02 26 21 Vol. 42 No. 28

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 42, NO. 28 | FEBRUARY 26, 2021

N

‘REMEMBER THAT YOU ARE DUST, AND TO DUST YOU SHALL RETURN’

ew instructions from the Vatican called a “Note on Ash Wednesday Distribution of Ashes in Time of Pandemic” guided priests around the archdiocese on how to distribute ashes safely this past Ash Wednesday. Instead of tracing the sign of the cross on the recipient’s forehead, the blessed ashes were instead sprinkled on the crown of the head. The words usually recited over each individual — either “Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return” or “Repent, and believe in the Gospel” — were proclaimed only once at the beginning. Although the sprinkling method of distribution was new to Americans, it is the common practice at the Vatican and in Italy.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Photos from top, clockwise: n Father Romulo Real Linares, associate pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Topeka, sprinkles the ashes on the head of a congregant during early morning Ash Wednesday services at the church. n Ashes took on a different look this year as they were administered through sprinkling rather than by tracing the sign of the cross to reduce contact. n Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann administers the ashes to Tim Chik at the Ash Wednesday service held at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas. n One of the younger members of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood — Vivian Griffith, in the arms of her mother Laura Griffith — receives ashes from Father Brian Schieber, pastor of St. Michael.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

2

ARCHBISHOP

FEBRUARY 26, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Unpack the Passion narrative on your spiritual journey this Lent

H

opefully, we have all developed a personal plan for the Lenten season.

The Gospel for Ash Wednesday, taken from St. Matthew’s account of the Sermon on the Mount, provides us with a blueprint for a fruitful Lent. Jesus speaks about what Our Lord terms “righteous deeds.”

He counsels about three powerful means that can help us grow closer to God: almsgiving, prayer and fasting. Jesus reminds his disciples that if we do good actions for the wrong reasons (namely, to impress other people), we actually deplete them of their power to deepen our friendship with God. In this column, I want to reflect particularly on the importance of prayer. A couple weeks ago, I wrote about praying, ideally as a family, the daily rosary. Contemplating the face of Jesus with Mary through the daily rosary is a beautiful way to grow closer to Our Lord.

Another great suggestion for Lent 2021 during this Year of St. Joseph is to make a consecration to St. Joseph by using the book by Father Daniel Calloway — “The Consecration to St. Joseph: The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father.”

Developing a closer relationship through prayer with St. Joseph would be a wonderful

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN fruit of the 2021 Lenten season.

Bishop Robert Barron in his homily for the First Sunday of Lent spoke about his mother’s custom of participating in daily Mass during Lent.

When he was a boy, Bishop Barron’s mother invited him to join her in attending the daily Lenten Mass.

Bishop Barron shared how the experience of participating with his mother in Mass daily throughout Lent had a significant impact on his own spiritual growth.

In this column, I want to focus specifically on another very powerful prayer practice for our Lenten experience — reading, pondering and praying over the word of God. If you do not already include meditating on the Bible as part of your daily prayer, Lent is the perfect time to begin this practice.

One excellent method for biblical prayer is to use the daily

Lenten Mass readings.

When we reflect upon God’s word, we should do so with an expectation that Our Lord has something special he desires to reveal to us through the Scriptures.

Our goal should not be the number of verses that we read but pondering short portions of the Bible each day. The Augustine Institute’s Formed program provides excellent daily meditations on the Mass readings by Dr. Tim Gray.

Another possibility is to meditate daily on a brief section of one of the four Gospels.

This year, the Sunday Gospel during Ordinary Time is from the Gospel of Mark. Word on Fire Ministry has published an edition of the four Gospels with commentary by Bishop Barron and others along with beautiful artwork. Lent is a wonderful time to begin to walk prayerfully through the Gospel of Mark or one of the other Gospels.

My No. 1 suggestion for Lent is to read slowly and prayerfully

one of the Passion narratives. The Passion narratives are the heart of the Gospel.

The rest of the Gospel prepares us to meditate on the central events of Our Lord’s mission — his passion, death and resurrection.

Liturgically, we only read the Passion narrative on Palm Sunday and Good Friday.

These are the only days that homilists have the opportunity to preach on the core of the Gospel. Ironically, because of the length of the Passion narratives, the rubrics call for preachers to give brief homilies.

Dr. Edward Sri has written a book entitled “No Greater Love — A Biblical Walk Through Christ’s Passion.” Dr. Sri has led numerous pilgrimages to the Holy Land. He is an excellent biblical scholar who writes in a very accessible way for a nonscholarly audience.

I recommend highly Dr. Sri’s book as a means to help you unpack the Passion narrative and to meditate upon this centerpiece of the Gospel in preparation for Holy Week.

One of the mistaken understandings of Our Lord’s passion and death is that Jesus, the innocent one, had to undergo the cross to appease his heavenly Father for the sins of humanity. This makes God the Father into an ogre that needs to punish someone for

This Winged Lion of St. Mark is found in Piazza dei Signori, Padua, Italy. Archbishop Naumann suggests prayerfully reading the Gospel of Mark as a good spiritual exercise this Lent. mankind’s evil.

In his introduction, Dr. Sri addresses this misunderstanding of the meaning of the central mystery of Christianity. He compares this notion to an earthly father punishing one of his children for the misbehavior of one of their siblings.

“How does such arbitrary punishment bring about a loving reconciliation between a father and a son?

Similarly, a God who punishes the innocent instead of the guilty would not be a God of mercy or justice.

St. John Paul II once explained that what gives the cross its redemptive value is not the material fact that an innocent person has suffered the chastisement deserved by the guilty and that justice has thus been in some way satisfied.

“Rather, the saving power of the cross comes from the fact that the innocent

Jesus, out of pure love, entered into solidarity with the guilty and thus transformed their situation from within. In other words, what makes the cross redemptive is not the fact that punishment has been inflicted on an innocent victim or that God’s anger has been appeased. Rather, at the heart of the saving power of the cross is Christ’s unique total gift of himself in love.”

My No. 1 suggestion for deepening your prayer life this Lent is to meditate on the Passion narrative.

Dr. Sri provides a great resource to aid our meditation on the most important portion not only of the Gospel, but of the entire Bible.

Praying over the Passion will allow the Holy Spirit to penetrate our hearts with wonder and awe at God’s amazing love for us revealed on Calvary.

Crossword solution

Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co. Specializing in Foundation Repairs Mud-jacking and Waterproofing.

Serving Lawrence, Topeka and surrounding areas.

Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696 In business since 1963 www.foundationrepairks.com

LOCAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 26, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

3

NUN ON THE RUN Benedictine Sister chooses isolation to help community

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

A

TCHISON — “I don’t get spooked easily,” said Benedictine Sister Carol Ann Petersen of the Mount St. Scholastica community here.

Which is a very good thing — since she has been living alone on the otherwise empty third floor of St. Cecilia, the oldest building on the Benedictine monastery’s campus.

It’s a life she volunteered for last March, however, when the pandemic hit.

“I knew it needed to be done,” she said. “And temperamentally, I had the sense that I could do it.”

To limit their potential exposure to COVID-19 and to protect the health of their elderly, the Benedictine Sisters locked down — hard.

And Sister Carol Ann became their sole messenger to the outside world.

“Some of the Sisters I think would find it really, really hard to be isolated,” she said. “But I’m happy being an introvert.”

Sole Sister “Most of the day,” said Sister Carol Ann, “I am living the life of a hermit.”

But for a window of time each day, she runs anywhere from four to 22 errands for her fellow Sisters.

Sister Carol Ann is a lifeline especially for those at the Dooley Center, the Mount’s nursing facility, and her stops range from Walmart and the post office to Catholic Charities’ Family Support Center in Atchison.

Josh Taff, site manager of the support center, is grateful for the eggs Sister Carol Ann brings from the Mount every week, which he said is a luxury for the people his team serves.

“Many people can’t afford fresh food,” he said. “This is something they look forward to when they come here.”

Sister Carol Ann also delivers items like toilet paper and blankets during the winter months.

“Sister Carol Ann has been a great help in these times,” said Taff. “I know that if we are in need of anything, she will do all that she can to help us out.”

A helping hand for Mount employees Sister Carol Ann isn’t the only one who’s stepped up to help her community this year.

Sister Patricia Gamgort, OSB, has coordinated two food pantries — one for Dooley Center employees and one for monastery employees.

Each week, she and a kitchen employee create a grocery order, which typically includes items like eggs, bread, cereal, milk, peanut butter, soup and toilet paper.

Sister Patricia meets with the delivery driver, divvies up the items and

GETTING STARTED

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

For her first stop of the day, Sister Carol Ann Petersen, OSB, drops off the Mount St. Scholastica mail at the Historic Post Office Building, 621 Kansas Ave., Atchison. During the pandemic, Sister Carol Ann has been the designated errand runner for the Mount.

Feeding the isolated

TAKING CARE OF BUSINESS

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

ensures that both pantries are wellstocked, sparing employees the many trips to the grocery store the supplies would normally require.

Sister Patricia estimates that 20 families are served by the monastery pantry and 35 to 40 are served by the Dooley one.

“They’re extremely appreciative,” she said. “They say, ‘I don’t know what we would do without this. It’s been such a help for us.’”

Sister Patricia has ample experience working to combat food insecurity. Her former community was with the Benedictine Sisters on the eastern shore of Maryland, where she started a food

pantry, a thrift shop and a house for women and children.

She also at one time served on the board of Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Wilmington, Delaware.

“I’ve always had a desire to work with the needy and the poor,” she said.

Sister Patricia served as the director of the Dooley Center for a few years before COVID hit, so the opportunity to continue helping the Mount in some way has been special.

“I enjoy it very much,” she said.

“When I know that we are fulfilling a real need, it makes me very happy to see that.”

Sister Carol Ann texts the invoice from one of her stops to the business office of the Mount.

President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 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.

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

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

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Life at the Mount this year wouldn’t run smoothly without “Meals on Wheels,” a team of five Sisters who take meals by cart to those who are isolated even from their own community.

“Each isolated Sister is given a menu, and we take them whatever they ask for to eat, as well as their mail and . . . any groceries [they order] from our kitchen,” said Sister Carolyn Rohde, OSB, who is part of the team.

Sister Carol Ann is perennially numbered among those “isolated,” but other Sisters might be at various times, too, for exposure to COVID, work in the Dooley Center, visits with relatives or extended stays at the hospital.

“We have been particularly blessed with only three Sisters who tested positive for COVID, and [they] had minimal symptoms,” said Sister Carolyn.

When those Sisters were moved to an area of the monastery separate from the rest of the community, Sister Carolyn, a registered nurse, became their caregiver — then spent time quarantined herself.

“I understand what it must be like to be alone during this time when you can’t physically associate with anyone,” she said. “It was very lonely for me.

“However, community members kept in good touch with me by phone . . . [and I] felt very good about serving our Sisters during this time.”

Sister Carolyn has a heart for service. She retired from her nursing ministry at a safety net clinic just two >> See “THERE” on page 16

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

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

4

LOCAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 26, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Altar Society treasurer does it by the book till the last

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — All good things must come to an end.

Or, so the old saying goes.

For 94-year-old Nadine Conejo, a member of Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, it seems the time has come for her to close out the books a final time.

Conejo serves as treasurer of Blessed Sacrament’s Altar Society, a position she has held for nearly 63 years. In March, the organization is disbanding and donating its remaining funds to the church.

“We don’t have enough membership anymore,” Conejo said. “We used to have 120, but anymore they’ve moved away or passed away.”

Then, there’s the issue of time.

Today, many women have demanding schedules between full-time work and family life.

Today, the group has eight members; only three are active.

Things were different in 1958. That’s when Conejo and her late husband Ray moved their young family to the parish, and she joined the Altar Society.

Almost immediately, Conejo was nominated and elected the society’s treasurer.

At first, Conejo will say she has no idea why she was elected the organization’s treasurer.

“They trusted me with the money,” she said with a look of mischief.

Conejo’s life experiences, however, might point to the real reason.

During her sophomore year of high school, Conejo took a part-time job as a bookkeeper. Then, of course, there was the bookkeeping class she took at school. And in the early 1940s, computers in schools were off in the distant future. So, she learned to do everything with pencil and paper.

“We didn’t have machines or anything like that. We had to do it all by hand,” she said.

To this day, Conejo has volumes of notebooks, each with handwritten records detailing the Altar Society’s dues, expenses, donations to the church, etc. The records are exact, each year

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Nadine Conejo, a parishioner at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, has served as the treasurer of the Altar Society since 1958. All of her records are handwritten. Although the organization will disband in March, Conejo feels the organization has served its purpose. grouped together with a paperclip in three-ring binders, each binder labeled as to the years within it.

For years, the Altar Society kept nominating Conejo to the position.

After a while, though, they didn’t bother.

“They wouldn’t even nominate me anymore,” she said. “They’d say, ‘Just let her be.’ Nobody wanted to take the responsibility evidently, and I didn’t mind. I don’t mind doing anything for the church. When it comes to the church, I’m there.”

Due to Conejo’s meticulous recordkeeping, not once in 63 years has the Altar Society ever run short on funds.

Then again, her forthright attitude might explain that.

“I made sure they paid their dues,” she said. She was even known during the society’s meetings, for example, to say things like, ‘So-and-so hasn’t paid their dues.’”

In the eyes of Conejo, reminding people of their financial promises is no different than what happens in the business world.

“If you owe me money, I’m going to ask you for it,” she said. “Don’t they do that in business?”

In 1958, the annual dues of $5 might have been a stretch for some families, and Conejo knew that. After all, she had four young children herself. Still, the money was for a good cause.

“I wasn’t taking their money. I was collecting the money,” she said. “The president took it to the bank, and then we could do things for the church.”

While nowadays $5 seems like a drop in the bucket to most people, the Altar Society has not raised its dues once since Conejo took over the books.

Like those found at Catholic parishes across the country, the women of the Blessed Sacrament Altar Society gave in ways large and small — and made that $5 per member go a very long way. For example, the Altar Society purchased library books for the parish school, donated copies of the Baltimore Catechism for use in religion classes, and purchased linens and vestments for the priests.

More recently, the group helped purchase LED lights for the church.

Then, there were the society’s annual fundraisers such as Thanksgiving dinners and parish bazaars.

“We just did things for the church,” said Conejo, adding that many Advent and Lenten seasons she helped clean the altar, pews and windows while many of the members’ husbands cleaned the floors and/or did general repair work.

As she reflects back on her time with the Altar Society, Conejo said she has been richly blessed. Although she will no longer have the bookkeeping duties, she is taking it all in stride.

“In a way, I just figure everything comes to an end,” she said.

Have it your way! Prairie Star hosts a dual St. Joseph retreat Katie Peterson Special to the Leaven

I

n a recent apostolic letter titled “Patris corde” (“With a father’s heart”), Pope Francis proclaimed that Dec. 8, 2020, through Dec. 8, 2021, would be known as the Year of Saint Joseph in honor of the 150th anniversary of the declaration of St. Joseph as patron of the Universal Church.

To help adults, high school age and older, observe this, Prairie Star Ranch will host a daylong virtual and in-person “Retreat with the Heart of St. Joseph” from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 20 in Williamsburg.

“It’s really a retreat in which we want to invite people to get to know St. Joseph and connect with him and learn from his example . . . on how to connect with and live for God more profoundly, especially in our present circumstances,” said Grace Malinee, Prairie Star Ranch retreat team missionary.

“It really is an opportunity for all people who maybe . . . haven’t had

LEAVEN FILE PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE

Prairie Star Ranch will host a daylong virtual and in-person retreat on the “Heart of St. Joseph” from 9 a.m. to 5 p.m. on March 20 in Williamsburg. much opportunity to step away and be with the Lord and take time for prayer and contemplation . . . to be out here in

the country on our beautiful property,” she added, “to have a safe and reflective day and time alone with Our Lord

to refresh and recharge.

“We’re just hoping to give retreatants time away from normal life to just be with Our Lord, to contemplate him and his goodness, and what he’s been doing in their lives and be able to grow in relationship with St. Joseph.”

Organizers also see this as an opportunity for Catholics both able and unable to travel to the ranch for the retreat, to participate in the diocesan initiative “Enflame Our Hearts, Homes, Communities.”

“It’ll give people a chance to get their hearts enflamed by the love of the Lord and a renewed zeal and a refreshed spirit,” Malinee said.

Gregory Wellnitz, Prairie Star Ranch director, said the retreat will have a guided retreat format that will include three meditations given by Dr. Troy Hinkel and Joe Heschmeyer from the Holy Family School of Faith in Overland Park with time for prayer and reflection in between.

“A retreat is simply a daylong conversation with Our Lord and Maker. >> See “ST. JOSEPH’S” on page 13

LOCAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 26, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

5

HOPE BEHIND BARS

Prison ministry intercedes with friendship and message of hope

By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven “Amid this place of Darkness, in this square of deprivation, seems I am a bit hope-less. . . .

As poorly I do, in trying to cope, how is it I hear this rumor of hope?

When I should be most angry, when my hate, I should not escape, here on this insane and dangerous slope, I hold dear . . . this RUMOR OF HOPE”

A

Adapting to the pandemic George Steger, one of the Bethany Prison Ministry founders, says that schedule came to a sudden halt in February 2020 with the onset of COVID19. Virtual meetings with inmates were not an option.

When it became apparent that the group wouldn’t be going into the correctional facility for a while — and upon securing permission from prison officials — the volunteers began writing monthly morale booster greeting cards or letters to the inmates who had attended the Wednesday sessions.

Steger describes these as “attaboy” messages, designed to lift spirits and make the inmates smile. (Lansing Correctional Facility serves an all-male population.)

The messages might include corny jokes, Scripture passages or cartoons.

Steger reviews the content to ensure compliance with prison requirements pertaining to exchange of information.

According to the feedback Steger receives, the men appreciate the greetings and some post the cards and letters on

CNS PHOTO/KAREN CALLAWAY, NORTHWEST INDIANA CATHOLIC

A chaplain distributes Communion to an inmate at the state prison in Michigan City, Indiana. For 28 years, Bethany Prison Ministry has delivered hope inside the walls of the Lansing Correctional Facility.

“

man once known as a hardened criminal wrote these lines of poetry. He had a record of holdups and shoot-outs. He had shot and killed two law enforcement officers.

The inmate became a regular at the weekly Catholic call-out sessions hosted inside the walls of the Lansing Correctional Facility by volunteers of Bethany Prison Ministry. He prayed with the group and listened to the Scriptures; the discussions mattered to him.

Still, he found it difficult to believe that God could or would forgive him.

Until, eventually, the inmate began to absorb “this rumor of hope.” Sick and dying in the prison, he told the Catholic priest and the Bethany volunteer, “Maybe you are right. I have hope now that God will forgive me.”

For 28 years, hope has remained the strong undercurrent of the Bethany Prison Ministry. From the initial group of three founders, up to as many as 20 have volunteered and visited the prison each Wednesday evening for song, prayer, Scripture and story-sharing with inmates.

When a Catholic priest was among the volunteers, he celebrated Mass for the group. At one time or another, Catholic call-outs (as they are identified in the facility) occurred in the maximum, medium and minimum security sections of the prison.

Attendance was always highest in maximum, with 15 to 25 inmates participating.

“ PRAYING WITH AND LISTENING TO THESE MEN, MOST OF WHOM HAVE SO LITTLE TO LOOK FORWARD TO, I FELT LIKE I GAINED MORE THAN I GAVE EACH WEEK. SISTER MARY ARTHEL CLINE, SCL, A FOUNDER OF BETHANY PRISON MINISTRY

the walls of their cells.

Serving a larger audience than its Catholic call-out participants, Bethany Prison Ministry also adapted during the pandemic to continue its annual Christmas program for indigent inmates at the correctional facility. Financial contributions from individuals and organizations went toward the purchase of soap, deodorant, shampoo, candy, cookies, coffee, snacks and personal care items.

Normally, several Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth (SCLs) would fill individual gift bags in an assembly line arrangement at the motherhouse.

This year, with COVID restrictions, two Bethany volunteers packaged and delivered 300 bags to the correctional facility.

Prison staff distributed the beribboned bags to inmates who had no source of outside income other than the small amount received monthly from the state. This was the eighth year for the Christmas program. Steger

perceives this as a shining light in the lives of the prisoner recipients.

Fellowship, conversion Sister Mary Arthel Cline, SCL, another Bethany Prison Ministry founder, misses the Wednesday evening gatherings. She said, “We were there to share companionship and fellowship and not so much for proselytizing. “ Yet conversions have taken place through the years. Steger has served as sponsor for several inmates who became Catholic or were confirmed.

These sacramental celebrations usually occurred in conjunction with an annual banquet with either Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann or Archbishop Emeritus James P. Keleher presiding.

A typical Wednesday Catholic callout depended on the volunteer who was leading that evening’s session.

Prior to COVID-19, a trend was developing of inmates taking the lead role.

That often entailed stories of lives gone bad and gradual turning toward God and conversion.

“These were very moving sessions,” Steger recalled.

“Wednesdays were special. We got to be with people who were really happy to see us,” Sister Mary Arthel said. “Praying with and listening to these men, most of whom have so little to look forward to, I felt like I gained more than I gave each week.”

Among friends Steger agreed.

“When you go in, you make friends.

That’s the one thing that has kept me

returning each week,” he said. “The call-outs were always somehow as rewarding for me as they were for the participants.”

Friendship and fellowship have remained at the heart of these gatherings.

Volunteers routinely called inmates by their first names, whereas their last names were their prison monikers.

Steger explained that the name “Bethany Prison Ministry” stems from the biblical story of Jesus who went to Bethany to visit his friends Lazarus, Martha and Mary.

A sense of friendship and fellowship likewise exists among the volunteers who number 13 today. United around a common purpose, these men and women from different walks of life are cohesive as a group. Bethany Prison Ministry volunteers include women religious, alumni of the University of Saint Mary, SCL Associates and individuals who just want to serve and do good.

Following each Wednesday session at the prison, the volunteers gathered at the SCL motherhouse for dinner and reflection on the evening. In a spirit of camaraderie but still adhering to COVID precautions, they continue to meet twice monthly via Zoom.

“We’re all friends,” Steger said, “and we miss seeing each other.”

Just as the inmates find hope through the intercession of Bethany Prison Ministry, the volunteers are holding out hope that the pandemic will end one day soon. And then, they can return inside the walls to meet, greet and pray with their friends and resume spreading “this rumor of hope.”

6

FAMILY LIFE

FEBRUARY 26, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

This Lent: Slow down and rest in the Lord

By Deacon Tony Zimmerman Special to The Leaven

W

hile on a visit to the Philippines, Pope Francis shared with the people that he has had a statue of sleeping St. Joseph on his desk for decades. The Holy Father said that he places slips of paper under the statue when he has a special problem.

“Even when he is asleep, he is TOOLS FOR taking care of the FAMILIES church! Yes! We Growing as know that he can Disciples of do that,” said the Jesus pope. “So, when I have a problem, a difficulty, I write a little note and put it underneath St. Joseph, so that he can dream about it! In other words, I tell him: Pray for this problem. Do not forget St. Joseph who sleeps!

Jesus slept under the protection of Joseph.”

“We also must rest in prayer and dream,” the pope added in addressing the families in the Philippines.

Resting and slowing down may be the furthest thing from our minds as we come to the Second Sunday of Lent, having gone through the pandemic and the siege of Arctic air.

Perhaps our thoughts are turning to spring, warm weather, baseball and time outside. In a word: escape.

Although Scripture doesn’t tell us much about St. Joseph, it seems that when he is at rest is the time God reveals his will and gives guidance to him. When we are quiet in prayer and meditation, what will we hear with the “ears” of our hearts? Perhaps we will hear the words of God the Father in this Sunday’s Gospel: “This is my beloved Son, listen to him.”

Steve Bollman, founder and president of Paradisus Dei, notes that Blessed Charles de Foucauld’s writings tell us that Jesus, in the home in

Correction The dates for the family camps on page 3 of the Feb. 19 issue of The Leaven were transposed. Special-Needs Family Camp is June 18-20; Family Camp is July 9-11. Registration begins March 1, by email at: camptekreg@gmail. com. Include each camper’s name and date of birth. The cost is $140 for each camper 2 years old and older. No cost to children younger than 2.

Cathy (Meirowsky) and Jim Hawkins, members of Holy Family Parish, Eudora, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Feb. 20. The couple was married on Feb. 20, 1971, at St. Patrick Church in Wichita. Their children are: Jeanette Walters, Angela Andrews, Craig Hawkins and Christopher Hawkins. The also have nine grandchildren.

ANNIVERSARY submissions

“The Vision of an Angel to St. Joseph” is a fresco in the Chiesa di Santa Croce in Parma, Italy, by Giovanni Maria Conti della Camera. Although Scripture doesn’t tell us much about St. Joseph, it seems that when he is at rest is the time God reveals his will and gives guidance to him.

Nazareth, didn’t look or act like God — no miraculous cures or teachings.

Christ was “simply present in the normal events of everyday family life. It was this presence that transformed the home in Nazareth.

“This is the mystery of your home. Christ is present in all the little details of normal everyday life.

He is hidden like at Nazareth, but he is there. Our challenge is to discover his presence and allow it to transform our lives.”

As parents, we need to lead the way! In Lent we need to give up something to gain closeness with

God and one another. As a family, agree on a time each evening to silence phones, television, games and media. Fifteen minutes is a good way to begin.

• Create a prayer space in your home. Place a painting or figurine of St. Joseph for all to quietly gaze upon.

• Have slips of paper and a basket.

Place notes in it about your cares and concerns or thanksgiving for a blessing you received that day.

• Share with your family where you found Christ in the normal details of life that day.

ACROSS 1 Groups of workers 6 Next to Kauai 10 American Cancer Society (abbr.)

13 Hold up 15 Soon 16 Pull 17 Insincere 18 Rave 19 Ball holder 20 Shoe’s partner 22 Spotted cat 24 The devil 27 Sailor’s “hey” 29 Plague of Egypt 30 Declare 31 Boast 32 Table cloth fabric 33 Excavate 34 Husband of Ruth 35 What’s owed 36 Romantic day 41 Adam and __ 42 Every 43 Cain fled to this land 45 Writings 48 Land mass 49 Yank 50 Chip 51 Second letter of the greek COPYRIGHT © BY CLIFF LEITCH, THE CHRISTIAN BIBLE REFERENCE SITE, WWW.CHRISTIANBIBLEREFERENCE.ORG. USED BY PERMISSION

POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas DEADLINE: 10 days before the desired publication date.

INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING: • The couple’s names • their parish • the date they were married • church and city where they were married • what they are doing to celebrate • date of the celebration • names of children (no spouses) • number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren; SUBMISSION GUIDELINES: • Emailed photos need to be 200 dpi or 200 KB in size.

WHERE TO SUBMIT: Email: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.

alphabet 52 __ of Babel 53 Giant (2 wds.)

55 __ ex machina 57 Wrath 58 To incite 60 Greek goddess 64 Bard’s before 65 Actor Alda 66 Visited places 67 Tribe of Israel 68 Fasting season 69 __ and raves DOWN 1 Discs 2 Radioactivity unit 3 Airport abbr.

4 Capital of Poland 5 Peter’s other name 6 Rowing tool 7 Not digital 8 A land flowing with milk

and __ 9 Do __ others 10 Achieve 11 Force 12 Scandinavian nation 14 Big Apple (abbr.)

21 Weight measurement 23 Worked at

24 Downhearted 25 Tel __ (Israel city) 26 Roman garments 28 Smoggiest 31 Femur 32 Lavish 34 Large group 35 Factor of ten 37 Oozing 38 Mythological nymph 39 Fresh 40 Past times 44 Danish krone (abbr.)

45 Wanted 46 __ Nevada (mountain range) 47 Window covering 48 Part of the Mediterranean Sea 49 Successor of Moses 51 Holy book 52 Teacher 54 Phoenician god 56 Snack 59 Explosive 61 White-tailed sea eagle 62 Web 63 Advertisements Solution on page 2

FEBRUARY 26, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

7

Father John Reynolds remembered as ‘beautiful soul’

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Assignments

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — The first thing anyone noticed about Father John C. Reynolds was that he was a big man — 6 feet 8 inches tall.

He was the tallest priest in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, which led an archbishop to playfully dub him “the high priest.”

But there was so much more. He was “a big, beautiful soul,” said Father Mark Mertes, pastor of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas. Some called Father Reynolds a “gentle giant.”

“He had a beautiful relationship with Jesus,” said Father Mertes. “He was very compassionate toward people, and he was very smart.”

Father Reynolds, 58, died from Parkinson’s disease on Feb. 16 at the Kansas City Hospice House in Kansas City, Missouri. He had been a priest for slightly more than 30 years.

Father Reynolds was born on June 9, 1962, in Leavenworth. He was the second oldest of the five children of Glenn and Virginia Reynolds. They belonged to Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa.

John was an Eagle Scout and graduated from Shawnee Mission Northwest High School in 1980. He went to the University of Oklahoma in Norman to study meteorology. He played a tuba in the marching band there and even went to the Orange Bowl. Also, while at college, he became involved in different ecumenical groups and the Catholic campus center.

“He called and said he was coming home [one] weekend,” said Glenn. “It wasn’t a holiday or anything, and we looked at each other and said, ‘What is going on?’”

It was a total surprise when John told them he wanted to go into the seminary. Glenn and Virginia encouraged him to finish the year and then enter.

John met fellow archdiocesan seminarian Mark Mertes, who was slightly ahead in his studies, and they got to know each other very well at St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in Indiana.

“We didn’t study together, but we traveled back and forth from Kansas City together,” said Father Mertes.

“We prayed together and did formation and activities with the other seminarians.”

Another friend from the seminary was James Vann Johnston, current bishop of the Diocese of Kansas CitySt. Joseph. In their last two years of seminary, they attended almost every class and practicum together.

“One of my better memories with John was the seminary’s annual ‘Little 500,’ a bike relay race with different teams to mimic the Indy 500,” said Bishop Johnston. “John and I, and a few other guys, were on our class’ bike team and we won the competition.”

• 1990: Associate pastor, Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka • 1991: Associate pastor, Church of the Holy Cross in Overland Park • 1991-1998: Chaplain for the archdiocesan Scouting program • 1994: Associate pastor, Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe • 1995: Pastor, Sacred Heart Parish in Paxico; Holy Family Parish, Alma; and St. John Vianney Parish, Eskridge • 2001: Pastor, Holy Name of Jesus Parish in Topeka • 2006: Pastor, St. Joseph Parish in Nortonville; Immaculate Conception Parish, Valley Falls; and Corpus Christi Parish, Mooney Creek • 2011: Sabbatical • 2012: Pastor, St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Onaga; St. Patrick Parish, Corning; and St. Bede Parish, Kelly • 2014: Associate pastor, Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe • 2016: Sacramental assistance at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas, in residence at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kansas City, Kansas • 2019: Assigned sacramental assistance in residence at St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, but grew too ill to make the move. He died in residence at Brookdale care facility in Shawnee.

The bishop described him as “easy-going, kind and gentle.”

“He stood out because of how tall he was, but also mainly because of his friendly personality,” said Bishop Johnston. “He was maybe the friendliest guy in the whole seminary.”

Father Reynolds received a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and a master’s degree in divinity from St. Meinrad’s. He was ordained a priest

by Archbishop Ignatius J. Strecker on June 2, 1990. His first assignment was as associate pastor at Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka. He served at several parishes for the next 30 years until illness ended his ministry.

“Father Reynolds was the youngest member of our Jesus Caritas [prayer] group,” said Father Mark Goldasich, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie and editor of The Leaven.

“What he most enjoyed was being a parish priest. When his illness became so debilitating, that was the hardest thing for him to give up,” he added.

“He had a real pastor’s heart and cared deeply about the folks, no matter what parish he was in. He also enjoyed performing with the priests’ combo [band] at various events.”

Another prayer group member,

Father Mike Stubbs, remembered Father Reynolds as a people person.

“One of the things that stands out about him was that he really liked to be with people,” said Father Stubbs. “He liked to be with people, and that made a big difference to him as far as ministering.”

One of his sisters, Nancy Pennock, remembered this, too.

“I liked his understanding,” she said.

“He would sit and listen to you whenever you wanted to talk. He listened a lot. He loved people and he loved talking to people.”

Even after his ordination, Father Reynolds also loved meteorology.

State Sen. Mike Thompson (R-Shawnee) is a former meteorologist for WDAF-TV Fox 4. He learned of Father Reynolds’ background through another priest, and Thompson invited him to visit the station whenever he was free.

“One time we had some severe weather, so Father Reynolds came in after Mass one evening,” said Thompson. “I had him running the radar just for fun. I was doing some warnings on the air for severe thunderstorms.

“Phil Witt, who was one of the main anchors at the time, came down there,

and he saw me working the severe weather and Father Reynolds looking at the radar with his Roman collar on.

And Phil said, ‘Is it that bad?’”

Father Reynolds was an avid bird watcher and an avid camper as well.

“We shared formation as priests and shared a theological background, and so we could talk about faith,” said Father Mertes. “And we camped together pretty much all over the country. He taught me what he learned as an Eagle Scout about how to camp and I taught him a few things about how to camp as well. And we made music together with the priests’ band. We started doing that when we were both assigned out in the country. We started sing-alongs in our parishes. He was a great companion. I will miss him dearly.”

Father Reynolds is survived by his parents Glenn and Virginia, his sisters Rebecca Naylor, Barbara Holinaty, Kathleen Scott and Pennock, and several nieces and nephews.

Father Mertes was the main celebrant and homilist at the funeral Mass for Father Reynolds held Feb. 22 at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa. The burial was at Resurrection Cemetery.

In lieu of flowers, the family suggests memorial contributions to: Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, Priest Pension Fund, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109.

Funeral arrangements were by Porter Funeral Homes and Crematory in Lenexa.

Catholic Press Month: The sta Leavenworth journalist does double duty for Leaven, Fort paper

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

L

Katie Peterson poses for a self-portrait with her 5-year-old dog Sadie, who she adopted last October from the Fort Leavenworth Stray Facility.

When she’s not freelancing for The Leaven, Peterson works as a reporter for the Lamp, the weekly newspaper for the U.S. Army military community in Fort Leavenworth.

“

EAVENWORTH — They are two different communities, with different stories to share.

But writing for both a military and a Catholic audience has kept Katie Peterson on her toes.

Peterson became a freelance writer and photographer for The Leaven in the spring of 2017. Since then, she’s produced dozens of articles and photographs for readers to enjoy.

“I am very devoted to my Catholic faith, so to be able to write stories in regard to that was automatically appealing to me,” said Peterson. “And I also just love to write.”

Peterson is a parishioner at Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph Church in Leavenworth, where she is a regular cantor and choir member and a contributor to the parish newsletter “Family Ties.”

She’s also a product of Catholic schools. Peterson attended Xavier School, Immaculata High School and the University of St. Mary — all in Leavenworth.

After studying English in college, she sought a career in writing. She joined the Fort Leavenworth Lamp newspaper as a production assistant in October 2016, where she is now a full-time reporter.

The Lamp is the weekly newspaper for the U.S. Army military community in Fort Leavenworth.

Peterson has earned several Kansas Press Association awards for her work, and Bob Kerr, the paper’s editor, is grateful to have her on his team.

“She has come so far since she started working at the Fort Leavenworth Lamp as a production assistant,” said Kerr.

“My only regret is that we did not give her the opportunity to work as a reporter sooner than we did,” he continued.

“She is reliable, listens, learns quickly and is always eager to work on her next assignment.”

Kerr has been particularly impressed by Peterson’s ability to pick up on the military style of writing, which she had no prior experience with.

“I’m sure it was a steep learning curve for her,” he said, “almost like learning another language.”

Peterson agreed that’s one challenge she’s had to overcome, but writing for the military community is incredibly gratifying.

One of her favorite assignments for the Lamp was a feature last year for Flag Day, the celebration of the adoption of the flag of the United States, celebrated on June 14.

“I wrote up a feature about the significance of the flag to the military,” said Peterson,

“ WITH A NEWSPAPER, YOU HAVE TO BE OBJECTIVE. BUT THERE’S STILL A WAY TO BE CREATIVE WITH IT AND FIND THAT ANGLE WITH A STORY IN A WAY THAT PEOPLE REMEMBER.” KATIE PETERSON LEAVEN FREELANCER

“especially those who are surviving family members.

“Actually talking to some family members who lost a loved one and had that experience — what it was like getting that flag [and] where it’s placed in their house now — that was a really special story to do.”

Peterson’s favorite Leaven assignment was an article she wrote in 2017 about her dad’s 100th shadow-box rosary creation.

A close second might be an assignment she had in September of last year, in which she told the story of a young woman who converted to Catholicism after many discussions with a friend.

Peterson felt a personal connection to their journey. She was once an RCIA sponsor herself for a 15-year-old girl who came to the faith.

“I always said that was one of the most important things I’ll ever do in my life — to help a young girl come into her faith,” she said.

More than anything, Peterson appreciates the chance to create for a living.

“With a newspaper, you have to be objective,” she said, “but there’s still a way to be creative with it and find that angle with a story in a way that people remember.”

Both her freelance and fulltime work give her a place to do

that daily.

“Just like getting to tell the Catholic side with The Leaven, it’s unique to be able to tell stories of military families,” she said, “and seeing heroism a lot of the time with the military.

“Getting to tell those stories is very rewarding as well.”

Although this year has challenged the way Peterson covers events — and she’s been working from home throughout — it’s also come with a few perks.

Cutting out the commute gives her more time for her hobbies, especially singing, songwriting and reading.

“Delving into that more and getting to focus on other passions has been good,” she said.

But by far the best blessing has been Sadie — a 5-year-old terrier Labrador Retriever mix Peterson adopted last October from the Fort Leavenworth Stray Facility.

“It’s the best decision I’ve ever made,” said Peterson.

“She’s definitely meant to be mine.”

aff salutes newest freelancers Photographer ‘honored’ to contribute to Christ’s mission

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

O

VERLAND PARK — Kathryn White has photographed many events, but those of this past year are likely to stand out in the grand scheme of her career.

“I am honored and humbled to be trusted with documenting this time in history,” she said.

“Striving to build up the body of Christ through my photography is part of my mission.”

White is a freelance photographer for The Leaven. She took her first assignment last summer when she captured newly ordained Father Brandon Berg as he celebrated Mass.

Father Berg’s chalice was formerly owned by Bishop George Donnelly, the sixth bishop of the Diocese of Leavenworth, and White’s photographs accompanied an article by freelance writer Katie Peterson.

White had already worked with various archdiocesan offices and told Leaven production manager Todd Habiger she was available for more assignments if he needed her.

Habiger was eager to take her up on the offer and said she’s been a natural fit for the paper.

“She wants to do the best job possible,” he said, “and I’ve asked some difficult things of her and she’s always delivered.

“Quite frankly, I don’t know if we could have managed without her contributions these past few months.”

White is a parishioner at Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park and a mom of six.

Her own mom immigrated to the U.S. from Korea and met her dad at a military base. She was raised in the suburbs of Chicago.

White went to Truman State University in Kirksville, Missouri, where she said her “faith came alive.” She went on to receive a certificate in youth ministry.

Initially pursuing a veterinary career, White was working at an animal hospital in Topeka when she began volunteering as a catechist at Holy Name Parish there.

She was later hired as a parttime youth minister at Assumption Parish and also helped with retreats at Hayden High School, both in Topeka.

It was at that time that her faith began taking on a bigger role in her life — and so did her interest in photography.

When she and her husband Daniel, who was in the Marine Corps at the time, moved to Colorado with their first child, she began taking photography classes to learn more about the hobby she loved.

When the family eventually moved back to Kansas City, White continued taking photos, and around five years ago, she created her own photography website.

Now, she photographs families, babies, high school seniors

and sacramental moments, among other subjects.

But she proved her dedication to her craft long before she was married and started her own photography business.

While working at St. Paul Parish in Olathe, White accompanied some youth group students on a ski trip to Colorado.

She recalls making what was, at the time, a seemingly innocent decision to take her camera on the slopes.

“I was trying to keep up with these double black diamond skiers,” she said. “I had never skied in my life.

“I ended up falling on the mountain [and] tearing my ACL with a camera around my neck.”

The injury didn’t thwart her love of photography. It’s a passion she can’t shake.

Her favorite project is one she’s currently working on — capturing still images for a documentary film about fetal alcohol spectrum disorders called “The FASD Project” (thefasdproject. com).

White travels to photograph families and individuals affected

by FASD with the goal of helping the film explore the lifelong invisible disabilities that impact learning, behavior and physical and mental health.

“Joining a grassroots movement [and] working together to raise awareness and bring support to those with this disability has been an honor,” she said. “I’m humbled to be part of the team.”

White’s favorite Leaven assignment was photographing Uplift in Kansas City, Missouri, for an article about its ministry to the homeless and the dedication of its volunteers.

Although her work has been

Above, Kathryn White used a tripod and timer to capture this photo of her family. Clockwise from top: Daniel, Hannah (age 15), Kathryn, Jacob (age 13), Joel (age 7), Sarah (age 9), Zachary (age 5) and Ethan (age 11).

Right, Kathryn White captured this image of Olivia Connealy against the backdrop of a stained-glass window at Holy Trinity Church in Lenexa on the day of her first Communion. Olivia had suffered a brain injury 18 months before and now can’t walk or communicate very well. Olivia’s mother Amanda said this about the day: “There was another time not so long ago that I thought this day might not come at all. And it did. Olivia had her day in a white dress and it was beautiful and joyful and emotional and perfect.” fulfilling this past year, it’s also had its challenges. COVID-19 has created a difficult work environment for photographers.

At times, White has had to work outside in freezing cold weather. More frequently, she’s navigated social distancing at her shoots while still attempting to get the best shots.

Habiger is grateful for her continuous dedication to The Leaven despite the additional hurdles she’s faced.

“These are difficult times,” he said, “and we want all of our freelancers to be safe.

“At the same time, we are a newspaper, and we are documenting historic times in our archdiocese because the pandemic has changed everything.

“We have a responsibility, as journalists, to record these historic times.”

10

NATION

Parishes should plan now how to welcome back parishioners

FEBRUARY 26, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CNS PHOTO/MARCIN MAZUR, COURTESY BISHOPS’ CONFERENCE OF ENGLAND AND WALES

People maintain social distancing while attending Mass in the Church of Our Lady of Grace & St. Edward in London Dec. 13, 2020, during the COVID-19 pandemic.

By Mark Pattison Catholic News Service

W

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Father John Cordes, pastor of Our Lady of Unity Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, welcomes parishioners to Mass. Parishes need to start thinking about how they plan to welcome parishioners back to church once the pandemic ends.

“

ASHINGTON (CNS) — Even with many r e c e n t hopeful signs on vaccinations and the reduction in the number of COVID-19 cases, there is no date certain at which the coronavirus pandemic will be declared over.

That should not stop parishes from planning now to welcome back parishioners to Mass in the future.

“You can’t be thinking, ‘What will we do after the pandemic?’ You have to be doing it now,” said Dominican Sister Teresa Rickard, president and executive director of Renew International, which has been offering parish renewal programs since 1976.

“I would be doing things leading up to the fall and going into next Christmas,” Sister Rickard added. “People have to be creative, innovating. It can’t be about maintenance, it’s got to be about mission.”

“Don’t dwell on what you can’t do, focus on what you can do,” said Jack Beers, content director for Dynamic Catholic, which sees as its mission “to reenergize the Catholic Church in America by developing world-class resources that inspire people to rediscover the genius of Catholicism.”

There had long been a “gravitational pull toward the parish — the social life, the educational life, the worship life — all revolve around the parish,” Beers told Catholic News Service in a Feb. 18 phone interview. “That’s not true anymore. Worse than that, because of the pandemic, people are reluctant to come back. There’s a fear to [come back]. . . . There needs to be something to get them over the hump to come back, to sort of overcome the repellent.”

“The main reason that people will come back to church is for community,” said Amy Ekeh, director of Little Rock Scripture Study, a small-group Bible study program serving Catholic parishes. “If they were already experiencing community as

“ “WE HAVE TO BE ATTENTIVE TO PEOPLE WHO ARE NOT AFRAID AND PEOPLE WHO ARE VERY AFRAID.” PETER DWYER DIRECTOR OF LITURGICAL PRESS

a parish, they’ll come back to that. Small groups is one way in parishes to experience that community.”

Asked whether there is a carrot-or-stick approach needed to entice pandemic-shy Catholics to return to church, Ekeh replied, “I think the carrot already had to be there,” referring to the sense of community parishioners feel. “They’re self-motivated by that. I don’t know if you can create a carrot if it wasn’t already there. And don’t even try the stick!”

Nor is it likely that Catholics would embrace “back to church” on a set date any more than they would for “back to school” for their children, according to Peter Dwyer, director of Liturgical Press.

“It’s probably healthier to think about gradually,” Dwyer said. “I too have thought about ‘we’re back’ the first Sunday we’re all back, but that’s not likely to happen because people will not feel comfortable.”

He added, “We have to be attentive to people who are not afraid and people who are very afraid. I think a parish leadership needs to be attentive to . . . what makes them feel welcome? It’s a tough call.”

Ekeh, who lives in the Archdiocese of Hartford, Connecticut, said: “I’m finding things all over the map in our archdiocese and the country. It depends on the leadership of the parish and the ministers.” She added, “How do we bring together the best of both worlds — gathering together again in person but making use of these online tools as best they can?”

Beers said imitating the model of Jesus can be a big help. “Jesus didn’t wait on people,” he said. “He went to the people and went to the people — to go to the people and tell them to return to God.” He added, “Most people’s first move toward going [back to church] isn’t a faith step,

it’s a selfish one. What we’ve found in our work with parishes is that people miss a connection. . . . Many people start asking the question of what’s missing in my life, how can I gain this connection. What opportunities are there for us as a church? We have the only thing that can fill people’s lives, and that’s God. There’s a God-sized hole in people’s lives.”

Both Beers and Sister Rickard of Renew say parishes should be phoning parishioners right now.

Beers calls it “a simple act of just connecting with people,” and not just making one call and thinking the job is done.

“Check in: ‘How are you doing. Can we pray for you?

What’s an obstacle for you at this time in your life?’” he said. “Some things are just practical, that people need a bridge. Or people need the Eucharist but they don’t know how, and they’re afraid: ‘How safe is Mass? Have you had any cases [of COVID-19]?’ But in most cases they don’t want anything from you and are just concerned about how things are at church.”

“You’ve got to do the personal touch. You’ve got to start encouraging people,” Sister

Rickard told CNS. “Soon, more people will be coming to Mass. And you’ve got to be making your case why you should be going to Mass.” And that case, she added, cannot be “you’re going to hell if you don’t go.”

Instead, Sister Rickard said, tell people: “We miss being together, we’ll be together soon — personal outreach, telling people you care about them, and the power of community.”

Liturgical Press’ Dwyer said a “simple thing” for a parish to do would be for its hospitality committee “for some time — maybe for a long time — to offer masks, disposable masks, at the entrance to church, just to have them available as you would have a bulletin available.”

Cold and flu numbers were way down this winter, he noted, “because we were not in contact. Contact brings us all kinds of things we’d rather not have. What are the practices we can install as a community — and instill — as a way to make them feel comfortable?”

Dwyer said, “There’ll be all kinds of challenges. The communities that are growing, they don’t have room for everybody, and we don’t have enough clergy to do 10 Masses [a] day, day after day, so we’ll have to make choices.”

He added streaming Masses should continue, especially for parishioners who feel ill.

“Most people will make that choice anyway,” he said, “rather than come into contact with others.”

“Parishes thinking outside the box are getting more people now,” Sister Rickard said, taking note of a parish that dispensed drive-by ashes on Ash Wednesday. “I think people will appreciate it, and when they feel safe, it’ll be better,” she added. “Parishes that haven’t done much have to start catching up.”

Sister Rickard said, “When it got really safe, I’d have welcome-home Sundays, and not just once. Everything’s a new beginning, a celebration. And I would do a gradual rollout.

Even in the fall, we’ll still be wearing masks.”

FEBRUARY 26, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

WORLD

11

Pope, Holocaust survivor talk about the importance of remembering

By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service

R

OME (CNS) — A month after reading an interview in the Vatican newspaper with Edith Bruck, an author and Holocaust survivor, Pope Francis decided to pay her a visit at her home in the center of Rome.

“I could never have imagined such a thing. When I opened the door, I burst out in tears and we embraced. We were both overcome with emotion,” Bruck told Vatican News after the pope left Feb. 20.

Bruck, 88, was born in Hungary to a poor Jewish family. In April 1944, they and their Jewish neighbors were rounded up and taken to the Nazi ghetto in Budapest and later that year sent to Auschwitz, where her mother died. Then they were sent to Dachau, where her father died, and on to Bergen- Belsen, which was liberated by the Allies in 1945. She moved to Rome in 1954 and has lived there since.

Her latest book, “Il Pane Perduto” (“The Lost Bread”), was published Jan. 20. In connection with the book’s publication and the annual commemoration of Holocaust Remembrance Day, Jan. 27, L’Osservatore Romano, the Vatican newspaper, published a long interview with her, recounting the horrors of the Shoah, but also the tiny points of light — small gestures of humanity — she experienced during her ordeal.

Bruck said that during the pope’s visit, which lasted almost two hours, she shared her story with him, including the “five lights” she experienced in the camps, but the pope knew all about them. “He knew my book almost line by line.”

According to the Vatican press office, “The conversation with the pope covered those moments of light sprinkled in the experience of the hell of the concentration camp” and the two spoke of “their fears and hopes for the

CNS PHOTO/VATICAN MEDIA

Pope Francis talks with Edith Bruck, a Holocaust survivor and author, during a visit to her home in central Rome Feb. 20. time we are living in, underlining the value of remembrance and the role of elders in cultivating and passing it on.”

“I have come to thank you for your witness and to pay homage to the people martyred by the insanity of Nazism,” the Vatican quoted the pope as telling Bruck. “With sincerity, I repeat the words I pronounced in the heart of Yad Vashem (the Shoah memorial in Jerusalem) and which I repeat before every person like you who suffered so much because of it: ‘Forgive, Lord, in the name of humanity.’”

The pope, Bruck said, expressed his

sorrow at “the innocents who were annihilated” during the Shoah.

“But there is always hope. There is always a tiny light, even in the pitch black,” she said. “Without hope, we cannot live. In the concentration camps, all it took was a German looking at you with a human gaze. All it took was a gesture. All it took was a human gaze. They gave me a glove with a hole in it; they left me some jam in the bottom of a plate. That was life inside. That is hope.”

“Systematic cruelty, absolute evil” reigned in the camps, she had said in

the January interview. “‘If understanding is impossible, knowing is imperative, because what happened could happen again.’ I’ve made these words of Primo Levi my own,” she said. “I have never harbored hatred or feelings of revenge, but rather disbelief and infinite sorrow.”

“Evil only generates evil,” she said.

“Remembering is painful, but I have never shied away from it. Enlightening a single conscience is worth the effort and pain of keeping alive the memory of what has been. For me, memory is living, and writing is breathing.”

Passionist priest takes step closer to sainthood

By Simon Caldwell Catholic News Service

M

ANCHESTER, England (CNS) — A priest related to Princes William and Harry took a major step closer to sainthood when Pope Francis declared him venerable.

Like St. John Henry Newman, Passionist Father Ignatius Spencer is considered one of the towering figures of the 19th-century revival of English Catholicism, often referred to by church historians as the “Second Spring.”

The Feb. 21 announcement means the Catholic Church is satisfied that Father Spencer lived a life of heroic virtue.

The search will now begin for two inexplicable healings at the intercession of the priest — one to declare him as blessed and the other to recognize him as a saint.

Father Spencer is related to Prince William, the second in line to the British throne, and to Harry, the sixth in the line of succession, through their mother, Princess Diana.

The Passionist was a great-greatgreat uncle of Princess Diana, and a great-uncle of Sir Winston Churchill.

A former Anglican clergyman who became a Catholic, he raised money to bring Blessed Dominic Barberi — the priest who would receive St. John

Henry Newman into the Church — to England and petitioned the Passionists to send him.

He also helped found the Passionist Sisters with Mother Elizabeth Prout, whom Pope Francis declared venerable in January.

Father Spencer’s grave is located beside both Mother Prout and Blessed Dominic in the Church of St. Anne and Blessed Dominic in St. Helens, a town in the Archdiocese of Liverpool.

Archbishop Malcolm McMahon of Liverpool said he welcomed the pope’s announcement with “great happiness,” adding that it was a “remarkable grace” for the archdiocese to have both Father Spencer and Mother Prout declared venerable within weeks of each other.

“These two Victorian Catholics are as relevant to the mission of the church today as they were in their lifetimes.

They show us how to reach out beyond ourselves and respond to suffering due to poverty and deprivation,” the archbishop said.

His prayer, he said, was that their shrine “will increase as a center of devotion and prayer in the archdiocese.”

“All three of these great disciples loved the poor and worked tirelessly for their bodily and spiritual wellbeing,” he added.

He noted that Father Spencer “left behind a life of privilege, devoted himself tirelessly to visiting the poor,

CNS PHOTO/COURTESY PASSIONISTS

Father Ignatius Spencer is pictured in an undated portrait. On Feb. 21, Pope Francis recognized the heroic virtues of Father Spencer, a 19th-century Passionist priest and a relative of Princes William and Harry through their mother, Princess Diana. giving food and all his personal possessions to those in need.”

“His preaching and writings showed him to be a true disciple of Jesus, and in his daily life he lived out the passion of Our Lord in heroic fashion. His life of service is a true example to his living

relatives, Prince William and Prince Harry, and is to be emulated by us all.”

George Spencer grew up at the family home at Althorp, where Princess Diana was buried after she was killed in a Paris car crash in August 1997.

He was educated at Eton and Cambridge but turned his back on a life of immense wealth by converting to the Catholic faith a decade after he was shocked by a scene in the Mozart opera “Don Giovanni,” which sees the eponymous anti-hero conveyed to hell by a troop of devils.

Father Spencer interpreted his experience as a holy warning, and he went to Rome to train as a priest, eventually joining the Passionist order, taking Ignatius as his religious name.

On his return to England, the priest worked among some of the poorest people in the country, including migrants from the Irish Potato Famine, who were living in caves dug out of mining slag heaps.

He started the Movement for Christian Unity and has been credited for laying the groundwork of the ecumenical movement of northern Europe of the late 20th century.

He contracted tuberculosis from a workhouse in Staffordshire, but he died from a heart attack in 1864 near Carstairs, Scotland, while traveling to visit his godson.

CLASSIFIEDS

12 EMPLOYMENT Drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is now hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students with special needs in Johnson, Wyandotte and Clay County, Missouri, in company vans. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour. Aides earn $12 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply.

Make a difference in your community by helping those in need. Call (913) 521-4955 for more information. EEO Community live-in assistants - L’Arche Heartland of Overland Park serves adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities in day program support services and in residential services. We are seeking assistants who are looking for a unique opportunity in a faith-based organization. We are in immediate need of live-in assistants and potential live-out assistants to work in our day program serving 30 adults. We have a recycling program and community activities. Our core members participate in distributing for Meals on Wheels and Rise Against Hunger. They also attend community events such as the library, movies, bowling and going to parks. We also have a need for live-in and live-out assistants in our five residential homes. If interested, contact Jamie Henderson, community leader, by email at: jamie@larcheks.org.

Assistants - Assistants needed to provide support for developmentally disabled adults in a day program setting. Hours are 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. five days a week. Health, dental and vision premiums paid in full after two months of employment. Join us for meaningful, fulfilling relationships with our community. Larcheks.org.

Teacher/counselor openings - Bishop Miege High School has openings for a guidance counselor and English and math teachers for the 2021-22 school year.

Send a letter of interest and resume to Mariann Jaksa at: mjaksa@bishopmiege.com.

Full-time assistant teachers - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child care in a safe, loving Christian environment. With a balanced curriculum of pre-academics and the right environment, we believe we are providing the children the foundation to e successful in life. We are looking for full-time assistant teachers for all ages who have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. Experience and/or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Duties include supervising and ensuring the safely and well-being of the children at all times; following predetermined curriculum and daily schedule; decorating the class and keeping classrooms clean and orderly; creating and filling out daily reports for each child; communicating with parent; meeting children’s basic needs (diapers, bottles, etc.). Must be patient and able to respond to difficult situations calmly; have good interpersonal skills with coworkers, parents and children; and be able to lift 25 pounds on a regular basis. There are opportunities for career advancement.

For more information or to apply, call Carolyn Andruss at (913) 894-0131, option 3.

Career opportunity - Due to the growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are looking for professional men who are interested in helping fellow Catholics with their faith, family and finances. This is a full-time career opportunity that will allow you to be your own boss and a respected professional member of the community. If you or someone you know is self-motivated, good with time management and has a desire to succeed, this might be the opening you’ve been looking for. Benefits include unlimited professional income potential, flexibility, quality training program and incentive award trips such as Rome, Hawaii and Ireland. There are openings in northeast Kansas and western Missouri. If you want to serve your community, strengthen the church and change the world, call John Mahon at our regional office at (785) 408-8800 or toll free at (855) 356-4849.

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

Janitor wanted - Corpus Christi Parish in Lawrence is currently seeking an energetic and highly motivated individual to join our team as a janitor. The ideal candidate for this position is detail-oriented, flexible and willing to take on nonroutine cleaning and special projects as the need arises. The evening janitor performs a variety of custodial tasks for the parish and the school facilities. This position is responsible for cleaning and sanitizing offices, meeting rooms, classrooms, kitchen, bathrooms and other public spaces. Additionally, this position may work with other custodial staff to accomplish special projects as needed. This person will report directly to the manager of custodial services. This is a part-time position with no benefits but with a 401(k) program. For more information, please contact Shaun at: shaunw@cccparish.org.

Evening facility coordinator - St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, is seeking a facilities assistant. Hours may vary but will generally be Mon. – Fri. from 1 - 9:30 p.m.

Responsibilities include monitoring building use; setup for events and meetings; janitorial duties; routine maintenance projects; and secure buildings at the end of the evening. This position is eligible for full benefits, and compensation will correspond with experience. Please submit resume to Denise Greene at: denise.greene@stmichaelcp.org.

Associate director, catechesis and faith formation The Diocese of Kansas City - St. Joseph is seeking to fill a position for an associate director of catechesis and faith formation. This position provides catechetical and discipleship leader training and mentoring services that equip parishes to evangelize/form parishioners and increase ministerial leadership capacity. This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position. The diocese offers a comprehensive benefits program, including: medical, dental and vision plans; STD/LTD fully paid by the employer; retirement plans including a 403(b) plan; and a defined benefit pension plan. Paid time off includes generous paid holidays, vacation and sick leaves. Note: All diocesan employees are required to consent to a background check, and sign and acknowledge the ethics and integrity in ministry code of conduct prior to hire. Completion of Protection God’s Children training is required within 30 days of hire. Please visit “Job Openings” at: www.kcsjcatholic.org then scroll down and click on “Get Started,” then choose “Click here to view and apply for current opening and apply for current openings” for a complete job description and to apply.

Athletic director - Bishop Miege High School is seeking an athletic director for the 2021-22 academic year beginning July 1. The candidate must be a practicing Catholic, possess an advanced degree with a Kansas teaching license, and five years’ teaching and high school varsity coaching experience. This individual will provide spiritual, administrative and educational leadership to faculty, coaches and students, emphasizing sportsmanship and student safety. Excellent organizational and communication skills, including conflict resolution, are required. Duties will include, but are not limited to: planning; scheduling and supervising events; transportation; safety; and may include a teaching assignment. Knowledge of KSHSAA eligibility and regulations is essential. Send letter of interest, resume and references to Mariann Jaksa at: mjaksa@bishopmiege.com.

Hospice aide - Full-time hospice aide positions available in the Kansas City and surrounding area. Competitive wages and benefits. Shifts to include: M - F daytime only; no weekends; or Tuesday - Saturday/Sunday - Thursday options available. No holidays. Candidates must be CNA or HHA. If no CNA, agency will assist in obtaining HHA certification. Visit: www.catholiccharitiesks.org/careers to learn more about this opportunity and to apply.

Middle school math teacher - Holy Spirit School is seeking a full-time middle school math teacher for the 2021-22 school year. Candidates must hold a valid Kansas teaching certificate and be licensed to teach 6-12 math, including geometry. Candidates must have experience working in an elementary/middle school setting and value a team-oriented environment. Interested applicants should complete the teacher application process at: www.arch kckcs.org. For more information, please contact Michele Watson at: mwatson@hscatholic.org or (913) 492.2582.

Part-time client advocate - Advice & Aid Pregnancy Centers is hiring a part-time client advocate for both English- and Spanish-speaking clients. This position meets Spanish-speaking clients and translates material from English to Spanish for publication. Works in cooperation with the entire client services team to assure that every client receives all appropriate services. Each candidate must be a committed Christian who maintains a personal relationship with Jesus Christ and actively participates in a local, Bible-believing church. They must subscribe to and support the vision, mission and statement of faith of Advice & Aid Pregnancy Centers and demonstrate a consistent life-affirming philosophy. Send resume and cover letter to: andreac@adviceandaid.com.

Director of activities and athletics - St. James Academy in Lenexa is pursuing a director of activities and athletics for the 2021-22 school year. We are seeking a faith-filled individual who will lead coaches and sponsors to enhance the mission of our school through competition and performance. St. James Academy was established in 2005 and is a co-ed school of 850 students. St. James Academy is a member of the Eastern Kansas League. Responsibilities will include preparing budgets and allocating spending on items such as coaches’ salaries, team budgets, equipment purchases and facility upkeep. Schedules, facility rentals, allotted use of fields, gym and weight room for teams and athletes are managed by this position. The director of activities and athletics will work through conflict resolution when needed and will be a liaison for parents and students to the school and coaches. The role includes adhering to policies established by KSHSAA and the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Most importantly, we are seeking a team member that is willing to be a spiritual mentor to coaches, sponsors and students. The mission of St. James Academy is to create disciples for Jesus and pass on the Catholic faith to the next generation. We find that sports and activities are one of the best ways to accomplish our mission. Candidates must have a master’s degree and experience as an administrator and/or head coach or sponsor. Qualified candidates should send a resume and cover letter to Susie Ludwikoski at: sludwikoski@sjakeepingfaith.org. Applications are due March 1.

Safe environment coordinator position - The Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph is seeking to fill our safe environment coordinator position. This position works directly with parish and school safe environment coordinators (SECs) and VIRTUS facilitators to implement diocesan-approved educational programs and to ensure compliance with safe-environment requirements for employees and volunteers working with minors. This position is full time, benefits-eligible and reports to the director of the office of child and youth protection.

The diocese offers a comprehensive benefits program, including medical, dental and vision plans; STD/LTD paid time off; generous paid holidays; vacation and sick leaves. Visit: www.kcsjcatholic.org, click on “Get Started,” scroll down to “Job Openings,” click on “additional openings (Paylocity) to find the job description for the safe environment coordinator position for more information and to apply.

FEBRUARY 26, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Office manager - The Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph is seeking to fill a position as office manager for the vocations office. This position will report to the diocesan director of vocations and will oversee and manage office policies and procedures with individual attention to and support of diocesan seminarians. This position is full time and benefits-eligible. The diocese offers a comprehensive benefits program, including medical, dental and vision plans; STD/LTD fully paid by the employer; retirement plans including a 403(b) plan and a defined benefit pension plan. Paid time off includes generous paid holidays, vacation and sick leaves. Go online to: www.kcsjcatholic. org, click on “Get Started,” scroll down to “Job Openings” and click on “additional openings (Paylocity)” to find the job description for the office manager position for more information and to apply.

Caregiver, homemaker or CNA - Full-time/part-time PRN homemaker positions are available in Johnson County.

Work from 4 - 40 hours per week. Weekdays only; no nights, weekends or holidays. Each assignment is usually 2 - 3 hours per client. Visit: www.catholiccharitiesks.org/ careers, scroll down to “View Job Openings,” then click on “Caregiver Homemaker or CNA” for more information and to apply.

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

Senior Care Authority - Navigating senior care options can be overwhelming. We’ll help you sort through and understand all your care and living options and point you to vetted resources. Placement assistance is FREE. We do a thorough assessment, do all the research and walk with you as you make these big decisions for you or your loved one. Call (913) 359-8580.

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

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.

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

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

Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835. Email: smokey cabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

Popcorn ceiling texture removal and add knockdown to your ceilings!

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

Accepting major credit cards.

Call with questions.

CAREGIVING

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

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) 3412500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.

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.

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

Private duty nursing - Unique team of experienced nurses and CNAs who provide high quality in-home nursing care.

We specialize in compassionate and individualized care for every client. We strive to restore dignity and independence to you or your loved one’s life, while providing support to family members. Contact Amanda at (913) 499-9719 or Vanessa at (913) 401-5963 for more information.

SERVICES Win disability benefits - Disabled and no longer able to work? Get help winning Social Security disability benefits.

Free consultation. Eight years’ experience. No fee unless you win. Call (785) 331-6452 or send an email to: monte mace2000@yahoo.com or visit http://www.montemace disability.org.

WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy - Old cars or hot rods. Uncompleted project cars in any condition, with or without titles. Cash buyer. Call (913) 980-3559.

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

Wanted to buy -Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME! I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners.

My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.

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.

FOR SALE

Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided.

Call (913) 209-9234.

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)

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

For sale - Double lawn crypt at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa, Garden of Hope section, double lawn crypt, lot 78 C, space 4. Conveyance fee included. $7500. Call Lou at (512) 656-1801.

Handyman - Furloughed railroader just trying to keep the bills paid for my little family. I advertised here as Father and Son Home Exteriors and Remodeling for 13 years before working for the railroad last year. I can do all carpentry, windows, doors, trim, siding and decks. I can paint, sheetrock and love to do tile. Just about any project you have around your home, I can do. No project too big or too small. Just give me a call at (913) 709-7230 and ask for Josh.

For sale - Two cemetery plots at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa, Veteran section V-3, lot C, spaces one and two.

Great location! All fees and any necessary services are paid with this package. This sale is at a 2009 price, compared to a 2021 price. Huge savings! Call Kevin Colwell at (913) 731-6901 for additional information.

8 to Your IdealWeight Get Real, Get Healthy, Get Empowered Take back your power and release weight, fatigue and joint pain without hunger or cravings!

Call or text Kathi at (816) 809-7739 Email: imagewellness2@gmail.com

Farm - Ranch - I am interested in purchasing a farm or ranch. If you have considered selling but would like to stay in a home on the property, then we could work that out. My home parish is Holy Trinity in Lenexa. Please call me if interested or with questions. Thank you and God bless. Dennis Montgomery, (913) 208-1379.

Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days.

Cambria, granite, and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 9625058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.

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.

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.teresakiddlaw.com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress.

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@mike hammermoving.com.

REAL ESTATE

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

LOCAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 26, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

13

‘CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN’ DIVORCE SUPPORT MINISTRY Online via Zoom Feb. 27

The “Called To Love Again” divorce ministry will be having virtual meetings due to the COVID pandemic. Send an email to Katie Palitto for Zoom access, time and more information at: thecall2love.com. The topic for February is forgiveness.

PROJECT RACHEL RETREAT Kansas City, Missouri March 13 from 8:30 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Need healing after an abortion? We offer compassionate, confidential and free services. Lunch and snacks will be provided.

Please contact Ann Marie Alvey at (913) 6212199 for further details.

MATER DEI IRISH FEST LITE Mater Dei Parish (hall) 1114 S.W. 10th, Topeka March 13 from 11 a.m. - 5 p.m.

Reserve a table (mask and social distancing required) or order our homemade Irish stew or banger and mash for takeout. Reservations for either option must be received by March 5. Blind Tiger beer will be available on-site or a certificate can be purchased to redeem at Blind Tiger Brewery. Details, including pricing, delivery options and reservation links can be found online at: www.topekairishfest.com.

The Irish Fest 5K Fun Run Virtual Race will also take place on March 13. Find registration information online at: www.irishfestfunrun.com.

RETREAT WITH THE HEART OF ST. JOSEPH Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg March 20 from 9 a.m. - 5 p.m.

This is a one-day guided retreat on the “Heart of St. Joseph,” to encounter the overflowing love of the Father’s heart as you reflect on the life of St. Joseph. There will be options for both in-person as well as livestream participation for men, women, young and old. There will be eucharistic adoration, confession, meditations by the Holy Family School of Faith, personal prayer time around the ranch, lunch and Mass. Register online at: archkck.org/ranch.

ADORATION WITH THE ARCHBISHOP Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann held eucharistic adoration for students at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park on Feb. 11. Because of the COVID-19 pandemic, juniors and seniors were socially distanced in the school gymnasium. Other classes watched via livestream in the auditorium and lunchroom.

Photos by Joe Cory

ST. THOMAS AQUINAS GRADE SCHOOL SUMMER CAMPS St. Thomas Aquinas High School 11411 Pflumm Rd., Overland Park June and July

There will be a variety of camps for students entering grades K - 8. Registration and further information are available online at: www.stasaints.net/summercamps. For more information, call (913) 319-2416 or send an email to: btriggs@stasaints.net.

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

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

St. Joseph’s ‘hidden life’ can be a model for pandemic living >> Continued from page 4 It gives us that opportunity to have a deeper conversation with him that maybe we’ve been missing out on for a long time, and I’m excited to be able to offer that in a new way,” Wellnitz said.

“In between the 45- to 60-minute meditations, retreatants will have an opportunity to set aside time for personal prayer . . . and really explore the depths of the meditation they just heard and see where God is trying to point them,” he said.

Wellnitz said meditations will include multiple focuses on St. Joseph,

including “Seven Secrets of St. Joseph’s Heart,” “The Hidden Heart of St. Joseph,” and “Heart of the Father.”

“St. Joseph’s hidden life in Nazareth can be a model for us how to live holiness in a pandemic when there’s isolation anonymity,” Wellnitz said.

“In the last year, entertainment and distraction have become more and more a part of our lives because being at home, protecting the people around us, has led to greater isolation . . . and more time watching entertainment and finding distractions in life, which has made it hard for a lot of us to spend time in prayer because there’s all that noise.”

“This is an opportunity for each of us, every single person that has experienced this last year, to step away from that noise, step away from those distractions and allow that voice to really speak to us and direct our lives through the intercession of St. Joseph,” Wellnitz added.

Along with the meditations and times for personal prayer, the retreat will include eucharistic adoration, a communal rosary, an opportunity to receive the sacrament of reconciliation and a vigil Mass celebrated by Father Agustin Martinez of St. Paul Church in Olathe.

The cost of the retreat is $45 for

each in-person retreatant. Because of COVID-19 precautions, only 45 retreatants will be allowed to attend in person. Additionally, face coverings will be required, and social distancing and the use of hand sanitizer will be observed. Lunch will also be provided.

The cost is free for virtual retreatants, but donations are encouraged.

For more information or to register, visit the website at: archkck.org, type “COR” in the search box, then click on the top link. Because in-person is limited, early registration is encouraged.

Virtual registrations will be accepted through March 19.

14

COLUMNISTS

DAILY READINGS SECOND WEEK OF LENT Feb. 28 SECOND SUNDAY OF LENT Gn 22: 1-2, 9a, 10-13, 15-18 Ps 116: 10, 15-19 Rom 8: 31b-34 Mk 9: 2-10 March 1 Monday Dn 9: 4b-10 Ps 79: 8-9, 11, 13 Lk 6: 36-38 March 2 Tuesday Is 1: 10, 16-20 Ps 50: 8-9, 16bc-17, 21, 23 Mt 23: 1-2 March 3 Katharine Drexel, virgin Jer 18: 18-20 Ps 31: 5-6, 14-16 Mt 20: 17-28 March 4 Casimir Jer 17: 5-10 Ps 1: 1-4, 6 Lk 16: 19-31 March 5 Friday Gn 37: 3-4, 12-13a, 17b-28a Ps 105: 16-21 Mt 21: 33-43, 45-46 March 6 Saturday Mi 7: 14-15, 18-20 Ps 103: 1-4, 9-12 Lk 15: 1-3, 11-32

I

This Lent, why not eat some humble pie?

t was definitely a different Ash Wednesday this year — one where I had to avoid a huge temptation.

Due to social distancing — and inclement weather — the numbers were down at church. And then, there was the different way to distribute ashes. As a pandemic precaution, the Vatican directed that ashes be sprinkled on the crown of each person’s head rather than tracing a cross on the forehead as we usually do in the United States.

That led me to two questions: Where exactly is the “crown” of the head? And how much ash constitutes a “sprinkle”?

Looking it up, I found that the crown of the head is located at the very top of the skull. What that meant, practically speaking, is that people had to bow to receive the ashes. I smiled at how appropriate a posture that was to begin Lent. We’re all coming before God with humility, asking for the

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.

grace to acknowledge our sins and weaknesses, and then to seek God’s help — through prayer, fasting and almsgiving — to grow in holiness.

And I needn’t have worried about how to do the sprinkling; it came naturally.

(My huge temptation, however, was wanting to dump the whole bowl of ashes on the last person in line. I resisted, by the grace of God. At both Masses.)

During Lent, we could all use a dose

of humility . . . especially if we think we don’t really “need” this season. There’s no one of us who is perfect, no one of us who knows it all.

I love this story about Tom Brokaw, the now-retired TV journalist, on how easy it can be to lose perspective: One day, Brokaw was wandering through Bloomingdale’s in New York, shortly after being promoted to cohost on the “Today” show.

That show was a huge achievement for him after years of hard work — first in Omaha, Nebraska, then for NBC in Los Angeles and Washington. He was feeling really

1858 - 1955 The daughter of a wealthy Philadelphia banker, Katharine received marriage proposals but wanted to become a contemplative nun. After inheriting a fortune, she visited the Dakotas and witnessed American Indians’ poverty, subsequently pleading with Pope Leo XIII to send them more missionaries. But he and others encouraged her to found a congregation to work among people of color. In 1891, she and 13 companions became the first Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament. For more than 40 years, she led the order, using her fortune to establish numerous missions and schools for Indians and African Americans. Following a major heart attack in 1935, she retired to a life of prayer.

Canonized in 2000, she is the patron of home missions.

proud about himself and his success.

Brokaw noticed a man who kept staring at him. When the man finally approached, Brokaw was certain he was about to reap the first fruits of being a New York celebrity.

The man pointed at him and said, “Tom Brokaw, right?”

“Right,” said Brokaw.

“You used to do the morning news on KMTV in Omaha, right?” said the man.

“That’s right,” said Brokaw, readying himself for the compliments to follow.

“I knew it the minute I spotted you,” replied the man. Then he paused and added, “Hey, whatever happened to you?” (Story found in “Illustrations Unlimited,” edited by James S. Hewett.)

Sometimes, the only place that we’re a legend is in our own minds. That’s easy to forget, though, in this age of social media.

We can develop an inflated image of ourselves, especially when we’re asked constantly to evaluate everything

from our shopping experience online to the restaurants we’ve eaten at to the books we’ve read.

We can easily be deceived into believing that ours is the only opinion — certainly the only right one.

That attitude then oozes into our interactions with one another, whether in person or online.

An attitude of humility teaches us, instead, that there is one God . . . and it’s not us. It reminds us that everyone has faults . . . and virtues. Humility guides us to treat one another with respect, to realize that many times it’s wiser to be kind than to be right.

As we journey through Lent, may we swallow our pride and seek to live these words of the prophet Micah: “You have been told, O mortal, what is good, and what the Lord requires of you: Only to do justice and to love kindness, and to walk humbly with your God” (6:8).

Listen closely and you can hear in God’s voice his love for you

A Katharine Drexel

FEBRUARY 26, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

friend of mine clashed with his parents about his plans for college.

He wanted a big state university. They insisted on a community college and wouldn’t budge.

After a long struggle, angry and desperate, he thought he would be better off without them. On a weekend when they were away, he packed up his car (their car) and drove off.

After a couple of miles, just before entering the expressway, he felt he should pull over.

And then God spoke to him. “If you get on that road,” God told him, “you will change the direction of your life.

,

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

You will diverge from the plans I have for you — and it will not be for the better.”

“God’s voice broke me,” my friend said.

“He did not make a demand. He simply told me the long-term consequences of my rebellion. This was a warning. I had a choice: his plans or my dreams. Weeping from disappointment, I turned around and returned home.”

I was reminded of my friend’s experience when I came to the last line of Sunday’s first reading. God told

Abraham to do something supremely difficult. When Abraham showed his willingness, God commended him and promised him blessings, “because you listened to my voice.” (The liturgical translation is “because you obeyed my command,” but “listened to my voice” is a little closer to the Hebrew original.)

Listening to someone’s voice is personal.

If that person loves you, you can hear it when they speak to you. If you know someone loves you, you will pay attention to what they say even if they are calling you to do something very hard. Hearing the love in their voice, you may

do something that is the last thing in the world you want to do.

You do it because you know you are loved.

I’m not saying it was easy for Abraham to respond to God’s call to relinquish his son. It certainly wasn’t easy for my friend to give up his plans for college. “The pain was incalculable,” he told me. But he decided to make the best of the school year at the place where, it seemed, God wanted him.

Looking back over 50 years, he can detect many ways that God has worked out his good intentions for him — and more than ever, he’s trying to listen to his voice.

For Lent, ask if one’s life is centered on God or oneself, pope says VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Lent is a time to reconsider the path one is taking in life and to finally answer God’s invitation to return to him with one’s whole heart, Pope Francis said.

“Lent is not just about the little sacrifices we make, but about discerning where our hearts are directed,” he said, “toward God or toward myself?”

The pope’s remarks came in his homily at Mass Feb. 17 for Ash Wednesday, which included the blessing and distribution of ashes, marking the beginning of Lent for Latin-rite Catholics.

Because of ongoing measures in place to reduce the spread of the coronavirus, the Mass and distribution of ashes took place with a congregation of little more

than 100 people at the Altar of the Chair in St. Peter’s Basilica.

In the basilica, the pope received ashes on his head from Cardinal Angelo Comastri, archpriest of the basilica, and he distributed ashes to about three dozen cardinals, as well as the priests and deacons assisting him at the Mass.

COLUMNISTS

FEBRUARY 26, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

15

None of us is immune from mental illness. Help us help

I

n St. John’s Gospel, it is written: “The thief comes only to steal and kill and destroy; I came that they may have life and have it more abundantly” (10:10).

For Catholics with mental illness and their families, the stigma, shame and shunning they experience creates a barrier to growing as disciples of Jesus, meaningful participation in the life of the church and living life “more abundantly.”

None of us is immune from mental illness. Life is difficult.

This has certainly never been truer for many of us than in the past year. We all have experienced times when our mental health is not what we

O

REACHING OUT

TOM RACUNAS Tom Racunas is the lead consultant for the archdiocesan special-needs ministry. He can be reached by email at: tracunas@archkck.org.

want it to be or what it should be.

It is a natural part of the human condition to experience periods of depression, anxiety and stress. For some of us, these periods are episodic and

we experience mild to moderate symptoms. But for others of us, these periods are chronic, and the symptoms are severe and persistent.

During this year of the pandemic, while we have heard much about how to keep ourselves safe and healthy physically, there has been little attention paid to how to keep ourselves mentally healthy amid

the crisis.

Indeed, prepandemic data confirmed that 25% of adults in the U.S. suffer some symptoms of mental illness every day. Since the pandemic, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that number has risen to 40%. Symptoms of trauma-related disorder, substance abuse and suicidal ideation are significantly higher, and symptoms of depression, anxiety and stress are more severe.

St. Francis of Assisi said, “We have been called to heal wounds, to unite what has fallen apart, and to bring home those who have lost their way.”

So, what can we as the Catholic Church in northeast Kansas do to support each other when our mental

health is thrown out of balance?

How, especially, can we respond to our brothers and sisters who experience severe and persistent mental illness and support their families?

Fully Alive, an integrated (mind, body and spirit) wellness initiative, was introduced at the Enflame convocation in October 2019.

The vision for Fully Alive is to create opportunities for parishioners to engage in a variety of activities that enhance their spiritual, physical and psychological well-being.

It is a wellness model based on combining the Catholic tradition of faith and reason through offering the gifts of Catholic health professionals.

Recently, leaders of the Fully Alive initiative formed a chapter of the Association for Catholic Mental Health Ministers and received a grant from that association.

Grant funds will provide mental health literacy training for priests and deacons, provide mental health literacy training and accompaniment training to interested staff and parishioners, and create mental health ministries within willing parishes. Please pray for the success of this effort. St. Dymphna, patron of those with mental illness, pray for us.

If you would like to know more or if the Holy Spirit is calling you to get involved, please contact me at: tracunas@archkck.org.

Save marriage from the pandemic and Arctic freeze blues

ur favorite pew at Sunday Mass when our children were young was located next to the choir.

We favored that pew as one end was blocked by the organ.

We could sit as a couple keeping the little ones corralled between us and the organ.

One Sunday, while Barbara held an infant in her arms, one of our daughters escaped and came to stand next to me at the ambo as I proclaimed the second reading.

Keeping my composure, I continued with the reading while holding firmly to the top our daughter’s

FAMILY MATTERS

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

head. I saw lots of grins. The celebrant remarked how cute it all looked.

We always strived to sit as a couple

during Mass. There was always a sense of being one, especially as we knelt side by side in prayer before Mass — and most especially during the eucharistic prayer, the Lord’s Prayer and the sign of peace.

How important is this image of a married couple to others whether married, single, widowed

and even those who face struggles in their own marriage?

I believe that the words found in the Letter to the Hebrews gives us the answer: “Therefore, since we are surrounded by so great a cloud of witnesses, let us also lay aside every weight and sin which clings so closely, and let us run with perseverance the race that is set before us, looking to Jesus the pioneer and perfecter of our faith” (12:1-2).

We all know couples, family or friends, whose marriage inspires us to want more in our marriage and family.

It looks like that moment during our annual Mass honoring

those couples married 50 years, when they turn toward each other, hold hands and reaffirm the words of consent, giving their lives to one another on their wedding day. You cannot help but be moved and inspired.

Those couples will tell you it meant working daily on their love. Perhaps there has been no greater stress on marriage and family life than the pandemic.

It can be so easy to settle into a rut of getting through each day.

Please! Don’t settle for this. To be a part of that “cloud of witnesses” for others, seek out enrichments such as: a virtual Worldwide Marriage Encounter weekend (www.

wwme4youandme.org).

Experience the virtual everyday skills for married couples at: www. archkck.org (click on “Offices,” then “Marriage and Family Life”).

Check out the monthly date nights (also virtual for now) offered by the School of Love at: www. schooloflovekc.com.

Consistent daily couple and family prayer is also a necessary support. Join in the daily rosary meditations offered by the Holy Family School of Faith at: www.school offaith.com.

You will be surprised someday to find that your marriage and family life gave hope and support to others.

16

LOCAL NEWS

FEBRUARY 26, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

‘There are good things that have come out of this’ >> Continued from page 3 months before the COVID lockdown.

“I really loved my work with the ‘working poor,’ homeless and patients who recently were released from the penitentiaries,” she said.

Sister Carolyn misses that type of ministry but continues to pray for those she served.

She also crochets hats, scarves and mittens for those in need.

“I find that this pandemic has been a learning lesson of how each of us as human beings are dependent on one another — in this case, to stay healthy,” she said.

‘We’re serving Christ in one another’ The past year has been a strenuous journey, but Sister Carol Ann said it’s also come with many blessings.

“This time of COVID has made us more reflective on what are our needs and what are our wants,” she said.

She’s also enjoyed a few perks of isolation — like having her own car and her own bathroom.

And even during the toughest times, Sister Carol Ann recognized that she’s ultimately part of a bigger picture — especially when she looks back at the history of her order.

“Early on [during COVID], we had read from a daily diary that the monastery had,” she said. “We looked back on what the Sisters were doing during

ALONE AGAIN

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

After running all her errands for the day, Sister Carol Ann makes the lonely walk back to the third floor of St. Cecilia, the oldest building on the Benedictine monastery’s campus, where she lives alone, away from the other Sisters, to protect the members of the community from exposure to COVID. the last big flu back in 1918.”

In those years, the Sisters ran a boarding school and were responsible for the nursing of all the students who were ill.

“I think there is a history of us taking care of one another,” she said. “Many, many family members are taking care of one another [in this current

pandemic], and neighbors are taking care of neighbors, too.

“There are good things that have come out of this.”

The Sisters received their second dose of the Pfizer COVID vaccine at the end of January. They are hopeful for the future but remain thankful for the outcome of their efforts throughout the year.

“I’m really proud of our community for choosing to take care of one another,” said Sister Carol Ann. Sister Patricia agreed.

“We’re more fortunate than many people who are really isolated,” she said.

“We come together, pray together and eat together,” she added. “We’re spaced out, but

still, we do see one another.”

Sister Patricia said all of the sacrifices are worth it when it comes to taking care of each other — because that’s what life in community is all about.

“We’re serving Christ in one another,” she said. “That keeps us going.”

Disabled? Can’t Work?

NEED HELP SELLING A HOUSE?

785.331.6452

Please call me. I’m local, I pay cash anytime. Leave items not needed.

I’ll even pay your closing cost.

MAKE IT EASY.

I help you win disability benefits.

No out of pocket fees. http://www.montemacedisability.net

SALES Advertising Account Manager Sell ad space for Church bulletins.

Salary, expenses, commission PLUS benefits.

Reply: Recruiting@jspaluch.com www.jspaluch.com

NEED HELP HEALING FROM A PAST ABORTION? Call or text 913-621-2199 Compassionate, Confidential, Free

Mark Edmondson 913-980-4905 www.Mark@BuyKCProperty.com Holy Trinity Parishioner