02-04-11 Vol. 32 No. 25

www.theleaven.com | Newspaper of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas | Vol. 32, No. 25 february 4, 2011

Color us glad Teachers reflect on their Catholic education vocation. Story on page 5

Atchison Catholic Elementary School chose Genesis 9:13 — God said, “I set my bow in the clouds to serve as a sign of the covenant between me and the earth” — as its theme to kick off Catholic Schools Week, and arrayed the entire student body in a rainbow of colors.

Photo by JD Benning

Do you know this man?

Hope in the streets

The Vittle Van feeds the homeless, while volunteers make a personal connection with them.

Tell us your favorite story about Father Brian Schieber. But keep it short (100 words) and send it to: anita@theleaven.com.

8-9

Celebrate marriage

Married couples from the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas are invited to a Mass to celebrate the sacrament of marriage at 2 p.m. on Feb. 13 at the Cathedral of St. Peter. For more information, contact the family life office at (913) 721-1570, ext. 145.

2 archbishop

THE LEAVEN • february 4, 2011

THE LEAVEN • february 4, 2011

SECOND FRONT PAGE 3

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

A

Archbishop is grateful, impressed by generosity of his flock

fter hearing my recent Archbishop’s Call to Share (ACTS) homily in her parish, one member of the Archdiocese sent me the following testimony about her and her husband’s experience of living the spirituality of stewardship. While wishing to remain anonymous, she gave me permission to share her story with you.

children and still Our Lord provided what we needed. Our children were all healthy and raises came as our family increased and the cost of living went up. We always had enough, but never so much that we were tempted to spoil the kids with luxuries.

“The Lord said, ‘Where your treasure is, there your heart is also.’ I think tithing has brought us all closer to him.

When you trust him, he always comes through. God is so good!”

“Many years ago, my husband and I, The most common way Catholics young parents of two young daughters, tithe is by giving five percent to support were struggling financially. He had a job their parishes and giving the other five he liked but had recently been promotpercent to their diocesan campaign, the ed and not offered any increase in pay. national collections, capital campaigns, We had discussed whether he should Catholic Charities, look for another Catholic Education position elsewhere.

‘The Shepherd’s Voice’ Foundation, religious We hadn’t decided communities, etc. If what to do when we programming notes a substantial number read an article in Our Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann’s of parishioners tithed Sunday Visitor about radio program on KEXS 1090 AM in this fashion, our tithing. It was full of airs at 10 a.m. on Sunday and is schools would not stories of Catholics repeated at 9:30 a.m. on Tuesday have to charge tuition. who had decided to and 3:30 p.m. on Thursday.

While a priest in St. give 10 percent of Louis, I was privileged their income to the to serve as a parochial vicar (associate church. In each case, they had been pastor) in a wonderful parish that was blessed way out of proportion by the located in a financially distressed area.

Lord.

Similar to most parishes, we had an an“Well, we were giving monthly to the nual Stewardship Sunday, when parishchurch, but certainly not tithing. The ioners were encouraged to volunteer to article said: Just try it and see. So we help in a ministry or ministries, as well decided to try it and promised ourselves as to make a financial commitment indiwe would begin that day, Jan. 1. Two cating their intended weekly or monthly weeks later, my husband was called into contribution for the coming year. his boss’s office and given a raise. It was We have all heard the saying, “Give for more than the 10 percent we had till it hurts” — meaning, just do not give given to the church and was retroactive from our surplus, but truly make a gift to the day we had made the decision to that will involve a personal sacrifice. tithe.

The parishioner who gave a lay witness “Well, we were convinced and talk at the end of Masses for Stewardhave continued to give the Lord his 10 ship Weekend had a different approach. percent ever since. We had seven more

He encouraged his fellow parishioners “to give till it feels good.” He was also exhorting people to make a sacrifice by sharing with his fellow parishioners the joy he experienced when he gave back generously to the Lord (by supporting the church and its ministries) a portion of what God had entrusted to him.

Many in the Archdiocese must be feeling very good. I am always amazed by the generosity of the people of the archdiocese. I am edified by the support given to our parishes. I was flabbergasted by the success again this year of Catholic Charities’ annual Snow Ball. (Catholic Charities directors from Denver and Wichita were in attendance at this year’s Snow Ball, attempting to figure out how they could try to get a similar Snow Ball rolling in their dioceses.) Just last week, we had a large crowd participate in the annual Support our Seminarians dinner. Last year’s ACTS surpassed its goal. From all reports, this year’s ACTS is off to a very good start.

Last year, we conducted a feasibility study regarding a possible archdiocesan capital campaign. While the results of the feasibility study were encouraging, the recommendation was the Archdiocese would be well served by spending a year communicating about the needs that the proposed campaign is intended to address, as well as listening to the priests and people as to how the campaign case could be refined and improved.

During the feasibility study, a few members of the Archdiocese wrote asking: “In these difficult economic times, how could the Archdiocese (translate: Archbishop) even think about initiating a capital campaign? Didn’t I understand that many people were hurting financially?”

Certainly, this is an understandable question. The answer to the question is: Precisely because many people are struggling financially is part of the reason for conducting a campaign.

Obviously, I am not expecting those individuals who are unemployed and not able to meet their own normal expenses

TOUCH OF HEAVEN

Archbishop Naumann’s weekly calendar

Feb. 4-6 Knights of the Holy Sepulcher weekend meeting — St. Louis Feb. 7-8 Kansas Catholic Conference — Topeka Feb. 8 Finance Council meeting Feb. 9 Donnelly College board meeting Confirmation — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kan. Feb. 10 Banquet with Kansans for Life Feb. 11 Installation of Bishop Coakley as archbishop of Oklahoma City Feb. 12 White Mass for Catholic Medical Association — Queen of the Holy Rosary, Overland Park to contribute to the proposed campaign.

However, the vast majority within the Archdiocese remain blessed. If we are going to keep our Catholic high schools financially accessible to the families who are struggling, then we need more scholarship money available. We also need to keep tuition as low as possible by eliminating or decreasing the debt under which some of our schools labor.

We need to strengthen our youth and young adult ministries, especially in areas where Catholic high schools are not geographically accessible.

Thank you for so generously supporting the work of the church in northeast Kansas through your prayers, your gifts of time and talent, as well as your financial donations. Thanks for giving until it feels good!

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Novices meet the pro Story and photos by Joe Bollig home invasion —Father Harry Schneider (left), rector of the Cathedral of St. Peter, is feeling a little more crowded these days — and for good reason. Father Schneider has opened his home and heart to two Jesuit novice masters and their five novices, who have chosen Kansas City, Kan., as the site of part of their formation. Novice master Father Mark Thibodeaux (center), SJ, and James Page gather with Father Schneider at the dining room table to review their day.

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — It’s provinces are in the process of consolinot exactly grand isola- dating and will complete their merger tion, but Father Harry by 2014.

The novitiate itself, explained FaSchneider is used to being the sole occupant of ther Thibodeaux, is a two-year process.

“It’s meant to be both an orientation the St. Peter Cathedral into the life of the Society of Jesus and rectory for long periods of time.

Since Jan. 1, however, his solitude an opportunity to discern whether or has been broken by the pitter-patter of not they wish to take vows in the society,” he said. “It’s many feet. Mice? a discernment No — Jesuits. process.”

Two novice The novices’ masters and five stay here in Kannovices between sas City, Kan., the ages of 18 and which will last 22 moved into the until Feb. 17, is rectory so that the called an “experiyoung men can exment.”

During perience their first an experiment, stage of a formation process that Father Harry Schneider, according to Ignatian theology will take between rector of the cathedral (the Jesuits were 13 to 20 years. founded by St. IgFather Schneider has only encountered one problem so natius of Loyola), the novices work in a variety of settings in order to experifar.

“We were all out of milk this morn- ence a broad range of ministries and people. ing,” he said.

For the past 30 years, these experi“They’re growing boys, I guess,” replied Father Mark Thibodeaux, SJ, ments have taken place at the very southern tip of Texas, in and around novice director.

The Jesuits are part of a bi-province the cities of McAllen, Harlingen, and program that draws novices from the Brownsville. They have been led by FaMissouri Province (Missouri, Kansas, ther Thibodeaux and the assistant novOklahoma and Colorado), and the ice master, Father Dan White, SJ. New Orleans Province (10 states from Georgia to New Mexico). The two Turn to “veteran” on page 15

“I enjoy their company. They’re full of energy. They are persons really interested in their own faith and spiritual growth.

”

Affiliated with the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas

Want to help someone heal from an abortion?

Call Toll Free 888-246-1504

Jesuit novices (from left) James Page, Michael Schonhoff and Alex Placke introduce themselves to youths at The Learning Club in Kansas City, Kan. Not pictured are André Breaux and John-Paul Witt.

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

Editor Reverend Mark Goldasich, stl frmark@theleaven.com

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe@theleaven.com

Advertising Representative Jennifer Siebes jennifer@theleaven.com

President Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita@theleaven.com

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd@theleaven.com

Reporter Kara Hansen kara@theleaven.com

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) 7211570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com.

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4 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • february 4, 2011

THE LEAVEN • february 4, 2011

More than just a (big) talking cat Teaching in a Catholic school allows teachers to link faith and academics Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Why teach in a Catholic school? It can be as simple as seeing Aslan as more than a big, talking pussy cat.

Tonia Helm, now a teacher at Holy Cross School in Overland Park, taught for two years at a public school.

“I was teaching at a Kansas City, Kan., school and reading ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’ to my students,” said Helm, who teaches seventh- and eighth-grade students. “I couldn’t make any of the connections I wanted to make. It was really hard to not say anything about Aslan and Christ.”

As many people know, the lion Aslan in C.S. Lewis’ famous book is a metaphor for Christ. In Catholic schools, teachers are free to make the connection clear, but in pubic schools, Jesus is persona non grata.

Catholic schools also give teachers the opportunity to relate their personal faith to their teaching.

“So, [for example], when I’m teaching ‘To Kill a Mockingbird,’ I can talk about how racism is not only illegal, but also, as Catholics, we know that it is wrong,” said Helm. “It’s immoral, and we don’t treat people that way.”

“It’s been so much more natural to be a teacher [here] because I can interrelate what I’m teaching to my faith and the faith of the students,” Helm continued. “What it ends up doing is building strong bonds between the teacher and the student, because you’re relating to one another — not just on an academic level, but an emotional and spiritual level as well.”

Catholic school teachers are quick to praise their dedicated and talented colleagues in public schools. They will readily acknowledge that there are many good public schools.

But the fact remains that there is something big missing in a public school education: God. An education without God is an incomplete education — which leads to an incomplete person. That’s why many choose to teach at Catholic schools.

“I teach in a Catholic school because it’s a privilege, and I’ve always looked at it that way,” said Sharon Kenagy, technology coordinator at Most Pure Heart of Mary School in Topeka.

“In Catholic schools you teach the whole child,” she continued. “You can teach them about their faith. You live the faith, as does everyone around you.

It just makes it so easy to be the best you can be.”

Former military man looks forward to serving as a deacon

By Kara Hansen Leaven staff

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Guy Berry might have learned a thing or two in the military that will come in handy in his upcoming deacon.

Deacon role“Inas athe miliprofile tary you spend a lot of time looking at a problem in lots of different ways to come up with a solution,” said Berry.

“Plus, I don’t have a problem with hierarchy. Wherever I’m sent, I’ll go. Whatever Father wants, he gets.”

Berry, a former Lutheran, converted to Catholicism in 2001.

“What I like about the Catholic Church is that it is truth,” said

By Joe Bollig

LOCAL NEWS 5

Berry. “The magisterium is important, and that body of truth doesn’t sway much with the times. That makes a big difference between us and Protestant sects.”

Often stationed overseas during his years in the military, Berry did not have much opportunity to meet deacons until he was stationed at Fort Leavenworth. There he met a deacon at St. Ignatius Chapel who encouraged him to apply for the newly forming diaconate program in the archdiocese.

“And here I am,” said Berry.

“I’m looking forward to serving.

Our pastors are busy fellows, and I hope I can help them and spread some of the love.”

Profile

Name: Guy Berry Parish: St. Joseph/St. Lawrence, Easton Age: 62 Family members and ages: wife, Virginia; children: Guy III, 38; Christine, 36; William, 35; eight grandchildren Occupation: military contractor Favorite food: Mom’s “Italian” spaghetti (cooked by a Swede!)

Something people might be surprised to learn about me: I haven’t always been Catholic.

Favorite saint: St. Ignatius of Loyola (another soldier who “saw the light”) If I could visit a period of church history, it would be: We make church history every day. I’m content with fighting the good fight now.

Favorite book (nonreligious): “Once an Eagle,” by Anton Myrer Hobby: home repair

Candidate looks forward to finish line of ‘slow marathon’

By Kara Hansen Leaven staff

CNS photo/Fox

When Holy Cross School teacher Tonia Helm was teaching in public schools and reading ‘The Lion, the Witch and the Wardrobe’ to her students, she couln’t make the connection between the lion Aslan (right) and Christ. Now, as a Catholic school teacher, she has the freedom to bring up Jesus in class.

“We want them not only to have a successful life, but eternal happiness. That’s the really long-term goal for Catholic education.”

”

Claudia Feeney, first-grade teacher, Christ the King School in Topeka.

Prayer is one of the big reasons why some teachers choose Catholic schools.

Kenagy remembered her first grandson’s reaction after his first day at a public school.

“Due to a family relocation, his Catholic education had to pause briefly,” said Kenagy. “When he jumped in the car after his first day [in first grade] at the new public school, he announced indignantly, ‘Mom, they did not pray at lunch!’”

In Catholic schools, academic and spiritual aspects walk hand in hand, said Claudia Feeney, a first-grade teacher at Christ the King School in Topeka.

“The main thing is the idea that you can learn and pray together at the same time,” said Fenney, an 18-year veteran

educator. “You don’t have to separate the spiritual and academic life. They are entwined, as they should be.”

One thing Fenney really appreciates is that, as a Catholic school teacher, she can use prayer to introduce calm.

“We do it all the time,” she said. “If we have a bad day, we can stop and pray. It gives a sense of peace to pray with the students in class. It reminds me of what we are [preparing] these students for. We want them not only to have a successful life, but eternal happiness. That’s the really long-term goal for Catholic education.”

Catholic school teachers can ask the question, “What would God think?” said Nancy Henning, a first-grade teacher at Atchison Catholic Elementary School.

“You can also use the power of prayer to help a child realize that if they have a problem with something, they can always use prayer to ask God for help,” said Henning, an educator for 26 years.

“You can use prayer [to comfort them] if they have a problem in their life, like a divorce or death, or a catastrophe.”

But Catholic school teachers don’t do it alone. They are quick to voice their appreciation for the high level of parental support and participation.

“It’s nice to have the support of the

community,” said Helm. “It’s nice to work in and live in our community, and it’s nice to know what’s going on in people’s lives. Holy Cross is a welcoming community, and we really look out for each other.”

It is their common values that give rise to this support.

“It’s the Catholic values we are teaching [that are] totally supported by the Catholic families,” said Kenagy.

It’s true that public schools have more resources, but Catholic schools get the job done and always find a way, the teachers said. What Catholic schools may lack in resources, however, they make up for in resourcefulness.

“We can do things that you can’t do in public schools,” said Kenagy. “We’re not tied down with all their rules and regulations. If a better program comes out, we can go ahead and implement it.

It’s just easier without the red tape.”

Probably at the heart of the question of ‘why teach at a Catholic school’ is vocation. These teachers are not just professional educators, but committed Christians who know the ultimate purpose.

“Everything we do needs to be in that greater context of faith,” said Helm.

“Our end goal is heaven.”

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — For many years — so many, in fact that Keith Geary has lost count — he has helped with the RCIA at Our Deacon program Lady of Unity profile Parish here.

Every year, he has attended the Easter Vigil to see the RCIA participants baptized, confirmed and welcomed into the church.

It is always a special experience, says Geary. But this year’s Easter Vigil promises to be even more so.

“To be a deacon at the Easter Vigil after all these years of helping with RCIA is amazing,” said Geary. “I don’t think anything can prepare me for how it’s going to feel assisting at Mass for

the first time as a deacon. I’m going to be speechless, and I’m a guy that’s hard to leave without words.”

Like the other deacon candidates, Geary is looking forward to celebrating the sacraments and serving people.

“We have this great opportunity to be with people as ministers in all parts of their lives,” said Geary.

While the five-year diaconate process, with its endless assignments and lengthy process of discernment, can feel like a slow marathon at times, Geary said the support of his family and parish has fueled him to the end.

“Our Lady of Unity has been so excited for me and so supportive,” said Geary. “It feels like I have a bunch of cheerleaders encouraging me.”

University of Saint Mary welcomes four new board members Leavenworth — The University of Saint Mary here began the new year with four new members on the institution’s board of trustees.

The new additions — officially added to USM’s board at its fall quarterly meeting — are: Sister Nancy Bauman, a member of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth Council since 2004; Gideon “Gabe” Brown, a Leavenworth native and Johnson County home builder; Sister Jean Anne Panisko, treasurer for the Sisters of Charity of

Leavenworth; and Dr. Peter Wong, vice president for quality and safety for the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth Health System.

USM president Sister Diane Steele said the four new board members “are wonderful additions to our governing body. Each brings his or her own unique experience, intellect, and skill set to our board, and the university will greatly benefit from their leadership.”

Profile

Name: Keith Geary Parish: Our Lady of Unity, Kansas City, Kan. Age: 49 Family members and ages: wife, Sheri; children: Joshua, 28; John, 26; Michaela, 15; one grandson Occupation: inside sales manager for American Rigger’s Supply, Inc., in Kansas City, Kan. I have been with the company 33 years.

Favorite food: Italian Something people might be surprised to learn about me: When I was a little kid — around 8 or 9 — I wanted to be a professional wrestler.

Favorite saint: Brother Andre, because he is a great model of humility. Also, his life shows us what is possible when our hearts are open to God’s will.

If I could visit a period of church history, it would be: Right after the death, resurrection, and ascension of Jesus into heaven.

Favorite book (nonreligious): Is there such a thing?

That’s all I have been reading for the past five years.

Hobby: computers

Donnelly College appoints interim provost KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Donnelly College here has announced the appointment of Robin E. Bowen, Ed.D., as the college’s interim provost and vice president for academic affairs effective Jan. 1, after serving as an academic consultant at Donnelly since June 2010.

Previously, Bowen served as vice president for academic affairs at Washburn University in Topeka from June 2007 to March 2010, overseeing all of the university’s academic programs including the College of Arts and Sciences, School of Law, School of Business, School of

Nursing, and School of Applied Studies, Washburn Institute of Technology, the university library, and many other areas.

She was also a professor with tenure within Washburn’s department of education and still teaches an online independent study course today.

Prior to that, Bowen served as founding dean of the school of graduate and professional studies at Rockhurst University in Kansas City, Mo., from 2002-07, a position that stemmed from her experience as associate dean of the College of Arts and Sciences at Rockhurst.

6 LOCAL NEWS

THE LEAVEN • february 4, 2011

THE LEAVEN • february 4, 2011

Archbishop’s annual campaign helps build a culture of life

John and Marguerite “Peggy” Clark, members of Sacred Heart Parish in Emporia, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Feb. 11. The couple was married on Feb. 11, 1961, at Immaculate Conception Church, St. Anniversaries Marys. Their children and their spouses are: Pat and Lori Clark, Emporia; Scott Clark, Kansas City, Mo.; and Vickie and Joe Orzel, Emporia.

They also have six grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. They will celebrate with a family dinner in Kansas City. Cards may be sent to: 714 Neosho, Emporia, KS 66801.

By Ron Kelsey

Special to The Leaven The late Pope John Paul II asked for the church to “activate a great campaign in support of life. All together we must build a new culture of life.”

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann’s annual Call to Share campaign provides the needed funds to the pro-life office to participate in this bold goal. Funds are used to conduct various activities in the archdiocese. For example, Father Tad Pacholczyk, director of education for National Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia, has given three presentations on end-of-life issues in Topeka and Kansas City this year that over 650 people were able to attend. Topics covered included advance directives, moral principles, artificial nutrition and hydration and many others.

The pro-life office also hosts annual pro-life forums for eighth-graders.

There, students learn about various life issues, including abortion. Over 2000 students, parents and teachers attended these forums in 2010.

Another important activity funded by ACTS is Project Rachel, the post-abortion healing ministry of the Catholic Church.

Through Project Rachel, women and men can find forgiveness, hope and healing from their decision to participate in abortion. With over 50 million abortions since Roe v. Wade in 1973, there are many in need of this healing ministry.

Another very important activity of the pro-life office involves the good works of crisis pregnancy centers. These centers play a pivotal role in helping women and men choose life for their child rather than abortion. The lives of many babies

For life

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann leads a rosary and procession from Sts. Cyril and Methodius Church in Kansas City, Kan., to an abortion clinic down the street following the archdiocese’s monthly pro-life Mass Jan. 15.

Leaven photo by Susan McSpadden

Scout retreat

The sonogram machine at Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic in Kansas City, Kan., has been an indispensable tool in persuading mothers to keep their babies. have been saved through these efforts.

Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic in Kansas City, Kan., an initiative of Archbishop Naumann, is one example of such a pregnancy center. Pregnancy centers must raise their own monies for their ministries. The pro-life office encourages Catholics, parishes and schools to help in this support with baby item drives, financial donations, volunteer ef-

forts and other activities. Additionally, it should be noted that the Knights of Columbus are significant supporters of these centers.

The above are just a few of the activities of the pro-life office that are possible because of your support of ACTS. Thank you for supporting ACTS and for participating in building “a great campaign in support of life.”

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LOCAL NEWS 7

Archdiocesan seminarian Brian Jilka, who attends Conception Seminary in Conception, Mo., shares what it was like to consider a vocation to the priesthood to Venturers and Boy Scouts during the annual archdiocesan Catholic Scout retreat, Jan. 29 and 30, at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg. More than 30 Scouts and Venturers and 25 adult Scout leaders attended the event.

Leaven photo by Joe Bollig

Frank and Katherine Healy, members of St. Agnes Parish, Roeland Park, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on Jan. 6. The couple was married at Holy Name Church, Kansas City, Kan. They have four children, eight grandchildren, and 13 great-grandchildren.

Anniversary policy

The Leaven only prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. Announcements are due by 5 p.m. eight days (Thursday) before the desired publication date. Announcements must be typed. Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or send an e-mail to: Todd@theleaven.com. If you would like your photo returned to you, please include a self-addressed stamped envelope.

Want to Learn More?

To find out more about Hope in the Streets and its programs, visit the Web site at: www.hopeinthestreets. org.

If you’d like to take a ride on the Vittle Van, contact Sandy Ratterman though the Web site to schedule a time.

Cold meal

The homeless flock to the Vittle Van during a cold winter night in downtown Kansas City, Mo. In addition to food, the van is also stocked with hats, gloves, scarves and coats.

Hope Streets in the

T

Story by Jill Ragar Esfeld | Photos by Elaina Cochran

here’s no mystery to the Vittle Van. It is exactly what it claims to be — a van filled with vittles.

But each week, when it goes into the most forsaken parts of the inner city, the Vittle Van delivers much more than food.

And that’s why the volunteers who ride along and hand out meals to the homeless call themselves Hope in the Streets.

“There are a lot of great organizations out there that are helping the homeless,” said Kelley Scharosch, a parishioner of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Wea, who is on the board of Hope in the Streets.

“We’re one piece of a bigger puzzle.”

Actually, the organization is two pieces of the puzzle. It fills the need for meals for the homeless in downtown Kansas City, Mo., every Sunday and Thursday evening.

But unlike other organizations that supply meals through the rest of the week, Hope in the Streets strives to have a consistent and personal relationship with those it serves.

“What you’ll find is that the people we serve are the same people over and over again,” said Scharosch. “So what Hope in the Streets does is it starts to build a connection with those individuals: We know them by name; we ask how they’re doing.”

Scharosch said she was hooked after her very first ride on the Vittle Van. “The more I saw what they were doing, the more interested I became in being in-

Making a connection

volved,” she said. “They weren’t just providing a handout; they were really trying to understand what the needs were and how they could help.”

Michael Sommers (left), Kelley Scharosch and Sandy Ratterman distribute sack lunches and water bottles to the homeless. The volunteers not only deliver food, but also strive to form a personal connection to those they feed.

Takin’ it to the streets Hope in the Streets is the brainchild of Sandy Ratterman and her husband Joe. Sandy remembers how, after Mass at Queen of the Holy Rosary one Sunday in 2004, Joe told her, “You know, I think God really wants us to help the homeless.”

“We support each other in just about everything,” said Ratterman. “And if that was something he wanted to do, I was all for it.”

The couple and their two teenage children brainstormed ideas for how they could answer God’s call and ended up putting together eight “warmth kits” — items they thought would help the homeless survive the cold winter.

They arranged to have the kits distributed by The Salvation Army. Through that process, they were introduced to that organization’s Honk and Holler program, a van staffed with volunteers delivering meals to the homeless.

The Rattermans liked the concept of Honk and Holler and became regular volunteers.

“That was a way for us to actually see who we were helping,” said Ratterman.

After serving with Honk and Holler for several years, the couple decided to branch out on their own. They knew the homeless were not getting meals two nights of the week and they thought they could fill that need.

Off again

With Sommers at the wheel, the Vittle Van takes off in search of more homeless people to feed.

A personal touch

“We got our own van last year,” said Ratterman. “So that’s when we started up the Thursday route. And in September of this past year, we added on the Sunday route.”

“We provide a meal twice a week, so that they know between some of the other groups in town, most every night, these

people do get something to eat,” said Scharosch.

Because volunteers are always mindful of what people need in addition to food, the Vittle Van is stocked with items like hats, gloves, scarves and coats.

“If we serve someone a meal and they don’t have gloves, we provide them with

a pair,” explained Scharosch. “In the summer we carry bug spray on the van.”

Hope in the Streets also continues to provide warmth kits and personal hygiene kits to the homeless. Each warmth kit contains a Bible with a St. Christopher medal taped on the inside cover.

“To protect the traveler,” said Ratterman.

From the time the Vittle Van made its first rounds, Hope in the Streets was determined its service would have a personal touch.

“With The Salvation Army, they have different volunteers every week,” explained Ratterman. “So the people you serve never get to know you.”

“When we were first going out, I would ask people for their first names,” she continued. “And I had a few people say, ‘Why? You’re never going to remember it. It doesn’t matter.’”

The next week, Ratterman made an effort to call each person by name.

“They were just shocked,” she recalled.

“That is the connection we’re after — the more personal — so we want to build up a friendship, not just have a face handing out food.”

Among the volunteers are four people qualified to drive the Vittle Van, including Michael Sommers, a parishioner at Our Lady of Presentation in Lee’s Summit, Mo. Sommers started volunteering with the group when they were with The Sal-

vation Army. He said the experience offered him a spiritual oasis in the midst of a busy life.

“What really attracted me is what I saw Joe and Sandy doing each week in the midst of crazy lives and families and business things that tend to take you further away from God’s kingdom,” he said.

“It’s like an instant reset button every time I go and start being Christlike to people who can’t do anything for me in return,” he continued. “Along with food, it’s unconditional giving of love and dignity and respect, which is what [the homeless] are lacking.

“I think it’s the epitome of being as Jesus to them, week in and week out.”

Indeed, volunteers on the Vittle Van consider their ride into the heart of Kansas City a spiritual journey — not because faith is discussed along the way, but because it is lived.

“We don’t discuss religion,” said Sommers. “As we drive around, we’re just friends, talking about the experience.

“It just happens to be very natural that when you’re serving the needy, people connect on a spiritual level.”

“We rarely talk about how we worship.

It just transcends that, which I think is awesome,” he said.

It’s not unusual to see volunteers joined in prayer with the homeless.

The Lazarus Program Now that Hope in the Streets volunteers have accomplished their first priority of getting to know the homeless, their mission has shifted beyond meeting temporary needs.

“I think our ultimate goal now is to start working to try to get some individuals that we think are capable off the streets,” said Scharosch.

“Week in, week out, you build a bond [with the homeless] and they will allow you into their lives,” said Sommers. “So this is a natural evolution. We’ve earned their trust and now we can start getting really invested and creative around how to help them on an individual basis.”

The group has named their new goal “The Lazarus Program” in light of the fact that many of the homeless are, in a sense, dead to their friends and families.

“Because of addictions they’ve had, and issues they’ve had,” Ratterman explained.

The group plans to start with just one person they’ve grown to know and believe in, and move that individual into an apartment in Olathe.

“So that they are completely out of the environment,” said Ratterman. “We will put them in an apartment, help them find a job, and help them reunite with their families.”

“That to me is the most exciting thing that we’re doing,” said Scharosch. “Because we’re not just putting a Band-Aid on the situation — we’re really trying to transform someone’s life.”

The group has already identified a female candidate they hope to meet with soon.

“We already have a job opportunity for this individual,” said Ratterman. “So we’re well on our way to having our first success.”

But Ratterman is quick to give credit to those they serve. “[The homeless] bless us,” she said.

“We just know that God directs us in what we do. He makes sure we are where we’re supposed to be and [that] we come across the people who are in the most need.”

All are welcome Hope in the Streets encourages anyone who would like to experience its mission to come along on a ride in the Vittle Van. It’s an experience you won’t soon forget.

“My husband and I have been really blessed,” said Scharosch. “We have been given so much in our lives. And we understand that’s not the case for so many other people.

“You meet people on the streets, especially in the winter when it’s so cold, and it just kind of breaks your heart to leave them there.”

“Anyone that’s Catholic or Christian has a desire to make a difference,” she said.

“God can send down his commandments, and we can study all we want about how to please our maker and how to achieve salvation,” said Sommers, “but Christianity is the only religion that claims God himself came down in human form to literally walk among us and teach us how to be.”

On the Vittle Van, said Sommers, you can truly have an opportunity to model the behavior Christ modeled for us.

“If you want to serve,” he said, “if you want to find yourself through service to others, come join us.”

10 nation

THE LEAVEN • february 4, 2011

Experts offer actions to ease causes of global warming WASHINGTON (CNS) — Leave a room, turn off the light. Such a simple act can help reduce the emission of greenhouse gases — the main cause of worldwide climate change, according to the Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change — and begin to slow the pace of global warming, explained Joelle Novey, executive director of Greater Washington Interfaith Power and Light. Novey’s organization helps religious congregations around the Washington area to undertake energy-saving initiatives in response to climate change. She said that reducing electricity consumption is an easy — and necessary — step anyone can take. Novey explained that coal-burning power plants are the nation’s largest producers of electricity and the largest source of greenhouse gas pollution. Such gases percolate up into the atmosphere where they trap heat that would normally disperse into space, she said. “Suffice to say that our use of coal for power is connected to all of the scary consequences of a warming global climate: flooding, food scarcity, loss of species and suffering by those on the front lines in some of the world’s poorest countries,” Novey said.

“What would it look like to light and heat our parishes in ways that fully reflected Franciscan values?”

Los Angeles Catholic schools extending school-year calendar LOS ANGELES (CNS) — At a time when California public schools have fewer instructional days because of the state’s budget crisis, Catholic elementary schools in the Los Angeles Archdiocese will be adding four weeks of instruction to their school year. Kevin Baxter, archdiocesan superintendent of elementary schools, said the plan is for as many schools as possible to adopt a 200-day academic calendar for the 2011-12 school year, increasing instruction by approximately 20 days. All of the archdiocese’s 210 parish elementary schools, which have a total enrollment of 52,000 students, will be operating under the 200-day calendar by the 2012-13 school year. Local Catholic schools will retain flexibility in setting start and end dates but the academic year must conclude by June 30 each year. The increase in the number of days will essentially add four weeks to the calendar, establishing an 11-month school year instead of the current 10-month year that fulfills California state requirements.Baxter said extending the academic calendar has been heralded for years. unplanned pregnancy? decisions to make?

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THE LEAVEN • february 4, 2011

French Senate votes ‘no’ on euthanasia legislation

Catholic schools help enhance wider society

By Ed Langlois

Catholic News Service PORTLAND, Ore. (CNS) — Love or hate their politics, new House Speaker John Boehner, a Republican from Ohio, and Democratic Vice President Joe Biden are products of Catholic education. Both men rose from humble circumstances.

Contributing to civic life is seen by some as a hallmark of Catholic schools, but others note another benefit the schools provide to the wider community — what they save states in public education dollars.

In Oregon, for example, the amount is about $80 million annually. The savings come because every student who does not attend a public school equals $5,700 Oregon does not need to send to a school district.

“This is our contribution to Oregon’s economy,” said Bob Mizia, superintendent of Catholic schools for the Archdiocese of Portland. “That, plus the good citizens created,” he told the Catholic Sentinel, the archdiocesan newspaper.

Families who send their children to Catholic schools still pay their taxes to support public education, in addition to paying tuition and helping create hundreds of jobs.

Each year the National Catholic Educational Association and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops jointly sponsor Catholic Schools Week to draw attention to their contributions. This year’s observance, Jan. 30-Feb. 5, had as its theme “Catholic Schools: A+ for America.”

“Historically, Catholic schools are known for their high level of academic achievement, moral values and high graduation rates,” said Karen Ristau, NCEA president.

Marie Powell, executive director of the USCCB Secretariat of Catholic Education for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, pointed out that this year nearly 30 percent of the nation’s 2.1 million Catholic school students come from minority populations.

CNS photo/Jose Luis Magana, Reuters

DEMONSTRATOR SHOUTS OUTSIDE WHITE HOUSE — A demonstrator shouts slogans during a protest outside the White House in Washington Jan. 29. Protests also took place in Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles and New York. In Washington about 150 people marched from the Egyptian Embassy to the White House and stood outside the gates, calling on Egyptian President Hosni Mubarak to resign.

Faith community must fight stigma of mental illness

By Nancy Frazier O’Brien Catholic News Service

WASHINGTON (CNS) — The entire faith community is responsible, as individuals and collectively, for addressing the nation’s mental health crisis that contributed to the tragedy in Tucson, Ariz., a Catholic organization said Jan. 26.

The Council on Mental Illness of the National Catholic Partnership on Disability said an underfunded mental health system and the “stigmatization, stereotyping and isolation from society” experienced by those who are mentally ill and their families were factors in the Jan. 8 shootings outside a Safeway grocery store in Tucson.

Jared Lee Loughner, 22, is charged with killing six people and wounding 13, including U.S. Rep. Gabrielle Giffords, D-Ariz., in the incident.

“It seems evident that Jared Loughner was and had for some time been experiencing a mental illness,” the council said.

“We are saddened by the knowledge that with appropriate treatment this tragic act likely could have been avoided.”

The group urged prayers “for those who have died, for the healing of those injured and struggling to recover,

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The Veteran’s Administration offers a few other entitlements including a burial allowance if certain criteria are met.

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consolation for those who have lost ones they love, and peace for a community that has experienced this trauma.”

Citing statistics from the U.S. Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration, the council said one family in five is affected by mental illness, with approximately 6 percent of the population — or one person in 17 — experiencing a significant mental illness.

“Most people with mental illness suffer silently, often hiding to escape the stigma of being known as a person with this condition, sometimes hiding in full view,” the council said. “Regrettably, such individuals often are unable to find access to needed services due to underfunded mental health systems incapable of delivering proper care.”

In addition to the stigma attached, people with mental illness “may even lack support from a faith community unwilling or ill-equipped to welcome them as children of God, made in God’s image and endowed with human dignity,” the statement said.

The council offered resources and recommendations to help parishes and individuals “take the proactive steps needed to support parishioners experiencing mental illness and their families.”

CNS photo/Kacper Pempel, Reuters

FLOWERS SIT ON RAILWAY TRACKS AT AUSCHWITZ — Flowers sit on the railway tracks at the former Nazi death camp in Auschwitz, Poland, Jan. 27, the 66th anniversary of the camp’s liberation. Hundreds of thousands of Jews and people of other faiths, including Catholics St. Edith Stein and St. Maximilian Kolbe, were killed at Auschwitz.

Catholic schools to phase out gambling as funding source

By Ramon Gonzalez

Catholic News Service

EDMONTON, Alberta (CNS) — Edmonton Catholic Schools’ trustees have voted to abolish gambling activities as a source of school funding.

But board chair Debbie Engel says casino revenues will still be used in Catholic schools while the board looks for alternative and sustainable options for the district, which serves the city of Edmonton with publicly funded Catholic education.

Trustees adopted the position that “no school or school community in Alberta should have to raise money through gambling activities in order to meet children’s educational needs.”

The board has been dealing with the issue since the fall when the Archdiocese of Edmonton implemented new policy guidelines that forbid Catholic groups to raise money through “harmful gambling activities.”

The archdiocesan chancellor, Father Gregory Bittman, said the archdiocese recognizes that the school district needs time “to make fundamental changes.

However, we believe that fundraising without casinos is an attainable goal.”

Catholic schools in the city earn

about $6 million through casino fundraising every 18 months. All but one of the 87 schools take part in the practice.

They use the money to pay for school field trips, hot lunch programs, equipment and other extras.

Engel said the issue is one of social justice and educational equality. While larger schools in more affluent areas can afford to pay for extras, smaller schools cannot.

“I’m thinking there are some schools who literally wouldn’t survive without casino funds,” Engel said Jan. 24. “You take a school that has a population of 150 kids and you take away $80,000 every 18 months.

“They are getting the same $80,000 as a school with 800 kids. And so it’s just not equitable to our board’s way of thinking.”

The board plans to look at a number of options, including lobbying the Alberta government for changes in how revenue is distributed, so parents do not have to work at casinos.

“We would like to lobby the provincial government to find out exactly how much money is coming into public education from casinos and allocate it evenly on a need basis throughout the province for adequate, sustainable funding for education,” Engel said.

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PARIS (CNS) — The French Senate has rejected legislation that would have permitted any adult to request a “quick and painless death.”

Under the draft Bioethics Law amendment, French citizens would have been entitled to seek medical help to die when “in a terminal state, or with a serious and incurable illness causing physical or psychological pain.”

The right would have applied when the pain “cannot be alleviated or is considered unbearable,” enabling doctors to bring about the patient’s death “as the outcome of a deliberate act.”

During the Senate’s Jan. 26 debate on the amendment, Catholic pro-life groups conducted a vigil and protest, during which about 700 people pretended to be dead.

In a Jan. 25 letter to Senate members, the spokesman for the French bishops’ conference, Msgr. Bernard Podvin, said the idea of “relentless therapy” for the dying repelled French people, but added that “things affecting the most intimate, ultimate and sacred sphere and existential vulnerabilities” should not be legislated on.

Several bishops spoke against the legislation and urged Catholics to write to their senators.

The bishops’ conference president, Cardinal Andre Vingt-Trois of Paris, said a society’s “humanity and quality of civilization” was measured by its “treatment of the most vulnerable,” adding that he believed there could be “no liberty without respect for the principle of humanity.”

“The culture of our country, its history and responsibility toward Europe and the rest of the world, as well as its current fragility, require us to show ethical ambition with courage and enthusiasm,” the cardinal said in a Jan. 14 article in the Le Figaro daily.

“As Catholics, we would have denied help to a society in danger if we had not denounced this suicidal initiative, after participating for years in a spirit of dialogue in pluralistic debate on these issues,” he said.

world 11

Is seeing believing? How the church faces apparition claims VATICAN CITY (CNS) — When the bishop of Green Bay, Wis., recently recognized a series of Marian apparitions from 1859, it marked the first time apparitions in the United States received official approval.

That’s quite an achievement considering that more than 1,500 visions of Mary have been reported around the world, but in the past century only nine cases have received official church approval as being “worthy of belief,” said an expert in Marian apparitions. The church has made very few judgments on apparition claims. “It’s not always possible to ascertain if they are true or false because the phenomenon is much bigger than us,” said Marianist Father Salvatore Perrella, a theologian who serves as an expert for the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith. The enormous job of determining the veracity of an apparition falls to the local bishop, said Father Perrella. To help with that task, the Vatican’s doctrinal congregation established a set of norms in 1978 to guide the process of discernment and the investigation of reported apparitions and revelations. The process “is never brief,” said Father Perrella. For example, the Green Bay apparitions received approval 151 years after the first apparition was reported, but that’s just half of the nearly 300 years it took the church to approve the apparitions of Our Lady of Laus in France, he said. The process is lengthy because visionaries and witnesses must be questioned and “the fruits of the apparitions, such as conversions, miracles and healings” must be examined, he said.

St. Joan of Arc is model for Christian politicians, says pope VATICAN CITY (CNS) — With her deep prayer life and total devotion to serving God and the good of her fellow citizens, St. Joan of Arc is a wonderful model for Christian politicians, Pope Benedict XVI said. “Hers is a beautiful example of holiness for laypeople involved in politics, especially in difficult situations. Faith is the light that guided all her choices,” the pope said Jan. 26 during his weekly general audience. The pope’s remarks about St. Joan were part of an ongoing series of audience talks about influential Catholic women of the Middle Ages. Addressing about 3,000 people gathered for the audience, the pope said that St. Joan of Arc, like St. Catherine of Siena, was a young laywoman and mystic who lived her faith commitment “not in a cloister, but in the midst of the most dramatic realities of the church and the world of her time.”

12 CLASSIFIEDS Employment Principal - The Diocese of Wichita is seeking principal candidates for the St. Catherine of Siena School, opening in the fall. An experienced, faith-filled leader with enthusiasm and vision is needed to plan for the school’s opening, hire an outstanding staff, and help plan for a permanent school facility. Candidate must be a practicing Catholic; be eligible for Kansas licensure as an administrator; promote a high quality instructional program; and possess excellent interpersonal and organizational skills. Send letter of interest to: Mr. Dan McAdam, Director of Staff Services, Catholic Diocese of Wichita, 424 N. Broadway, Wichita, KS 67202. Application deadline is Feb. 21.

Head football coach - St. James Academy, Lenexa, is seeking a head football coach. Interested candidates may contact Mark Huppe, athletic director, at (913) 254-4284.

Administrator - The Diocese of Wichita is seeking an administrator for St. Jude School, Wichita, for the 2011 - 12 academic year. Candidate must be a practicing Catholic; eligible for Kansas licensure as an administrator; promote a standards-based instructional program; and possess strong interpersonal and organizational skills. Applicants may contact: Dan McAdam, director of staff services, Diocese of Wichita, 424 N. Broadway, Wichita, KS 67202. Application deadline is Feb. 15.

Call center representatives – We are looking for telephone professionals seeking top pay and benefits. Prior phone experience preferred. We are growing and need quality people to grow with us.

Prior benefits administration experience preferred.

To apply, visit the Web site at: www.cobraguard.net (click on the “jobs” tab at the bottom of the page) or forward your resume, via e-mail, to: HR@cobraguard. net. EOE Job fair - The St. Joseph Early Education Center, 11525 Johnson Dr., Shawnee, will hold a job fair from 9 a.m. - noon on Feb. 19. Positions include: a nurse, and infant/toddler and preschool staff. To set an appointment, call Ms. Theresa or Ms. Susan at (913) 6310004. Walk-ins are also welcome.

Director - The Catholic Diocese of Wichita is seeking an exceptional individual to serve as director for the office of faith formation. This individual will provide resources, training, policy guidance, and oversight for catechetical and youth ministry — programs for children and young adults ages preschool through college in diocesan parishes. Must be a practicing Catholic in good standing and an active and faithful steward. Experience working with pastors in unique parish situations; proper theological and pedagogical training. Bachelor’s degree required; master’s degree in a related field is preferred. Practical experience in preschool through college parish catechesis and promoter of parish catechetical ministry. Proven administrative skills, experience in interpersonal relations, conflict resolution, collaborative management, supervision and budget preparation.

Respect for all cultures; bilingual helpful. Excellent written and verbal communication skills. Ability to travel to train parish ministerial personnel. Proficiency with Microsoft Office. Submit cover letter, resume with references and salary requirements, via e-mail, to: seilert@catholicdioceseofwichita.org. Application deadline is Feb. 15.

Financial representative - Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding financial representatives in the Kansas City and Emporia areas. This position is ideal for a determined, high-energy, high-expectation, professional, selfdisciplined, independent individual desiring to serve others, yet earn a better-than-average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families and will provide excellent benefits and training. For information or an interview, contact John A. Mahon, 307 Dakota, Holton KS 66436; or call (785) 364-5450.

Services Piano lessons - Private piano teacher is relocating from Nashville, Tenn. Bachelor’s in music with piano pedagogy emphasis. Gifted and talented teaching endorsement. Call Janet Jamison at (931) 2154293 (Tenn. area code) or send an e-mail to: jjpiano studio@hotmail.com.

THE LEAVEN • FEBRUARY 4, 2011 Piano lessons- The Brittain Piano Studio offers piano lessons to all ages. For information, send an email to Theresa Brittain at: tbrittain3@gmail.com, or visit the Web site at: brittmusic.weebly.com.

Perfection housecleaning - I am expanding my business and have openings in the JoCo area. I am a caring, honest, Catholic with years of experience and excellent references. Cost determined by the needs of the client -- no hourly charge, very reasonable rates. I ran two ads in Dec. but my new phone wasn’t recording the incoming messages. That issue has been fixed.

Please call again, Dee (816) 214-5102.

Housecleaning - Charmaine will provide you with excellent service you can depend on. Years of experience in satisfying customers. Serving the Greater KC metro area. Call Charmaine at (913) 972-7900.

Husband and wife cleaning team - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959.

Machine quilting by Lyn - I also do T-shirt, photo, and memorial quilts. Official Hobbs distributor.

Located in Overland Park. Call Lyn at (913) 492-8877.

Counseling - Topeka Marriage and family, child, teen, personal Shunga Creek Mental Health Call Ken Zweig, LSCSW at (785) 969-5308.

Bankruptcy - When debt becomes overwhelming, seek professional help. Experienced, compassionate Catholic attorney Teresa Kidd. For a confidential, no obligation consultation, call (913) 422-0610; or send an e-mail to: tkidd@kc.rr.com.

Computer repair and sales - Geeks on Guard will help you setup a new computer, upgrade your one, or build a new one. We will fix annoying issues such as: popups, viruses, and unwanted programs.

Speed up your computer, backup your data, and recover lost files. Call (877) 724-8727 or send an e-mail to: info@gogllc.com.

Tree service - Pruning trees for optimal growth and beauty and removal of hazardous limbs or problem trees. Free consultation and bid. Safe, insured, professional. Cristofer Estrada, Green Solutions of KC, (913) 378-5872. www.GreenSolutionsKC.com.

Semi-retired arborist - Available for tree and shrub trimming. Call Bob at (913) 231- 6460.

Clutter getting you down? Organize, fix, assemble, clean . . . we do it all! For a free consultation, call your professional organizing handyman, Kevin Hogan, M Ed, today at (913) 271-5055. Insured; references. Visit the Web site at: www.KOATINDUSTRIES.com.

Clutter problems? Embarrassing garage, basement, attic or any room? Let me help you get organized! Items sorted, grouped, boxed and labeled; areas clean when finished. Great references and insured. Twenty years experience! Handyman repairs also available. To view “before” and “after” pictures, visit my Web site at: WWW.SWALMS.COM. Tillar Swalm (913) 375-9115.

Carpet direct – We cut out the middle man and bring the showroom to you! The best place to see your flooring is in your own home or office. Save 40 - 80% on carpet and hard surfaces. Residential and commercial. For a free estimate, call Amanda at (913) 742-4003.

Woodbright - A very affordable alternative to refinishing, refacing or replacing stained cabinets and woodwork. The average kitchen only costs $500. 18 years experience. Call Woodbright at (913) 940-3020.

Interior painting, tiling, kitchen, bath and basement remodeling – 20 years experience. Excellent references. Quality work at a reasonable price.

Call Rob at (913) 206-4524.

Tile and painting - Complete tile and paint repairs and renovation. Ceramic, porcelain, certified limestone tile master. Complete interior paint services and drywall texture finishes. Over 20 years experience. Fully licensed. Service 7 days a week.

Contact Mike at (913) 488-4930. Member of Church of the Ascension Parish, Overland Park.

Interior and exterior painting and wallpaper removal - 30-plus years experience. Quality work; excellent references; reasonable rates. Senior discount. Member of St. Ann Parish, Prairie Village. Call Joe at (913) 620-5776.

Adept Home Improvements Where quality still counts!

Basement finishing, Kitchens and baths, Electrical and plumbing, Licensed and insured.

(913) 599-7998

Caregiving

Electrician - Free estimates; reasonable rates.

JoCo and south KC metro. Call Pat at (913) 963-9896.

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation to the elderly and disabled in home, assisted living and 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, Sara or Gary.

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.

Looking for high quality home care? Whether you’re looking to introduce care for your family or simply looking to improve your current home care quality, we can help. Our unique approach to home care has earned us a 99% client satisfaction rating among the 1,000-plus families we have assisted. We are family-owned and based in Lenexa. For details, call Benefits of Home-Senior Care at (913) 4221591 or visit our Web site at: www.benefitsofhome. com.

Housekeeper/companion/elder care - Retired nurse with over 25 years experience is seeking a fulltime care position. Days/nights/weekends. Will consider outside the metro area or a live-in position as well. Rates negotiable. Call (913) 579-5276.

Caregiver - Catholic lady with over 30 years experience has part-time availability for elderly care. Excellent references. Johnson County area. Call (913) 579-8914.

Home Improvement The Drywall Doctor, Inc. - A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean!

Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655.

CALENDAR 13

THE LEAVEN • FEBRUARY 4, 2011

STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Call for free estimates. Cell: (913) 579-1835; phone: (913) 491-5837; e-mail: smokey cabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation* Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!!

Call Lupe at (816) 252-3376 Thanks to all my customers for a great fall!

We’re looking for indoor work. We can do bathroom, kitchen, and basement remodeling. Includes floors, cabinets, doors, windows, sheetrock, painting, and wood rot. You name it – we can do it; just ask. We’re reasonably priced and fully insured. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.

For Rent Country home - Totally renovated; 3 BR, 1 BA, central heat and air, basement, one-car garage. Ten miles north of Oskaloosa. $700/mo. Call (785) 2208038.

Real Estate Price reduced!! Winchester land - 40 acres: 10 timber, 30 prairie grass; two ponds with good fishing; good deer and turkey hunting; located 1-1/2 miles off highway; beautiful building site; excellent schools; only 40 miles from Kansas City. For information, call (913) 683-4488 or (913) 362-3024.

Vacation Ski cabin in Winter Park, Colo. – 2 BR, 1 BA, on free ski shuttle route. $110/night. Call (913) 642-3027.

For pictures, visit the Web site at: cabin.forcadeassociates.com.

Colorado ski vacation - Winter Park. 2 BR, sleeps 6. Fully furnished, fireplace, rec. center with pool & hot tub. Bus to ski area. $125/night; $700/ week. Call Joe Frederick at (913) 385-5589.

Wanted to buy Will buy firearms and related accessories One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. ***WANTED*** I buy coins, older watches, silverware, slot machines, old rifles and shotguns, stoneware crocks and jugs, old furniture from basement or attic.

Call Chris at (913) 593-7507 or (913) 642-8269

Misc.

Donate a vehicle. Make a difference. Donate your vehicle to Catholic Charities to support those in need. Your tax-deductible donation of a vehicle helps children and families served by Catholic Charities and is an environmentally responsible way to recycle your vehicle. Cars for KC Kids is a partnership between Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas and Catholic Charities of Kansas City - St. Joseph. Call 1 (866) 4309499 or visit the Web site at: www.cars4kckids. com.

For Sale Two burial plots – At Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens, Kansas City, Kan. Lot 174A, spaces 1 & 2, in the Garden of Valor. $1500 apiece. Call (913) 432-3819.

Rascal Scooter - Candy-red four-wheel handicapped accessibility scooter for sale. Only used twice!

Call Joe at (913) 299-6873 or send an e-mail to him at: joetnovak@yahoo.com.

American Girl-type solid wood doll furniture - Heirloom quality, built to last a lifetime. Many types of beds — trundles, daybeds, canopy, bunk, and fourposter. Tables and chairs, clothes bars, and beautiful bedding. Custom orders welcome. Call John Hember at (913) 631-4060. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

Residential lifts - Buy/sell/trade. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. Recycled and new equipment. Member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood. Call Silver Cross KC at (913) 393-2042.

Entertainment DJ Colm - Colm Delahunt is available for parties, weddings, graduations, and any other function. Playing all your favorite hits from the Village People to U2. Call (913) 548-6765 or visit the Web site at: www. djirishman.com.

5

Feb.

Immaculate Conception Church, Louisburg, will host a Texas hold’em tournament, dinner and raffle on Feb. 5. A barbecue dinner will be served at 5 p.m.; the tournament will follow at 7 p.m.

The cost of dinner is $5. For information, call Judy Dixon at (913) 837-2550.

Our Lady of Unity School, 2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host a family fun night from 5 - 8 p.m. on Feb. 5. There will be a taco dinner, music, raffles and a silent auction. For information, call Karen Davis at (913) 262-7022.

Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host “Listening With Your Heart,” a one-day retreat for single women ages 18 - 50, presented by Benedictine Sister Marcia Ziska, from 10 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Feb. 5. There is no cost, but advance registration is required. For information or to register, call Sister Barbara Smith at (913) 360-6219; send an e-mail to her at: vocation@mountosb.org; or visit the Web site at: www.mount osb.org/sophia.html.

The Archdiocesan Council of Catholic Women (ACCW) will host its quarterly meeting and annual retreat on Feb. 5 at Sacred Heart Parish center, 122 E. Warren, Gardner. The meeting will begin at 8:30 a.m., followed by the retreat at 9:30 a.m. There will be featured speakers from the archdiocesan pro-life office, Marian’s Mantle, and Respite, honoring St. Agatha, the patron of cancer patients.

The cost is $15. To RSVP by Feb. 1, mail a check to: Susan Draftz, 806 N. 4th St., Atchison KS 66002. For more information, visit the Web site at: https://sites. google.com/site/accwkck.

The Ave Maria Village of the Militia of the Immaculata will host a oneday mission, beginning with Mass at 9 a.m., on Feb. 5 at Redemptorist Church, 3333 Broadway, Kansas City, Mo. The day will include a presentation on “Mary, Mother of God, Model of Fidelity,” lunch, reconciliation, and Benediction. For information, call Christine Rossi at (913) 268-0208 or send an e-mail to her at: queenofpeace27@yahoo.com.

The eighth-grade class at Holy Name School, 1007 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, Kan., will host a taco dinner from 4 - 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 5. The cost is $6 for adults; $3 for children under age 10. Proceeds will benefit the graduation fund.

6

St. Mary Church, St. Benedict, will host its annual soup lunch from 11 a.m. - 2 p.m. on Feb. 6. A freewill offering will be collected.

A spaghetti dinner to benefit the Sisters, Servants of Mary will be held from 11 a.m. - 4 p.m. on Feb. 6 in the parish center of St. Patrick Church, 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kan. A suggested donation of $8 for adults and $3 for children is appreciated. The Sisters, Servants

of Mary are women religious who provide in-home nursing care, free of charge, throughout the metro area. They live solely off the donations of their benefactors and fundraising efforts. Tickets can be purchased in advance or at the door.

For information, call (913) 371-3423.

8

The Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will offer a Mary Kay pampering session from 6:30 - 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 8, presented by consultant Laura Schmidt.

Learn make-up tips, how to take care of your skin, try new products and look your best for an upcoming interview.

For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www. mountosb.org/kwc.

10 “Back to School – The Way to a Better Life,” a program to raise aware-

ness of the education and training options available in the Greater Kansas City area, will be offered from 10 - 11 a.m. on Feb. 10 at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www. mountosb.org/kwc.

The Holy Women series for February will feature prayer and reflection on St. Scholastica, twin sister of St. Benedict.

The program will be offered from 1 - 3 p.m. on Feb. 10 at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

11

Queen of the Holy RosaryWea, 22705 Metcalf, Bucyrus, will host its annual casino night on Feb. 11. The doors open at 6 p.m.; dinner, gaming and auction follow. A suggested donation of $20 per person is appreciated. Proceeds will benefit the parish school. For information, call (913) 592-5375.

12

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will celebrate the annual White Mass for health care workers at 10:30 a.m. on Feb. 12 at the Cathedral of St. Peter, 409 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kan. Bishop Robert Vasa, newly appointed coadjutor of the Diocese of Santa Rosa, Calif., and episcopal advisor to the Catholic Medical Association, will concelebrate. Lunch will be provided by the Sts. Cosmas and Damian Guild of the Catholic Medical Association. All are invited to attend. To RSVP, call (913) 945-2090.

Holy Family Church, 513 Ohio, Kansas City, Kan., will host a Valentine’s Day dinner dance on Feb. 12 in Mejak Hall.

A beef tenderloin dinner will be served at 6 p.m.; the dance, with music provided

by The Don Lipovac Orchestra, will follow from 7 - 11 p.m. The cost is $25 per person. For tickets, call Bob Serra at (913)

The Blaufuss Team “We want to help you and your family with real estate”

To purchase a classified ad:

Re/max Realty Suburban, Inc.

Send an e-mail to: jennifer@theleaven.com, or call (913) 647-0327. The cost is $16 per column inch, five lines or less. Each additional line is $1.50. Classified ads will also be posted online at The Leaven’s Web site: www.theleaven.com, at no additional charge.

12701 W. 87th Pkwy.

Lenexa, KS 66215

Contact Jim: 913-226-7442 Contact Julie & Marilyn: 913-647-7118 Office Line: 913-647-7132 We LOVE Referrals!

jimblaufuss@aol.com | www.BlaufussTeam.com

621-3500; Richard Schutte at (913) 6693677; Mike Waliczek at (913) 342-1785; or JoAnn Lipovac at (913) 299-2792.

Holy Name Parish, 1007 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, Kan., will host its annual ragin’ sweet and spicy fest — a chili, soup and dessert cook-off — from 6:30 - 9 p.m. on Feb. 12. The cost is: $8 per person; $15 per couple; or $20 per family.

For information or to purchase tickets, call Sharon Staab at (913) 631-1138.

13

Sanctuary of Hope, 2601 Ridge Ave., Kansas City, Kan., will host “Meditation in Movement and Music,” its annual concert, from 2 - 3 p.m. on Feb. 13. Performers include the Charity Notes of the Sisters of Charity, Leavenworth, and the Ebony Chorale of Greater Kansas City.

Refreshments will follow.

St. Dominic Parish, 416 Ohio, Holton, will celebrate the enthronement of an image of Divine Mercy with exposition, Benediction and a Holy Hour at 3 p.m. on Feb. 13.

Fellowship will follow. For information, call (785) 246-1338.

St. Mary – St. Anthony Church, 615 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kan., will host afternoon bingo at 2 p.m. on Feb. 13 in Bishop Forst Hall. The cost of $5 includes povitica, salami, apple strudel, coffee and one bingo card. Additional cards may be purchased. For information, contact Carol Shomin at (913) 897-4833 or the parish office.

St. Stanislaus Parish, Rossville, will host a soup luncheon from 11:30 a.m.

- 1:30 p.m. and bingo from 1:30 - 2:30 p.m. on Feb. 13 in the parish hall. A freewill offering will be collected.

St. Mary Church in Hartford will have a beef and noodle dinner from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. on Feb. 13 at the Neosho Rapids Grade School in the multipurpose room. Cost is $7 for adults; $4 for children 10 and under.

17

A healing Mass, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held at 7:30 p.m. on Feb. 17 at Curé of Ars Church, 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood. Father Ken Kelly will preside; fellowship follows. For information, call (913) 649-1337.

18-20

Feeling alone in your marriage? Are you frustrated or angry with each other? Do you argue? Or have you just stopped talking to each other?

Retrouvaille is a program to help couples through difficult times in their marriages. For confidential information or to register for the upcoming February program, call 1 (800) 470-2230 or visit the Web site at: www.retrouvaille.org.

19

Marillac Center, 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth, will offer a oneday workshop, entitled “God Is an ‘Active Player’: Ten Techniques to Achieve Healing and Illumination,” presented by Richard Johnson, Ph.D., a nationally recognized speaker and author. It will run from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. on Feb. 19.

The registration fee is $45, if received

by Feb. 11; $55, if received after. Lunch is included. Scholarships are available.

To register, call (913) 758-6552; send an e-mail to: retreats@scls.org; or visit the Web site at: www.MarillacCenter.org.

March

1

Sophia Center, 751 S. 8th St., Atchison, will host a one-day retreat, entitled “Can You Drink This Cup?” (inspired by Henri Nouwen’s book of the same title), from 9:30 a.m. - 4 p.m. on March 1. Sister Marcia Ziska, OSB, will lead the day of reflection exploring the spiritual horizons posed by Jesus’ question. The cost is $50. For information or to register, call (913) 360-6151 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/sophia.html.

Misc.

A support group for women dealing with any type of addiction, at any stage of recovery, will meet from 6 - 7 p.m. on Tuesday evenings at the Keeler Women’s Center, 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kan. For information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or visit the Web site at: www.mountosb.org/kwc.

El Centro, Inc., will offer classes in financial literacy, home improvement, and home buyer education. The classes are free and open to the public. All classes are held at 650 Minnesota Ave., Kansas City, Kan. Participants are asked to preregister. For dates and times of classes, call (913) 677-0100.

Do you or your loved one need support to break free from pornography, infidelity, or lust? The My House Men’s Group provides prayer and accountability for sexual integrity. Sam Meier, MA, LPC, is available for men’s groups and counseling; call him at (913) 647-0378, or send an e-mail to him at: smeier@archkck.org. The My House Women’s Group provides hope and healing for women who are dealing with their loved one’s struggles. Contact Beth Meier at (913) 647-0379, or send an e-mail to her at: bmeier@archkck.org.

Calendar items must be received nine days before the publication date. E-mail submissions are preferred; send to: jennifer@theleaven.com.

14 COMMENTARY

THE LEAVEN • february 4, 2011

THE LEAVEN • february 4, 2011

Mark my words

Catholic Press Association Award Winner 1992, 1993, 1994, 1995, 1996, 1997, 1998, 1999, 2000, 2001, 2002, 2003, 2004, 2005, 2006, 2007, 2008, 2009, 2010

Quote Week

of the

“Week in, week out, you build a bond [with the homeless] and they will allow you into their lives. So this is a natural evolution. We’ve earned their trust and now we can start getting really invested and creative around how to help them on an individual basis.”

Michael Sommers, parishioner at Our Lady of Presentation in Lee’s Summit, Mo. See story on pages 8-9

“J

Getting a read on the Catholic press

esus came to take away our sins, not our minds.”

I’ve loved this statement ever since I first saw it a couple of years ago on a church sign in Kansas City, Kan. It’s a great reminder that our faith is something living. The Lord wants us to “grow” our faith by developing our minds. And one of the best ways to do that is by reading and reflecting, especially through Catholic newspapers, magazines and books.

So, how’s that for a lead-in to Catholic Press Month, which we’re celebrating all through February? In fact, this is the 100th anniversary of the Catholic Press Association, which has some 600 members in the United States and Canada and reaches over 26 million people.

With the increasing use and popularity of the Internet and e-readers, though, people might wonder if there’s still a place for the “press” in today’s world.

Don’t these new media spell the end of printed newspapers, books and magazines? I don’t believe so but, honestly, nobody has a clue! For me, the situation is best expressed in ads that I’ve seen in print publications of late. Basically, the ads say that just as instant coffee didn’t replace “real” brewed coffee (Starbucks, anyone?) — or TV did not make radio obsolete — so e-readers and the Internet will not replace the printed word. They are just different means for getting a message across.

I agree with that. Take me, for example. My house is full of books and magazines, and every morning I trot down the driveway to pick up the newspaper to read with my coffee. I relish the smell of books, their heft, and the fact that they don’t require batteries that need periodic recharging. I appreciate the convenience of being able to flip

quickly through an entire newspaper, skimming articles that don’t interest me much and lingering over those that do. I love the feel of a pen on paper as I do my crossword puzzles and Jumble.

But I’m also a devotee of iPads, being one of the 7 million people who’ve bought them since they first came out last April. And I have no issue with reading on it. I love the ease with which I can download books in seconds, especially new hardcovers at about half the printed edition’s price. Since my iPad is almost always with me, I’m never at a loss for something to read when I find myself unexpectedly waiting somewhere.

And the iPad has enhanced my appreciation of books. The other day, for example, I came across an unfamiliar word in a mystery novel that I was reading on the device. A tap on the word popped up its definition (and pronunciation) in a box at the bottom of the iPad screen. A few pages later, one character mentioned a song that he always played: “Kind of Blue,” by Miles Davis. I set a bookmark on the screen, tapped another couple of buttons, opened up YouTube, and found several videos of that Davis song, which I then listened to. When it was finished, I tapped back into the book and continued reading . . . with that song lingering in my head.

I’ve always been an “interactive” reader, tackling books with a pencil,

highlighter and Post-It notes in hand.

For me, reading is like having a conversation with the author. Happily, devices like the iPad encourage that interactivity. A tap here or there on the screen will let me highlight a passage or even type up a note or comment, which I can then save for later rereading and reflecting.

Also, many authors now include a Web site where you can contact them. I’ve done so on a number of occasions and have gotten responses from them, which is cool, to say the least.

So, how can you best celebrate Catholic Press Month? By reading some Catholic material, of course, in whatever format you choose. Just for fun, explore a different way to read. If you’re primarily an Internet user, go the old-fashioned route and pick up a “real” book (as opposed to a virtual one). And if you’ve never seen an iPad or e-reader, ask around — young (or young-at-heart) people will be more than happy to show you one. The important thing is not only that you read, but that you interact with the material in some way: Make notes, write down memorable quotes, ponder a bit, look up unfamiliar words, drop a note to the author.

And you’re never too old to learn or try something new. One of the books on my Catholic Press Month reading list is “Technology Tools for Your Ministry,” by Tim Welch. Even though I’ll always love the printed word on real paper, I’m also enthralled by all the resources and possibilities that are available at my fingertips through the new media.

So, find a warm corner and a comfortable chair this month and curl up with some Catholic reading. Not only will your soul thank you, but your mind will as well.

local news 15

Veteran pastor buoyed by novices’ enthusiasm Continued from page 3 “We made a decision to move the experiment because we just recently became a bi-provincial novitiate,” said Father Thibodeaux. “We thought it would be a good time to make some changes, bring some new life into the program, and try something a little different. And we very much desired to do an experiment within the boundaries of the Missouri Province.”

A Jesuit representative visited the Kansas City area and found just what was needed — a diverse population in terms of race, ethnicity, and income.

“The other part of it was that the Catholic [services and ministries] in Kansas City, Kan., are incredibly rich and numerous,” said Father Thibodeaux.

“There are a lot of wonderful agencies — non-Catholic, too — but we mostly focus on the Catholic ones. I was very impressed with the people who work for Catholic Charities.”

The novices spend most of their days and some evenings working at Bishop Ward High School, Donnelly College, Catholic Charities, Resurrection School, The Learning Club, Southwest Clinic, St. Peter Cathedral Parish, Refugee Resettlement, the TurnAround Program, and Providence Hospital.

In turn, the people running the agencies were delighted to have a chance to work with the Jesuits. Living at the cathedral is advantageous, too, said Father Thibodeaux. The five novices have only one cell phone and two cars be-

“One thing I discovered about this group: I have only to ask one or two questions and they tend to go. They’re very gregarious and social.”

”

Father Harry Schneider, rector of the cathedral tween them, so they needed a place that was within walking distance of where they’d work.

The Jesuits ended up at the cathedral rectory thanks to a tip about Father Schneider from Father Michael Hermes, president of Ward High School, to the Jesuit representative who made the initial visit to the Kansas City area. Indeed, Father Schneider had the space and was very willing to house them.

“I enjoy their company,” said Father Schneider. “They’re full of energy. They are persons really interested in their own faith and spiritual growth, and in pursing the possibilities of a religious life and the priesthood.”

While the Jesuits have been kept busy by their own work, they’ve managed to find time to be a helping hand to Father Schneider as well. They came in particularly handy during a recent snow.

“Those guys shoveled the steps three times before we got the funeral started,” said Father Schneider.

Likewise, Father Thibodeaux and Fa-

ther White help with sacramental duties when they are available. Their help even made it possible for Father Schneider to make a long-delayed visit to relatives.

“It’s hard to find someone to help you on weekends,” said Father Schneider.

“They take Masses on weekends and during the week. They’ve been really helpful.”

Like any household, all the members help with the daily chores.

“Part of the experiment is to see if we can live in a small space,” said Father Thibodeaux. “This is a big house but, for five or more [additional] people, it is a bit cramped.”

“So, we see how well they live in community,” he said. “They share rooms and different ministries. They have to cook every night, taking turns. And if they don’t know how to cook, they learn by doing.

“And poor [Father] Harry and I are the guinea pigs!”

But the experienced pastor and the energetic novices have found they have a lot to talk about. Sometimes, it’s the novices sharing their day with Father Schneider; at other times, it’s him sharing wisdom born of years of pastoral experience. Regardless, the conversations are always warm and lively.

“One thing I discovered about this group: I have only to ask one or two questions and they tend to go,” said Father Schneider. “They’re very gregarious and social.”

Father Thibodeaux agreed.

“This has been a great match for us,”

he said. “One of the things that makes this place so appealing is that we have an experienced parish priest living among the novices, letting them ask questions.”

Two of the novices, for example, told Father Schneider what it was like for them to be with a family at a hospital while life support was removed from a relative.

“At first, we were a little nervous,” said Alex Placke, a novice from St. Louis.

“We felt a little out of place — it was only our second day here. But after we met, we went in [the room] while [the nurses] removed the ventilator [from the patient]. Her sister-in-law grabbed each of our hands while we stood and prayed for a while. It was very moving. It was cool to be the presence of God to them.”

Most of the first week consisted of orientation and getting to know their way around the community and the ministries.

“There are a lot of good people here, [working in] lots of good ministries,” observed Michael Schonhoff, a novice from St. Louis. “We’re finding out how to deal with people in different circumstances. It’s been a great experience.”

Father Schneider admits to being optimistic by nature, and optimistic about the church. Still, he couldn’t help feeling buoyed by the younger men’s enthusiasm.

“It has been a really interesting thing to be a part of this process,” he said. “It fills you with hope and optimism. In a way, it gives me a renewed energy.

I’ve always thought the Jesuits were an amazing group of people.”

second thoughts on the second reading The fifth week of ordinary time Feb. 6 fifth sunday in ordinary time Is 58: 7-10; Ps 112: 4-9; 1 Cor 2: 1-5; Mt 5: 13-16 Feb. 7 Monday Gn 1: 1-19; Ps 104: 1-2, 5-6, 10, 12, 24, 35; Mk 6: 53-56 Feb. 8 Jerome Emiliani, priest; Josephine Bakhita, virgin Gn 1:20 — 2:4a; Ps 8: 4-9; Mk 7: 1-13 Feb. 9 Wednesday Gn 2: 4b-9, 15-17; Ps 104: 1-2, 27-30; Mk 7: 14-23 Feb. 10 Scholastica, virgin Gn 2: 18-25; Ps 128: 1-5; Mk 7: 24-30 Feb. 11 Our Lady of Lourdes Gn 3: 1-8; Ps 32: 1-2, 5-7; Mk 7: 31-37 Feb. 12 Saturday Gn 3: 9-24; Ps 90: 2-6, 12-13; Mk 8: 1-10

W

Paul’s wisdom: Get out of God’s way

inston Churchill was one of the greatest orators of the 20th century. His eloquence inspired the British people during World War II and urged them on to victory.

“We shall fight on the beaches, we shall fight on the landing grounds, we shall fight in the fields and the streets, we shall fight in the hills, we more openly criticize his competishall never surrender.” Although caretion, other Christian missionaries who fully constructed, his speeches always have depended upon their speaking sounded fresh and spontaneous. When skills to achieve success among the practicing them, Churchill would even Corinthians: “For I think that I am sometimes deliberately include minor not in any way inferior to these ‘suflaws and slips in his delivery, per apostles.’ Even if I am to create a more natural imuntrained in speaking, I am fifth sunday in pression. That way, he thought not so in knowledge” (2 Cor ordinary time that he would come across as 11:5-6). Evidently, St. Paul’s 1 Cor 2: 1-5 more believable, less artificial. unimpressive speaking ability In Sunday’s second readreflected his background, and ing, drawn from the First Letter to the perhaps also his personality. Unlike Corinthians, St. Paul similarly draws Churchill, St. Paul did not fake it to win attention to his less-than-perfect speakfavor with his audience. At the same ing abilities: “I came to you in weaktime, St. Paul seeks to capitalize upon ness and fear and much trembling, and his weaknesses. my message and my proclamation were By conceding his deficiencies, St. not with persuasive words of wisdom.”

Paul believes that he will find his In this disclaimer, St. Paul may be greatest strength. Only then can he tap contrasting himself with more polished into God’s power. That is why St. Paul speakers with the rhetorical training he contrasts human wisdom with God’s lacked. power. In that contest, which do you In his later writings, St. Paul will think will win? The answer is obvious.

That explains the purpose of St. Paul’s preaching, which is admittedly imperfect by the world’s standards: “So that your faith might rest not on human wisdom, but on the power of God.” For St. Paul then, drawing attention to his defects in public speaking goes beyond presenting a human face for his audience, establishing a persona with imperfections that they could relate to. St. Paul interprets the situation in terms of his theology. Divine grace will work in him because he does not get in its way. Since he recognizes his own weakness, he allows God’s grace full rein to operate. Because of that grace, St. Paul is able to accomplish far more than he ever could on his own.

The theology of St. Paul consistently downplays the importance of human effort, in order to emphasize God’s role in our salvation. In our reading, St. Paul focuses attention upon his shortcomings in public speaking, to give us an example of how God works in our lives. He turns what most would consider a liability into an asset.

Father Mike Stubbs is the senior parochial vicar of Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.

Marriage and the Eucharist Celebrating Servant-Love Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann

invites married couples from the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph and the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas to join in a Mass of Thanksgiving for the gift of sacramental marriage.

Sunday, February 13, 2011 Mass will be celebrated at 2:00 p.m. followed by a reception which includes Catholic speaker Michael Podrebarac Celebration of Mass Cathedral of St. Peter 416 N. 14th Street Kansas City, Kansas 66102 Directions: From I-70 take the 18th St. North exit, exit number 420B Merge onto 18th street (north) Turn right (east) onto Grandview Blvd Turn left (north) onto 14th street and travel one block.

For further information please call MO Family Life Office 816-756-1850 x 553 KS Family Life Office 913-721-1570 x 145

16 life issues

THE LEAVEN • february 4, 2011

New York’s abortion epidemic

Religious leaders call for action on New York City’s high abortion rate

By Claudia McDonnell Catholic News Service

NEW YORK (CNS) — New York City has one statistic in particular that it can’t be proud of and needs to change, according to local religious leaders: 41 percent of pregnancies in the city end in abortion, almost double the national rate.

In the Bronx, the borough with the highest rate, the figure is 48 percent — nearly half of all pregnancies. The statistics were among those released in late December by the New York City Department of Health, which also reported that 87,273 abortions were performed in the five boroughs in 2009.

New York Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan was among a group of Catholic, Protestant and Jewish religious leaders who gathered at a Jan. 6 news conference at the Penn Club in Manhattan to focus attention on the city’s abortion rate and to call for efforts to reduce it.

“That 41 percent of New York babies are aborted — a percentage even higher in the Bronx, and among our AfricanAmerican babies in the womb — is downright chilling,” Archbishop Dolan said.

“The New York community is rightly celebrated for its warm welcome to immigrants, for its hospitality, sense of embrace and inclusion, and gritty sensitivity for those in need,” he continued.

“But we are tragically letting down the tiniest, most fragile and vulnerable: the little baby in the womb. . . . I invite all to come together to make abortion rare, a goal even those who work to expand the abortion license tell us they share.”

The news conference was sponsored by the Chiaroscuro Foundation, a private, nonprofit organization, and was led by its president, Sean Fieler. He said that the organization will spend about $1 million this year to aid pregnant women.

Archbishop Dolan, in his remarks, stated that the archdiocese continues its commitment to help expectant mothers.

“A quarter-century ago,” he said, “Cardinal John O’Connor publicly stated, ‘Any woman who is pregnant and in need can come to the church and we will help you,’ a pledge Cardinal [Edward] Egan, and now I, reaffirm.” (See story to the right.)

He listed the ways that the church helps: through Catholic Charities, adoption services, lobbying on behalf of pregnant women and the mothers of infants, support for alternatives to

abortion, health care and “education of youth for healthy, responsible, virtuous sexual behavior.”

Responding to a question, he summed up the message of the church to pregnant women: “If we can help, let us know. We’re here. You’re not alone.”

Also among the speakers were Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio of Brooklyn; the Rev. Michel Faulkner, founding pastor of the New Horizon Church and president of the Institute for Leadership, both in Harlem; Rabbi Chaim David Zwiebel of Agudath Israel of America;

Archbishop Dolan pledges to help any pregnant woman in need

By Beth Griffin

Catholic News Service NEW YORK (CNS) — In response to recent statistics revealing that 41 percent of pregnancies in New York City in 2009 ended in abortion, New York Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan reiterated the pledge of his predecessors to help any pregnant woman in need.

“Through Catholic Charities, adoption services, lobbying on behalf of pregnant women, mothers and infants, support of life-giving alternatives, health

CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz

In light of the recent statistic that 41 percent of pregnancies in New York City end in abortion, almost double the national rate, New York Archbishop Timothy M. Dolan reiterated the pledge of his predecessors to help any pregnant woman in need. and Leslie Diaz, a spokeswoman for Democrats for Life, wife of state Sen. Ruben Diaz and pastor with him of the Christian Community Neighborhood Church in the Bronx.

Speakers noted the disproportionately high abortion rate among black and Hispanic women. Rev. Faulkner said, “All New Yorkers need to know that abortion has become the leading cause of death among African-Americans.”

The abortion rate in the black community in the city is 60 percent, he noted.

“My people, the African-American people, did not . . . endure 300 years of slavery and 100 years of Jim Crow law to face genocide in the 21st century,” he said.

Expressing alarm at the overall abortion rate, he said, “We as moral and religious leaders need to stand together for life.”

care and education of youth for healthy, responsible, virtuous sexual behavior, we’ve done our best to keep that promise and these haunting statistics only prod us to keep at it,” he said during a Jan. 6 interfaith news conference in New York.

The statistics were released in late December by the New York City Department of Health and Mental Hygiene in its annual summary of vital statistics.

According to the figures, the 87,000 abortions performed in New York City in 2009 continues a pattern of decline from previous years, but the overall rate of abortions is much higher than the national average of 23 percent.

Speakers at the news conference called the percentage of abortions tragic and urged renewed efforts to promote chastity and support mothers and their children, born and unborn.

“Not only are we not addressing this human

tragedy, we are not even talking about it,” said Sean Fieler, president and chairman of the Chiaroscuro Foundation, a private organization based in New York which supports pro-life activities.

Fieler said New Yorkers are still framing the abortion discussion in terms of the procedure’s legality instead of focusing on reducing the number of abortions.

“From an action perspective, this is something almost everyone can agree on. No one but the most radical extremist will defend this ratio,” he added.

He said the Chiaroscuro Foundation, which began in 2009, will spend $1 million this year to help reduce the number of abortions in New York. He also told Catholic News Service that the foundation would fund abstinence education and crisis pregnancy programs through the New York Archdiocese, the Sisters of Life, World Youth Alliance and Expectant Mother Care.

Archbishop Dolan said the archdiocese plans to launch an intensive chastity education program in Catholic high schools next year.

“We’re going to have a SWAT team of experts go into our Catholic high schools and give the seniors a high-powered twoweek formation in healthy chastity,” he told CNS. “The curriculum will address biological, emotional and moral aspects and include preparation for marriage.

Bishop Nicholas DiMarzio of Brooklyn said the diversity of the world’s most multicultural city is being dampened by the abortion rate, which is highest in the black and Hispanic communities. He said sex education programs in public schools are devoid of moral content and may even increase the incidence of abortion.

“We need to pledge ourselves to help people understand the consequences of abortion and do whatever we can to give women reasons not to abort and to help the children in this great city of ours,” he said.

David Zweibel, an Orthodox rabbi and executive vice president of Agudath Israel of America, an organization that promotes Orthodox Jewish activities, said, “Despite our different perspectives, we can all agree that there is something terribly wrong when abortion becomes just another method of birth control.”

He said the best approach to reduce abortions is to change the culture that “glorifies promiscuity and mocks responsibility” or at the very least, to shield young people from the “harmful influences of that culture.”