01 28 22 Vol. 43 No. 24

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 43, NO. 24 | JANUARY 28, 2022

A MARCH TO REMEMBER Photographer shares eye-opening experience in first March for Life Story and Photos by Kathryn White

From left, St. Thomas Aquinas, Overland Park, students Aubrey Berger, Anna Przybylski, Anna Borchert, Mary Sanchez and Thomas Kluck cheer for Father Mike Schmitz, one of the speakers at a rally before the march. Father Schmitz, a priest of the Diocese of Duluth, Minnesota, is a popular Catholic speaker and author and is the host of “Bible in a Year” podcast.

Mary Sharpnack, a senior at St. James Academy in Lenexa, proudly holds up her “I am the post-Roe generation” sign as she marches with her classmates up Constitution Avenue to the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court.

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ASHINGTON, D.C. — Surprisingly, in all my years serving in ministry, I had never attended the national march in Washington, D.C. So when the opportunity came to travel with the archdiocese as The Leaven’s photographer this year, I couldn’t say no.

Traveling across the country in a bus stuffed shoulder-to-shoulder with teenagers is not for the faint of heart.

It was crowded, uncomfortable and, if I am being honest, a little smelly.

But every ache, pain, smell, frozen finger and toe, every icky bathroom at random gas stations on the way, all the sleeplessness, was offered as a sacrifice for children who never got the luxury of it all.

This was a pilgrimage. We prayed and we persevered.

During the days of our pilgrimage and march, I jumped in with as many groups from our archdiocese as I could. It was amazing chatting up the teens and finding out their reasons for coming to this event in a world where they could be Snapchatting,

chilling and staying in the comfort of their own homes during these cold January days.

The theme for this year’s march was: “​Equality Begins in the Womb” and in my interaction with the teens on this trip I could see that they truly believed that.

Margaret Ledom, a sophomore from Hayden High School in Topeka, shared views that were similar to most.

“I came to the March for Life to take a stand on my beliefs toward abortion,” she said. “I wanted to be a

part of something impactful that had the ability to change policies for the lives of the unborn.”

When we set out to march, it was a bitter 20-something degrees, but our hearts were warm with intent.

Witnessing the young people around me cheer for Katie Shaw, a 37-year-old pro-life advocate from Indianapolis who has Down syndrome, I was overtaken with emotion. By lobbying for state legislation and speaking with her legislators, Shaw >> See “EVERY” on page 8

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ARCHBISHOP

JANUARY 28, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG

We have much to celebrate this coming Catholic Schools Week

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n Tuesday, Jan. 18, I celebrated Mass and had dinner at my residence with our Catholic high school presidents and principals. I enjoyed the evening and was edified by the faith and talent of those entrusted with the leadership of our Catholic high schools.

The continuance of COVID impacting our society has made this a challenging year for everyone, but especially for school leaders.

I was very impressed by the commitment of our high school leaders to keeping our students and families safe, but also to working diligently to allow our students to receive in-person learning and to experience, as much as possible, a vibrant school community.

Beginning Sunday, Jan. 30, we observe National Catholic Schools Week. This year’s theme is “Faith — Excellence — Service.” Faith must be the foundation for Catholic education. The primary goal of our schools is to facilitate an environment where every student fosters a relationship with God who has revealed himself to humanity in Jesus Christ.

Sometimes, our Catholic schools are criticized for the success of our athletic teams. Some even accuse our schools of recruiting star athletes to give Catholic schools an edge in sports.

Catholic schools do have an edge. However, it has nothing to do with recruiting athletes.

If we form students well in the faith, then they have an extra motivation on the athletic field, in choir, on the stage and in the classroom. This motivation comes from seeking to maximize the use of the gifts Our Lord has entrusted to them as a means to honor God! Over the Christmas holidays, I read a book entitled “Heroism and Genius: How Catholic Priests Helped Build —

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN and Can Help Rebuild — Western Civilization” by Father William J. Slattery.

During the Middle Ages with the leadership of Charlemagne and his priest counselor Alcuin, Father Slattery asserts that the Catholic Church made education accessible to many (regardless of class or wealth) through monastic and parochial schools. The Catholic Church also played an essential role in the development of the university and higher education in Western society.

Why did the scientific method and technology advance very rapidly in Western culture, rather than in more ancient and in many ways more advanced societies?

Christianity, building upon its Jewish heritage, is convinced that the complexity, order and beauty of the natural world are reflections of the Creator and the fruit of divine intelligence. Therefore, the physical world is understandable and predictable. Catholicism affirms that faith and reason are partners in pursuing truth.

One of the founding principles of the American experiment of a democratic republic was a nation without an established religion.

Though our Founders were overwhelmingly men of faith, the vast majority Christian, they were committed to a nation that did not impose any particular

religious belief upon its citizens but rather protected the religious freedom of everyone.

There was a time when our public schools unofficially supported and promoted a Protestant Christian worldview. This is one of the principal reasons that the 19thcentury U.S. Catholic bishops became committed to creating a robust Catholic parochial school system.

In an effort to correct this misuse of public education, during the mid-20th century, the federal courts attempted to remove all religious expression from government schools. Public schools were to provide a purely secular education to students, allowing parents to provide religious formation to their children.

While this seemed like a prudent and acceptable solution, it has become abundantly clear over time that while you can eliminate religious expression from schools, it does not remove all ideology.

Secularism has its own belief system.

Government schools more and more are being used to advance ideological agendas that include approval of sexual intimacy outside of marriage, and promote contraception, abortion, gender theory, a conflict between faith and science, forms of Marxism, nihilism, hedonism, etc.

This is not to deny that there are many, many excellent and virtuous public education teachers and administrators. There are many public schools

and school districts that work hard to attempt to keep many of these ideologies out of their schools.

However, the current leadership of the U.S. Department of Education supports most, if not all, of these ideologies. These ideologies have been embedded for decades in many of the education departments of major universities.

Do students need to learn about some of the flaws of our Founders and tragic mistakes of our nation’s history?

Yes! However, they also need to learn why people from around the world still desperately seek to come to the United States.

What has made our nation great, despite the frailty of its citizens and leaders? What makes the United States remain a beacon of hope for so many who have experienced oppression and economic poverty in their native lands?

The COVID pandemic opened the eyes of many parents, as they viewed the virtual education of their children. We need reform of public education. School choice can help to accelerate such reform.

During the 10 years of my priesthood, while serving in primarily African-American communities, I asked Catholic as well as non-Catholic parents how the Catholic Church could best serve and assist the community.

The most frequent response was: “Keep your schools open in our neighborhoods.”

Many non-Catholic parents realized that our parochial schools were the best opportunity for their children to climb out of the cycle of poverty.

During the pandemic, many non-Catholics gained an appreciation for our Catholic schools that, for the most part, remained open when many government schools offered only virtual education.

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR Jan. 27-30 Legatus Summit Easter — Amelia Island, Florida Jan. 31 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording — chancery Feb. 1 Administrative Team meeting — chancery Feb. 2 Mass — Hayden High School, Topeka Listening session — St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center, Lawrence Feb. 3 Adoration — Bishop Miege High School, Roeland Park Feb. 4 SEEK22 (SEEK conference/FOCUS) Feb. 5 Blessing of the new Nativity House Feb. 7-9 National Catholic Bioethics Center bishops’ retreat — Dallas Feb. 10-11 Jesus Caritas — Savior Pastoral Center Feb. 12 White Mass — Our Lady of Good Counsel, Kansas City, Missouri Feb. 13 World Marriage Day Mass and reception — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park

Many took note of the zeal and dedication of our Catholic school presidents, principals and teachers that kept in-person education available to our students.

Parents also became more aware of some of the indoctrination that occurs with public schools. While government schools have been meticulous in preventing any attempts at Christian evangelization of students, they seem oblivious to the propagandizing of students to secularism and in its many daughter ideologies.

Sadly, Catholic schools are not geographically accessible to everyone. No matter; parents are the first teachers of their children in faith, morality and virtue. Our Catholic schools are intended to be a support, not a

replacement, for Catholic parents.

Our parish schools of religion are also there to support parents in the religious and moral formation of their children.

During Catholic Schools Week, let us give thanks for Catholic school teachers and school of religion catechists.

My mother never attended a Catholic school until she went to college as an adult.

She was by far the most influential teacher of the Catholic faith for me. I pray for all Catholic parents that they cherish the role and responsibility of being the first and most influential formators of their children in the faith.

Our parishes are eager to help them in this awesome and most important responsibility.

LOCAL NEWS

JANUARY 28, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

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Longtime emcee — a familiar face across archdiocese — dies

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

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LEAVEN FILE PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

Msgr. Gary Applegate was the longtime master of ceremonies. His job in that role was to make sure things flowed smoothly during complicated liturgies with the archbishop. Above, he directs then-deacon Daniel Coronado during the 2017 Chrism Mass. Msgr. Applegate died Jan. 15.

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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Behind every man who becomes a priest is someone who was a friend, mentor and role model. For Father Anthony Saiki, that someone was Msgr.

Gary Applegate.

Father Saiki met Msgr. Applegate when he was about 11 years old in St. Marys and again when his family moved to Topeka.

“He remembered me,” said Father Saiki, rector of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas, and a master of ceremonies. “He asked me if I ever thought about being a priest. I told him I had, and he was very excited and supportive. He told me to pray about it.”

Msgr. Applegate encouraged him all the way through the seminary, but Father Saiki wasn’t the only one. He did the same for all the seminarians.

“There will never be another Msgr.

Applegate,” said Father Saiki. “He was a unique man, so full of love for the church, so full of dedication to the archdiocese. . . . He was very dedicated and generous. He spent himself entirely as a priest to God and his people.”

Msgr. Gary Paul Applegate, 70, died from Alzheimer’s disease on Jan. 15 at Villa St. Francis in Olathe. He was a priest for 40 years.

He was born on May 11, 1951, in Macon, Missouri, the oldest of two children of Eleanor Augusta (Danner) Applegate and Bobby J. Applegate. The family moved to Sacramento, California, and then Chillicothe, Missouri, where they belonged to St. Columban Parish.

Gary and his sister Teresa attended Bishop Hogan Memorial School, and Gary graduated from Chillicothe High School in 1969. While growing up, Gary was an altar server at the parish, and that experience led to a lifelong interest in liturgy and early desire to become a priest. He was an avid reader of books about religion, history and science.

“Gary had a quick, fantastic wit,” said his sister, Teresa Olney. “He enjoyed model trains and putting together any kind of model. He was meticulous about it.”

He entered Benedictine College in Atchison and graduated with a bachelor’s degree in 1973. In September 1976, he entered St. Thomas Seminary in Denver and received a master’s of divinity degree in May 1981. His major field of study was canon law. He spent his pastoral internship at St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee.

Father Applegate was one of six men who were ordained to the priesthood in 1981 by Archbishop Ignatius J. Strecker. His ordination took place on May 25, 1981, at St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee. His first assignment was as associate pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas.

Father Bruce Ansems, pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in Louisburg, spent two summers with Msgr.

Applegate as a seminarian. He’s a former master of ceremonies and current coadjutant judicial vicar.

“Monsignor had a gruff way about

Pastoral assignments

GARY HAD A QUICK, FANTASTIC WIT. HE ENJOYED MODEL TRAINS AND PUTTING TOGETHER ANY KIND OF MODEL. HE WAS METICULOUS ABOUT IT.

• 1981: Associate pastor at St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas • 1984: Associate pastor at Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park • 1987: Associate pastor at St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee • 1991: Chaplain at Providence-St. Margaret Hospital and Providence Place • 1991: Pastor at Annunciation Parish in Frankfort, St. Elizabeth Parish in Blue Rapids and St. Monica Parish in Waterville • 1993: Pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Nortonville and Immaculate Conception Parish in Valley Falls • 1994: Studied at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C., and received a licentiate (JCL) in canon law • 1996: Administrator of St. Paul Parish in Olathe • 1997: Administrator of St. Casimir Parish and Sacred Heart Parish in Leavenworth • 2001: Master of ceremonies for Archbishop James P. Keleher • 2003: Rector of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas • 2004: Pastor of Sts. Cyril and Methodius Parish in Kansas City, Kansas • 2005: Named Monsignor, Chaplain of His Holiness • 2008: Judicial vicar of the archdiocesan tribunal, director of the office of the permanent diaconate, master of ceremonies and assisted at the Church of the Nativity in Leawood • 2009: Parochial administrator of Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee • 2010: Administrator of Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood • 2016: Parochial administrator of Holy Name Parish in Kansas City, Kansas • 2018: Diocesan judge, sacramental assistance at Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park • 2020: Retired

TERESA OLNEY MSGR. APPLEGATE’S SISTER

him, but he genuinely wanted people to grow in and learn about their faith,” he said.

Msgr. Applegate was a good preacher and was especially gifted with funeral homilies. He could tie in the saint of the day or a quote from the saint with the deceased’s life and the Catholic faith.

Two things especially demonstrated the monsignor’s intelligence and adaptability, said Father Ansems. The first was being a master of ceremonies.

It was his job to makes sure things flowed smoothly during complicated liturgies and under varying conditions at different parishes. The second was how he filled in as a pastoral administrator at various parishes.

Moreover, he made history when Archbishop James P. Keleher asked him to establish the permanent diaconate program.

“Msgr. Applegate started the diaconate program from scratch with little more than a newly published guidebook, a brilliant mind and a lot of determination,” said Deacon Jim Lavin, of the first group to be ordained in 2011.

“He was under a lot of pressure to succeed. . . . If he didn’t provide us with a

strong formation . . . I’m convinced our first cohort would have been the last cohort.”

“I considered him not only as a mentor, but as a man of faith, which he instilled in each of us. His contribution to the permanent diaconate will be appreciated for years to come,” said Deacon George Karnaze, also of the first group.

In Msgr. Applegate’s funeral homily, Father John Riley, archdiocesan chancellor and vicar general, quoted a friend of the monsignor who observed that his gruffness and efforts to play the curmudgeon were “a thin veneer to his warm heart and genuine love of others and the church.”

“While he continued to rib people 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.

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

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

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

throughout his priestly ministry, though, sadly, many persons did not get that his antics in sharply saying this or that sprang from a desire to show that he did, indeed, notice you and like you . . . and you mattered,” said Father Riley.

Msgr. Applegate was preceded in death by his parents, grandparents, aunts and uncles. He is survived by his sister Teresa, nephews, nieces and great-nephews and great-nieces.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Jan. 22 at the Cathedral of St. Peter. Burial was at St. Columban Cemetery in Chillicothe, Missouri.

Funeral arrangements were by Porter Funeral Home in Kansas City, Kansas.

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

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LOCAL NEWS

JANUARY 28, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Cantors pair up to produce album of spiritual comfort

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

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VERLAND PARK — Nearly two years ago, Mark Fortino and Sarah McEnerney Boal were singing to an empty congregation at Church of the Ascension here.

Catholics participating in the parish’s Masses via livestream took comfort in the hymns they sang while churches in the archdiocese were closed due to COVID-19.

Now, the duo’s voices are echoing through countless speakers around the country thanks to their album “Come to Jesus.”

“We’re all sinners, but we’re called to Christ,” said Fortino. “And when you seek Christ in your life, all of your problems truly do go away.

“You can really cope with any issue as long as you know that you’re not alone.”

The 13 songs that make up “Come to Jesus” were professionally recorded and mastered in Nashville, Tennessee.

The album is available to purchase as a digital copy or physical CD. “People ask, ‘Why do you make a recording?’” said Fortino. “I think the biggest thing is it enables your music ministry to go beyond the walls of the church.”

Boal said the album’s release is timely.

“In a time of such division and isolation,” she said, “I hope this has reached across all of that and speaks to everyone who hears it.”

The duo had help from Dorothy Brandwein, music director at Ascension, who played piano for the album.

“When you listen to the intensity in the keys and the intensity in the music that she puts into it, it’s amazingly musical and inspirational,” said Fortino.

Destiny Mermagen and her husband Michael also played a critical role, providing violin and cello arrangements, respectively.

“I was almost in tears as they were laying their tracks down,” said Fortino.

“They came up with all original arrangements.

“You’ll never hear any of these songs done this way in any other recording.”

The project was funded by Fortino, and all profits made are going toward the making of more “Come to Jesus” CDs to distribute to various organizations, including Catholic Charities.

Fortino said the album was inspired by his aunt Chris Kastler and Msgr.

Charles McGlinn, a priest of the archdiocese. Both passed away within the past two years.

PHOTO BY SHAYLYNN RACKERS

Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, parishioners Mark Fortino and Sarah McEnerney Boal, above, have released the album “Come to Jesus.” The duo had help from Dorothy Brandwein on piano, and Destiny and Michael Mermagen, who provided violin and cello arrangements, respectively.

Listen to the album “Come to Jesus” can be purchased online at: in-tuneproductions.com or at Trinity House in Overland Park.

The album can also be found on all major streaming services — including Apple Music, iTunes, Pandora and Spotify — by searching “Come to Jesus Fortino.”

Msgr. McGlinn “was always a lover of music,” said Fortino.

“He believed in the power of music in the liturgy and what it can do to bring people closer to Christ and really inspire

people,” he said.

Fortino’s aunt was also passionate about music, playing the organ from the age of 11 on, mostly at St. Mary Church in Joplin, Missouri. “[She was] this vibrant woman, loved by so many, and a real leader in the music ministry at St. Mary’s,” said Fortino.

The influence Kastler and Msgr. McGlinn had on “Come to Jesus” is clear. The album is already inspiring many.

Msgr. Tom Tank, senior associate pastor at Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park, called it “a magnificent collection of uplifting, inspirational hymns.”

“It is that wonderful power of music that soothes our spirits and renews our hope,” he said.

The feedback Fortino and Boal have received has been gratifying.

“When people are experiencing difficult moments in their lives — and there’s so much of it right now — these songs . . . bring comfort,” said Fortino. “A lot of people are longing for that right now.

And that’s why we do it.”

Dynamic duo Fortino and Boal have a long history of cantoring in the archdiocese.

Fortino was the assistant choir direc-

tor at Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood for 25 years before he and his family joined Ascension in 2013.

Boal started out at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood when the parish was founded. Over the years, she’s shared her talent at countless archdiocesan and parish events.

“The expression of music for me has always been my ministry,” she said.

“That’s the way I know how to give back.”

In 2013, Mary Ann Caffrey requested that Boal and Fortino sing at a funeral at Church of the Nativity in Leawood, and their musical chemistry was undeniable.

Now that both are parishioners at Ascension, they sing together regularly.

Boal said that their ministry is more important than ever, and that their songs have been “healing” and “comforting” to many.

“The fact that we can be there to provide any kind of comfort whatsoever — that is an amazing blessing for us,” she said.

The duo hopes “Come to Jesus” will be a source of hope for all who listen.

“Christ is passing by,” said Fortino.

“He’s right there. All you have to do is wake up and see it.

“When you recognize it, all of your troubles [and] all of your pain can be taken away.”

Looking for a way to celebrate your marriage next month?

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Years ago, Deacon Tony Zimmerman and his wife Barbara used to go to a pizza restaurant close to their home. It had a sign on the wall that read: “Marriage is a three-ring circus — engagement ring, wedding ring and suffering.”

Yes . . . very amusing.

Actually, marriage isn’t like that at all if it’s done right, said Deacon Zimmerman, lead consultant of the archdiocesan office of marriage and family life.

That’s why the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, in conjunction with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, is observing National Marriage Week from

Feb. 7-14, and World Marriage Day on Feb. 13.

The archdiocesan office of marriage and family life will host a World Marriage Day Mass celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, followed by a reception, at 11:45 a.m. on Feb. 13 at the Church of the Ascension, 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park. No registration is required and all are welcome to attend.

For those adventurous couples who want an in-person experience, there will be the “Evermore in Love” marriage immersion retreat, which will be held Feb. 5-6 at Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee. The cost is $50 per couple with a promo code. For information and to register, send an email to: Charlene.

Mies@shoj.org. Non-parishioners are welcome to attend.

The theme of the week and the day

is: “Called to the Joy of Love.”

“We invite families and couples to come [to the Mass] and focus on the joy and fulfillment that is to be found in marriage,” said Deacon Zimmerman.

“During the reception, couples will have a chance to meet other couples who also love marriage.”

Even in the best of times, not everyone in the archdiocese can go to the archdiocesan marriage Mass, so materials on how to celebrate marriage have been sent to parishes, said Deacon Zimmerman.

For more local events and resources, go online to: archkck.org/familylife.

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops is also offering several online resources — live-streamed events, podcasts and more — at this website: foryourmarriage.org.

The archdiocesan office of marriage and family life will host a World Marriage Day Mass, followed by a reception, at 11:45 a.m. on Feb. 13 at Church of the Ascension, Overland Park.

JANUARY 28, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

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PHOTO BY SHAYLYNN RACKERS

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and John Goehausen, a member of Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood, share a light moment at the 48th annual Snow Ball on Jan. 15.

A SNOWBALL OF FUN

48th annual Snow Ball raises $3.7 million

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

Save the date

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VERLAND PARK —“Welcome to my 17th anniversary party,” Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann joked at the 48th annual Snow Ball fundraiser for Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas.

The date of the event, Jan. 15, coincided exactly with the date he was installed as archbishop of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, in 2005.

The archbishop said his time serving this archdiocese has been “an amazing experience,” in part because of the generous Catholics who make the work of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas possible.

He also noted the many different faith traditions represented at the Snow Ball.

“I want to thank many here tonight who are not Catholics but join in our annual effort to help the poor of our community,” he said. “You help equip Catholic Charities to make the love of God known.”

The event took place at the Overland Park Convention Center. In her opening remarks, Catholic Charities president and CEO Lauren Solidum congratulated Archbishop Naumann and thanked him for his support over the last 17 years.

She also recognized staff and volunteers who have worked hard, especially

At Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas, 91 cents of every dollar raised supports over 20 programs helping those in need. Be a part of the solution by attending next year’s 49th annual Snow Ball on Jan. 21, 2023. For more information or to make a donation, visit the website at: catholiccharitiesks.org.

PHOTO BY SHAYLYNN RACKERS

Lost Wax Band vocalist Anthony Saunders entertains the crowd at the annual Snow Ball held at the Overland Park Convention Center. during the pandemic, to make sure help was always available to those in need.

“Your dedication to the mission has allowed our doors to remain open during the most challenging time in our 65-year history,” she said. “You are vibrant examples of the hands and feet of Jesus Christ.”

Solidum highlighted just a few of the accomplishments over the last year: • $2.38 million provided to keep families facing homelessness safely housed

• 225 tons of food distributed to hungry families • a record $1 million in debt reduction for the families served by the Family Financial Transformations program.

Solidum also talked about future plans, including re-envisioning and relocating the men’s transitional living program, Shalom House, to the former Sanctuary of Hope Retreat Center in Kansas City, Kansas.

And she encouraged anyone who is

decluttering to keep in mind the charity’s two future business ventures.

“Complementary to our already successful TurnStyles thrift [stores],” she said, “we will soon provide our community with estate sale and junk removal services.”

Snow Ball presidents Mark and Donna Teahan followed up by announcing the evening’s total donations.

“Snow Ball continues to be a story that has snowballed,” said Mark Teahan. “And tonight, we are thrilled to announce that because of the generosity of all of you and so many more, we have raised more than $3.7 million!”

During the invocation, Archbishop Naumann prayed for all those present and participating virtually in the event.

“I can’t say enough about our staff and volunteers,” he said. “They represent you and me in making the love of Jesus Christ present to so many people in our community.”

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LOCAL NEWS

JANUARY 28, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Outdoor retreat offers men unique opportunity

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Deacon Dana Nearmyer has been on a lot of retreats in his life, but there’s one upcoming that has got him really excited.

He’s going to Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg, with family and friends to get some F.I.R.E. — Fellowship, Inspiration, Renewal and Engagement. Oh yes, and real, actual fire from burning things.

For its eighth year (but only seventh time, because of COVID cancellations), F.I.R.E Ministries will offer an outdoor men’s retreat at the ranch on Feb. 12-13. (See registration information below.)

“I’m excited,” said Deacon Nearmyer, the archdiocesan director of evangelization.

“My son-in-law went to the last retreat [in Feb. 2020], and he had such a good time that he’s been [hounding] my son and [me] to go with him. Some other friends are going, and I’m just excited to spend some time with them. F.I.R.E. does a lot of outdoor activities. It will be anything but boring.”

The retreat delivers fire, both actual and metaphorical.

Father Luke Doyle, associate pastor at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood, will speak on: “My Journey, Your Journey. What’s Your ‘One Thing’?” Dr. Paul Camarata, professor and chair of the Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Kansas Medical Center in Kansas City, Kansas, will speak on what it means to be in the world, but not of the world.

During the two-day retreat, participants will have opportunities for Mass, eucharistic adoration, confession, small

LEAVEN FILE PHOTO BY JOE BOLLIG

Participants of the 2016 F.I.R.E. retreat pause during the torchlit Stations of the Cross. This year’s retreat will be held on Feb. 12-13 at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg. groups and outdoor activities.

The activities will include a flint and steel fire-making exercise, an archery tournament, minefield games, a torch walk to a bonfire (because, you know, fire) and small group watch fires.

Confession will be by campfire in the frigid night.

“If you haven’t gone to confession outdoors by a campfire in February, you really haven’t done confession,” said Harold Bradley, a member of the Church of the Nativity in Leawood, and part of the 2022 F.I.R.E. team.

F.I.R.E. is for all men, but organizers are especially trying to reach young men who’ve fallen away and become indifferent to the faith, and men who are still going to church but are dispirited and find themselves on the fringe of participation.

Like Bradley once was. He was going to church, but his heart wasn’t in the right place.

He went to his first F.I.R.E. retreat reluctantly and hated the idea of interacting with a bunch of guys he didn’t know.

But that didn’t last long.

“The F.I.R.E. retreat helped restore my confidence in the ministries of our church,” said Bradley. “I was upset and angry about a lot of different stuff, and I went to the F.I.R.E. retreat and listened to a bunch of guys just like me who were figuring out how much they needed to do to change things by being involved and engaged.”

“I remember sitting around that campfire with my leader,” he continued, “and I grilled him for 30 minutes . . . about how he had not been involved and what made him reengage

COPYRIGHT © BY CLIFF LEITCH, THE CHRISTIAN BIBLE REFERENCE SITE, WWW.CHRISTIANBIBLEREFERENCE.ORG. USED BY PERMISSION

in the church. . . . He had a massive impact on my faith life.”

F.I.R.E. Ministries has ambitious goals. Not only does it want to engage the discouraged and disengaged, it wants to reconnect fathers and sons — to open the door a crack and let some hope shine on young men who aren’t going to church but might go on an outdoor retreat. That’s why fathers and sons who register together get a discount.

Part of the method is to bring men into the outdoors, an experience that opens hearts to God, and evangelization through friendship – lowkey, authentic interactions leading to genuine friendships in faith.

Hence, the event’s theme: “The Journey is Yours. Come Walk with Your Brothers.”

ACROSS 1 I am the __ and the Omega 6 Talk 10 Adrenocorticotropic hormone 14 Spring flower 15 Tall 16 Traditional knowledge 17 Mental picture 18 Far away 19 Opera solo 20 Tooth 21 Soul 23 Reduced (abbr.)

24 Expression of surprise 26 Purplish color 28 Italian meal 32 7 days 33 Ripen 34 Engraved 36 Reserve Officers Training Corps.

40 Fence opening 42 Caesar’s three 43 Manner 44 Id’s counterparts 45 One of the apostles 48 Flee 49 Acting (abbr.)

51 Palestinian body of water 53 Monetary unit 56 Caustic substance

“We now have 18 parishes represented,” said Bradley, “and five people who are unaffiliated. To me, unaffiliated means they’re coming to engage and reengage, and it’s an opportunity to come back to the sacraments with us.”

The latter point is very important, according to Bradley.

The F.I.R.E. organizers conducted a survey and found that a lot of men in archdiocesan parishes didn’t know anything about F.I.R.E. retreats. To reach more men all over the archdiocese, they’ve asked pastors to publicize the retreat, have engaged on social media and have sent volunteers to hand out information at more than a dozen parishes.

“F.I.R.E. has been attended [in the past] by men from a small swath of parishes,” said Deacon Nearmyer. “We believe the culture really needs men to step up and own their faith and be virtuous leaders in the families and communities.”

“We need an overnight retreat that appeals to men,” he concluded. “We have Men Under Construction, which is phenomenal as a daylong experience, but for an overnight experience, F.I.R.E. is a gift the whole archdiocese hasn’t experienced yet. . . . We really want the entire archdiocese to feel like they are welcome.”

The cost to attend is $138.38 (price includes a service fee).

For the father and son 25% discount, use coupon code “Father & Sons 2022.” Send an email to F.I.R.E. Ministries for financial help if the cost is too high for you or a family member.

For information or to register, go online to: fire-ministriesretreat.org, or send an email to: fire.ministries@gmail.com.

57 Telegraphic signal 58 Smells 62 American Civil Liberties Union (abbr.)

66 Bulb flower 68 Object of false worship 69 Hurts 70 It __ Upon a Midnight Clear...

71 A Roman emperor 72 Gives temporarily 73 KJV pronoun 74 Match 75 A witch lived here DOWN 1 First letter of the Arabic alphabet 2 Capital of Peru 3 Design 4 OT book of prophecy 5 Whiz 6 Fellow 7 Audio-system 8 Seaweed substance 9 Boomed 10 Wing 11 Pink 12 Group of related families 13 Biblical seat of emotions 21 You are the __ of the earth

22 25 27 28 29 30 31 32 35 37 38 39 41 45 46 47 50 52 53 54 55 59 60 61 63 64 65 67 69

Fasten Garden tool Vegetable Anger A king of the Amalekites Vote against Cake topping Strange Concealed Not yours Accurate Jesus turned water into wine here Twin brother of Jacob Making amends Snaky fish Path Discs Biblical church servant Decree Wife of Abraham Ding Belief Make Ice sheet African country Comedian Jay Russia Perceive Brew

Solution on page 16

JANUARY 28, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

7

Louisburg parishioner honored for service to deaf community

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — For years, Pat Richey did her annual duty like clockwork.

It was her responsibility to get an award plaque engraved at Murphy Trophy and Engraving in Olathe, take it to wherever the National Catholic Office for the Deaf was holding its annual conference and hand it off to the NCOD board.

And every year, Richey would watch as a deserving colleague received the Father David Walsh Pastoral Worker of the Year award.

“Every year, I come to this conference and I’m so excited,” said Richey.

“I wait to hear who’s going to win. And I look out over the members, they make the announcement and I think ‘Oh, yes, that was a good choice,’” said Richey.

This year, however, there was a glitch.

When the first of December rolled around, she was still waiting to get the name of the winner from Joan Macy, board president of the NCOD. Finally, Richey called Macy.

“I’ll take care of the award this year,” said Macy. “You’re too busy. Don’t worry about it.”

“No,” said Richey, “It’s not too much.

I do this every year. This is one of the things I do. Just give me the name.”

Back and forth they went.

Finally, Macy spilled the beans.

“Well, when you get the name for

COURTESY PHOTO

Pat Richey (center) was presented the Father David Walsh Pastoral Worker of the Year Award at the National Catholic Office for the Deaf annual conference, held in Savannah, Georgia, in January.

Also pictured are, from left, Ursuline Sister Rita Wigginton, a previous recipient, and Joan Macy, president of the National Catholic Office for the Deaf. this year, make sure they spell it right — because it’s going to be yours,” said Macy, who is also interpreter coordinator for the archdiocesan office of deaf ministry.

Richey received the award at the NCOD annual conference held Jan.

6-10 in Savannah, Georgia. It recognizes someone who has demonstrated outstanding service and dedication to deaf ministry.

Richey was grateful, even though it wasn’t a surprise.

“When I got it, it was a lovely

moment,” she said. “It hit me that everyone there deserves the award because they serve the deaf faithfully. I felt like sharing it with everyone there because all the members in attendance give their heart in service with the deaf [community].”

Richey, who is also on the NCOD board, was director of the archdiocesan office of deaf ministry from 2001 to 2015, succeeding her mentor and friend Sister Ann Albrecht, CSJ. She still interprets for Masses at St. Paul and Prince of Peace parishes, both in Olathe. She is a member of Immaculate Conception Parish in Louisburg.

“What most people don’t realize about Pat Richey is that she is one of the national leaders in deaf ministry and has been so for many years,” said Macy.

“She works with NCOD and our collaborations with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops to make sure the deaf have access to their faith. She tends to step back and let others take the spotlight, so a lot of people don’t realize all the work she does. She’s worked with the NCOD since the early 2000s,” Macy added. “I’m glad she’s finally getting recognized.”

For Richey, the award is really about who she serves.

“I may be prejudiced, but I feel that we have the most wonderful deaf community in the world in the archdiocese,” said Richey. “They are kind, wonderful, faithful people. I feel greatly honored to be counted as a member of their family.”

Left, Bishop Ward senior Juan Vazquez volunteered to lead a decade of the rosary on the long bus ride to the March for Life. To the right of Vazquez is Ward’s campus minister, Deacon John Williams, and behind is Ward senior Leslie Villegas.

After the march, Villegas said, “Hearing the speakers at the rally helped me realize all life is sacred, including the old, young, poor, special needs, black, white — you name it.”

‘Every child deserves this chance’ >> Continued from page 1 advanced a state bill that prohibited abortions based solely on gender or disability.

“Knowing that 80% of people diagnosed with Down syndrome are aborted, and then seeing how full of life Katie is, just shows how much we must fight to save every life,” said Emily Eckerberg, a senior from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park.

“Everyone is deserving of getting a chance to live outside the womb,” she continued. “[Katie] has experienced so many amazing things, and it is all because her parents chose life for her.

“Every child deserves this chance.”

And when Toni McFadden shared her story about having an abortion with her boyfriend when she was young, only to reunite with him nine years later to get married and light a candle at their wedding for their child, the crowd went wild with support and love for her.

Everyone was cold, there was no doubt. But I couldn’t tell it, because collective warmth, joy and fortitude

fueled our mission: peacefully stand for those who can’t.

I saw babies in carriers, toddlers on parents’ shoulders, grandmas and grandpas shuffling along with looks of determination on their faces and marchers gently passing them by.

I saw all races and ethnicities, walking in solidarity.

I saw people cheer and give thumbsup to a group of moms who raised signs that read: “I regret my abortion.”

The conviction was palpable.

Solidarity and support flourished at every turn.

So often as Catholics we hear: “Catholics don’t care about women; they only care for the babies.” I will forever be brought back to this March for Life and share differently.

We traveled over a thousand miles by bus, each person averaged 15,000 steps by foot, and we spent over six hours on our knees in prayer for both mothers and their children.

We do value them both and believe in equality for all, starting in the womb.

From left, Breckin Barnett and Amelia Dold, both members of Sacred Heart Parish, Emporia, join Kate Satsky of St. James Academy, Lenexa, in unloading after the 24-hour-long pilgrimage across the country. Churches and school groups from around the archdiocese combined to fit onto three buses. Bus leaders played icebreaker games for the teens to get to know each other.

Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas, sent a large contingent of 49 people to the 49th annual March for Life on Jan. 21. An estimated 50,000 people took part in the march up Constitution Avenue to the steps of the U.S. Supreme Court. There is hope this year that the court could overturn the 1973 Roe v. Wade decision by upholding the Mississippi abortion law in Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health.

Right, St. Bernard Parish, Wamego, was well represented with an impressive number of youth. “God was able to work through each and every person who stood out there and marched for the ones who couldn’t,” said Nora Bosse, a freshman from Wamego. “Although the week wasn’t all glorious — it was cold, tiring, never-ending bus rides, on top of much more — God made a purpose out of our pain.”

Bishop Miege High School, Roeland Park, sent 31 students, three faculty members, and one priest to the Ma member seeing little kids on one side of me and mothers on the other, all joined in prayer and advocating for l

From left, Tom and Teri McGuire, members of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, Wea, march with Deb Niesen, director of the pro-life office; Emily Lopez, lead consultant for the office of adult evangelization; and Ann Marie Alvey of the prolife office. The couple joined the archdiocese’s adult trip to the March for Life, co-sponsored by the office of adult evangelization and the pro-life office.

From left, Kaci Jussel, Bailey Ryne, Isab son of St. James Academy, Lenexa, stop itol building at the end of the march. “M inspiring Father Mike Schmitz was talk Coulson. “By changing her life through

Bishop Jerry Vincke of the Diocese of Salina gives the homily for the Kansas marchers at St. Dominic Church in Washington, D.C. Bishop Vincke took the place of Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann who had to miss the trip because of an illness. “What would Archbishop Naumann say?” Bishop Vincke asked. “He would say, ‘Thank you. Thank you for being here.’”

arch For Life. “It was really empowering to see so many people come together to support one cause. I relife. It’s definitely something I will never forget,” said Delaney Johnson, junior, pictured fifth from the right.

bel Robb, Nathan Brune and Elliott Coulpped to snap a photo in front of the CapMy favorite part about the rally was how king about his grandmother’s faith,” said faith, it impacted so many others.”

Father Anthony Mersmann, chaplain at Bishop Miege High School, heard confessions after the march at St. Dominic Church.

“I march because we must defend God’s most sacred gift, the gift of life. Life will be victorious,” said Father Carter Zielinski, far right, standing with his group from Sacred Heart Parish, Emporia, where he serves as pastor. All eyes are on the Dobbs v. Jackson Women’s Health Care case before the Supreme Court that could overturn Roe or severely curtail it. The ruling is expected in June or early July.

The day following the march, a group of Topeka’s Hayden High School students make their way to Arlington National Cemetery in Arlington County, Virginia, for a day of sightseeing. Margaret Ledom, a 10th grader at Hayden High School, pictured on the far right, said of her march experience: “I wanted to be a part of something impactful that had the ability to change policies for the lives of the unborn.”

NATION

JANUARY 28, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

10

OUT OF THIS WORLD Astronaut talks with Catholic school students while orbiting Earth

CNS PHOTO/ALEXANDER GERST, NASA, ESA, HANDOUT VIA REUTERS

A NASA astronaut works outside the International Space Station in this image released Oct. 8, 2014.

By Jeffrey M. Barker Catholic News Service

S

CNS PHOTO/COURTESY SEATTLE NATIVITY SCHOOL VIA NORTHWEST CATHOLIC

Mark Vande Hei, a NASA International Space Station astronaut, takes live questions from students at Seattle Nativity School in Washington state. Also pictured is Jesuit Father Jeffrey McDougall, the school’s president.

“

EATTLE (CNS) — Crisscrossing above the Seattle region at approximately 17,000 mph aboard the International Space Station, NASA astronaut Mark Vande Hei took live questions from students at Seattle Nativity School.

“How has being in space affected your view of God?” asked one eighth grader at the Jesuit middle school.

Vande Hei paused. This was not the usual inquiry.

Then he answered: “It has made me feel like God’s really complicated.

Human beings have worked really hard to understand God and our relationship with God. I think I’m much more accepting of the wide variety of ways human beings experience God,” he said.

Students at the middle school had the privilege of talking to an astronaut in orbit thanks to a live video and audio link orchestrated by NASA and Vande Hei’s connection to Jesuit Father Jeffrey McDougall, president of the 75-student school focused on a STEM (science, technology, engineering and mathematics) education.

Growing up, Father McDougall played football with Vande Hei, a classmate at Benilde-St. Margaret’s High School in Minnesota, and he would often brag to his students that he knew an astronaut — one on the International Space Station, no less.

Word that Father McDougall was telling his students about Vande Hei spread and the priest said he started getting emails from NASA. The way the priest tells it, Vande Hei said, “If he’s talking about me, I should talk to them myself.”

The goal of Seattle Nativity School is to break the cycle of poverty for its students through a Jesuit education focused on STEM. The school serves students in grades six to eight whose families earn a median income of $31,719 a year. More than two out of three students at the school are African American; nearly one in five is Hispanic.

The school’s inaugural class graduated in 2016, and its support of those students continues into their college careers, helping with applications, financial assistance counseling and more.

Seattle Nativity graduates, typically the first in their families to attend college, have gone on to schools that include Gonzaga University, Georgetown University, the U.S. Air Force Academy, Arizona State University, the

“ I’M UP HERE WITH SOME PEOPLE THAT ARE WONDERFUL TO GO CAMPING WITH AND WE’RE ALL IN THIS BIG CAMPER CRUISING AROUND THE WORLD AT FIVE MILES A SECOND. MARK VANDE HEI NASA ASTRONAUT

University of Washington and Seattle University.

Fast-forward to a day in early December 2021, and Seattle Nativity students were eagerly waiting to be connected to the International Space Station.

“Here we go!” one student excitedly shouted as the video appeared on screen and Vande Hei, a flight engineer, casually floated into view wearing khaki cargo pants and a burgundy polo shirt. He read from a tablet computer, which he then attached to his pant leg.

He performed a couple of zero-gravity backflips while waiting for the audio to

connect.

While the students could see him via a video link on a screen in one of the school’s classrooms, Vande Hei could only hear them. Father McDougall stood at the microphone and the students queued up to talk to the astronaut.

Most of the questions covered predictable ground: How do you sleep?

Without gravity, how do you exercise?

What do you miss most about Earth?

Vande Hei fielded the questions like a seasoned politician, answering directly, cracking Dad jokes, performing zero-gravity maneuvers, yes, to demonstrate Newton’s laws of motion, but also to entertain.

He mentioned some of the work the space crew is doing, like trying to grow chilies in space, using a syringe to water them; recycling 95% of all water used; and conducting an experiment to help people better understand how to prevent Alzheimer’s.

“I have a very strong sense of purpose,” Vande Hei said. “What I’m doing is helping all of humanity.”

When Vande Hei returns to Earth in March, he will hold the record for the longest single spaceflight — 353 days — for an American.

He talked about international camaraderie on the space station, noting that the current crew consists of two Japanese astronauts, three Russians, one German and three Americans.

They share a weekly meal, often with foods from one of the astronaut’s cultures, and they’ll stay up late to watch a movie together.

“I’m up here with some people that are wonderful to go camping with and we’re all in this big camper cruising around the world at five miles a second,” Vande Hei said.

He does miss being outside, “feeling the wind and the rain, being able to see trees very easily, not 250 miles away.”

But Vande Hei has seen some amazing sights from space — the most beautiful being auroras in both hemispheres, he said.

“They are these ghostly green curtains that make you feel very tiny, like there’s processes you’re getting to witness that look like they’re constantly changing, but they’ve been going on for well before humans ever lived on the earth,” he explained.

Vande Hei also spoke to the students about the importance of teamwork and education.

“My Catholic education . . . really taught me the importance of putting other people first, and that helps you be a good team player,” he said.

“The things you’re learning about in your school are really, really essential,” he said, “not just to becoming an astronaut, but just being a happy, successful and productive human being.”

JANUARY 28, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

WORLD

11

Ukrainians fear full-scale Russian invasion

R

OME (CNS) — Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk of Kyiv-Halych, Ukraine, major archbishop of the Ukrainian Catholic Church, knows his people are frightened.

“People are overwhelmed with a great fear, and this is normal in the face of such danger” as Russia continues to deploy troops all along its border with Ukraine and as the United States and other NATO countries place troops on notice for possible deployment, the archbishop told Catholic News Service Jan. 25.

At the same time, he said, “as Christians, we possess hope of the victory of good over evil. We especially pray for those who want to harm our people, that the Lord will avert their evil intentions and guide them to the path of peace.”

The archbishop, his faithful and all Ukrainians, he said, are grateful to Pope Francis for setting Jan. 26 as a day of prayer for peace in Ukraine and for his constant prayers for an end to the fighting that began in 2014 between Russian-backed separatists and Ukrainian forces in Eastern Ukraine.

The fighting, he said, has amounted to “a silent war: it was not often mentioned in recent years, and the voice of the Holy Father was virtually the only one which called for peace and called to mind this bleeding wound in central Europe.”

But now “the situation is especially critical,” he said in a written response to questions. “We perceive a real threat from Russia in the form of a full-scale invasion of our country.”

Calling for a day of prayer, Pope

By Judith Sudilovsky Catholic News Service

J

CNS PHOTO/ANNA KUDRIAVTSEVA, REUTERS

A service member of the Ukrainian armed forces is seen at combat positions at the line of separation from Russian-backed rebels near the village of Novomykhalivka in the Donetsk region, Ukraine, Jan. 21. Pope Francis at his Jan. 23 Sunday Angelus said he is deeply concerned by growing tensions between Russia and Ukraine and called for a day of prayer for peace Jan. 26.

Francis expressed his concern that the tensions on the UkrainianRussian border could “put into question the security of the European continent, with even wider repercussions.”

“It is clearer than ever that the war in Ukraine is not just a war against Ukraine, and therefore not just a problem for Ukrainians,” Archbishop Shevchuk said. “It is obvious that, today, Europe is facing the worst security crisis in decades,” and the pope “realizes how dramatic possible scenarios could be for the whole European continent.”

Of course, he said, “in union with millions of Christians around the world, the faithful of our church in Ukraine and in the lands of immigration,” will mark the day of prayer

for peace. From 9 a.m. to 9 p.m., he said, the Ukrainian church’s Zhyve TV will broadcast a “prayer telethon” live, including on its YouTube channel.

“We will respond to the call of the Holy Father by our belief that prayer is stronger than any weapon,” the archbishop said.

In a video message asking Ukrainians to pray, the archbishop told them: “When new dangers arise and the enemy is on our doorstep, our military checks their combat efficiency, statesmen work to streamline social mechanisms, diplomats work to ensure that the world supports our people and our state. And what do Christians do? Christians pray, fast and repent of their sins.”

Sri Lankan cardinal seeks justice in church bombings

C

OLOMBO, Sri Lanka (CNS) — Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith of Colombo said there is no other choice now but to turn to the international community to seek justice for victims of the 2019 Easter bombings in Sri Lanka.

“We tried our best to solve the issue within the country and do justice to our people but have failed,” he said during an online forum with an international audience Jan. 24, ucanews. com reported.

“The legal system under the attorney general does not consider the recommendations of the commission on the Easter attacks, therefore we have no option but to go international,” the cardinal said.

Cardinal Ranjith hinted in April 2021 of his intentions to not only approach the United Nations but also countries with global influence to seek prosecution of the people responsible for the attacks on three churches and three luxury hotels.

“We can influence those countries as the church is an international organization. We have connections all over the world,” he said.

A group of suicide bombers affiliated to local Islamist group National Thowheed Jamath was suspected to be behind the bombings that killed 269 people, including 37 foreign nationals,

Vandalism at Holy Land abbey caused by small minority, monk says

CNS PHOTO/ATHIT PERAWONGMETHA, REUTERS

A person mourns near the grave of a suicide bombing victim at Sellakanda Catholic cemetery in Negombo, Sri Lanka, April 23, 2019. Cardinal Malcolm Ranjith of Colombo said he will turn to the international community to seek justice for victims of the 2019 Easter bombings in his country. and injured about 500 more.

Catholics in Sri Lanka have not been happy with the investigations and led

by Cardinal Ranjith, have vowed to fight for justice until the truth behind the attacks is revealed.

Cardinal Ranjith said he was not satisfied with the investigations underway since the recovery of a live hand grenade at All Saints’ Church in Borel-

la Jan. 11.

A church worker has been arrested as a suspect by police, but the local church officials said the person was being falsely implicated.

Cardinal Ranjith said that such actions should not be permitted. “We trust the judiciary to take steps to rectify the wrongdoing in the court,” he said.

ERUSALEM (CNS) — A Benedictine priest told a Jewish delegation visiting his monastery that the monks know the perpetrators of vandalism represented a small minority of radicalized Jews.

Father Nikodemus Schnabel of the Benedictine Dormition Abbey told a delegation of 12 Jews from the antiracism group Tag Meir Jan. 23 that an incident in an abbey courtyard was isolated but could have injured monks and students who regularly socialize there.

A bag of construction rubble was heaved over a stone wall separating the monastery from a public garden, breaking a tin roof and smashing plastic furniture Jan. 16, he said.

“I refuse to refer to these people as ‘the Jews attacking the Christians,’” the priest said. “This is not the case. We are speaking of a tiny hateful minority.”

The abbey, built on what is believed to be the spot where Mary died, is located on Mount Zion in the Old City. It has experienced at least five incidents of vandalism and arson since 2013.

It is near a Jewish yeshiva religious and the building which houses the traditional locations of the Cenacle, also known as the Upper Room, and the Tomb of David, a contested site among religious groups.

Father Schnabel called on the police to take more action against the vandals, who he said were from the extremist group known as “the hilltop youth” who have also been involved in violent attacks on Palestinian farmers and Israeli volunteers near illegal settler outposts in the West Bank.

Rabbi Tamar Elad Applebaum, representing Tag Meir, said she felt ashamed that some Jewish groups feel such behavior is supported in Judaism.

“This has nothing to do with our Jewish tradition,” she said. “Whenever something hurts you, you have to open the door and we want to thank you for opening the door so we can stand with you.”

Jesse Burke, part of the delegation, said members of his family were involved in some of the extremist attacks, also against Jews.

He has taken part in solidarity visits and interreligious dialogue because, he said, he “wants to show a different face of Judaism.”

Savyon Koren-Zisu, police superintendent, said authorities continued to investigate the recent incident.

Wadie Abunassar, an adviser to Holy Land churches, has documented vandalism on religious buildings and attacks on non-Jewish people. He said about 5% of the attacks have reached the level of a criminal indictment and that perpetrators who were found guilty received what he considered light sentences.

His list, which he said is not comprehensive, documents 26 acts of vandalism or racism against Christian sites and clergy in Jerusalem; 23 attacks in the rest of Israel; two in Bethlehem, West Bank, and one racist proclamation by the authorities in the Hamas-controlled Gaza Strip since February 2012.

CLASSIFIEDS

12 EMPLOYMENT Parish coordinator - St. John Parish and School seeks a part-time parish coordinator. The parish coordinator will be responsible for the efficient use of parish facilities and managing supportive services. Candidates with one - three years of work experience and bilingual (English/ Spanish) are preferred. Please see full job description and requirements at: www.sjevangelist.com. Position will be open until filled. Please send cover letter and resume to Father John Cousins at: frjohn@sjevangelist.com or mail to 1229 Vermont St., Lawrence, KS 66044.

Catholic Cemeteries seeks bilingual family service adviser - Competitive wages and excellent benefits await the person who will join Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas as our bilingual (Spanish-speaking) family service adviser. Our attractive benefits include health, vision, dental and 401(k) plans. The family service adviser will have direct contact with clients to make pre-need and at-need burial and funeral arrangements. Hours will vary, but will usually be from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. weekdays, with occasional Saturdays. In addition to speaking Spanish, the job candidate must have reliable transportation as the family service adviser will be required to meet clients at all nine of our cemeteries across the archdiocese. Please send inquiries and resumes to Bryan Alonzo, director of sales and marketing, via: balonzo@cathcemks.org.

Maintenance opening – Good Shepherd, Shawnee, has a full-time, benefit-eligible position to assist with the daily operations of the school and church. Prior experience in custodial work preferred; handyman, light repair and maintenance abilities helpful. Duties are highly physical and involve walking, standing, lifting and carrying at least 50 pounds. If interested, contact Brad Roder at: broder@gsshawnee.org or (913) 563-5313.

Head cheer coach - Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking a head cheer coach for the 2022 - 23 school year. Interested applicants may email resume and cover letter to Mike Beaven, athletic director, at: mbeaven@wardhigh.org.

Caregiver needed - Adorable elderly couple needs assistance with dinner weekends and two evenings a week. Very flexible. Please call (913) 748-7502.

Elementary school principal – Sacred Heart School in Ottawa is seeking an individual with demonstrated skill in spiritual, academic and advancement leadership for the 2022-23 school year. Applicants for principal must be practicing Catholics and in good standing, 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 to: vcascone@archkckcs.org. Deadline for applications is Feb. 11.

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.archkckcs.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.

Accountant - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is seeking an organized, passionate accounts payable accountant. This position is responsible for managing all payable functions; and analyzing and verifying documentation for proper approvals, authenticity, account coding designations and vendor statement reconciliations. Bachelor’s degree in accounting preferred. Apply at: www.catholiccharitiesks.org/careers.

Refugee health navigator and health and benefits coordinator positions - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is hiring two full-time members to its refugee health and benefits team! These positions will help refugee clients access health-related benefits and navigate the local health care system. For more information, please visit: www.catholiccharitiesks.org and click on “About Us” and “Careers” to view these open positions.

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/.

Live-in or live-out caregivers (assistants) - Looking for purposeful volunteer or paid work? Live-in or live-out 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 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.

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.

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.

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.

Teachers - The St. Joseph Early Education Center is looking for additional staff. A teacher is needed for a full-time three-year-olds room and two teachers to work with toddlers. Salary is competitive. Benefits include medical, dental and vision insurance.

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: Information systems faculty coordinator. Adjunct faculty job openings include: biology and clinical nursing. Find job descriptions and details on: www.donnelly. edu/careers.

Part-time companions needed - Looking for a kindhearted, energetic person to be a team player in our small, growing health care company. Must have reliable transportation. Job may entail driving clients to appointments, running errands and checking in on clients. Person must be personable. Able to talk, do puzzles, play cards and entertain. We are not a handson caregiving company. Some clients may be stand by assist. Only serious applicants please. Rate per hour will rise quickly for team players. Driving around metro area may be required. Trip charge or mileage also given.

Drug, background checks and COVID vaccine are mandatory. Perfect for retired employees ready to work part time, compassionate CNAs, or parents wanting to work while kids are in school. Call Jen (913) 530-1795. Clarkson Companion Care.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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.

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

JANUARY 28, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, has the following staff job openings available: admissions counselor, advancement officer, and Allied Health intake specialist. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.

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.

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 fulltime 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.

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.

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 T-shirt 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.

HOME IMPROVEMENT 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 >> Classifieds continue on page 13

CALENDAR

JANUARY 28, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

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.

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.

>> Continued from page 12 Garage Door Repair New Garage Doors Platinum Amarr dealer, Elite Home Advisor top rating.

Call Joe, mention The Leaven discount.

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: smokey cabin@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 Popcorn ceiling texture removal Interior wall painting specialist.

Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience.

Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

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.

FINDING PEACE OF SOUL Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meager Rd., Easton Feb. 4 - 6

The retreat will begin on Feb. 4 at 5:30 p.m. and end on Feb. 6 at 4:30 p.m. Reflect on how peace of soul can come through a life of prayer, personal reform and renewal. Living in this way confronts modern culture with the tough-mindedness and resilience of inner truth. There will be conferences, eucharistic adoration, Mass, confession, and time for private prayer, reflection and walking. The suggested donation is $170/single or $250/couples for the cabins and courtyard rooms or $100 for single guest rooms (meals included). To attend, sign up online at: christspeace.com; send an email to: info@christspeace.com; or call (913) 773-8255.

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.

13

“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.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST St. Bede Parish 7344 Drought St., Kelly Feb. 13 from 7:30 a.m. - noon

COPING WITH LIFE ALONE Via Zoom Feb. 7 from 6:30 - 8:30 p.m.

‘THE OLD, THE SICK AND THOSE OF LITTLE UNDERSTANDING IN THE RULE OF ST. BENEDICT’ Conception Abbey Guest Center 37174 HWY VV, Conception, Missouri Feb. 11 - 13

Beginning Experience of Kansas City is hosting a 10-week, online session to help divorced and widowed persons deal with grief and pain. For more information, visit the website at: beginningexperiencekc. org or call Maria at (913) 314-9844.

SOUP-R-BOWL SUNDAY LUNCH St. Mary Parish 9208 Main St., St. Benedict Feb. 13 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

There will be homemade chili, chicken noodle soup, vegetable beef soup, relishes and pie. The cost is a freewill offering.

Dine in or carryout available.

There will be pancakes, sausage and eggs. Dine in or carryout available. The cost is a freewill donation.

Our study of “The Old, the Sick and Those of Little Understanding in the Rule of Benedict” provides us with a “true measure” of how any society, including contemporary societies, could and should act toward its vulnerable members. For more information and to register, go online to: conception.edu and click on “Guest Center” and then “View Upcoming Retreats.”

The “Evermore in Love” (formerly

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.

FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) For sale - 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 in Ascension Garden at Resurrection Cemetery; section 174, plots 3 and 4. Asking $2250/each and will pay the transfer fee. Call Marty at (913) 441-2355.

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.

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: Tanari@WeSellKcTeam.com. See the website at: www.tanairiSellsKC.com. I appreciate and look forward to the opportunity to work with you.

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.

REAL ESTATE

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.

Tired of being a landlord? I’ll buy it.

Call Mark Edmondson (913) 980-4905 Local parishioner.

Wanted to buy - Cemetery plot in section 2 of Mount Calvary Cemetery. Call Frank at (404) 542-7860 or (678) 464-3023, or email: FCooper316@gmail.com.

NEED HELP HEALING FROM A PAST ABORTION?

Call or text 913-621-2199 Compassionate, Confidential, Free

CAREGIVING Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities.

We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.

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

Benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING The Leaven reaches approximately 50,000 subscribers.

Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter.

To purchase a Leaven classified ad, email: beth. blankenship@theleaven.org.

The appearance of advertising in The Leaven is not an endorsement by either the newspaper or the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. The Leaven attempts to screen advertisers and copy, but is not responsible for claims and representations made in advertisements.

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

14

COLUMNISTS

Whaddaya say?

DAILY READINGS FOURTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Jan. 30 FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Jer 1: 4-5, 17-19 Ps 71: 1-6, 15, 17 1 Cor 12:31 – 13:13 Lk 4: 21-30 Jan. 31 John Bosco, priest 2 Sm 15: 13-14, 30; 16: 5-13 Ps 3: 2-7 Mk 5: 1-20 Feb. 1 Tuesday 2 Sm 18: 9-10, 14b, 24-25a, 30 – 19:3 Ps 86: 1-6 Mk 5: 21-43 Feb. 2 THE PRESENTATION OF THE LORD Mal 3: 1-4 Ps 24: 7-10 Heb 2: 14-18 Lk 2: 22-40 Feb. 3 Blaise, bishop, martyr; Ansgar, bishop 1 Kgs 2: 1-4, 10-12 (Ps) 1 Chr 29: 10-11b, 11d-12 Mk 6: 7-13 Feb. 4 Friday Sir 47: 2-11 Ps 18: 31, 47, 50-51 Mk 6: 14-29 Feb. 5 Agatha, virgin, martyr 1 Kgs 3: 4-13 Ps 119: 9-14 Mk 6: 30-34

A

h, the month of February is almost here — a time when folks turn their attention to thoughts of love. And usually, the first thing that pops into their minds is their love of . . . the Catholic press?!?

OK, sadly, celebrating February as Catholic Press Month isn’t found on many (any?) calendars. But I hope that can change someday.

In his message for World Communications Day, officially celebrated on May 29 this year, Pope Francis decided on a simple theme: Listen! That’s something essential to the Catholic press.

Listen to this moving story told by Greg Asimakoupoulos: For 57 years, Steve Henning of Huntley, Illinois, could not hear music, laughter or human speech. Even though he lived a full and joyful life, he still longed to hear the voices of his family.

In the winter of 2001, he learned of a

T John Bosco 1815-1888 Born to a poor family in Italy, this patron saint of editors and laborers is considered one of the great social saints.

Ordained a priest in 1841, he was sent to study theology in Turin, where he became a magnet for neglected youths during a turbulent period of rapid industrialization and revolutionary politics. Don Bosco, who once hoped to become a foreign missionary, founded the Salesians in 1854. The order sheltered more than 800 orphan boys, then opened workshops for shoemakers, tailors, bookbinders and other trades. Don Bosco was also a prolific writer, and co-founded a women’s congregation to work among girls. When he died, more than 40,000 people in Turin filed past his coffin to show their love and respect.

JANUARY 28, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG

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.

surgical procedure that would allow sound waves to bypass the nonfunctioning part of his ear and travel directly to the auditory nerve. On Jan. 30, he was operated on.

Because the implanted device could not be activated until the swelling in the ear decreased, doctors and Steve didn’t know for six weeks if the operation was successful.

Finally, the long waiting period ended.

As Steve waited nervously, the audiol-

ogist programmed the implant and invited Steve’s wife Pat to say something. She leaned toward her husband and gently said, “I love you.” Steve’s face broke into a beaming smile.

The first words he physically heard were those of love. (Adapted story found in “1001 Illustrations That Connect,” edited by Craig Brian Larson and Phyllis Ten Elshof.)

Now, you might think it strange to link listening with the Catholic press. After all, isn’t The Leaven called to print news, to inform readers? Absolutely.

But before we have something to print, we must listen. We regularly invite pastors,

parish staff members and the many archdiocesan ministries to let us know of local story ideas. Through our Leaven website, email address and phone number, readers “in the pews” suggest happenings that may be of interest to a wider audience. And our reporters listen carefully to all the people they interview to accurately and objectively relay their stories.

So, The Leaven is a two-way street: First, we listen; then, we report. And then, we listen again to the responses of our readers.

Most times, readers are encouraging and enthusiastic, even when something we’ve published doesn’t seem so significant to us.

One of those things is the crossword puzzle!

There are a lot of folks out there who are avid solvers . . . and woe to us if we get something wrong there.

Sometimes, readers aren’t so happy with stories, especially those dealing with sensitive subjects, like racism or immigra-

tion. We listen to their concerns, sincerely discuss them and seek to respond with love.

Our world can use a good dose of listening.

But that can be hard.

In his message, Pope Francis quotes the great Vatican diplomat Cardinal Agostino Casaroli, who said that true listening can be a “martyrdom of patience,” especially in difficult situations.

Furthermore, the pope notes that in our polarized world, rather than a dialogue, we seem to be stuck in what philosopher Abraham Kaplan calls a “duologue: a monologue in two voices.”

In other words, we can hardly wait for the other person to stop talking so we can impose our ideas on him.

The antidote to this is synodality, which can be translated as a “common road.” And that begins with listening, especially with the ears of the heart.

I like to think The Leaven is a big part of that. And that’s something to celebrate.

God’s words to Jeremiah speak to us as well

he biblical prophets met with varying degrees of acceptance and rejection.

The classic example of a rejected prophet is Jeremiah.

Many of the people he prophesied to thought he was mistaken about God’s intentions. They regarded him as a danger to society. He narrowly avoided death at the hands of his enemies.

His messages from God having been ignored, he was kidnapped and taken into exile, where he died.

In Sunday’s first reading, God speaks to 20-something Jeremiah, perhaps for the first time, to put some steel into the young man: “Stand up and tell them

,

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.

all that I command you.”

Jeremiah can trust that God knows what he is doing in calling

him to a difficult life.

Jeremiah is God’s creation: “Before I formed you in the womb I knew you, before you were born . . . a prophet to the nations I appointed you.”

The accounts of Jeremiah’s life show that God did support him in his hardships. But we also see him crying out to God in distress.

Apparently, few people stood by him.

God’s words to Jeremiah have often been used in arguments

against abortion, and with the anniversary of Roe v. Wade having just passed, the connection comes readily to mind.

Every unborn baby is “formed in the womb” by God and so deserves protection and care. But this does not exhaust the significance of this text for abortion.

In a situation where a mother is considering abortion, to whom is “before I formed you in the womb I knew you” addressed, if not to her?

Regardless of the situation in which she became pregnant, she is drawn into God’s plan for her, a plan that he has had for her from before she came into existence — his plan for her to be mother to

this child.

Like Jeremiah, she is facing difficulties, maybe severe hardships. As it was for Jeremiah, God’s word is a profound reassurance for her, but without promising an easy path.

What about the rest of us? As a society, do we ensure that every mother has all the care and support she and her child need?

Do we as a church direct our efforts and resources to helping her deal with the difficulties she faces as she responds to God’s challenging word?

What responsibility weighs on each of us who knows that God’s word to every mother is “I created you for this”?

People’s mistakes and sins do not frighten God, pope says at audience VATICAN CITY (CNS) — God is not frightened by people’s sins, mistakes or failures, Pope Francis said.

What God is afraid of is “the closure of our hearts — this, yes, this makes him suffer — he is frightened by our lack of faith in his love,” the pope said Jan. 19 during his weekly general audience.

Everybody must “square accounts” with what they have done, but “settling the accounts with God is a beautiful thing because we start talking and he embraces us” with tenderness, the pope said.

Pope Francis continued his series of audience talks about St. Joseph, reflecting on his tenderness. Very little detail is found

in the Gospels about St. Joseph’s fatherly approach, but “we can be sure that his being a ‘just’ man also translated into the education he gave to Jesus,” the pope said.

Jesus understood God’s tenderness and love, experiencing it first through St. Joseph, he said.

“The things of God always come to us through the mediation of human experiences,” he added.

COLUMNISTS

JANUARY 28, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

15

Pandemic has shown what Catholic Charities is truly capable of

J

oy, kindness, patience, self-control and faithfulness — perhaps at no other time in the 65year history of Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas have we ever so intentionally lived out our agency values as we have this past year.

We experienced the joy expressed on the faces of our neighbors in need of food, clothing, housing, employment and financial assistance; the kindness demonstrated as we embraced the challenges and prioritized our work as a team; the patience endured throughout the ever-changing health guidelines and provision of services; the self-control required to reinvent the way we served with a limited volunteer workforce;

J

INSIDE CATHOLIC CHARITIES

LAUREN SOLIDUM Lauren Solidum is the executive director of Catholic Charities.

and the faithfulness to one another and our supporters as we strived to serve our community in solidarity.

Perhaps, above all, we witnessed the courageous faith, hope and love in action to serve

our neighbors in need.

In joyful hope, we welcome 2022.

Our St. Rita Skills Training program continues to grow. We started with six pilot participants in Wyandotte County. Today, we have 60 participants, with a plan to grow to 80. We have also increased our academic partnerships and now offer programming in Topeka, Lawrence and Leavenworth.

I am excited to share that our Shalom House Men’s Transitional Living Program is about to begin a new chapter.

Plans are underway to move the program to the site formerly occupied by the Sanctuary of Hope in Kansas City, Kansas. Our goal is to reopen Shalom House in August of 2022.

At the new site, we will physically increase our capacity from 24 men to 60, and house community partners directly on-site as we wrap around our brothers in need physically, emotionally, mentally and spiritually.

For the last 65 years, Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas has been in the business of creating life-changing programs and initiatives designed to solve the root causes of poverty.

that soon Catholic Charities will launch two new businesses complementary to our already successful TurnStyles thrift operations. Estate sale and junk removal services are on the way — let us help you avoid the clutter while dispensing hope all at the same time.

The pandemic has shown what Catholic Charities is truly capable of, and our work is far from over.

I humbly express my heartfelt gratitude to everyone who served alongside us this past year, donating time, treasure, talents and, most importantly, prayers. Without you, we could not have served at the capacity we did, nor would we look ahead with such hope.

The wheels are spinning again as the agency is exploring new social enterprise ideas that support the mission. Last spring, Catholic Charities internally launched a “Social Enterprise Incubator.”

Staff was encouraged to submit innovative, practical ideas that would employ vulnerable populations; inspire and mobilize volunteers to serve; and generate a new revenue stream to help sustain and grow existing ministries.

The Catholic Charities staff responded with 19 ideas. Four ideas were chosen to develop into formal business plans with the help of staff, volunteers, board members and subject matter experts.

I am elated to share

Meet the living Jesus in a powerful new way — at camp!

esus is absolutely real, alive and a fountain of care.

We hear so many depressing news stories and our families have so many daily struggles that we can live with our heads down.

Our Catholic faith reminds us that Jesus is absolutely real, alive and a fountain of care.

Jesus meets us with his presence each time that we present ourselves for Communion, in a unique, powerful and personal way.

He meets us in prayer, through others and in Scripture. His creation, nature, shows us God’s creativity, power, elegance, artistry and presence in our world. Sometimes, we need reminding that God is in control and

SEEKING CHRIST’S HEART

DEACON DANA NEARMYER Deacon Dana Nearmyer is the director of evangelization for the archdiocese.

that he loves us more than anyone else can.

Sometimes, we need a change of scenery to see God in nature.

Many of us need encouragement in our spiritual walk; I know

I do.

Life can seem heavy and burdensome if we lose sight that Jesus is right beside us. We can find renewal and open our eyes to God’s great love by being silent and just asking God to reveal himself.

The sacraments and Scripture are full of God’s grace and love, but sometimes we need a little help to see, accept and understand

those treasures. Camp Tekakwitha can help youth and families to experience Jesus as absolutely real, alive and a fountain of care.

Camp is offering for the first time a Spanish Family Camp and the women’s retreat is back.

Camp Tekakwitha Spanish Family Camp will launch the summer of 2022.

Spanish Mass, times of prayer and adult formation sessions will be offered in Spanish.

Youth formation will be mostly in English.

Fellowship, prayer, great food and deep conversations fill the time when you are not riding horses, zip lining, canoeing, biking, swimming, climbing or just taking in a signature sunset.

Our YouTube channel is chock-full of videos that show the exciting and moving activities that Camp Tekakwitha is famous for.

Our website, www. archkck.org/camp, has photos, videos, links to our socials and instructions on how to apply for financial need scholarships.

We encourage you to apply if finances are an obstacle. Our fifthand sixth-grade camps, Junior High, High School, Special-Needs Family Camp, Spanish Family Camp, Women’s Retreat and Family Camp will be places where youth and family can experience Jesus as absolutely real, alive and a fountain of care.

More information is on the way.

The women’s retreat is back for 2022.

This very popular event is a great way to find adventure and peace just around the corner from each other. Women design the retreat to be renewing and relaxing.

Laughter, sharing and beautiful prayer make this experience a perennial favorite.

Camp Tekakwitha is forming its staff and preparing dynamic experiences that combine outdoor adventures with prayer and sacraments at the beautiful Prairie Star Ranch.

Registration will open in mid-February. In the meantime, check out the exciting and inspiring photos on our Facebook and Instagram accounts.

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SCRIPTURE

JANUARY 28, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG

16

The struggle is real — but it is the thing that brings us to Christ

By Catherine Upchurch Special to The Leaven

QUESTIONS FOR REFLECTION OR DISCUSSION

H

ave you noticed how frequently the Scriptures announce tidings of peace?

How frequently a biblical letter or a visit ends with a blessing of peace? It occurs so often in both the Old and New Testaments that we might miss its very presence and its importance for shaping our attitudes and dispositions as disciples.

The ancient Israelites understood peace as a gift of God, manifest in the abundance of nature and in crops to be cultivated, as well as protection from enemies (Lv 26:3-13). It is given in priestly blessings (Nm 6:26), and desired for the holy city of Jerusalem and its inhabitants (Ps 122:6-8).

While abundance and well-being are signs of God’s peace, this peace cannot exist without attention to living in right relationship with God and others, especially the poor (Ps 85:11-14). Israel’s prophets repeatedly pair God’s peace with such righteousness (as an example, see Jer 6:13-16). The prophets also speak of the Messiah, the bringer and prince of peace (Is 9:5), whom we recognize as Jesus.

The Hebrew word translated in the Old Testament as peace is “shalom,” and its Greek rendering, used in the New Testament, is “eirene.” Both terms signify “wholeness” and “soundness.” Nations or individuals may be at war with one another, and true injustices may exist on either or both sides.

The peace that God offers does not cover over conflict or ignore it, but seeks to right injustices and bridge the gap between seeming opposites. The peace that Jesus brings is not about the victory of one side over another but about wholeness.

In his book, “Let Us Dream,” Pope Francis writes about the challenges of reconciling differences that all too often divide us. He speaks of the necessity of mutual listening, and writes: “We build a people not with the weapons of war but in the productive tension of walking together.” Jesus knew how to do this very well. He walked and talked and even broke bread with known sinners and respected holy men, with zealots and scribes, ignoring the scandal that might result while planting the seeds of God’s true and lasting peace.

How often do you hear words about peace from the Bible and think of it as a call to wholeness and a gift from God? Read some of the passages cited in the article and substitute the word “wholeness” for peace.

What real world situations at this time tend to make you anxious for peace? In what practical ways might you respond?

Some people, Christians included, believe working for peace is naive. Perhaps you struggle with this as well. What has helped you to keep the peace of Christ central in your life?

Wholeness “Do not be afraid to take a chance on peace, to teach peace. The aspiration for peace will not be disappointed forever. Work for peace, inspired by charity which does not pass away, will produce its fruits.

Peace will be the last word of history.”

— St. John Paul II (World Day of Peace, Jan. 1, 1979)

There is no doubt that peace is challenging on the broad scale of factions among nations and within systems. We recognize that there are no easy solutions to conflicts that rage in all areas of the world. Centuries ago, in a time that was also punctuated by the violence of war, St. Francis of Assisi advised his brothers: “While you are proclaiming peace with your lips, be careful to have it even more fully in your heart.” A major obstacle to prioritizing peace in the world is the absence of it in our own lives, a feeling of “dis-ease” that makes us long for the wholeness that Jesus brings.

Even St. Paul speaks of being at war within himself: “I do not do the good I want, but I do the evil I do not want” (Rom 7:19). The struggle is real for all of us if we are honest, but the struggle is also where we discover our deepest identity in Christ. With his own arrest and crucifixion on the horizon, Jesus said to his disciples: “Peace I leave with you; my peace I give you. Not as the world gives do I give it to you” (Jn 14:27).

This is the same gift of wholeness that Jesus is offering us now, what Paul refers to as “the peace of God that surpasses all understanding,” the peace that will

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guard our hearts and minds (Phil 4:7).

Being a peacemaker is part of being a disciple. It’s hard work with plenty of setbacks. It requires a deep trust in God’s ability to work in our own messy lives so that we can work in a messy world, a world that God loves.

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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How often do you hear homilies about peace in our personal lives and in the larger world?

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