 66 Margin 68 Thai 69 Island nation 70 One of the Stooges 71 European sea eagle 72 Fable writer 73 Delete 74 Monosodium glutamate 75 School group DOWN 1 Popular condiment 2 Vertical line 3 Happen again 4 Ideal person 5 Affirmation 6 Biblical name for Turkey 7 Condemn 8 Starling 9 Ocean 10 Toasted chewy bread roll type (2 wds.) 11 Opera solo 12 Recount 13 Plant trunk 21 Opp. of love

Question for reflection: What do you think of the benefits of being married in the Catholic Church?

to see if the promises you made can be declared invalid for a sacramental marriage because from the start the relationship was missing some essential element. This process is called a “declaration of nullity,” also commonly referred to as an “annulment.” Sometimes, it is difficult or impossible to prove that elements necessary to the bond were missing from the start. When this happens, speak with your advocate to explore your options. Regardless of your circumstance, do not be afraid to try to make your relationship a sacramental marriage. The benefits to you and your family are significant.

22 Crackpot 25 Youngest son of Noah 27 Drink slowly 29 Sesame Street’s grouch 31 Son of Seth 32 Praise enthusiastically 33 Killed 34 Fastener 35 Ammunition 36 Threaten 38 Joining 41 Pittsburgh Team 45 Annex 47 Double-reed instrument 48 BB association 51 Often poetically 53 Nation of Jews 56 Oklahoma city 57 Singing parts 58 Jumps 59 Competent 60 Honey eater 61 OT book of history 63 Object 64 Sticky black substances 67 Caustic substance 69 IBM Competitor Solution on page 16

JANUARY 14, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Visiting cardinal pays call on inmates at jail

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Christmas can be a difficult time for inmates incarcerated at the Wyandotte County Jail here, especially now because of lock-down conditions due to the COVID-19 virus and variants. This year, however, they had an unexpected visitor who offered prayer and words of hope. Cardinal Philippe Barbarin, the former ordinary of the Archdiocese of Lyon in France, visited the inmates on Dec. 26, the feast of the Holy Family. The cardinal was in Kansas at the invitation of the Little Sisters of the Lamb, who have a convent in Kansas City, Kansas. The Community of the Lamb, as they are also known, is a Frenchbased religious order. The stop at the jail was one among several in the archdiocese. “In each of the six pods we visited, we began by singing a Christmas carol accompanied by a flute, and then Cardinal Barbarin briefly spoke to them in perfect Spanish, translated into English,” said Little Sister Marie-Jeanne, one of the Community of the Lamb members who accompanied him. “Good afternoon, everyone,” the cardinal said. “My name is Philippe Barbarin. I am a French cardinal and I come to bring you the joy of Christmas. On this Sunday of the Holy Family, the Lord wants to bless your families, your children. He explained to the inmates who the pope was, and that he was there as the pope’s representative. “Today, it is he who greets you,” said the cardinal. “I will go to every cell window and bless you. It is Pope Francis himself who blesses you.” The cardinal blessed each inmate with the sign of the cross, allowed them to venerate his pectoral cross through a window and spoke with them. He told them Jesus would forgive their sins if their hearts were open to it. As the cardinal departed the pods, the inmates expressed their appreciation by banging on their cell doors and yelling “Thank you! Thank you!” Information for this story was provided by Little Sister MarieJeanne.

CNS PHOTO/KEVIN LAMARQUE, REUTERS

Catholic Charities is offering monthly clinics to inform area Catholics how they can help Afghan refugees.

Catholic Charities seeks legal help resettling Afghan refugees

K COURTESY PHOTO

Cardinal Philippe Barbarin, the former ordinary of the Archdiocese of Lyon in France, visited inmates at the Wyandotte County Jail on Dec. 26, the feast of the Holy Family, during a visit to the Community of the Lamb in Kansas City, Kansas.

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Afghan refugees are resettling in Kansas, and Catholics in the archdiocese have the opportunity to help. Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas will host an Afghan asylum clinic on the last Saturday of each month, beginning in January, from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. The organization is in need of attorneys, paralegals and law students to volunteer. Volunteers will help complete immigration legal documents and support clients in writing their stories as they seek asylum. In the long-term, Catholic Charities hopes to have attorneys and Department of Justice representatives volunteer as Afghan asylum advocates at the U.S. Citizenship and Immigration Services. If you’re interested in volunteering, send an email to: refugees@ catholiccharities.org.

HANDING DOW

Cultivating a Catholic imagination: Four ways to share faith with By Jonathan Lewis Catholic News Service

arenting a toddler involves allowing them to transport you into their world of adventure and imagination. Passing along faith to our toddler has involved introducing our child to a Catholic imagination for the world around us. Like a growing gallery wall, each year my wife and I add new traditions and practices to our family spirituality. Here are four ways we have passed on our Catholic faith to our toddler.

Create a spiritual calendar Our daughter has never been a good sleeper. This required very early on that we maintain consistent schedules and routines to help her cue into bedtime. In a similar way, the church gives us the Liturgy of the Hours and a liturgical calendar to form spiritual rhythms in our day and year. Families too can develop a spiritual calendar. Our calendar includes special anniversaries, family saint days, liturgical seasons and baptism anniversaries. On a daily basis, our best family prayer time is at night. Our bedtime routine includes thanking God for what happened during the day and praying for friends, family members and anything else that pops into the mind of a 2-year-old. One simple structure to family prayer is to use these common relationship phrases as prompts: “Jesus, I love you. Thank you for ____. I’m sorry for ___. And please help ___.” As we lay our daughter in her crib we sing a hymn and add in classics like “Salve Regina,” “Amazing Grace” or simple chants from the Taize community.

Deacon Peter Dohr places ashes on the forehead of 3-year-old Quinn Dale as Quinn’s grandfather Gary Brundage looks on during an Ash Wednesday service at rarely reminds us of this. Too often we see saccharine images of the child Jesus that rarely reflect our reality. I would love to see an image of Our Lady of Potty Training or St. Mary of the Meltdown. While not discouraging us from a living and explicit practice of faith, finding God in all things encourages us to remember that the messy and ordinary work of family life — dishes, walks, laughter and story time — are privileged moments of grace that allow us to participate in God’s goodness.

Sit up front Sunday Mass can be a particularly meaningful yet exasperating time to parent a toddler. We have been successful at focusing during Mass by sitting close enough to the front for our daughter to see the action taking place on the altar. She enjoys following along the parts of the Mass in a children’s Mass book, and I regularly whisper in her ear describing the action that is taking place during Mass. (“Now the priest is reading a story about Jesus” or “The sign of peace is coming up.”) I knew our participation at Mass was bearing fruit when she turned to me during the psalm and asked, “Is it the alleluia time now, Daddy?” She may be too young to understand the meaning of the Sunday liturgy but she is beginning to learn the rhythm of liturgical prayer that will bear fruit in years to come.

Find God in all things While initiating specific spiritual practices is an essential way we pass along faith to our children, it is important to recall that “nothing is far from God” as St. Monica said, or in the words of St. Thomas Aquinas, that “grace

Lead by example

CNS PHOTO/TYLER ORSBURN

A statue of Christ with children is seen near St. Pius X Church in El Paso, Texas. Parenting children at a young age involves a lot of imitating. The Scripture verse “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” comes to mind (1 Cor 11:1). builds on nature.” Whenever we practice being kind, patient or saying “I’m sorry,” we are passing on faith to our children. Sometimes a sense of fervor or a limited imagination leads us to think that the only way we

share our faith is by spending time in religious buildings or talking about religious things. It’s important to remember that everything that is good, true and beautiful directs the heart toward God. Unfortunately, our religious iconography

As I genuflected and walked into the pew one Sunday holding my daughter’s hand, I felt her pull instead of quickly following me in. I looked back to find her also genuflecting, something I had not yet taught her to do. As parents of a toddler we learned very quickly just how spongelike our daughter was. In his historic study on youth and religion, sociologist Christian Smith notes that when it comes to passing on faith to children, parents tend to “get what you are,” that is, young people are most likely to stay engaged with religious practice if their parents do also. The most important thing that we can do to pass along our Catholic faith

WN THE FAITH

h your toddler

CNS PHOTO/JENNIFER WILLEMS, THE CATHOLIC POST

Neva Khouri smiles as Msgr. Gerald Ward places the Eucharist in her hand during her first Communion at Blessed Sacrament Church in Morton, Illinois, June 13, 2020. Our children’s first Eucharist is about the Lord meeting them perfectly where they are, in the form of bread and wine.

Instilling the faith in young children By Cassandra Palmer Catholic News Service

CNS PHOTO/MIKE CRUPI, CATHOLIC COURIER

t St. Rose Church in Lima, New York, Feb. 13, 2013. is the same, whether we are parenting toddlers or teenagers: recommit to our own relationship with Jesus Christ and his church. This also means showing our children how we are practicing our faith by stopping into the adoration chapel, listening to a morning meditation together and committing to going to Mass each Sunday. For toddlers, more than any prayer we teach, the example we lead helps build a lasting moral imagination. As a parent of a toddler and newborn, our family’s practice of faith includes different rhythms and calendars that shape a Catholic imagination. Like the monks of a monastery, our family also gets up at all hours of day and night to call on God’s help. Our chapel is our home, our pews are rocking chairs, our breviaries are children’s books. Each messy or mundane act of parenting can become a doorway into spiritual practice, for us and our children, living each moment of family life intentionally as an offering instead of an obligation. Jonathan Lewis is vice president of customer operations at Catholic Faith Technologies. He has worked in parish and diocesan ministry for over 15 years and currently lives in Washington with his wife and two children.

racticing Catholicism requires a sense of humility for everyone, but parenting Catholic children takes it to a whole new level. After having two babies in the first three years of our marriage, the time spent in toddler and preschool life seemed to define our household. Suddenly, my husband and I are taken aback to start this school year with a third grader and second grader (plus an 8-month-old rookie along for the ride). Most days, my husband and I steal glances around their antics as if to say, “When did they get this big?” Having “big little kids” opens a new world of contradictions in parenthood. The kids can dress themselves, but that independence comes with strong opinions about their outfit selections. They have developed a love of reading (Be still my bookworm heart!), but now they absorb every word, including some I would rather they avoid. When our kids were babies and toddlers, faith formation was as easy as bringing them to church, pointing out statues of the Virgin Mary and teaching the Our Father. Now, everything is more complicated. They no longer require Cheerios and sippy cups to keep them quiet at Mass. Still, my 7-year-old son squirms and fidgets his way through the Liturgy of the Word. Like trading nursery rhymes for dinosaur trivia, we have graduated

from the Now I Lay Me Down to Sleep prayer to the Act of Contrition. The Scripture verse “Be imitators of me, as I am of Christ” comes to mind (1 Cor 11:1). Parenting children at this age involves a lot of imitating: Their behavior reflects our own back to us, for better or for worse. To bolster their roster of role models, we tell them about the lives of our favorite saints, hoping that perhaps their holy examples will inspire. Having elementary-aged kids has me looking at the world with fresh eyes, too. When I point out the glory of God in the world, I get the benefit of being reminded as well. Our elementary-aged children are growing in their faith every day. Each new discovery in the world is revealing something about God. That also inspires new, challenging questions that require faithful answers. When my daughter prepared for her first Communion this year, I worried about her readiness. We would take her first Eucharist workbook to her bedroom and read chapters together at bedtime, making connections between the Gospel stories and her life experiences. My issue was that as she anticipated receiving the body of Christ, her demeanor was quieter than I had expected. She had muted enthusiasm, and I was puzzled. I discovered that as a minister, the significance of her first Eucharist overjoyed me and because of that, it was hard for me to be patient with the pace of her process in learning. I was bursting with

theological excitement over this benchmark experience for my child and, yet, she seemed nonchalant. I silently panicked, wondering if I was doing a good job of introducing her to the Lord. I yearned to spark her enthusiasm, but I worried my teaching wasn’t being absorbed or at least she was not gratifying me to verbalize these things herself. The reality was that my daughter was absorbing her faith in ways perfectly appropriate to her age, her personality and her sensibilities. God is revealing himself to her each day in his own mysterious and obvious ways. I did not need to feel like a failure as a parent or as a minister but accept myself as God’s instrument to show her love. My daughter’s readiness for her first Eucharist was never about her matching my theological enthusiasm — it is about the Lord meeting her perfectly where she is, in the form of bread and wine. Jesus demonstrated humility when he chose bread as a humble and accessible form to offer himself to us, and we imitate him when we bring our children to his table. Cassandra Palmer lives with her husband and children in Baltimore, where she is director of religious education at Our Lady of Victory Church. She holds a master’s degree in church ministries from the Ecumenical Institute at St. Mary’s Seminary, and a bachelor’s degree in theology from Mount Saint Mary’s University.

LOCAL NEWS

JANUARY 14, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

St. Michael Recovery Committee is hosting an event on Jan. 19 LEAWOOD — The St. Michael Recovery Committee is hosting a speaker event on Jan. 19 at 7 p.m. in the St. Michael the Archangel Parish hall here, located at 14251 Nall Ave. This presentation is appropriate for teens and adults. The topics will include the following: • How to help someone who is misusing drugs or alcohol This presentation provides effective techniques for communicating concerns about a friend or family member’s use of alcohol or other drugs and includes information about how to access resources for support. • When substance use becomes substance misuse What are the early warning signs that the use of alcohol and/or prescription medication may be becoming unhealthy? The information in this presentation may be helpful to you or to a loved one. The St. Michael Recovery Committee is made up of parishioners whose lives have been impacted by addiction.

Lawrence native elected to interfaith organization

Today’s parliament convenings are the ARBONDALE, Ill. — Father world’s largest and most inclusive inBob Flannery, a native of terfaith gatherings, with an average atLawrence and a former patendance of 8,000 participants. rishioner at St. John the The parliament’s intent is to strive for Evangelist Parish, has been harmony rather than unity of the world’s elected to the board of trustees for the faiths, working together for the betterParliament of the World’s Religions. The ment of humanity and society. parliament is the world’s preThe initial event was celmier interfaith organization. ebrated by another gatherFather Flannery is pastor ing on its 100th anniversaof St. Francis Xavier Church ry in Chicago in 1993, and and chaplain at the Newman since then, there have been Catholic Student Center in six other convenings: Cape Carbondale. He has been the Town, South Africa, 1999; ecumenical and interreligious Barcelona, Spain, 2004; Melofficer for the Diocese of Belbourne, Australia, 2009; Salt leville, Illinois, for the past 24 Lake City, 2015; Toronto, 2018; years. He has served as presiFather Bob Flannery and one held virtually in 2021 dent of the Carbondale Interdue to the pandemic. faith Council and is a regular participant The next convening will be held in in the Ralph Anderson Interfaith DiaChicago — Aug. 18 to 24, 2023 — celelogues in Carbondale. brating the 130th anniversary of the ParAdditionally, he is past president of liament’s beginning. Father Flannery has the Catholic Association of Diocesan Ecattended the convenings in Barcelona, umenical and Interreligious Officers in Salt Lake City, Toronto and the virtual the United States. His three-year term one held this past year. began on Jan. 1. The board of trustees of the ParliaThe first meeting of the then-called ment of the World’s Religions consists World’s Parliament of Religions was of 25 members, of which four are Chrisheld in Chicago in 1893 and was part tians, including two Catholics: Father of the Columbian Exposition, a foreFlannery and Dr. Mary Doak, a theolrunner of the World’s Fair. It was an ogy professor at the University of San attempt to create a global dialogue of Diego. faiths. The 1893 World Parliament of Religions is the landmark beginning of the modern interfaith movement.

Hybrid homeschool experience available for area Catholics OVERLAND PARK — Regina Caeli Academy (RCA) offers a unique education experience for Catholic families in the Kansas City area. The hybrid homeschool program opened a center in Overland Park last year and will host a touring event on Jan. 24. RCA provides a classical academic education for preschool through 12th grade students at its center on Mondays and Thursdays. Students then homeschool the rest of the week with lesson plans provided by RCA. In its inaugural year, the center served 15 families and 34 students. Parents interested in working on staff, either as a tutor or a classroom assistant, have the opportunity to receive a tuition discount for their children. Families interested in touring RCA can contact Emily McKenzie by calling (913) 214-0800 or by sending an email at: emckenzie. ksc@rcahybrid.org. For more information about RCA, contact Brynn Turner at (470) 300-0240 or by email at: communications@rcahybrid.org.

THE SHEPHERD’S VOICE 8:30 a.m. Sundays on 92.9 FM and KEXS AM 1090 Encore Monday at 11:30 a.m.

JANUARY 14, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NATION

CNS PHOTO/COURTESY ST. MEINRAD ARCHABBEY VIA THE CRITERION

Isaac Siefker, a seminarian from Bloomington, Indiana, chops wood for a bonfire at St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in St. Meinrad, Indiana, Nov. 12, 2021.

Seminarians are seen around a bonfire at St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in St. Meinrad, Indiana, Nov. 12, 2021.

Indiana seminarians chop wood to help rural neighbors stay warm By Sean Gallagher Catholic News Service

NDIANAPOLIS (CNS) — What does a seminarian do to prepare for priestly ministry? Pray. Check. Take theology classes. Check. Minister in parishes, hospitals, nursing homes and prisons. Check. Cut down trees and split wood. Wait, what? But that’s exactly what happens at St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in St. Meinrad. For more than 40 years, the seminarians have volunteered in what is now called Project Warm, which provides firewood to people in need in Indiana. They collect wood from donors in the area, split it up on the grounds of the seminary and then deliver it to people who need it to keep their homes warm. In the process, the seminarians build up fraternity among themselves, gain experience in serving those in need and learn about the often-hidden challenge of rural poverty — all things that will serve them well when they begin service as priests in their home dioceses. “It’s good pastoral formation,” said seminarian Isaac Siefker, a member of St. John the Apostle Parish in Bloomington. “I would say that I get almost as much out of this volunteer work as I do out of my assigned ministry. I’ve enjoyed the work. I love the manual labor. Even more than that, I love going to people’s houses when we deliver wood.” Seminarian Tyler Huber, a member of St. Mary-of-the-Knobs Parish in Floyd Knobs, said he recognizes how much the project has helped him serve the deeper needs of those who ask for their help. “Yes, they’re struggling with poverty,” he said. “They’re needing resources, and we’re helping them in that way. But so many of them can just use someone to be present to them. That’s one of my favorite pieces to it,” he told The Criterion, archdiocesan newspaper of Indianapolis. Over the course of an academic year, typically more than half the seminarians volunteer for Project Warm in various ways, either in collecting wood, chopping it, or delivering it. They receive training for their work and follow safety protocols.

CNS PHOTO/COURTESY ST. MEINRAD ARCHABBEY VIA THE CRITERION

Hung Van Tran, a seminarian for the Archdiocese of Hanoi, Vietnam, chops wood for a bonfire at St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in St. Meinrad, Indiana, Nov. 12, 2021. He volunteers with Project Warm, an initiative where seminarians and other volunteers collect, chop and deliver firewood for people in need in nearby counties. The work is second nature for Eli Yandow, a seminarian for the Diocese of Burlington, Vermont, who grew up on a dairy farm just south of the Canadian border where his family heats their home entirely by wood. “It felt like being at home out chop-

ping wood,” said Yandow, the project’s general manager this year. In overseeing all the work of the project, Yandow, in his fourth year of formation, can see how it benefits the seminarians, especially in what he calls the “brotherhood of the wood lot crew.”

In addition to spending time splitting wood, the seminarians also get together for fellowship during a monthly bonfire. They also are intentional about turning their work into prayer, which includes praying for the families they serve. Teresa Shephard and her 6-yearold daughter, who benefit from Project Warm, described the seminarians as “good home folk. They work hard packing in the wood. They’re good kids, willing to help out.” She also sees how this work can prepare them for parish ministry. “It shows these guys what life’s really like,” Shephard said. “They have to know what it’s like, what people are really going through in order to help them. If they’re not out there getting their hands dirty themselves, if they’re not putting themselves in our place, how are they going to help people?” Benedictine Father Anthony Vinson, pastor of St. Meinrad Parish in St. Meinrad and St. Boniface Parish in Fulda, has led Project Warm since 2004. He praises the “zeal to serve” that he sees in the seminarians who volunteer in the project. “Many of them want to get dirty and have taken to heart what Pope Francis said, that they should ‘smell like their sheep,’” said Father Anthony. “That is huge.” At the same time, he noted that it can take time and experience for seminarians to know the sometimes-fine nuances of serving people living in poverty in rural areas. “In rural areas, people like to be self-sufficient,” said Father Anthony. “There’s a certain level of pride there.” That’s something Shephard knows. As she put it: “We’re so used to doing things for ourselves that it’s hard to ask for help. We’re country.” Yandow appreciates this pride, but he also values the physical need the seminarians are meeting. “We dump a load of wood, and we know that that person is going to have heat,” he said, adding that he and fellow seminarians also see the connection between serving people’s physical and spiritual needs. “We also need to be able, in every aspect of our life, to be the presence of Jesus Christ,” he said.

CLASSIFIEDS

12 EMPLOYMENT Administrative assistant, human resources - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking qualified candidates to fill a full-time position of administrative assistant for the human resources office. This position will provide administrative support to the human resources director and three HR consultants. Qualified applicants must be proficient using the Microsoft Suite of Office products; possess excellent verbal and written communication skills; be a practicing Catholic in good standing; and an active and faithful steward in their parish. Previous experience working in a human resources office is preferred. This position requires a high school diploma or equivalent plus a minimum of three years’ prior experience working in a professional office environment. Self-motivated candidates with the ability to work independently as well as part of a team are encouraged to submit their information for consideration. To apply, visit the website at: www.archkck. org/jobs. Position open until filled. Principal - St. Therese School, a K - 8th grade school located in Kansas City, is seeking a principal for the 2022 - 23 school year. A successful candidate will have the vision to lead by personal witness and exhibit passion in articulating the mission of St. Therese School. The new principal will inspire and lead our faculty and staff, and minister to our families. All interested persons should complete the application on the Diocese of Kansas City - St. Joseph website at: https://recruiting.paylocity. com/Recruiting/Jobs/Details/806143. Full-time teacher - St. James Academy is seeking a full-time teacher to help initiate our new rhetoric and media arts program for the 2022-23 school year. The aim of this new program will be to teach the human roots of classical rhetoric while also considering the impact of modern digital technology, all through a Catholic worldview. Students will learn to contemplate the media they consume and learn to create media of consequence. Candidates should have a high degree of technical acumen in media, feel comfortable with project-based learning and have a desire to build a new program. Ideal candidates will be practicing Catholics with a passion for evangelization and discipleship who are experienced secondary teachers. Those interested should apply online at: archkck.org/catholicschools/ employment/teacher-application-page/ and send a cover letter and resume to the St. James principal, Dr. Shane Rapp, at: srapp@sjakeepingfaith.org. Elementary school principal - St. Paul School in Olathe is seeking an elementary school principal beginning the 2022-23 school year. St. Paul is a growing parish and school community. The successful applicant will be a faith-filled, practicing Catholic who understands the mission of Catholic education and has Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Substantial principal experience is required. Candidates must demonstrate strong leadership skills and success in an academic setting. The principal ensures successful completion of learning objectives for students, manages the finances within the school budget and also serves as manager for the preschool director. The principal collaborates with the pastor and parish staff. Apply online at: www.arch kckcs.org (then select “Employment”) and send resume and credentials to Superintendent Dr. Vincent Cascone, Catholic Schools Office, Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or email to: vcascone@archkckcs.org. Math teacher - The students at Holy Spirit School need a terrific math teacher able to help them learn pre-algebra and algebra. Their current teacher will be on maternity leave from March – May 2022. So, if you have a Kansas certification or a Kansas substitute license with this mathematical ability, we would love to talk with YOU! This position will be Monday – Friday, 7:30 a.m. – 3:30 p.m. Please contact Michele Watson at: mwatson@ hscatholic.org if you are interested in learning more about this position.

Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, has the following staff job openings available: admissions counselor, advancement officer, Allied Health intake specialist and part-time accounting assistant. Find job descriptions and details at: www. donnelly.edu/careers. Operations director and volunteer coordinator - The Bishop Sullivan Center, Kansas City, Missouri, is seeking an operations director and a volunteer coordinator: Inspired by Christian faith, Bishop Sullivan Center (BSC) shows God’s love to people in financial hardship by providing food, help in finding jobs and other aid. Beyond material assistance, Bishop Sullivan Center strives to build relationships between those who live in poverty and those who do not, promoting mutual understanding and affirming the dignity of all. BSC is seeking both a fulltime operations director and a volunteer coordinator to work primarily at our 3936 Troost Ave. location in Kansas City, Missouri. For additional information and to apply: m.carlstedt@bishopsullivan.org or (816) 231-2971. Elementary school principal – Sacred Heart School in Emporia is seeking a highly-motivated individual with demonstrated skill in spiritual and academic leadership of both students and staff. In addition, familiarity with enrollment management, technology and the tithing/stewardship model would be considered especially desirable. Applicants for principal must be practicing Catholics, understand the mission of Catholic schools and have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Please apply online at: www. archkckcs.org and send resume and credentials to Superintendent Dr. Vince Cascone, Catholic Schools Office, via email at: vcascone@archkckcs.org. Deadline for applications is Feb. 11. For specific questions regarding the school or parish, please contact Father Carter Zielinski at: czielinski@archkck.org. Faculty/adjunct faculty positions available - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served, has the following faculty job openings: Associates degree in nursing specialists (ADN), Information systems faculty coordinator and nursing faculty. Adjunct faculty openings include: accounting, biology, clinical nursing and nursing. Find job descriptions and details on: www.donnelly.edu/careers. Latin teacher - Christ the King School is seeking a Latin teacher for the 2021-22 school year. Partnering with parents in their role as primary educators, Christ the King School extends the mission of the church in forming true disciples of Jesus Christ. Through a Catholic classic liberal arts education centered on Christ, we provide an integrated approach, fostering a love for truth, beauty and goodness. We seek to instill a natural desire for wisdom and virtue in all students. We seek candidates who not only possess a deep understanding of Latin but also possess a love of lifelong learning. The ideal teacher at Christ the King has not only developed a level of mastery in the discipline that they teach, but also understands how that discipline belongs within the context of a strong liberal arts education. Classical languages give us access to a wealth of Western thought that aids in the formation of virtuous Catholic souls; therefore, six years of Latin (3rd – 8th grades) is not an elective, but is part of the core curriculum at Christ the King. Qualifications include: bachelor’s degree, master’s degree preferred and reflected in compensation; mastery of subject matters to be taught, as demonstrated by references and education; two years of teaching experience preferred, with exceptions granted for outstanding candidates who demonstrate a record of effective leadership in a relevant field of work. The applicant must also possess a love of teaching, a passion for mentoring and a desire to continue in his or her own learning. Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume and CV to Cathy Fithian, principal, at: cfithian@ctkkck.org or mail to Christ the King School, 3027 N. 54th St., Kansas City, KS 66104.

Teacher - Holy Spirit School is seeking a certified math teacher or someone with a Kansas substitute license with the ability to teach geometry to a small group of advanced placement students. The current teacher will be on maternity leave from March – May 2022. The hours for this position are Monday – Friday, 6:45 – 7:40 a.m. Please contact Michele Watson at: mwatson@ hscatholic.org if you are interested in learning more about this position.

Accountant - St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood is seeking a full-time accountant. Duties include processing accounts payable, supervising weekly collection counting, processing payroll, preparing financial reports and other accounting duties. This position works with another accountant, communicates with parishioners and staff, and reports to the parish administrator. For more information, go to: stmichael cp.org and click on “Our Parish,” then “Employment Opportunities.” Submit cover letter and resume to: denise. greene@stmichaelcp.org.

Administrative assistant, marriage and family life - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking qualified candidates to fill a full-time position of administrative assistant for the office of marriage and family life. Qualified applicants must have experience handling general office duties; assisting with event preparations; creating and maintaining databases; using software platforms to create flyers and promotional materials; must be proficient using the Microsoft Suite of Office products, including Word, Excel and PowerPoint, internet and the ability to learn other software and social media as required; file management of both paper and electronic files; must be a practicing Catholic in good standing; and an active and faithful steward in their parish. Must have a high school diploma or equivalent plus a minimum of three years’ prior experience working in a professional office environment. Must have strong writing and creativity skills. Must be self-motivated with the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. To apply, visit the website at: www. archkck.org/jobs.

Consultant, human resources - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking qualified candidates to fill a full-time position of consultant for the human resources office. This position provides training and guidance to archdiocesan entities regarding payroll and benefits processes. The consultant position is also the liaison between our immigration legal advisers and the archdiocese. Additionally, this position is responsible for special projects. Qualified applicants must be have previous experience working with human resources payroll systems, HRIS or benefit software. The ideal candidate will be proficient using the Microsoft Suite of Office Products; possess excellent verbal and written communication skills; be a practicing Catholic in good standing; and an active and faithful steward in their parish. A bachelor’s degree in business administration, industrial relations or human resources or related field of study is required. Previous human resources experience is required. To apply, visit the website at: www. archkck.org/jobs. Position open until filled.

Live-in or live-out caregivers (assistants) - Looking for purposeful volunteer or paid work? Live-in or liveout caregivers (assistants) needed for all shifts with adults with intellectual disabilities. L’Arche Heartland has five residential group homes that house a max of five individuals, located in old Overland Park. Duties include but are not exclusive to: be responsible for the overall growth and direction of the home; foster appropriate relationships between all members of the home; foster positive and supportive relationships with families and professionals; attend community nights and other community events. Qualifications: a person who has lived or worked in a community with persons with disabilities preferred. A person with good organizational skills; good communication skills; and the ability to deal with conflict objectively. Have a valid driver’s license and a high school diploma or equivalent. Pass all required background checks; pass required pre-employment readiness evaluation. All training provided after hire: CPR/first aid; medication administration; rights and responsibilities — abuse, neglect and exploitation; emergency preparedness and documentation. Hourly pay for live-out assistants dependent on experience: range from $13.50-$15/hour. Perks for full-time employees: eight paid holidays; flexible hours available; health, dental, vision insurance benefits (premiums paid by L’Arche Heartland), 401(k) and PTO. Email letter of inquiry, contact information and experience to: heartland@larcheks.org Consultant for student services/special education - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking a consultant for student services/special education. This position is responsible for assisting schools in meeting the needs of students with special learning needs enrolled in the Catholic schools within the archdiocese. This position provides on-site consultation with principals and teachers regarding students with special needs; provides on-site training for teachers; and engages in the student improvement teams. Additionally, the incumbent assists schools in accessing funds from federal title programs to support students with special needs. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing. This position requires a master’s degree in special education with at least five years’ experience in special education. To apply, visit the website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Application deadline is Feb. 1. Development coordinator - L’Arche Heartland is a nonprofit organization that provides residential housing for adults with intellectual disabilities located in old Overland Park. We are looking to hire an enthusiastic, entrylevel development coordinator to secure financial support for our organization. The development coordinator will set and achieve fundraising goals; maintain knowledge of fundraising events; maintain a social media presence; and craft engaging ways to share our story. The successful applicant will build lasting relationships with donors and keep them informed on how their financial input is making the world a better place. A new position in the organization, the development coordinator will have the opportunity to build the development function of L’Arche Heartland requiring preferred candidates to be self-motivated, energetic and highly organized. Responsibilities: develop and execute L’Arche Heartland’s comprehensive annual fundraising plan; secure financial support from individuals, foundations and corporations; manage the implementation/utilization of Bloomerang donor management system and coordinate with staff responsible for data entry and gift processing; develop and maintain an ongoing moves-management relationship strategy with major donors; coordinate external communications and marketing efforts including print and social media; create and execute a strategy for a large, sustained base of annual individual donors; coordinate contracted grant writing efforts managing grants, proposals and reports for all foundation and corporate fundraising. Qualifications: BA in business, nonprofit management, or related field; previous experience in a nonprofit setting preferred; demonstrated excellence in organizational and communication skills; superb oral, written and persuasive communication skills; possess ability to set, manage and meet personal and organizational timelines and deadlines; have a high level of computer literacy (i.e., MS Office), experience with online donor database systems and an ability to self-direct their own mastery of such; ability to work in a faith-inspired, values-based environment; extensive use of technology and in-person interactions to communicate and conference with the various stakeholders, the public, the local team and national leadership. Evening and weekend work are occasionally required. Applicants within the local area preferred, but others living outside of the area are encouraged to apply (no relocation assistance available). Valid driver’s license required. Interested applicants should submit a PDF cover letter and resume to: heartland@larcheks.org. Financial representatives - Knights of Columbus has full-time openings in northeast Kansas and western Missouri for full-time financial representatives. Ideal for determined, disciplined, professional, high-expectation individual desiring to serve others. We work exclusively with the families of brother Knights and Catholic gentlemen who are eligible to join the Knights. We have established territories where agents devote their working day to the needs of the members in their assigned councils. Excellent, multi-tiered training and benefits are provided, allowing the successful field agent to earn a professional level income. This is a career opportunity that may be the right fit at the right time for you, or possibly for someone you know. For further information, contact John A. Mahon, general agent, at (785) 4088800 or email: john.mahon@kofc.org.

JANUARY 14, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG School cafeteria workers – Holy Spirit Catholic School, Overland Park, is seeking school cafeteria workers willing to learn all duties in assigned areas to include production, preparation, storage of food/supplies, accountability and safety/sanitation. Workers may perform sales transactions and must interact with students in a friendly, service-oriented manner. Compliance with sanitation and safety requirements is essential, and basic math skills are required. Shifts will be Monday – Friday and hours are flexible. Previous kitchen/ cafeteria experience preferred but not required. If interested, please contact Larry at: lgroce@hscatholic. org to schedule an interview. Case manager - Catholic Charities is seeking an organized, passionate, mission-driven case manager to serve as the mobile resource bus coordinator. The position will travel the rural counties of northeast Kansas and provide financial and gift-in-kind assistance to our neighbors in need. The coordinator will also work with parishes, community partners and volunteers for the programs’s success. Apply at: www.catholiccharitiesks.org/careers. Join the Santa Marta team - Santa Marta is recognized as a premier senior living community in Olathe. You will make a positive difference when you join the Santa Marta team. We are looking for part-time servers. Responsibilities include: serving meals to residents in a professional and hospitable manner in either independent living or health care neighborhoods; respectful interaction and communication with residents and coworkers is required; work with a team in a professional manner within dining and other departments; use proper food handling and cleaning techniques; setup and clean the dining rooms after each dining session. Part-time servers are normally scheduled for three to five shifts per week (evening from 4 - 8 p.m. and weekend breakfast, lunch and dinner shifts). Pay is $10 - $11 hourly rate depending upon relevant experience. Parttime associates earn paid time off for hours worked. Thank you for your interest in joining the Santa Marta team. Check out Santa Marta at: https:www.facebook. com/SantaMartaRetirement/. Part-time stylists - 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 that specializes in dresses for mothers of the bride/groom and galas, is looking for part-time stylists. Our 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. St. Mary’s food kitchen manager - Do you have a calling to serve others? Do you want to feel fulfilled at the end of your workday? If you do, St. Mary’s Food Kitchen is seeking to hire a full-time manager. The ideal candidate has a calling to serve the hungry in an urban context. You will assist coordinators and volunteers from supporting religious organizations serve a delicious and nutritious meal to the underprivileged in Kansas City, Kansas. Reporting to the board of directors of Hot Lunch Service, Inc., you will need to have good communication (writing and verbal) and management skills. Experience in fund-raising, marketing and community outreach are beneficial but not required. Salary range is $35,000 to $50,000 based on experience and education. A college degree is preferred. Interested? Please submit a current resume, letter of interest and references, along with contact information, to: hotlunch serviceinc@gmail.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. 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. 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) 521-4955 for more information. EEO >> Classifieds continue on page 13

JANUARY 14, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CAMP KATERI TEKAKWITHA Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Road, Williamsburg

Camp Tekakwitha has announced its 2022 schedule. Come join in faith, fun and friends down at Camp Kateri Tekakwitha. Visit the website at: www.archkck.org/ camp for more information about Camp Kateri Tekakwitha.

POTLUCK DINNER Most Pure Heart of Mary (Culhane Room) 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Jan. 16 from 1 - 3 p.m.

The Christian Widow and Widowers Organization will host the potluck dinner. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call (785) 233-7350.

‘HEALING THE DIVORCED HEART’ DIVORCE SUPPORT GROUP St. Michael the Archangel Parish 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood Jan. 17 at 7 p.m. 1st and 3rd Wed. of every month

We who have experienced divorce understand, as perhaps few others can. We too were sad, lonely, scared and angry but we have found that with God, time and the support of others, healing is possible. For more information, go online to: www.stmichaelcp.org/divorce-support.

TAKE-A-LOOK THURSDAY Holy Spirit School 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park Jan. 20 from 9 - 11 a.m.

Join us for information, tours of the school and refreshments. Choose a learning environment that is welcoming and Christ-centered. For more information, contact Anita Pauls at (913) 492-2582 or email: apauls@hscatholic.org.

POSTPARTUM NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING CLASS St. John the Evangelist (extra building) 200 W. 13th St., Lawrence Jan. 21 at 6:30 p.m.

A Couple to Couple League sponsored class in using the sympto-thermal method of natural family planning during the postpartum period takes place at the St. John’s Building. For more information about this class or other self-paced, online classes, call Shannon or John Rasmussen at (785) 749-1015. Preregistration is required online at: www.ccli.org.

TACO DINNER AND BINGO St. Patrick Parish Center 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Jan. 22 at 6 p.m.

There will be a dinner of three tacos, rice, beans, dessert and lemonade or tea. The cost is $10 for adults; $5 for children; and $30 for a family. For more information, call Fritz at (913) 515-0621.

DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall) 5972 S.W. 25th St., Topeka Jan. 23 at 12:40 p.m.

A rosary will be followed by the business meeting and social time. Masks are

CALENDAR strongly encouraged. If anyone knows of a member or family member of Daughters of Isabella in need of the circle’s prayers, call Diana Ortiz at (785) 554-4256.

CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN DIVORCE SUPPORT Church of the Ascension (St. Luke Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Jan. 29 from 6:30 - 8 p.m.

Do you have questions about the annulment process? What’s next after divorce? Save the date for a meeting on annulments with special guest, Father Gary Pennings. For more information, send an email to: calledtolove143@gmail.com.

SAVE THE DATE: IGNITE FOR LIFE & KANSAS MARCH AND RALLY FOR LIFE Topeka Performing Arts Center 214 S.E. 8th Ave., Topeka Jan. 25 at 8:30 a.m.

The event will begin at 9 a.m. There will be a Mass with the bishops of Kansas and archdiocesan priests at 10:30 a.m. At noon, there will be a march to the Capitol for the Kansans for Life rally. Visit the website at: archkck.org/prolife/activities/ks mass-marchforlife for detailed information.

TASTE OF KCK Resurrection School 425 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kansas Jan. 29 from 6 - 9 p.m.

Join us for an evening of food, culture and community as we raise funds for the students of Resurrection School. There will be a social hour, drinks and live music, followed by a dinner of diverse ethnic foods, provided by home cooks and local restaurateurs. The event program includes student speakers, presentation of the honoree and a special student performance. To purchase tickets or make a donation, visit the website at: rcskck.org or call the school office at (913) 371-8101.

IMMERSION WEEKEND FOR COUPLES Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish 5501 Monticello Rd., Shawnee Feb. 5 from 8 a.m. - 9 p.m. Feb. 6 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m.

The “Evermore in Love” (formerly “Living in Love”) married couples retreat (called Weekend Immersion) will be packed with insights and exercises that will help you experience the wonder of being more in love and to rediscover joy in your marriage. Register online at: bit.ly/ shoj-marriage-retreat using promo code: ArchKCK to get the weekend for $50.

TOPICAL VIDEO SERIES Precious Blood Renewal Center 2120 St. Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri Ongoing

Precious Blood Renewal Center has resources available to those who wish to view them. There are videos on topics including respect life topics (mothers who have lost children, elder abuse, gun violence), meditations, cooking and spirituality, family matters, Taize prayers and resources for spiritual development. Go online to: www.pbrenewalcenter.org and click on “Meditations.”

>> Continued from page 12 Chief development officer - Are you a Catholic professional with large-scale development experience? Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is hiring a full-time chief development officer. This is an executive level position responsible for leading the agency’s fund-raising and marketing efforts. Learn more by visiting: www. catholiccharitiesks.org.

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) Looking to purchase a home or sell your home? I am here to help you on your real estate journey! Tanairi Kennedy We Sell KC Team - Realty Executive. Call (913) 972-5097 or email: Tanairi@WeSellKcTeam.com. See the website at: www.tanairiSellsKC.com. I appreciate and look forward to the opportunity to work with you. For sale - Double crypt at Resurrection Cemetery inside the Beautiful Queen of Heaven mausoleum and chapel; tier A-1, crypt 111. Beautiful finished wood exterior on lower level. Today’s value is $16,000. Make offer. Call (816) 215-2000. For sale - Two plots at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens. Selling for half price at $1595. Call Ernest Cowden at (913) 7065958.

SERVICES Win disability benefits - Disabled and no longer able to work? Get help winning Social Security disability benefits. Free consultation. Eight years’ experience. No fee unless you win. Call (785) 331-6452 or send an email to: montemace2000@yahoo.com or visit http://www.montemace disability.org. Painting - Diamond Paining, (913) 648-4933, residential/ commercial, exterior/interior. Free estimate, affordable, decks. DiamondPaintKc.com, KCMO/Overland Park Metropolitan area. Garage Door Repair New Garage Doors Platinum Amarr dealer, Elite Home Advisor top rating. Call Joe, mention The Leaven discount. 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. INTERIOR PAINTING Update your ceilings and walls and repair cracks. Serving Johnson County for more than 30 years. Call Jerry (913) 206-1144. Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your Tshirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704. 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@pathway prepkc.com. 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@mikehammer moving.com.

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 as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000. Tired of being a landlord? I’ll buy it. Call Mark Edmondson (913) 980-4905 Local parishioner.

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. Home care work wanted - Retired nurse with 30 years’ experience. Very reasonable rates, under the going rate. Kansas City metro area; will consider outside the area. References available. For more information, call Pam at (913) 602-1289. 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. Caregiver needed - Looking for caregiver for evenings and possible weekends. 75th and Metcalf. Call Pam at (913) 602-1289 for more information.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Popcorn ceiling texture removal Interior wall painting specialist. Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time. Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa. El SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential *Lawn renovation *Mowing *Cleanup and hauling *Dirt grading/installation *Landscape design* Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! Call Lupe at (816) 252-1391 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. Nelson Creations LLC. Home remodeling, kitchens, baths, basements. All interior, exterior work. Licensed and insured. (913) 927-5240 or: dknelson2001@gmail.com. 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 and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

WANTED TO BUY 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. 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.

Barrett Insurance Agency Inc Erin Barrett CLU ChFC, Agent 13139 Shawnee Mission Parkway erin@insurewitherin.com Bus: 913-648-1100 Hablamos Español St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner State Farm, Bloomington, IL 2001738

SALES Advertising Account Manager Sell ad space for Church bulletins. Salary, expenses, commission PLUS benefits. Reply: Recruiting@jspaluch.com www.jspaluch.com

COLUMNISTS

DAILY READINGS SECOND WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Jan. 16 SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Is 62: 1-5 Ps 96: 1-3, 7-10 1 Cor 12: 4-11 Jn 2: 1-11 Jan. 17 Anthony, abbot 1 Sm 15: 16-23 Ps 50: 8-9, 16b-17, 21, 23 Mk 2: 18-22 Jan. 18 Tuesday 1 Sm 16: 1-13 Ps 89: 20-22, 27-28 Mk 2: 23-28 Jan. 19 Wednesday 1 Sm 17: 32-33, 37, 40-51 Ps 144: 1b, 2, 9-10 Mk 3: 1-6 Jan. 20 Fabian, pope, martyr; Sebastian, martyr 1 Sm 18: 6-9; 19: 1-7 Ps 56: 2-3, 9-13 Mk 3: 7-12 Jan. 21 Agnes, virgin, martyr 1 Sm 24: 3-21 Ps 57: 2-4, 6, 11 Mk 3: 13-19 Jan. 22 Saturday 2 Sm 1: 1-4, 11-12, 19, 23-27 Ps 80: 2-3, 5-7 Mk 3: 20-21

ow that the feast of the Baptism of the Lord is over and another Christmas season is put to rest, I can’t help but sing, “It’s the least wonderful time of the year!” The bright lights and beautiful trees that decorated homes these past few weeks have been put away. I notice more the shortness of daylight hours and the biting cold. My steps have been more halting as I navigate icy patches on sidewalks and in parking lots. And even the coziness and comfort of church are diminished without the poinsettias, wreaths and other festive decorations. As our front-page story this week proclaims: Welcome to Ordinary Time in the church. And what follows this short burst of winter Ordinary Time? Lent. Hoo-boy. Fire up the band. But just when I’m tempted to hibernate until Easter, I remember that each day is a gift from God and a new opportunity to transform

Live a life less ordinary MARK MY WORDS

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

the ordinary into the extraordinary. And oddly enough, that usually happens not in a grand fashion, but in small, everyday gestures, as this story, told by a mom and recent college graduate, illustrates: The last course she had to take was sociology, taught by an inspirational professor. The final project of the class was simply to smile at three people and document their reaction. The mom, being a friendly person by nature, thought the

assignment would be a piece of cake. Soon after, she visited a McDonald’s with her husband and 3-year-old child. While standing in line waiting to place their order, suddenly everyone, including the woman’s husband and child, backed away. She felt glued to her spot as a sense of panic overwhelmed her. Slowly, she turned around and was repulsed by the powerful smell of body odor coming from two homeless men standing by her. As the woman looked down at the shorter gentleman, he smiled, and his beautiful sky-blue eyes were full of light as he searched for acceptance. He said, “Good day,”

c. 251-356 Associated with the beginnings of monasticism, Anthony gave his inherited lands and wealth in Egypt to the poor. From the age of about 20 until his death at 105, he lived as a hermit in remote hilltop and desert locations. What is known about him comes from a life written by St. Athanasius of Alexandria. Around 306, he began to accept disciples, founding his first monastery as a collection of hermits’ cells. He cultivated a garden, wove rush mats, and fought many temptations and demons. Visitors sought his wise counsel, collected in the sayings of the “desert fathers,” and the bishops of Alexandria summoned him at age 87 to help refute Arianism. He is the patron of basket and brush makers, butchers and gravediggers.

as he counted the coins he was clutching. The second man fumbled with his hands as he stood behind his friend. He appeared to be mentally challenged, and the blue-eyed man was his salvation. The cashier asked for their order and the shorter man said, “Coffee is all, Miss.” They had to purchase something if they wanted to sit in the restaurant and warm up. The woman was overcome with emotion and wanted to reach out and hug the short man with the blue eyes. She soon became aware that every eye in the place focused on her, wondering what she would do. She smiled and asked the girl behind the counter for two more breakfast meals on a separate tray. Then, she walked to the corner table where the two homeless men were huddled. The woman placed the tray on the table and put her hand on the shorter man’s cold hand. He looked up and, with tears in his

eyes, said, “Thank you so much.” At a loss for words, she patted the man’s hand and went to join her husband and son. Flashing a huge smile, the husband said, “That’s why God gave you to me, honey, to give me hope.” (Adapted from a story in Meir Liraz’s “Top 100 Motivational Stories.”) These cold months ahead can be extraordinary if we have the courage to be messengers of hope and bring the warmth of God’s love into the world. Yes, it can be as simple as treating homeless people with respect or giving a friendly wave to a stranger. Checking in by phone or email with an elderly neighbor or relative can brighten their day. From scraping off the ice on your spouse’s car to surprising someone with a home-cooked meal, there is no limit to the ways these ordinary days can be transformed into something special. Wow, I finished this column ahead of time. Now, that’s something extraordinary!

Scripture’s descriptions of God give us insights into his love

T Anthony of Egypt

JANUARY 14, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG

he Bible contains tender images of God. God speaks of himself as a father who picks up a small child and brings her to his cheek or bends down to give her something to eat (Hos 11:1-4). God, the psalmist indicates, is like a nursing mother (Ps 131:2). The comparisons give us a sense of the gentleness of God. We are invited to rest in his care as contentedly as a baby rests on a mom’s lap after nursing — and getting burped. The tone of the imagery shifts considerably in Sunday’s first reading. God says that in his love for us,

KEVIN PERROTTA Perrotta is the editor and an author of the “Six Weeks with the Bible” series, teaches part time at Siena Heights University and leads Holy Land pilgrimages. He lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan.

he is like a young man getting married: “As a bridegroom rejoices in his bride, so shall your

God rejoice in you” (Is 62:5). Gentle care but also something much more is being symbolized here, as any man who has stood at the altar and exchanged vows with a woman can testify. And not all of the “something more” is as easy to connect with God as images of fathering and mothering. No two men have the same identical experience, but I’m

pretty sure that my feelings of triumph, relief, awe and desire at my wedding were in the normal range: “This is finally happening! She is actually going through with this!” I also felt something deeper than exultation, something hard to articulate — a kind of seriousness. The prospect of going through life with this amazing woman was delightful beyond words, but it made me quiet: “This is too great a gift to comprehend.” To receive the gift, I was pledging my life. (I must have looked solemn indeed. Afterward, Louise asked me if I had been troubled about something.)

If such a collision of feelings is experienced by a groom who rejoices in his bride, how can the groom be an image of God in his love for us? Does God feel needy, desirous, triumphant, relieved, expectant, thankful? Does God get quiet at the thought of having us with him forever? Every biblical image of God is more unlike God than like him, but the images do give us insights into him. By comparing himself to a groom at a wedding, God leads us to see something about the depth and power of his love for us. His love is like a groom’s, only infinitely more so. The image is food for thought — and prayer.

In World Sick Day message, pope says progress must never trump care VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Although scientists have made great strides in the field of medicine, genuine care and listening to those who suffer must always be at the forefront of any therapy, Pope Francis said. “Patients are always more important than their diseases, and for this reason, no therapeutic approach can disregard listening to the patient, his or her history, anxieties and fears,” the pope wrote

in his message for the 2022 World Day of the Sick, which the Catholic Church marks Feb. 11, the feast of Our Lady of Lourdes. Care that respects each patient’s “dignity and frailties” is especially needed when “healing is not possible,” he added. “It is always possible to console; it is always possible to make people sense a closeness that is more interested in the person than in his or her pathology. For this reason,

I would hope that the training provided to health workers might enable them to develop a capacity for listening and relating to others,” Pope Francis wrote in his message, which was released by the Vatican Jan. 4. Reflecting on Christ’s call in Luke 6:36 to “be merciful,” Pope Francis focused on the need to accompany those who suffer “on a path of charity.”

COLUMNISTS

JANUARY 14, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Join us in Topeka this Jan. 25 as we march for life

he year 2022 will be an important year for Respect Life efforts. As Archbishop Joseph Naumann stated in his Dec. 17 “The Shepherd’s Voice” “Pro-Life Marches On” podcast conversation, “This is a time of great opportunity but also great peril.” It is good that we have the national and Kansas marches for life at the year’s start to highlight what’s at stake. Every January, we observe a National Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children to recognize the injustice and tragedy of the 49th anniversary of Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion across our country. At the national

LIFE MATTERS

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

level, thousands will march in D.C. under the theme “Equality begins in the womb,” with the hopeful possibility that through the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Organization case, Roe could finally be overturned. Since overturning

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Roe would return regulation of abortion to the states, the importance of Kansas having our pro-life protections in order is heightened. Unfortunately, however, all of our protections are now under threat. Since a 2019 Kansas Supreme Court ruling, our 20-plus, commonsense, well-supported laws that protect the unborn and women in crisis pregnancy from a predatory abortion

industry are now presumed unconstitutional. In fact, some have already been overturned. In 2019, the ban on “dismemberment abortion” was overturned. In December, a district court judge struck down the 2011 Abortion Facility Sanitation and Safety Law that required protections for women’s health and safety through basic abortion facility inspection, licensing and sanitation standards. Women deserve so much better! Parental notification laws and late-term abortion bans are also at risk. We must protect Kansas women and unborn children from unlimited and unregulated abortion up to the moment of birth. In his wisdom, God has given us the Nativity

story and the example of St. Joseph to know what to do in a perilous time such as this. As an unwed pregnant girl, Mary faced overwhelming challenges that equal or exceed what many pregnant women face today. Joseph also certainly felt immense stress due to her untimely pregnancy. Instead of turning his back, Joseph defended Mary’s dignity and protected her and the unborn child through a long and difficult journey to Bethlehem. Joseph trusted that God would provide. This instance of heroic perseverance by an imperfect parent was rewarded. God turned a time of struggle into grace for all mankind through the birth of our Savior. Following Joseph’s

example, we must protect the precious gift of life and support women facing difficult pregnancies. We must value them both. On Jan. 25, join us in Topeka to pray and march for the passage of the “Value Them Both” Kansas constitutional amendment, which will protect both women and unborn children from the abortion industry. Though it does not ban abortion, it will save our existing pro-life laws and once again allow Kansans to limit and regulate the abortion industry while supporting moms with love. A time of potential peril? Yes, but also a time of great hope. St. Joseph, pray for us. Go online to: www. archkck.org/prolife for more information.

JANUARY 14, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Pray not so God will hear you, but so that you will hear God By Catherine Upchurch Special to The Leaven

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION OR DISCUSSION

nyone who has been around children knows how persistent they can be — asking “why” until they receive a satisfactory answer, insisting on just one more story before bedtime and asking for their favorite snack until we give in. We can teach a child to persist when tasks are challenging and praise them for the perseverance they exhibit in learning a new skill. Persistence is a valuable asset for disciples of Jesus as well — not simply because of its value as a practical matter but because of its value in growing spiritually. When Jesus was teaching his followers about prayer, he shared a parable about a man who went at midnight to ask a neighbor for three loaves of bread to share with a weary traveler (Lk 11:5-8). Naturally, the neighbor calls out that his entire family is in bed and he cannot help him. But Jesus, knowing human nature, says, “If he does not get up to give him the loaves because of their friendship, he will get up to give him whatever he needs because of his persistence.” When we feel the door is locked and God is not answering, we are called to persist. Similarly, in another collection of parables, Jesus tells a story to teach his followers to pray always without becoming weary. In this story, a local judge who was known for his sense of self-importance comes up against a widow who demands he render a judgment on her behalf (Lk 18:1-8). Not prone to exercise his duty, the judge finally gives in to her request because she “keeps bothering” him. Jesus concludes, “Will not God then secure the rights of his chosen ones who call out to him day and night?” The man who wanted to borrow bread from his neighbor was not asking for himself but was anxious to fulfill a requirement of hospitality for a weary traveler who arrived in the dark of night. The woman who pestered the judge was seeking justice in a realworld situation.

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How have persistence and perseverance “paid off” in your day-to-day life experiences? How has this kind of “stick-to-it” attitude also been beneficial in your spiritual life?

Faithful Grant me, O Lord my God, a mind to know you, a heart to seek you, wisdom to find you, conduct pleasing to you, faithful perseverance in waiting for you and a hope of finally embracing you. Amen. — St. Thomas Aquinas

Sometimes in prayer, we cry out to God thinking we know just what we need and just how it should be delivered. But being persistent in prayer allows us to move from getting what we want to what God wants. Many of the psalms reveal this kind of progression that is the result of persevering in dialogue with God. As an example, many of the psalms that begin in anger with one’s enemies end with confidence in God’s care. The focus shifts from external concerns that are beyond our power (for example, demanding punishment for enemies) to internal trust and a desire for wholeness. In the prayer that Jesus taught his followers (Mt 6:9-15 and Lk 11:1-4), what we usually call the Lord’s Prayer, we say, “Thy will be done on earth as in heaven.” The effect of repeatedly praying these

words and focusing on our daily bread, forgiveness and deliverance from evil, is like water washing over a landscape in torrents. Eventually, that landscape begins to change and a riverbed emerges. In the same way, persistently praying for God’s will to be done, and then recounting what that means, begins to change the landscape of our lives. Such perseverance provides the opportunity to fine-tune what we believe we need, and to adjust our priorities in the process. Sometimes, we pray thinking that the point is for God to hear us, but perhaps the best result of persistence in prayer is that we learn to hear God. We learn the value of showing up and waiting for God’s voice. We learn to sit with God as we would with a friend, and to be comfortable in silence as well as in dialogue. Eventually, we

Some of what we pray about amounts to carrying our burdens or the burdens of others into the presence of God. For what other reasons do you come into God’s presence?

In your own practice of prayer, do you consider yourself persistent? If not, what experiences or distractions frustrate your efforts to persevere?

People often speak of dry spells in prayer. Even the saints acknowledge that they do not always “feel” God’s presence. How do you manage to persist when prayer does not always feel rewarding?

learn to recognize the ways of God and the patterns of God’s action in our world and in our lives. Catherine Upchurch is the general editor of the Little Rock Catholic Study Bible and contributes to several biblical publications. She writes from Fort Smith, Arkansas.

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