02 08 19 Vol. 40 No. 25

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 40, NO. 25 | FEBRUARY 8, 2019

Prince of Peace youth follows Christ and her instincts

By Susan Fotovich McCabe Special to The Leaven

O

LATHE — Mara Hug has a clear vision of Jesus and his place in her life — even though the 12-year-old Prince of Peace parishioner is legally blind.

Despite losing her sight before she turned a year old, Mara’s faith runs deep, and she often serves Mass once or twice a month.

At this age, the Olathe seventh-grader, who attends Frontier Trail Middle School, serves as a candle bearer and hopes to one day carry the processional cross.

Her mother Roxanne, father Joe, and brothers Alex, 17, and Johnny, 16, have watched Mara learn to navigate many new experiences in her short 12 years.

And while she regularly receives support, she often relies on her own innovative thinking and keen instincts to ease the challenges of daily life.

“I take pictures of things with my iPad and blow them up so I can see them,” said Mara, who can see limited shapes and dreams of being an author or an actor one day.

Diagnosed with bilateral retinoblastoma, a rare form of cancer affecting the retina, when she was only three months old, Mara endured chemotherapy, radiation, cryotherapy and laser therapy all before her first birthday.

Early assistance from Infant-Toddler Services of Johnson County and Kansas City-based Children’s Center for the Visually Impaired (CCVI) laid the foundation for Mara’s independence.

In elementary school, Mara learned to read Braille.

Much of the time, she uses a cane and carries her Braille equipment from class to class.

She admits she wasn’t crazy about using Braille at first, but has learned to appreciate its advantages.

“I didn’t think it was cool at first,” she said.

“But now I stay up late and read in the dark,” she admitted — something even her mother couldn’t fault her for.

“I savored the first night I caught her reading Braille after the lights were out at bedtime,” said Roxanne. “She finally had a one-up on her brother, who often got caught reading after ‘lights out.’”

Mara is determined not to let her visual impairment keep her from the things teens typically enjoy. She participates in choir, CYO track, tumbling and confirmation formation classwork with her sighted peers.

But she spends an equal amount of time with friends she’s met through the Kansas State School for the Blind, Alphapointe and Envision. These organizations are designed to nurture friendships and build independence. >> See “CAPABILITY” on page 5

LENTEN DINNER NOTICES

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MATT MCCABE

Mara Hug hasn’t let blindness hold her back. Despite losing her sight before she turned a year old, Mara often serves Mass once or twice a month.

WHEN

DEADLINE

March 1.

Feb. 19.

The Leaven will publish a list of Lenten dinners in the archdiocese on

Because of space considerations, notices are limited to 40 words and are due

INCLUDE

• Time of event • Date(s) of event • Address of event

SUBMIT

Please email your information to: todd.habiger@ theleaven.org.

FEBRUARY 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ARCHBISHOP

2

Catholics called to be agents of change, instruments of healing

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his past weekend, I had the privilege of seeing “Underground” at the Kauffman Center for the Performing Arts in Kansas City, Missouri.

“Underground” is a production of the Störling Dance Theater that tells the story of three black slaves who flee the harsh oppression of a pre-Civil War Southern plantation.

On their journey to freedom, they are aided, among others, by Quaker abolitionists.

“Underground” beautifully and powerfully portrays an ugly and dark part of our American history. It also depicts the heroism of white and black Americans assisting not just individuals gain their freedom, but also helping to liberate our nation from the grave injustice of slavery.

Last summer, on a Monday night, I celebrated Mass at the Little Monastery with the Little Sisters and Little Brothers of the Lamb. On Monday evenings, many young adults come to the Little Monastery for Mass and dinner.

Father Benjamin Shazad, a priest from Pakistan who each summer spends some weeks at Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood, concelebrated Mass with me and joined the Community of the Lamb and the young adults for supper.

The Little Sisters invited Father Benjamin to describe what it is like to live as a Catholic in Pakistan. His parents had moved to what is today Pakistan when it was still part of India.

Father Benjamin is a third-generation

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN Catholic. Pakistan was partitioned from predominantly Hindu India to provide Muslims a country where they were no longer a persecuted minority.

Father Benjamin’s family lived in an area with very few Christians.

His family was shunned by their Muslim neighbors. Muslims refused to drink from a cup or eat from a plate used by Christians. Christians had to use separate bathrooms.

Muslim extremists successfully passed blasphemy laws, making it a crime to say anything that could be interpreted as disparaging to Mohammed or Islam.

Christians accused of blasphemy oftentimes are denied any sort of due process to defend themselves. Innocent Christians have been executed because they were accused of violating these statutes and others have been assassinated for protesting these unjust laws.

Father Benjamin made clear that the vast majority of Muslims are not responsible for these injustices.

However, Muslims who protest the injustice of

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the blasphemy laws also experience harsh consequences.

The young adults were quite shocked and disturbed to learn what their brothers and sisters in Christ experienced in Pakistan. They asked what they could do.

Father Benjamin encouraged them to pray for Catholics in Pakistan and not to forget them because they are so far away.

Father Benjamin’s description of the plight of Christians in Pakistan reminded me of a book I read last summer, “The Warmth of Other Suns,”

by Isabel Wilkerson.

While chronicling the great migration of African-Americans from the South to the North and West through much of the 20th century, Wilkerson gives a detailed profile of the experience of three individuals: Ida Mae Brandon Gladney, George Swanson Starling and Robert Joseph Pershing Foster.

Why were AfricanAmericans leaving the South in such huge numbers? Sadly, it was because these Americans were experiencing something quite similar to what Christians in Pakistan encounter today.

The so-called Jim Crow laws of the South and their impact on African-Americans parallel in many ways the

blasphemy laws and the resulting injustice and discrimination experienced by Christians in Pakistan.

Like Christians falsely accused in Pakistan, African-Americans through much of the 20th century were presumed guilty if accused of a crime by their white neighbors, no matter how flimsy the evidence.

The lynching of innocent black men is a tragic chapter of American history.

During the first half of the 20th century, most African-Americans in the South were tenant farmers who had no recourse to protest if they were being compensated unjustly.

To question the landowners’ calculations was to risk horrible consequences by a society that considered a black man questioning the ethics of a white person as a serious threat to the established cultural norms.

While there were greater employment opportunities in the North and the West, African-Americans continued to experience severe racial discrimination determining where they were permitted to live and what schools their children were able to attend.

In the summer of 1968, a few months after the assassination of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., I was working a summer job in a factory in East St. Louis, Illinois.

African-American employees were prohibited from using the same bathrooms or drinking fountains as white employees.

In 1968 America, African-Americans were experiencing the same type of discrimination

Archbishop Naumann Feb. 8 Kansans for Life Valentine’s Day banquet — Wichita

Feb. 9 White Mass and reception — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park Feb. 10 Sisters, Servants of Mary Mass for Vener-

able Soledad Sanjurjo Santos — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas World Marriage Day Mass — St. Therese Parish, Parkville, Missouri Visit — St. John Vianney Seminary, Denver Feb. 11 Visit — St. John Vianney, Denver Feb. 12 Bishop Miege High School eucharistic adoration

suffered by Christians in Pakistan today.

I have witnessed much progress in my lifetime in overcoming racial bigotry in America. However, the wounds of slavery, segregation and discrimination are deep and not easily healed.

This past November, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a pastoral letter entitled “Open Wide Our Hearts: The Enduring Call to Love, A Pastoral Letter Against Racism.” Catholics in America are called to be in the forefront of the efforts to eradicate

Priest Advisory Committee meeting Administrative Team meeting Kansans For Life Valentine’s Day banquet — Overland Park Feb. 13 Eucharistic adoration — Maur Hill-Mount Academy, Atchison Feb. 14 Religious Alliance Against Pornography conference call

Feb. 15 Women of Nativity event — Church of the Nativity, Leawood Feb. 18 “Shepherd’s Voice” recording Pastoral Council meeting — Savior Pastoral Center Feb. 19 Envisioning Team meeting Confirmation — Mother Teresa of Calcutta, Topeka

racism and heal past and present wounds.

Theater productions like “Underground” and books like “The Warmth of Other Suns” can help us understand better the past and motivate us to be agents of change in the present.

Please pray especially during this month of February — Black History Month — asking the Holy Spirit to enlighten you on how you, in the unique circumstances of your life, can help rid our society of racial bigotry and be an instrument of healing.

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FEBRUARY 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

3

To serve is to be with Christ: reflections from WYD volunteer

By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Volunteering at World Youth Day (WYD) was so different from being a pilgrim.

When I attended WYD in Madrid as a pilgrim at 2011, it took me a while to get my bearings in a foreign country, surrounded by thousands of young people.

Panama was different.

As soon as I arrived, I had work, friends, a place to live and a community. I even had a parish — a spare conference room converted to a chapel in the international press center.

Volunteering made me feel part of Panama instead of just a visitor.

But the work of a press volunteer was less glamorous than some may think.

There were many days I didn’t leave the press center until after dark. I missed the pope’s welcoming ceremony and the vigil.

But we volunteer press became like family, and I was honored by the chance to help make WYD happen. I was even able to continue some of the work I had started in Kansas.

In particular, I was finally able to meet a group of Pakistani Christians that I had interviewed and written about before even leaving home.

Meeting the Pakistanis I had written an article for The Leaven in December 2018 about “Samuel Sadiq” and six of his friends who were attempting to come to WYD in Panama from Pakistan.

The men had tried and failed to obtain transit visas to Panama via the United States. But they managed to find an alternate route — from Pakistan to Turkey to Brazil to Panama.

Originally, they were scheduled to depart Pakistan on Jan. 14. But when they arrived at the airport, they were detained by Pakistani officials and denied boarding.

When I asked Sadiq why, he showed me his passport.

On the first page printed in bold was: “Religion: Christianity.”

Sadiq said because they were Christian, the authorities refused their passage.

But as they say, the third time’s the charm — the men rebooked the same route for Jan. 18 and tried again.

Once again, the authorities pulled them aside for questioning.

“They detained us at Islamabad airport even after getting [our] boarding passes,” wrote Sadiq in a WhatsApp message.

And that’s when Sadiq got an idea.

He began recording a video in the airport, showing his passport and explaining he and his group were denied passage on grounds of religious discrimination.

This drew the officials’ attention.

They hurried to Sadiq and told him that he and his friends could board if

Above, an aesthetically unbalanced selfie shows Leaven reporter Olivia Martin, center, and a group of World Youth Day press volunteers after Pope Francis’ meeting with the volunteers at Rommel Fernandez Stadium in Panama City.

The other press members pictured came from Puerto Rico, Honduras, Panama and Mexico to volunteer.

Left, more than 87,000 pilgrims, 2,500 journalists and 19,500 volunteers participated in World Youth Day in Panama. The next event — in 2022 — will take place in Lisbon, Portugal.

he stopped recording and deleted the video, afraid that he might share it on social media.

He stopped recording, but kept the video.

And two days later, on Jan. 20, Sadiq and his Pakistani group landed in Panama for WYD. I met them for the first time on Jan. 22 after Pope Francis gave his opening address.

Pope Francis had said: “A disciple is not merely someone who arrives at a certain place, but one who sets out decisively, who is not afraid to take risks and keeps walking.”

Those words stuck with me as I met the Pakistanis for the first time.

Here were people who reflected the pope’s words — they kept walking.

President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

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

Young and alive Despite there being many superficial differences between being a WYD pilgrim and volunteer, my favorite part of both experiences remained the same: the people.

And, like a true millennial, my social media choices manifested it.

On returning to Kansas, I was searching for some of my best WYD photos to post on Instagram.

I had captured amazing shots of the Casco Viejo (historic center), palm trees, sunsets and massive crowds waving their nations’ flags. I’d even managed to photograph the pope.

However, I found myself coming back to aesthetically unbalanced photos of my friends.

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Reporter Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

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

Everyone was sweaty, tired and wearing neon green “Voluntario” T-shirts — but their faces were some of the happiest I’ve ever seen.

I realized that these friends weren’t my favorite part of WYD because of their happiness; it was due to who made them happy.

To me, it was evident Christ was present in my co-workers, friends, those I interviewed and the articles I wrote.

He arranged my rendezvous with the Pakistanis and my introduction to now-dear friends from Europe and the Americas.

He sustains my desire to share with others the love these people gave me. This is the truest gift — to meet a love so great that it demands to be shared.

And now, Christ asks me to be in Kansas to continue my work with The Leaven here.

That is, until WYD Lisbon, 2022!

Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 721-5276; or e-mail at: sub@theleaven.com. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

FEBRUARY 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

4

Memorial to classical program to be dedicated in September

by Bob Hart Special to The Leaven

What are the ‘Great Books’?

L

AWRENCE — It began as a college-within-a-college, a place for “the instilling of wonder and pursuit of truth” for underclassmen. Nearly 40 years after it was formally disbanded, the Pearson Integrated Humanities Program at the University of Kansas has been memorialized with a monument on the grounds of the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center here.

Founded in 1971 with a grant from the National Endowment for the Humanities by three professors — Dr. Dennis Quinn, Dr. Frank Nelick and Dr. John Senior — the program was designed as a four-semester sequence of six credit hour courses for freshmen and sophomores attending KU. Much of the focus was on reading the “Great Books,” although students also studied theology and were encouraged to stargaze and appreciate the beauty of poetry through memorization.

“It provided a classical kind of education that I wanted,” said Scott Bloch, an alumnus of the program and an attorney in Washington, D.C. “They took us seriously as people and helped bring all the college subjects into a cohesive whole.”

Bloch said the timing of the program, beginning just as the turbulent 1960s had come to an end, was key to its importance.

“The program hit at a seminal time of confusion and throwing off the past,” he said. “Some students were in search of something truly meaningful, not trendy. It was an experiment in tradition.”

A motto of the program was “Nascantur in admiratione,” which roughly translates in English to “Let them be born in wonder.”

The reading list for the Pearson Integrated Humanities Program was an ambitious one, according to a brochure from 1975. In the first semester alone, students read: • Homer, “Iliad” and “Odyssey” • Plato, “Republic” • Aesop, “Fables” • Herodotus, “Persian Wars” • Thucydides, “Peloponnesian Wars” • Aeschylus, “Oresteia” Later semesters included works

by Virgil, Cicero, Augustine and Shakespeare, as well as selections from the Old Testament and the New Testament in its entirety.

The Pearson Integrated Humanities Program at the University of Kansas has been memorialized with a monument on the grounds of the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center.

Terry Sercer, a CPA in Fort Scott, is also an alumnus of the program. Both he and Bloch met their future wives in the program. In Sercer’s case, it was Monica Quinn, the daughter of one of the co-founders.

“Many long-lasting friendships were formed in the program,” Sercer said. “And many of us met our spouses there. It refocused us on the good and the beautiful. And what’s that? That’s God.”

Iconographer Peggy Shopen, a resident of Lawrence, was a key figure in fundraising for the memorial as a means of “honoring three men who meant so much to us,” she said. She is also organizing a dedication to be held in September.

“We want to get the word out now,” she said. “Everyone is welcome. We have a website for people to register.”

The website can be found at: fund ihpmemorial.org.

Among the distinguished alumni of the Pearson Integrated Humanities Program are: Archbishop Paul Coakley, of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City; Bishop James Conley, of the Diocese of Lincoln, Nebraska; Dr. Robert Carlson, co-founder and first academic dean of Wyoming Catholic College in Lander, Wyoming; and Dom Philip Anderson, abbot of Our Lady of Clear Creek Abbey in Hulbert, Oklahoma.

Benedictine College’s scholarship ball set for Feb. 23

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TCHISON — This year’s annual Benedictine College Scholarship Ball will be held the evening of Feb. 23 at the Overland Park Convention Center. This year’s cochairs are Kevin and Colleen “Cocoa” O’Malley and Lene Westerman.

The scholarship ball includes dinner, awards, entertainment and dancing to live music by the Michael Beers Band.

This year, there will be a special recognition of the Raven football team that went to the NAIA national championship game. More information and reservations are available online at: www. benedictine.edu/scholarship-ball.

Each year, the ball also features the presentation of the Cross of the Order of St. Benedict to a select set of honorees. The college established the award in 1969 as a way to recognize alumni and friends who have supported charitable institutions, provided civic or religious leadership, and demonstrated professional excellence. This year, the prestigious award goes to the Byron and Jeanne Thompson family in recognition of its longtime commitment to overall philanthropy and support of Catholic education.

Following in the footsteps of Byron

and Jeanne, the Thompsons have continued their parents’ legacy by supporting nonprofit and charitable institutions throughout the Kansas City area. For 30 years, they sponsored the annual Amy Thompson Run for Brain Injury in support of the Brain Injury Association of Kansas and Greater Kansas City. In 2015, Paul and Mary Thompson chaired the 2015 Catholic Charities’ Snow Ball. Nonprofit Connect later named Country Club Bank the Business Philanthropist of the Year.

Through the generosity of the Thompson family, Benedictine College, Atchison, recently dedicated the Byron G. Thompson Center for Integrity in Finance and Economics. The goal of the Thompson Center is to “shape and inspire a new generation of financial leaders who will follow in Byron Thompson’s footsteps, and who will ‘do well, and do good.’”

Byron and Jeanne’s commitment to God, family, community and business lives on proudly in the lives of their children, and their dedication to the improvement of all things in Christ for the betterment of their community and world is a testament to the far-reaching influence of two lives well lived.

Benedictine College’s Cross of the Order of St. Benedict will be awarded this year to the Byron and Jeanne Thompson family in recognition of its longtime commitment to overall philanthropy and support of Catholic education. The Thompson siblings are pictured (from left): Paul Thompson, Mark Thompson, Mary O’Connor, Kathleen Brown, Ann Eckels and Greg Thompson. Not pictured are Tim Thompson, Chris Thompson and Michael Thompson.

FEBRUARY 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Announcement

‘Living as a Saint’ is theme of this year’s camp offerings

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Many parents are concerned that their children will grow up and leave the Catholic faith — and they should be.

According to a 2015 Pew Research Center study, 52 percent of all Catholics have left the church at some point in their lives . . . and only 11 percent return.

And according to a 2018 study by St. Mary’s Press and the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate, 74 percent of 214 former Catholics interviewed left the church between 10 and 20 years of age.

“We know that we have to earn our kids’ trust and build the lifelong connection that we want them to have with the church earlier and earlier,” said Deacon Dana Nearmyer, evangelization division secretary for the archdiocese.

But how?

There is no “silver bullet” that will solve this problem. But the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has a powerful tool to help keep kids Catholic: Camp Kateri Tekakwitha at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg.

“Camp Tekakwitha is designed to reinforce kids’ faith in exactly the struggle points that they are at,” said Deacon Nearmyer, executive director of the camps with his wife Debra.

“The reason we have separate camps for fifth- and sixth-graders, and separate camps for seventhand eighth-graders, and high school camps, is because we want to meet them and the key questions they have based on their age,” he said.

The camp curriculum is changed yearly according to Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann’s pastoral strategy. For this, the 22nd year of the camps, the theme is “Living as a Saint: Prayer, Care, Share.”

“We make the Masses, the prayer experiences and Bible studies extremely fun and memorable. And with all the activities — rope courses, climbing tower, horses, mountain boards and bikes — the church is represented in deep, meaningful content that is age-appropriate and gives them an experience of fun, faith and friends,” said Deacon Nearmyer.

A lot of the upcoming adult initiatives have been integrated into this summer’s camp curriculum, including cutting-edge evangelization tools, he said.

Something new was done for camp registration for this coming summer.

Registration actually began in November 2018, to encourage parents and grandparents to “give the gift of camp for Christmas.”

This was very successful. Already, camps slots are 51 percent full. Even so, there are spaces still available for most camps — but they won’t last long.

“Summer will be here before you know it,” said Deacon Nearmyer.

“The quicker people register, the better the selection.”

Last year, the camp hosted 1,650 campers.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Liliana Kuttenkuler, of Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee, aims her arrow during an archery session at camp.

“

“WE MAKE THE MASSES, THE PRAYER EXPERIENCES AND BIBLE STUDIES EXTREMELY FUN AND MEMORABLE. AND WITH ALL THE ACTIVITIES . . . THE CHURCH IS REPRESENTED IN DEEP, MEANINGFUL CONTENT THAT IS AGE-APPROPRIATE.” Usually, every new camping season brings a new feature or “tweak” to programing or facilities.

This year, the Trinity bunkhouse for boys features new bathrooms and a new roof. The “hanger” area also boasts all new lighting.

Last year, the new feature was Family Camp for families having members with special needs.

“It was a phenomenal experience,” said Deacon Nearmyer. “It was one of the most meaningful things that our staff and participants have ever been a part of, and we’re excited to do that again this year.”

This camp featured “camp buddies,” who support family members with disabilities. They helped them engage in activities separate from their parents and siblings, but also with parents and siblings for group activities.

“The person in the family who has special needs doesn’t have to be a child,” said Deacon Nearmyer. “This is for any age of person who has special needs, not only a child.”

The facilities and programing are important components, but what really makes the camp work is its cadre of camp counselors.

“Our staff is on fire for the faith, mostly college-age students who are handpicked, heavily scrutinized and have this inner light,” said Deacon Nearmyer. “These college kids have a special way of being a witness in a way that really inspires the youth.”

Camp Kateri Tekakwitha sessions HIGH SCHOOL entering 9-12th grades fall 2019 • Senior High Max, June 17-22, $410 • Senior High Extreme (girls full; boys openings), July 22-30, $480 JUNIOR HIGH entering 7th and 8th grades fall 2019 • Junior High Session 1, June 3-8, $400 • Junior High Session 2, June 10-15, $400 • Junior High Session 3, July 15-20, $400 KATERI entering 5 and 6 grades fall 2019 • Kateri Session 1, May 31-June 2, $260 • Kateri Session 2, June 24-26, $260 • Kateri Session 3, July 8-10, $260 • Kateri Session 4, July 31-Aug. 2, $260 th

5

th

For more information about Family Camp or any of the Tekakwitha sessions, go to the archdiocesan website at: archkck.org. On the right hand side of the home page, find the “Camp Tekakwitha” button and click on the logo. This will take you to the camp page, where you will find additional information.

For camp registration questions, send an email to Jennifer at: camptekreg@gmail.com.

Probably the greatest endorsements of the camp come from its alumni, who return to become counselors because they were inspired by their counselors while they were campers.

“Parents tell me all the time that their kids, in their 20s and 30s, attribute their time at camp as one of the great reasons why they were able to navigate their college and young adult years and remain in the faith,” said Deacon Nearmyer.

“I believe that it’s worth it,” he added. “It’s what I do for my own kids and nephews and nieces, and I wish everyone that experience.”

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has received information from the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph regarding a credible allegation of sexual abuse of a minor from the mid-1970s by former Bishop Hogan High School teacher Gregory Schell.

Schell has taught in Catholic schools in both dioceses, including Bishop Miege High School and St. Agnes in Roeland Park; Queen of the Holy Rosary, Overland Park; and St. James Academy, Lenexa. The incident was reported to law enforcement by the Missouri diocese.

If you have any information regarding this allegation, contact local law enforcement and also archdiocesan report investigator Jan Saylor on the confidential report line at (913) 647-3051 or visit: www.archkck.org/reportabuse. Victim assistance coordinator Linda Slater-Trimble may be reached at (913) 298-9244.

If you know or suspect that a child is in immediate danger, call 911. If you are an adult and have been abused by a representative of the archdiocese in the past, the archdiocese still encourages your report, no matter when the abuse occurred. Those who are hearing impaired may report online or contact the office of deaf ministry at (913) 324-5378 vp.

Correction In the Feb. 1 issue of The Leaven, Deacon Nicholas Ashmore’s name was reported wrong. The Leaven regrets the error.

Capability, not disability, distinguishes her >> Continued from page 1 To that end, she enjoys rock climbing, tubing at Snow Creek in Weston, Missouri, cooking, camps and even piloting a small aircraft with an instructor.

Mara has achieved considerable academic success as well.

“She has . . . managed to maintain straight A’s all through middle school so far, and has a goal to do so through 8th grade,” said Roxanne.

“I’ve been trying to think of a way to sum up what I want people to know about Mara,” she continued. “She’s smart, kind and capable. She is often dismissed because of her blindness and has to work even harder to prove herself.

“It is my hope that each day she shows more and more people that blind people are just as capable as the rest of us.”

Recently, Mara and her family navigated the streets of New York City when she was invited to serve a Mass celebrating the feast day of St. Lucy in December by the Xavier Society for the Blind. (Lucy is the patron saint of the blind.)

Xavier Society provides religious materials and support to people who are blind and has helped Mara in her work at Prince of Peace. The organization treated Mara to an all-expensepaid trip to the Big Apple for the celebration.

Despite her impairment, Mara came away from New York with a clear impression of the hustle and bustle of the big city.

“It was so crowded,” she said with a laugh. “It was like a big passing period at school.”

FEBRUARY 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

FAMILY LIFE

6

Married love needs romance, but it demands much more

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few years ago, as we approached our wedding anniversary, Teri pulled out a box of old letters that we wrote to each other when we were engaged.

“Let’s read them together!” she said. I agreed. We were curious about what we wrote; it was the first time that we would be reading the letters since they were written.

Before we were married, there was a period of three months when Teri and I were apart; I was in Italy and she in the United States. We wrote daily about what was going on in our lives and families, current events in our respective countries and the frustrations of being an ocean away.

And, so, together we read the letters out loud to each other and laughed at the stories, recalled events long forgotten and were reminded of how we felt about each other and about getting married.

I was pleased to recognize in our youthful words the seedlings of the hopes and the dreams that unfolded gradually in our life after the wedding. I was also touched by the feelings we had and how we expressed them.

Although feelings are important in marriage, as every couple knows, our feelings do not stay the same. After the wedding, they change and mature. What you feel today after 10, 20, 30 or 45 years is likely to be

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

different from what you felt during your engagement.

Speaking of feelings, it is February and the stores are filled with red hearts, chocolate and Valentine cards. This is the month when we celebrate romance. Do you ever wonder what the church teaches us about romantic feelings?

In 2012, Teri and I attended the seventh World Meeting of Families held in Milan.

Pope Benedict XVI was present and spoke to the thousands of people who had gathered.

A young couple from Madagascar asked the pontiff for his grandfatherly advice about getting married. He replied by first affirming their feelings of love. He said: “Falling in love is a wonderful thing,” and the crowd responded with a thundering applause.

Then, he explained

that those feelings, although good, do not last forever. These loving sentiments will fade and for a couple’s love to last it needs to mature and become a conscious decision.

Benedict is telling us that to succeed in marriage we need something else besides the romantic feelings, especially during difficult times. He explains this in his encyclical “God is Love.” Benedict writes that love is a single reality with two dimensions: eros, romantic and passionate love, and agape, self-giving love, the love that forgives and gives even when it does not feel like giving.

The pope explains that God himself is the model of this passionate and sacrificial love.

We learn this from

God’s love story with humanity revealed in the Bible.

As married couples, we need to nurture and develop these two dimensions of love if we want to find happiness in marriage. Mature love is definitely passionate, and it is self-giving. It is eros and it is agape.

Pope Francis agrees with Benedict. He makes a similar observation about married love. He writes that the love spouses promise each other is greater than emotions.

“It is a deeper love, a lifelong decision of the heart,” he says. It is a daily decision to belong to one another, to share one another’s lives, and to continue loving and forgiving (“The Joy of Love,” 163).

Looking back today

after 46 years of marriage, Teri and I have been through many ups and downs in our life: the stress of adjusting to children; living on a tight budget; trying to keep up with the demands of home, work, school and even church activities; serious illnesses; job losses; and moves to new cities.

I know now that the youthful feelings expressed in our early letters would not have sustained us by themselves. What kept us together was not so much the feelings — although romance was helpful — but the choices we made day after day guided by our faith. Eros and agape are both important and necessary.

During the month of February, nurture

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Questions for reflection: • Do you have any letters or objects from the time you were dating?

If you do, share them with your spouse and together cherish your memories. your eros: the feelings of romantic love for your spouse. Take your spouse on dates, leave each other love notes, do something fun together, read old letters, look through your photo collections, revisit your love story: how it started, what happened along the way, and your dreams for the future.

FEBRUARY 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS Doris (Kuhlmann) and Jerry Redeker, members of St. Joseph Parish, Olpe, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on Feb. 20. The couple was married at St. Mary Church, Maydale.

Their children are: Delores Heins, Gary Redeker, Debbie Cole, Connie Stead, Wayne Redeker, Donna Sleezer and Kevin Redeker. They also have 26 grandchildren and 13 great-grandchildren. The family will celebrate on Feb. 16 with a Mass at 5 p.m. and family dinner to follow. Cards may be sent to the Redekers at: 1086 Road 90, Olpe, KS 66865.

Richard and Shirley Trudell, members of Holy Spirit Parish, O ve r l a n d Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Feb. 15 with a family gathering followed by a trip to Florida.

The couple was married on Feb. 15, 1969, at Precious Blood Church, Detroit. Their children are Renée Chronister and André Trudell.

They also have one grandchild.

Annivesary submissions POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas

Dennis J. and Eileen (Anschutz) Keenan, members of Church of the Ascension, O ve r l a n d Park, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Jan. 31. The couple was married on Jan. 31, 1969, at St. Patrick Church, Great Bend. Their children are: Ryan Keenan, Jennifer Robbins and Patrick Keenan. They also have six grandchildren.

Anna and Richard Gudenkauf, members of St. Matthew Parish, Topeka, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Feb. 3 with a Mass and open house for family and friends. The couple was married on Feb. 7, 1959, at St. Brendan Church in Leon, Iowa. Their children are: Gregory Gudenkauf, Muskogee, Oklahoma; Mark Gudenkauf, Topeka; Richard Gudenkauf, Augusta; and Rodney Gudenkauf (deceased). They also have 11 grandchildren (one deceased) and 11 great-grandchildren (one deceased).

DEADLINE: eight days before the desired publication date.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES: • Announcements must be typed.

• Emailed photos need to be 200 dpi.

Edward

and

Connie (Deatherage) O’Brien, members of Sacred Heart Parish, Tonganoxie, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on July 20, 2018. The couple was married at St. Agnes Church, Roeland Park. They celebrated with family at their home. Their children are: Dana Holloway, Teri Samadzai, John Paul O’Brien, Jill O’Brien, Aimee Rosenow, Shaun O’Brien, Michael O’Brien, Erin Swallow, Mark O’Brien, Derek O’Brien and Mary Deatherage. They also have 16 grandchildren.

Dale and Sue (Moran) Marti, members of Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Feb. 16 with a Mass, family dinner and open house. The couple was married on Feb. 15, 1969, at the Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas, by Msgr. Charles McGlinn. Their children are: A.J. Marti, Shawnee; Angela Collins, Leawood; and Michael Marti, Austin, Texas.

They also have nine grandchildren.

WHERE TO SUBMIT: Send notices to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, attn: anniversaries; or email: todd.habiger@ theleaven.org.

7

CELEBRATING

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS

Schools all across the archdiocese celebrated Catholic Schools Week Jan. 26 through Feb. 1 (and some a little earlier) with a wide range of activities.

In these pages you’ll find just a small sampling of those activities.

SPECIAL DELIVERY

LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE

From left, Alexis Cullinane, Joshua Elliott, Elizabeth Morrissey and Addison Mages, student council officers at Holy Spirit School in Overland Park, prepare to take baked goods to several local organizations. The students visited nearby fire and police departments, the Overland Park Regional Medical Center ER, and Overland Park mayor Carl Gerlach’s office.

WOLF TRACKS

COME TOGETHER

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

Students from Catholic schools in the Topeka area gathered at Hayden High School in Topeka on Jan. 31 for a special Catholic Schools Week Mass featuring Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, as well as Topeka area priests.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

KC Wolf, the mascot of the Kansas City Chiefs, made a special Catholic Schools Week appearance at Xavier Elementary School in Leavenworth on Jan. 28, much to the students’ delight.

LET’S BINGO

Joe Beien, a seventh-grader at St. Benedict School in Atchison, talks with Benedictine Sister Irmina Miller during a game of bingo at the Mount St. Scholastica Dooley Center in Atchison.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

STARTING EARLY

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

Curé of Ars School in Leawood got a jump on Catholic Schools Week with a special all-school Mass featuring Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann on Jan. 24.

SPECIAL GUESTS

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Angie Strecker is greeted by granddaughter Jayda Muñoz, 5, in a pre-K classroom at Most Pure Heart of Mary School in Topeka. The school had a special grandparents day as part of Catholic Schools Week.

TINY DANCERS LIVING ROSARY

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

Seventh-grader John Paul Martinez takes part in a living rosary on Jan. 31 at Ascension School in Overland Park. Each student represented a different bead on the rosary. Martinez was the crucifix.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

The Catholic Schools Week talent show at Holy Trinity in Lenexa featured a wide variety of skills, acts and performances. From left, kindergartners Ayla Wait, Lucy Dandurand and Eloise O’Connor — along with Sara Rosa, Ivy Sollenberger and Emery Governal — show off their dancing skills in front of the entire school.

FEBRUARY 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NATION

11

Archbishop urges ‘renewed vigor’ to protect life

By Julie Asher Catholic News Service

W

ASHINGTON (CNS) — New York state’s new law allowing abortion essentially “for any reason through all nine months of pregnancy” and similar legislation proposed in Virginia and other states is “evil, pure and simple,” said the chairman of the U.S. bishops’ pro-life committee Feb. 2.

“Abortion has always been built on a lie. Today, the lie is switching from ‘abortion is a choice’ to ‘abortion is health care,’” said Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, Kansas, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on ProLife Activities.

“It is sickeningly dishonest to claim that women’s lives or health depend on intentionally killing their children,” he said. “This is especially true for lateterm abortion, which always involves the purposeful destruction of a child which could have been born alive, with much less risk to the mother, had they both received real health care.”

He called on all Catholics — bishops, priests and laity — “to fight for the unborn with renewed vigor” by educating “family, friends, legislators and fellow citizens about how it is never necessary to intentionally kill unborn children in order to save their mothers.”

“Local action is especially important” and “thoughtful Americans of all religions or none at all” need to advocate on this life issue, Archbishop Naumann added.

On Jan. 22, the anniversary of the U.S. Supreme Court’s 1973 Roe v. Wade decision legalizing abortion nationwide, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo,

CNS PHOTO/GREGORY A. SHEMITZ

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, Kan., chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, uses a censer while serving as the principal celebrant of the opening Mass of the National Prayer Vigil for Life Jan. 17 at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington. a Catholic, signed into law the Reproductive Health Act, which he fully supported. Among other provisions, the new law now permits abortions with very few restrictions at any week of a pregnancy.

The law has been met with an outcry by the state’s Catholic bishops and calls by some that Cuomo be excommunicated.

As the bill made its way through the

Legislature, when Cuomo signed it and since it became law, the state’s Catholic bishops decried the measure in several statements. Bishop Edward B. Scharfenberger of Albany, New York, had urged Cuomo not to allow “this Death Star” to be built. New York Cardinal Timothy M. Dolan has called it “ghoulish.”

New York lawmakers stood up and cheered after Cuomo signed the bill. The governor also ordered that

the needle atop the One World Trade Center — the tallest building in the United States — be lit pink in celebration the same day.

“It shocks the conscience to see such evil legislation greeted with raucous cheers and standing ovations,” Archbishop Naumann said Feb. 2, adding: “Most grieving to our Lord of life is that those who advocate for abortion put their eternal souls in jeopardy.”

Catholic Charities USA leaders outline immediate, long-term goals

By Mark Pattison Catholic News Service

W

ASHINGTON (CNS) — Two top Catholic Charities USA leaders outlined some of the short-term and long-term goals for the organization and its affiliates throughout the country Feb. 3 during the Catholic Social Ministry Gathering in Washington.

Catholic Charities is in the midst of a five-year strategic plan to more sharply identify areas where it believes it can make a difference, said Brian Corbin, executive vice president of member services.

One of those areas is refugee resettlement and immigration policy.

Corbin said it has worked with Migration and Refugees Services of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops to place 16,000 refugees across the country in collaboration with local Catholic Charities affiliates that have located sponsor families to help resettle those refugees.

It also has partnered with the Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Corbin said, on issues surrounding the continued migration of Latin Americans to the United States.

Affordable housing is another of Catholic Charities USA’s strategic priorities. “In your own town, you

CNS PHOTO/BOB ROLLER

Ashenafi Anota of Catholic Charities USA in Alexandria, Va., and Joe DiGeloromo of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Raleigh, N.C., stand outside a mobile response unit Sept. 25, 2018, in New Bern, N.C. Leaders of Catholic Charities USA outlined their immediate and long-term goals Feb. 3 to people gathered at the 2019 Catholic Social Ministry Gathering in Washington. probably know there are housing issues,” Corbin said.

“Catholic Charities as an institution is the largest nonpublic provider of housing after the government. We are there.

We will continue to be there,” he said to applause. Catholic Charities’ commitment extends to shelters, domestic-violence shelters, transitional housing and permanent housing, he said.

Health care is a key priority for Catholic Charities, according to Corbin.

“Forty percent of health care is about biology and genetics,” he said. “Sixty percent is social determinants — what happens when you leave the hospital.” The question, he said, is “How do we help people stay out of acute-care need?”

He told the story of one man who

had been largely homeless. “In one year he had 62 ER (emergency room) visits. Sixty-two!” Corbin said. That man was placed in transitional housing furnished by Catholic Charities, he added, “and you know how many ER visits he had the next year? One.” That alone saved the hospital $5 million in emergency room costs, Corbin said.

Lucas Swanepoel, Catholic Charities USA’s vice president for social policy, cautioned against complacency setting in due to what he called a “booming” economy.

“We’re not done addressing poverty,” Swanepoel said, noting that 12.3 percent of Americans still live in poverty in the United States, or 39.7 million people. Moreover, 27.4 million live without health insurance.

“Forty percent can’t cover a $400 emergency expense,” Swanepoel said, “Thirty-five percent have nothing saved for retirement. Seventy-eight percent say they live paycheck to paycheck. And there are zero places — zero — where a minimum-wage worker can afford a two-bedroom apartment.”

He added, “Having a car that needs repair is enough to drive a family into poverty today.”

As the economy changes, Swanepoel said, the people who seek assistance from Catholic Charities changes.

More than half make their first visit, he added, “because they’re hungry.”

FEBRUARY 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS

EMPLOYMENT Drivers - Ready for the summers off? Join our school transportation division and live like a kid again! Our drivers have the opportunity to serve our community and still get those precious summer breaks. Assisted Transportation seeks caring and reliable drivers to transport K - 12 students in Johnson and Wyandotte counties in our minivans. CDL not required. $12 per hour. Retirees encouraged to apply. Learn more or apply online at: assistedtransportation.com or call (913) 262-5190 for more information. EOE. Catholic elementary school principal - St. Patrick School in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking an individual with demonstrated skill in spiritual and instructional leadership, as well as advancement in Catholic schools, for the 2019-20 school year. Applicants for principal must be practicing Catholics; understand the mission of Catholic schools; and have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Apply online at: www.archkckcs.org and mail resume and credentials to: Superintendent Dr. Kathleen A. O’Hara, Catholic Schools Office, Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109, or email to: kohara@ archkckcs.org. Deadline for applications is Feb. 22.

DRIVERS NEEDED Seeking caring and reliable drivers. Work up to 40 hours per week. Transport elderly and disabled individuals to and from medical appointments.

CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply.

Competitive wages and benefits. EOE. Learn more or apply online at: www.assistedtransportation.com (913) 262-5190 Registrar - St. Teresa’s Academy is seeking a registrar to begin work in the summer of 2019. This is a full-time position whose primary responsibility is maintenance of all student records, and building and managing the school’s master schedule. The full job description and link to apply may be found at: jobs@stteresasacademy.org.

Part-time stylists - Are you addicted to the TV show “Say Yes to the Dress”? Are you self-motivated, love fashion and enjoy helping people look their best? If so, we want to talk to you! Sincerely Susan, a unique destination shop that specializes in dresses for mothers of the bride/groom and galas is looking for part-time stylists.

Our boutique is a warehouse environment where clients come in by appointment only. You must have a sense of style and a great personality to be able to interact with our “Moms.” Hours are flexible. Must be willing to work minimum of one evening per week and weekends. Must be able to stand and walk on concrete for long periods of time and reach overhead to pull gowns. Previous retail experience preferred, but not necessary. Hourly rate is based on experience. If interested, call (913) 730-8840.

Director of tax credit scholarship program - The Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) is seeking a director of the tax credit scholarship program. The director will be responsible for the daily management, oversight and vision for CEF’s participation in the Kansas Tax Credit for Low-Income Students Scholarship Program, which is separate from the foundation’s traditional scholarship program.

This individual is responsible for cultivating and securing contributions from eligible donors, as well as oversight of scholarship and financial operations. Applicants must be a practicing Catholic in good standing; be able to speak authentically about Catholic education and school choice; have a bachelor’s degree and a minimum of five successful years in fundraising or corporate sales; and be able to facilitate public relations to increase awareness of this program. The ideal candidate must be able to communicate at the executive level; have polished donor development, marketing and presentation skills; be highly organized and detail-oriented; and be able to communicate effectively and compassionately with a variety of constituencies. The director will manage a Tax Credit Process Manager. Interested individuals should send an email with cover letter and resume to: tcl@archkck.org.

Part-time assistant - The Knights of Columbus Insurance Agency is looking for a part-time assistant in our Topeka office. The hours are flexible, 10 - 20 per week.

Duties include professional customer service, phone inquiries and general office assistance. If interested, call Stephanie at (785) 408-8800.

HR systems analyst - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has an immediate opening for an HR systems analyst position. The individual will assist human resources by providing ongoing maintenance and optimization of the Human Resources Information System (HRIS) and processes. The ideal candidate will have at least two years of experience supporting systems/ technology (HR, payroll or benefits preferred). Must have demonstrated reporting and analytical skills, confidentiality, attention to detail, and excellent verbal and written communication skills. Project management experience a plus. The position requires a bachelor’s degree and two years’ related work experience or six years’ related work experience post-high school. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs.

Qualified individuals should submit cover letter, resume and application to: www.jobs@archkck.org. Open until Feb. 22. Resumes will be reviewed as they are received.

Do you enjoy driving? - The Kansas City Transportation Group is looking for chauffeurs to drive our guests to events, the airport, dinner, etc. Business is growing and we are in need of workers with flexible hours, those who are retired, etc. Great pay and benefits. Send resume to: jkalbert@kctg.com or in person at Kansas City Transportation Group, Kansas City, MO 64106.

Catholic elementary school vice principal - Holy Trinity School in Lenexa is seeking an individual with demonstrated skill in spiritual and instructional leadership, as well as advancement in Catholic schools for the 201920 school year. Applicants for vice principal must be practicing Catholics, understand the mission of Catholic schools and have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Complete the vice principal application process online at: www.archkckcs.org. Questions should be directed to principal Scott Merfen at: smerfen@htslenexa.org. The deadline for applications is Feb. 8.

Daycare director - Holy Rosary Wea Catholic School is seeking a full-time daycare director. The ideal candidate should be a practicing Catholic with daycare experience.

We are looking for a responsible and caring individual who works well with children and communicates clearly with children, parents and colleagues. Interested candidates should send a resume and cover letter to: info@ qhrwea.org.

Executive director - Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic is currently seeking a full-time executive director to provide Christ-centered leadership for our clinic that has been open 12-plus years. The director will be under the supervision of the governing board and responsible for the day-to-day operations of the clinic, including: community networking; marketing; employee leadership and fiscal oversight. If you feel called to lead this ministry that is changing lives and saving lives, email your resume to: Dkelsey@wpcnetwork.org.

Cafeteria director - Nativity Parish School is seeking a director of food service for the 2019-20 school year.

The director must be knowledgeable in all aspects of running a school lunch program: planning menus within the guidelines of KSDE; ordering food and other supplies; processing accounts payable; filing reports with KSDE/ Wellness programs; and supervising employees and volunteers. Competitive salary and benefits. Interested applicants should send a letter of application and a resume to the attention of David Kearney at: david.kearney@ kcnativity.org or mail to: Nativity Parish School, 3700 W. 119th St., Leawood, KS 66209.

Executive assistant to the archbishop – The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking an experienced administrative professional to fill the position of executive assistant to Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. Duties include: assisting callers to the archbishop’s office; maintaining the archbishop’s calendar and scheduling appointments; developing written communications; and coordinating travel arrangements. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing and have a minimum of five years’ professional office experience.

Support of senior management preferred. College degree or equivalent relevant experience to the position required. Catholic education and strong technology skills preferred. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Qualified individuals should submit cover letter, resume and application to: www.jobs@archkck.org. Open until March 1.

Physical education/recreation coordinator - The special- needs ministry of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking a physical education/recreation coordinator who is a motivated, creative and enthusiastic individual to serve in our BREATHE respite care program.

Respite is the gift of time. Respite care events provide parents or caregivers a temporary relief from the responsibilities of caring for individuals with physical or intellectual/developmental disabilities. A physical education or related degree is preferred. The candidate must be VIRTUS trained. The position requires attendance one Saturday evening per month for approximately six hours with up to four additional hours per month for planning and preparation. The position is paid by stipend. For more information or to apply, contact Tom Racunas, lead consultant, special-needs ministry, Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, at: tracunas@archkck.org or call (913) 647-3054.

Director of special events and development - The Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) is seeking a dynamic director of special events and development. The director will develop and implement strategies to ensure that agency fundraising events succeed in achieving goals. The director will be responsible for securing sponsorships from businesses and individuals; recruiting and managing volunteer committees; and be highly organized with exceptional communication skills. Candidates must have a minimum of five years of direct fundraising or sales experience; have proven ability to recruit and lead volunteers; work well in a team environment; and be able to speak passionately about the impact of Catholic education. CEF raises funds to provide scholarships for children from low-income families so they can attend high-quality Catholic schools in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Individuals interested in this full-time position should send a cover letter and resume to: CEFAdmin@archkck.org.

HOME IMPROVEMENT Sheetrock repaired - We can repair your ceilings and walls and can retexture with popcorn or knockdown ceilings. We can repaint old yellowed ceilings. Interior painting for 25 years with no mess!! Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144.

Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., staining, wood rot, power wash, decks, doors and windows, masonry, hardwood floors, gutter cleaning, water heaters, toilets, faucets, garbage disposals, ceiling fans, mowing and more!! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

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!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 935-0176 Swalms organizing - downsizing - cleanout service - Reduce clutter – Any space organized. Shelving built on-site. Items hauled for recycling and donations. 20 years exp.; insured. Call Tillar at (913) 375-9115. WWW. SWALMSORGANIZING.COM. STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835.

Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time.

Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did.

Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. – We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful.

Woodwork will glow. Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125.

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

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.

NELSON CREATION’S L.L.C. Home makeovers, kitchen, bath. All interior and exterior remodeling and repairs.

Family owned, experienced, licensed and insured.

Member St. Joseph, Shawnee. Kirk Nelson.

(913) 927-5240; nelsport@everestkc.net

SERVICES Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@ kc.rr.com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlawyer. com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress.

Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, mulching, Hedge trimming, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002 Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided.

Call (913) 940-2959.

HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install! “Kevin of all trades” your professional organizer and “Honey-do” specialist. Call or email me today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055 or KOATorganizing@ gmail.com. Insured. References.

8 to Your IdealWeight Get Real, Get Healthy, Get Empowered.

Release your weight and restore your power in 8 weeks!

Certified coach: kathioppold.8toyouridealweight.com.

The litter guy - Litter is unsightly and can decrease property value, degrade water quality and impact wildlife and the environment. Let The Litter Guy clean up litter in your community, roadways, commercial and residential areas. For a free quote, call (913) 220-0445 or email: thelitterguy@gmail.com.

Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover.

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

Tree Trimming Tree Trimming/Landscaping Insured/References Free Estimates/Local Parishioner Tony (913) 620-6063

12

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

Quilted memories - Your Kansas City Longarm shop Nolting Longarm machines, quilting supplies and machine quilting services. We specialize in memorial quilts - custom designed memory quilts from your T-shirt collections, photos, baby clothes, college memorabilia, neckties, etc. For information or to schedule a free consultation, call (913) 649-2704. Visit the website at: www.quiltedmemoriesllc.com.

CAREGIVING Caregiver - CNA has many years of experience with elderly and dementia patients. Will do meal prep, doctor appointments, errands, medication setup and companionship. Call Johnna at (816) 786-1093.

Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.benefits ofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

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

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

Senior CNA - Has extensive nursing training. Will do private care, Johnson County area. Available Wednesday, Friday and Saturday. Call (913) 701-6381. Fee negotiable.

FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) For sale - Two adjoining plots at Mount Olivet Cemetery in the Crucifixion area, close to the road. Original cost $1825 per lot. Will sell both lots for $2500 or separately for $1250 each. Call Lesley at (913) 908-2162.

For sale - Two side-by-side crypts; tier B, 13 and 15, located in the St. Joseph Chapel at Mount Calvary Cemetery, the only two left in the chapel. Call (913) 269-6176 for pricing.

For sale - Two internal crypts at Prince of Peace Mausoleum, Nativity Cove, Resurrection Cemetery. For more information, call (913) 631-4348.

REAL ESTATE CASH FOR YOUR HOME (913) 980-4905 Any condition in the metro area Mark Edmondson - local parishioner http://www.buykcproperty.com We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family-owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000.

Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it?

We buy it all at once in as-is condition.

Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com.

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

PILGRIMAGE Retreat and pilgrimage - There will be a retreat given

by Father Sudac and a pilgrimage to Medjugorje from March 20 - April 3, 2019. The cost is $3100 per person.

For more information, call Grace at (913) 449-1806 or send an email to: mgracelegaspi@gmail.com.

BUYING AN AD To purchase a Leaven classified ad, email The Leaven at: beth.blankenship@theleaven.org. Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter. Ad deadline is 10 days before the desired publication date.

FEBRUARY 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR RAISING SAFE KIDS Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Feb. 11 and 18

The program on Feb. 11 will be: “Understanding and Controlling Parents’ Anger.” The program on Feb. 18 will be: “Understanding and Helping Angry Children.” There is no charge to attend.

Donations are welcome. For more information, go online to: www.keelerwomenscenter.org.

BINGO NIGHT Sacred Heart Parish 2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas Feb. 9 at 7 p.m.

Sacred Heart Knights of Columbus will be hosting bingo. There will be cash prizes, and concessions will be sold. For more information, call (913) 850-3348.

WINTER IN WAIKIKI DANCE St. Thomas More Parish (More Hall building, lower level) 11822 Holmes Rd., Kansas City, Missouri Feb. 9 at 7 p.m.

The cost to attend is $20 per person. The doors open at 6:30 p.m. There will be great music, delicious snacks, soft drinks, wine and beer.

Proceeds from the event help people who are unable to afford to attend the Beginning Experience weekends and the “Coping with Life Alone” sessions.

10TH ANNUAL WHITE MASS Church of the Ascension 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Feb. 9 at 6:30 p.m.

This Mass is held for members of the healing profession. A reception will be held at 7:30 p.m. Tickets can be purchased online at: www. catholicmedkc.org.

MINI MARRIAGE RETREAT Church of the Ascension (parish hall) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Feb. 9 from 8:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Mike and Alicia Hernon of “The Messy Family Project” will present this retreat by sharing practical and encouraging insights on the topics of parenting as a team, creating a family culture and keeping love alive. The retreat will include Mass and vow renewal, inspirational and relatable talks with discussion time, breakfast and lunch, and free child care. The cost is $40 per couple. For more information or to register, go online to: kcascension.org/ messy-family.

DIVORCED: CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN Church of the Ascension (St. Luke Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park 2nd and 4th Sundays from 7 - 8:30 p.m.

What’s next after divorce/annulment? Join us for a formation series on the gift of self, which helps us fulfill the call to love again.

Various topics will be discussed. Visit our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/ giftofself143 or send an email to: calledto love143@gmail.com.

‘YOUR HEART IS IMPORTANT’ Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Feb. 12 from 1 - 2 p.m.

SOUP LUNCHEON Most Pure Heart of Mary (Formation Room) 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Feb. 10 from 1 - 3 p.m.

The Christian widow and widowers organization will host the soup luncheon. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call (785) 233-7350.

MARGARITAS FOR MARGARITA Merchant’s Pub and Plate 746 Massachusetts St., Lawrence Feb. 21 from 4 - 10 p.m.

join our Project Rachel ministry for a one-day “Unfailing Mercy” retreat to share God’s mercy and healing after abortion. All communication, services and logistics are confidential. Call or text Ann Marie Alvey at (913) 621-2199 or send an email to: projectrachelkc@archkck.org for retreat time and location. For more information about this ministry, visit the website at: project rachelkc.com.

Merchant’s Pub and Plate will be donating 15 percent from margaritas and selected food items sold to benefit Centro Hispano. Mention this promotion to your server.

Learn ways to keep your heart healthy. The program will be presented by Dr. Alex Kieu, MD.

VALENTINE DANCE St. Mary-St. Anthony Parish (basement) 615 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas Feb. 16 from 6 - 10 p.m.

The dance and meal, sponsored by the German American Edelweiss Society, cost $20 for adults. There are discounted prices for young adults and children; children under 5 eat for free. There will be raffles for prizes. No need for reservations; pay at the door. For more information, contact Patty Orth at (913) 371-2468 or send an email to: pattyorth@sbcglobal.net.

BREATHE RESPITE CARE PROGRAM Holy Cross School 8101 W. 95th St., Overland Park Feb. 16 from 4 - 8 p.m.

BREATHE respite care provides the gift of time away from caregiving for families who have a loved one with a disability age 5 years or older. If you have any questions regarding the program, contact Tom Racunas at (913) 647-3054 or send an email to: tracunas@ archkck.org. To register a loved one, go to the website at: www.archkck.org/specialneeds and complete the online form.

MEMORIAL LITURGY Curé of Ars Parish 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood Feb. 16 at 8 a.m.

There will be a memorial liturgy for deceased loved ones followed by a grief support meeting in the Father Burak Room. The topic will be: “New Beginnings.” For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

VALENTINE DINNER AND DANCE Divine Mercy Parish 555 W. Main St., Gardner Feb. 16 at 6:30 p.m.

Piano music will accompany a dinner catered

by Wally’s at 7 p.m. Toby Hobbs will DJ until 11 p.m. The cost for tickets is $25 for singles and $50 for couples. Tickets may be purchased at each Mass until Feb. 9.

DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE Christ the King Parish 5972 S.W. 25th St., Topeka Feb. 9 at 8 a.m.

Following Mass at Christ the King Parish, there will be a breakfast at the Golden Corral at 1601 S.W. Wanamaker Rd., Topeka. If anyone knows of a member or family in need of the circle’s prayers, call Theresa Smith-Lawton at (785) 640-1403. If you are interested in or would like more information about the Daughters of Isabella, call Cindy Keen at (785) 228-9063.

who experienced suffering and responded in ways that are surprising and powerful. The fee for the program is $60 and includes lunch ($20 nonrefundable deposit). To register, call (913) 360-6173 or visit the website at: www. sophiaspiritualitycenter.org.

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ST. JOSEPH TABLE AND PASTA DINNER St. Joseph Parish (McDevitt Hall) 5901 Flint, Shawnee March 3 at 8:30 a.m.

HEALING MASS Curé of Ars Parish (Father Burak Room) 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood Feb. 16 at 8 a.m.

A Mass with prayers for healing, sponsored by archdiocesan charismatic prayer groups, will be held. For more information, call (913) 6492026.

SYMPTO-THERMAL METHOD OF NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING Class begins Feb. 25 at 6:30 p.m.

4700 Town Center Dr, Leawood (Pioneer Library conference room)

The $35 fee may be applied toward the cost of a complete natural family planning class series offered by the Couple to Couple League. To preregister, as required, send an email to Alison and Allen Greenlief at: aagreenlief@gmail.com.

SPECIAL-NEEDS RESOURCE FAIR Hilltop Conference Center 7700 W. 143rd St., Overland Park Feb. 26 from 5 - 8 p.m.

Information on camps and other recreational opportunities, therapies and equipment will be on hand, with opportunities to learn about and/ or purchase equipment from over 100 vendors representing various disabilities. There will also be vendors from adult/transition services, financial, legal, health and wellness institutions and much more. Free child care will be provided by SOAR (Special-needs ministry of Grace Church). The fair is sponsored by the Blue Valley School District and the Blue Valley Special Education Advisory Council.

WOMEN’S RETREAT Camp Tekakwitha 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg April 26 - 28

This retreat is offered for women ages 21 and older. There will be group and breakout sessions, inspirational speakers, fellowship with other women and celebration of the sacraments. For more information and to register, go online to: camptekakwitha-womensretreat. com. Registration opens Feb. 1.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST St. Bede Parish (hall) 7344 Drought St., Kelly Feb. 17 from 7:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Pancakes, sausage and eggs will be served.

The suggested donation is a freewill offering.

All are invited.

‘WOMEN IN SCRIPTURE: MODELS OF SUFFERING’ Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th, Atchison March 7 from 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Begin Lent by looking at women in Scripture

NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING COURSES Classes begin Feb. 17 at 6:30 p.m.

St. John the Evangelist School 1208 Kentucky St., Lawrence

This is a series of three classes in using the sympto-thermal method. A reasonable course fee is charged. For more information, call Shannon or John Rasmussen at (785) 749-1015.

Registration is required. To register, go online to: live-the-love.org.

‘UNFAILING MERCY’ RETREAT: HEALING AFTER ABORTION March 2

If you or a loved one is hurting from an abortion,

The table will be blessed at 8:30 a.m. and viewing will continue until 2 p.m. A variety of items will be featured for sale. A pasta dinner will be served from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m. The cost is a freewill donation. Proceeds benefit those in need in the parish and the Shawnee community.

For more information, call Christine Marion at (913) 268-6677.

RUNNIN’ REVS BASKETBALL GAME Bishop Miege High School (gym) 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Roeland Park March 4 at 7 p.m.

Priests and seminarians (the Revs) will challenge eighth-grade and high school youth from Catholic schools in a fun and competitive game. Donations and a silent auction will benefit seminarians. For more information, visit the website at: kckvocation.com.

BEGINNING EXPERIENCE GRIEF SUPPORT WEEKEND Precious Blood Renewal Center 2120 St. Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri March 8 - 10

Beginning Experience is a weekend of healing open to men and women of all ages who have suffered the loss of a spouse through death, divorce or separation. It is a time to heal and a time to begin anew. Reservations are required.

For more information and to register, visit the website at: www.beginningexperiencekc.org; send an email to: register.bekc@gmail.com; or call Michelle at (913) 709-3779.

AN AFTERNOON OF PRAYERFUL REMEMBRANCE AND INTERCESSION St. Thomas More Parish 11822 Holmes Rd., Kansas City, Missouri March 9 from 1:30 - 3 p.m.

The hidden wounds of abortion affect each of us, whether it is our neighbor, co-worker, friend, relative or ourself. Gather to pray and intercede on behalf of our nation, seeking forgiveness and healing in God’s merciful love.

Confession will be offered after the prayer service. Mass begins at 4 p.m. All are welcome.

This event is sponsored by the respect life office of the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph.

CATHOLIC HEART WORKCAMP Kansas City area July 8 - 11

Do you need your house painted, inside or out?

Or need your yard cleaned up? Do you need any minor home repairs? Contact the Kansas City managers online at: chwc.kc@gmail.com or call (402) 306-9043. Leave a message and someone will return your call.

CALENDAR submissions CALENDAR submissions DEADLINE: Noon, Thursday, 10 days before the desired publication date.

INCLUDE: time and date of event; street address; description of event.

SEND SUBMISSIONS TO: beth. blankenship@theleaven.org.

FEBRUARY 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY FIFTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Feb. 10 FIFTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Is 6: 1-2a, 3-8 Ps 138: 1-5, 7-8 1 Cor 15: 1-11 Lk 5: 1-11 Feb. 11 Our Lady of Lourdes Gn 1: 1-19 Ps 104: 1-2a, 5-6, 10, 12, 24, 35c Mk 6: 53-56 Feb. 12 Tuesday Gn 1:20 – 2:4a Ps 8: 4-9 Mk 7: 1-13 Feb. 13 Wednesday Gn 2: 4b-9, 15-17 Ps 104: 1-2a, 27-30 Mk 7: 14-23 Feb. 14 Cyril, monk, and Methodius, bishop Gn 2: 18-25 Ps 128: 1-5 Mk 7: 24-30 Feb. 15 Friday Gn 3: 1-8 Ps 32: 1-2, 5-7 Mk 7: 31-37 Feb. 16 Saturday Gn 3: 9-24 Ps 90: 2-6, 12-13 Mk 8: 1-10

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14

Here’s how to read someone’s mind

was in the fourth grade when I had a clear vision.

Whoops! Let me clarify: I was in the fourth grade when I got clear vision.

It started with the annual eye exam at school. I remember heading down to the library room where one of those “E” charts was set up.

I dutifully pointed in the direction each “E” was facing . . . and the nurse said, “You need glasses.”

I was devastated.

When I got back to my desk, I lifted its lid and actually cried a little bit because I felt like a failure.

Naturally, my folks made an appointment for me with the eye doctor, a Dr. Billingsley.

He asked if I had trouble seeing the blackboard or reading. I answered no to both.

Because I was so short, I was always seated in the front desk, close to the board. And, being nearsighted, I had no issues seeing the print in books.

He was really nice

MARK MY WORDS

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

as I went through the battery of tests. Deep in my heart, I was hoping the doctor would say the school nurse was wrong!

No such luck.

Unbeknownst to me, my mom told the doctor she was worried that she’d have a terrible time getting me to wear my glasses. He told her that she might have a terrible time, but it would be to get me to take my glasses off once I saw all that I was missing.

Eventually, the day of reckoning came when I went to get my new glasses — in a very unfashionable black plastic frame.

The optician adjusted them and said, “Well, how can you see?”

I turned to my mom at the door and said, “Mom, I can see the flowers on your dress from here!” Going outside, I was amazed at how defined the branches were in the trees.

Finally, arriving at my grandparents’ house, I stopped dead at the door leading into the kitchen.

“Hey, you can see the clock from here!” I thought you had to go to the refrigerator and look

up before you could see the numbers!

Needless to say, I was sold on wearing glasses.

I thought about this ancient memory because it’s now Catholic Press Month and I realized that I take two very important things in my life for granted: my vision and my ability to read.

I’m humbled by our front-page story this week about Mara Hug, a 12-year-old parishioner at Prince of Peace in Olathe. She has been visually impaired since infancy, yet has not let that slow her down.

I was particularly moved knowing that she reads Braille. That has got to be an effort to learn, but what new worlds have opened up to her through reading.

That leads to the question: How much reading, especially Catholic materials, do you do each week? It’s said that reading the Bible cover to cover, from Genesis to Revelation, would take about 71 hours, reading at a pace similar to that of lectors at Mass.

Dividing those 71

hours by 365 days means that you could make it through the entire Bible in just 12 minutes a day.

Now, I don’t recommend reading the Bible that way, but I would like to challenge all of us to devote just 12 minutes a day to some Catholic “press” (even if that’s online).

And if your home is lacking in this area, remedy that by heading off to a parish library or religious bookstore.

Just don’t let the gifts of vision and literacy go to waste, especially with regard to your faith.

One of the best reasons to read comes from the novelist George R.R. Martin, the inspiration behind “Game of Thrones,” who said, “A reader lives a thousand lives before he dies. . . . The man who never reads lives only one.”

Reading this column probably took you about five minutes. Head next to read Mara Hug’s story and you’ll be well on your way to knocking out today’s 12 minutes.

That’s one life down, 999 to go!

Fire symbolizes purification in both Old and New Testament

W

here there’s smoke, there’s fire!

And Sunday’s first reading — Is 6:1-2a, 3-8 — is on fire. We see the smoke in Verse 4: “At the sound of that cry, the frame of the door shook and the house was filled with smoke.”

The house in question is the Temple in Jerusalem, the house of God. Isaiah is standing there, beholding a vision of God seated on a throne.

God is calling Isaiah to be a prophet.

The smoke filling the Temple comes from the sacrifices burning on the altars of the Temple.

The sacrifice of animals comes to mind: oxen, lambs and turtledoves.

Besides those, cereal offerings and offerings

IN THE BEGINNING

FATHER MIKE STUBBS Father Stubbs is the pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.

of incense were burnt every day on the Temple altars. That would produce a lot of smoke.

Through the haze of

smoke, Isaiah notices seraphim flying overhead. The seraphim are angels, but a particular kind. Literally, the word “seraphim” means “burning ones.” Everyone is on fire in this vision.

Isaiah sees one of the seraphim flying down to him. He holds a burning ember that he has taken with tongs from the altar and applies it to

Isaiah’s mouth.

God wishes to purify Isaiah, to remove his objection that he is unworthy to serve as God’s prophet: “See, now that this has touched your lips, your wickedness is removed, your sin purged.”

The fire represents the Holy Spirit. It is the same fire that burned in the bush that Moses encountered when he was called by God to lead the Hebrew people: “The bush, though on fire, was not consumed” (Ex 3:2).

Similarly, in their journey to the Promised Land, a column of fire led the Hebrew people during the night. It was the Holy Spirit leading them.

And later on, in the New Testament, the Holy Spirit descends

upon the disciples on the day of Pentecost in the form of tongues of fire: “Then there appeared to them tongues as of fire, which parted and came to rest on each one of them. And they were all filled with the Holy Spirit” (Acts 2:3-4).

In all these cases, the Holy Spirit burns, but does not destroy. The Holy Spirit burns away impurities in order to prepare us to serve God. That was true for Isaiah. It holds true for us as well. That process of purification will involve some pain, but it will make us more suitable instruments of God’s will.

Then, we will be able to say: “You tested us, O God, tried us as silver tried by fire” (Ps 66:10).

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Unity and fidelity are indispensable cornerstones of Christian marriage, Pope Francis said.

Having two people generously come together as one and pledge lifelong faithful love must be not only “adequately explained to future newlyweds,” these values also require the pastoral care of the church’s ministers and members, the pope said, addressing members of the Roman Rota, a tribunal handling mostly marriage cases.

In fact, married couples who live their marriage “in generous unity and with faithful love” are “a precious

pastoral help to the church” and offer everyone “an example of true love,” he said Jan. 29 in an audience marking the inauguration of the Vatican court’s judicial year.

These important role models teach in silence, he said, and unfortunately, “don’t make headlines, while scandals, separations and divorce make the news.”

Today’s increasingly secularized world, he said, “does not favor the growth of faith, resulting in the Catholic faithful struggling to give witness to a lifestyle according to the Gospel, including with regard to the sacrament of marriage.”

— CNS

FEBRUARY 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

15

Our kids’ success impacts families, neighborhoods and larger communities

I

was fortunate enough to attend a special gathering that Archbishop Naumann hosts each year for parents of Catholic Education Foundation scholarship students.

Hearing how the scholarship impacted these parents and their children made a powerful impression on me and all those who attended.

The archbishop began the gathering with Mass in the chapel at his residence, which set the tone for a special evening. During the dinner that followed, each parent shared personal stories about how a scholarship from the Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) made their

W

hat is the “mission” of spous-

es?

Monsignor Renzo Bonetti in “Signs of Love” uses these beautiful words: “Go, O spouses, throughout the roads of the world. Make real the Song of Songs in your everyday life, so that every person may rediscover in you God’s love.” He also refers to married couples as “books of God’s love written in flesh.”

What a lofty calling! I am reminded of a couple who, having been married for many years, decided to experience a “Living in Love” retreat.

During prayer at the close of the retreat, the

CEF CENTERED

VINCENT ANCH Vince Anch is the executive director of the Catholic Education Foundation.

dreams of sending their children to a Catholic school come true.

One of the parents, a single mother, shared

that she has to work two jobs to make ends meet. Without a CEF scholarship, she would not be able to send her children to a Catholic school.

She still makes daily sacrifices to contribute her share of the tuition, which is very important to her and gives her a sense of pride. She

said that without the scholarship, her children would have no choice but to attend a nearby neighborhood school that struggles with discipline issues and safety.

Another parent who fled his native country of Burma to come to America to practice his faith shared his amazing story.

The Burmese military government has shut down Christian churches, forcing thousands of people to flee to countries where they can openly practice their faith.

His family ended up in Kansas City and is filled with joy because, with CEF’s assistance, his children can live and grow in their faith

while attending a Catholic school. Certainly many Americans take this freedom for granted.

Another parent spoke about how much her children have grown in their faith by attending a Catholic school and how that has inspired the faith of the whole family.

There were many other stories from these gracious parents who cherish the support they get through CEF scholarships.

They expressed deep gratitude and asked me to forward their appreciation to all the generous donors who support CEF scholarships. So, I share a special “thank you” with each of you on behalf of the families we serve.

Sometimes, we take for granted how much impact our Catholic schools make on families. By providing high-quality academic environments and daily opportunities to live the faith, our schools are helping children change the fortunes of families, neighborhoods and our whole community.

This would not be possible without the generosity and support that CEF receives from its kind donors and committed volunteers.

These are just a few examples of how supporting the Catholic Education Foundation has a profound effect on the lives of hundreds of children in our very own archdiocese.

Let your love help other rediscover God’s FAMILY MATTERS

DEACON TONY ZIMMERMAN Deacon Tony Zimmerman is the lead archdiocesan consultant for the office of marriage and family life.

husband shared how touched he was to realize that their marriage

was really important to others.

Consider this: A recent Time magazine article stated that “55 percent of young Americans believe that marrying and having children isn’t very important.”

In 1970, “79 percent of American adults were married; today only 52

percent are married.

“What has happened?

Perhaps we have forgotten that the kind of marriage that inspires others to risk giving their lives away to another doesn’t just happen by accident. The kind of marriage that allows others to rediscover God’s love takes work and God’s grace.

Bishop Thomas J. Olmsted, of Phoenix, wrote in “Complete My Joy”: “Relationships are built with the material of time.” The “material of time” is a precious and scarce commodity for most of us. Encouraging married couples to take time on a regular basis to build our marriage relationships is so vital to the life of the family and

church that Archbishop Naumann has made this one of the three key initiatives for the archdiocese.

Most of us probably wish we could simplify our lives to find more time. In order to avoid getting bogged down here, let’s begin with some simple steps.

We are in the midst of National Marriage Week, celebrated each Feb. 7-14. We will also celebrate World Marriage Day on Feb. 10 with a Mass at St. Therese North, 7207 N.W. Missouri Highway 9, Kansas City, Missouri, at 2 p.m.

During the upcoming week, suggest to one another ideas for setting time aside each week for each other. It can be as

simple as a walk together (once it warms up!) or retreating to your room for some quiet time with cheese, crackers, wine and your favorite music.

Go online to: archkck. org/joyful-marriageproject-home. You will find upcoming events, monthly opportunities and ongoing ways for enriching your marriage.

Commit to choosing one enrichment or retreat that you will experience in the coming months. As your love and joy for one another grows, perhaps others will look to you and decide that marriage (and children) are important.

Your love will help others rediscover God’s love.

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FEBRUARY 8, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

16

CNS PHOTO/GREGORY A. SHEMITZ

People recite the Lord’s Prayer during a Mass for young adults at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City. Two versions of the Lord’s Prayer exist in the Gospels (Mt 6:9-13; Lk 11:1-4).

The Lord’s Prayer: A circle of praise and petition

By Patricia Kasten Catholic News Service

W

hat was the first prayer you learned?

For many of us, it was the Lord’s Prayer.

And we may have learned it because it’s in the Mass and has been for a long time.

Two versions of the prayer exist in the Gospels: one in Mt 6:9-13; the other in Lk 11:1-4. Another version appears in the Didache, a manual of worship and doctrine that dates to the first century.

We believe the Lord’s Prayer was used in the earliest liturgies because the Didache places it right after the explanation for celebrating baptism and just before explaining the Eucharist. And it also orders: “Pray thus three times a day.”

St. Jerome (fourth century) noted the prayer’s use at Mass, and St. Gregory the Great (sixth century) moved its recitation to just before the fraction rite, when the celebrant breaks the consecrated bread as the congregation sings the Agnus Dei. But why is the Lord’s Prayer in the Mass at all? And why place it where it is?

Some early church writers can help: St. Augustine said the Lord’s Prayer covers everything we ever need to ask.

And Tertullian, a third-century apologist, called it “the epitome of the whole Gospel.”

So it makes sense that the Lord’s Prayer follows the Liturgy of the Word.

And, as the Didache’s placement notes, it’s linked to the Eucharist. Another important point is this sentence: “Give us this day our daily bread.”

We have just brought our gifts to the altar where they become, for us, the Body and Blood we are about to share.

The purpose of the Lord’s Prayer is simple: worshiping God together.

The prayer used at Mass is a series of seven petitions. Jesus gave them to us when his disciples asked: “Teach us to pray.”

CNS PHOTO/GREGORY A. SHEMITZ

Students dressed as their favorite saints recite the Lord’s Prayer during an All Saints’ Day Mass at Sts. Philip & James Church in St. James, New York, in 2016. For many of us, the Lord’s Prayer was the first prayer we learned.

So Jesus started at the basics: with God. • Our Father, who art in heaven.

This opening addresses God, both intimately — “Father” — and from an awefilled distance: God in heaven, dwelling in perfection and glory we cannot yet know.

The petitions themselves follow and fall in two groups.

The first are the “you petitions” — or, more accurately, “the You,” as in God: • Hallowed be thy name. “Hallow” means to honor. But, in the ancient world, knowing someone’s name also meant you knew them well. So this petition says we want to draw closer to God, just as God — in Jesus — draws close to us.

• Thy kingdom come. The petition also seeks God’s nearness and expresses a longing for the divine presence that brings about the kingdom.

• Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven. Here we again ask for the kingdom — not just in the future, but now.

THE CATHOLIC MASS ANNIVERSARY submissions Need help explaining the Mass to a child, visitor or Protestant friend? Join The Leaven in this new series on how to understand why we do what we do when we gather each week to worship.

After these first petitions expressing our desire for a relationship with God, we offer petitions about earthly needs.

These are the “us petitions” — about us and our relationships.

• Give us this day our daily bread.

Nothing is more basic than food. Without it, we die. So this petition deals with everyday survival. God knows, of course, that we need food.

However, we need to remember that “all good things come from God” as St. Teresa of Avila said. The God who gave manna in the desert still feeds us today.

This petition also reminds us that God’s food is his very self: the eucharistic bread.

• Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.

This petition is a two-way street. We seek God’s mercy, but — at the same time — we seek mercy for us and for others.

• Lead us not into temptation.

Then, restored to healthy, well-fed relationships with God and with others, we realize we won’t stay there. We’ll need help again. So we pray for the future.

We pray because we’ll be tested and we know how easy it is to turn from God at those times.

• Deliver us from evil. Evil exists. No one escapes its touch. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches: “In this final petition, the church brings before the Father all the distress of the world” (2854). Often, we huddle like children in darkness. And yet the darkness has been scattered by Christ’s light. That’s what “Amen” means: that we believe this.

However, where we would normally say “Amen” in this prayer, we don’t in the Mass. We make an addition.

After a brief prayer by the priest, we add: “For the kingdom and the power and the glory are yours now and forever.”

Many think this addition wasn’t in the Lord’s Prayer until recently. True, Jesus didn’t say it. And, yes, it was added by the liturgical reforms following the Second Vatican Council.

However, Eastern churches have used these words in the liturgy for centuries.

And, returning to the Didache’s prayer, we find a similar addition: “For thine is the power and the glory forever.”

This type of addition is called a “doxology,” a short song of praise. So, the Lord’s Prayer starts by praising “Our hallowed Father” and, with this doxology, ends in praise.

The whole Lord’s Prayer becomes a great circle of praise and petition enfolding us as we prepare to receive the body and blood of Christ.