THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 41, NO. 32 | MARCH 27, 2020
t SIGN OF THE TIMES
NO MASS
The sign outside of Holy Spirit Church, Overland Park, says it all — public Masses are canceled throughout the archdiocese.
Archdiocesan Catholics adjust to life with coronavirus causing disruption throughout the church
INSIDE THIS ISSUE WORK IN PROGRESS
For many Catholics, work still continues despite the pandemic. Page 3
PHONING IT IN
Catholic counselors use technology to reach clients during crisis. Page 4
The sun rises over St. Augustine Church, Fidelity, the weekend of March 21-22 when, for the first time ever, there were no public Masses. PHOTOS BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
HOME-SCHOOL ADVICE
Home-school parents offer advice for how to teach your kids at home during the pandemic. Pages 8-9
UNCHARTED WATERS
Priests weigh in on how not to let the current crisis derail your Lent. Page 10
WHAT ABOUT THE KIDS?
CLOSED, NOT CANCELED
Catholic school buildings may be shut down, but education continues. Page 5
The archdiocesan family life office offers some ways you can talk to your children about coronavirus. Page 10
LITURGY AT HOME
PRIESTS GET CREATIVE
Archdiocesan liturgist Michael Podrebarac offers up a liturgy you can do at home. Pages 6-7
t DAWN OF A NEW ERA
With new restrictions and regulations, priests find new ways to reach their flock. Page 16
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By the time you read this . . .
y the time you read this, much of the archdiocese will be under a “stay at home” order. Masses have been canceled, as is almost every other activity that would draw more than 10 people together. (Restrictions vary county by county.) As a newspaper, The Leaven is considered an “Essential Service” and is exempted from these orders, as is Catholic Charities, whose work you will hear more about in the next issue. But it is not only these designated “Essential Services” that are having to get pretty creative to carry on their ministries in these changing times. Check out Archbishop Naumann’s Facebook Live daily and Sunday Masses if you don’t believe me. Because the work of the Catholic Church goes on — as you will undoubtedly discover in these pages.
MARCH 27, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
ARCHBISHOP
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Jesus is the antidote in these times of trial
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e are one week closer to the end of the coronavirus crisis! Father Bill McEvoy, pastor of St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lansing, sent me this take on the coronavirus safety measures: “FIRST TIME IN HISTORY WE CAN SAVE THE HUMAN RACE BY LAYING IN FRONT OF THE TV AND DOING NOTHING. LET’S NOT SCREW THIS UP!” We have to keep a sense of humor. It is true. What we are being asked to do in our high-risk counties — to shelter in place is basically to do our best not to contract the virus and not to infect others. On the Monday of the Third Week of Lent, the first reading for Mass was taken from the Fifth Chapter of the Second Book of Kings. It describes the gentile military officer Naaman, who had contracted leprosy, approaching the Jewish prophet Elisha for a healing. When Elisha tells him to go wash seven times in the Jordan River, Naaman becomes indignant, because in his opinion there were better rivers in his homeland. Naaman was prepared to do something heroic or extraordinary for his healing. But to go wash seven times in the Jordan
COMING TO YOU LIVE Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will be livestreaming Mass daily, Monday through Saturday, at 8:30 a.m. and Sunday at 10 a.m. via Facebook Live. Go to: www.facebook.com/archbishopnaumann to view.
LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN seemed just too inconsequential. Naaman is convinced by one of his servants that it cannot hurt to try what Elisha requested. Naaman washes seven times in the Jordan and is healed. As Christians, we have a responsibility to work for the common good. All of us have a responsibility to do our best to avoid contracting the coronavirus — not only for our own safety, but also for the safety of others. Despite our best efforts, some of us will contract or perhaps already have contracted the coronavirus. However, if we can minimize the number of cases, we can save lives. I urge you out of respect for the common good to follow what our public health officials are requesting.
As Christians, we see everything through the prism of the paschal mystery — the dying and rising of Jesus. God bringing forth good from evil, life from death, is a pattern that we recognize everywhere. I have been impressed by the creativity of our priests and lay leaders in developing amazing ways to keep our parishioners spiritually nourished and our parish communities united during this extraordinary time. While we are being voluntarily prevented from our ability to receive Our Lord in the Eucharist, many parishes are livestreaming the celebration of the Mass and encouraging parishioners to pray spiritual acts of Communion. During this time when we are being isolated from so many usual human interactions, parishes are finding ways to keep connected with parishioners — especially those who live alone. Pastors are using modern technology
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ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN Daily Livestream Mass at 8:30 a.m.
to inspire and spiritually nourish their people. Contrasting with pictures of some college students on beaches ignoring social distancing, the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center at the University of Kansas conducted a video conference with more than 100 student leaders exploring ways to be missionary disciples, while faithfully observing public health safety measures. Through the use of social media, it is an opportune moment to witness to their peers the peace and joy that friendship with Jesus provides us even in the midst of the current crisis. I am so grateful that we had the “Enflame Our Hearts” convocation this past October. Our Evangelization team is working through social media to empower our 1,500 delegates to help their pastors provide for the spiritual and pastoral needs of their parish communities and to take advantage of opportunities to witness to the joy of the Gospel, despite the many natural reasons to be overwhelmed with anxiety. Our Enflame Adult Facebook participants grew from 4 to 900 people in just 5 days. You do not have to have been
a convocation delegate to participate. All are welcome! One of the unnerving aspects of the coronavirus is that it is a hidden enemy. The infected cells are so minuscule that we cannot see them with the naked eye. Another frightening aspect of the coronavirus is that it is so highly contagious. We can learn something from this menacing threat to our health. Our Catholic faith should also be highly contagious. The Gospel of Jesus, when it is lived authentically and beautifully, is irresistible. The joy of experiencing the friendship of Jesus and the awareness that we are beloved daughters and sons of a loving Father should radiate from us. Our efforts to love others and to serve the community often in such seemingly small and barely perceivable ways are a potent means to transform a culture that was already — precoronavirus — suffering from an epidemic of loneliness and depression. We have the vaccine to protect ourselves from despair. We have the antidote to loneliness and isolation. In this most difficult and trying of times, our ability to offer peace in the midst of the
March 29 Livestream Mass at 10 a.m. March 30 St. Lawrence board meeting video conference March 31 Administrative Team meeting video conference April 2 Religious Alliance Against Pornography conference call April 5 Livestream Palm Sunday Mass (time TBA)
coronavirus storm will be like a magnet drawing people not to us, but to Jesus — the one who can vanquish fear and anxiety from our hearts. Lying in front of the television and doing nothing might be a way to avoid the coronavirus, but disciples of Jesus are called to be doing so much more. While defeating this public health enemy, we can also seize the opportunity to pray more, to love more, and to witness to the joy and hope of the Gospel more. Let us infect our world with the truth, goodness and beauty of our Catholic faith!
MARCH 27, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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TAKIN’ CARE OF BUSINESS
Businesses, employees adapt to changing work environment due to coronavirus By Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org
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HAWNEE — As the coronavirus wreaks havoc across the world, there is no such thing as business as usual. But for many, business still continues, jobs need to be done, bills need to be paid and people still work in some form or another.
Untimely disruption For Trinity House, a Catholic gift and bookstore in Overland Park, now is supposed to be its busy season. “Normally, this is a very busy time of year for Catholic stores because of first Communion and confirmations, Holy Week coming up and people coming into the church,” said Robert Shea, owner of Trinity House and member of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood. But the coronavirus pandemic has changed all of that. When people started quarantining themselves and practicing social distancing, business slowed down considerably. Now with the Kansas City metro stay-at-home order, Shea is worried. “Our inventory at this time of the year is at its highest,” Shea said. “We purchased all this merchandise, and it’s not going to be sold, at least not for the foreseeable future. But the bills still have to be paid. “As a small business owner, we have all our normal bills — our overhead, rent and utilities. And, of course, we have our employees. They’re like family.” With the stay-at-home order, Shea has moved his business exclusively online for the time being. But he’s confident that he can still fulfill his customers’ needs. “If somebody in the KC metro area is looking for a book, or a first Communion or confirmation gift that they know is going to come up — they just don’t know when — their local Catholic store is here for them,” he said. Trinity House’s website — www. mytrinityhouse.com — has a large selection of books and gifts that Shea said can be shipped the next day. “The internet business is not going to replace the walk-in business,” he said. “But if it helps to cover some of our overhead, that’s great. We just want to be here for people.”
Road runner Not much has changed for Alton Ludolph, a parishioner of St. Teresa Parish, Westphalia. As the owner of Ludolph Truck Line, his services are still needed — and in some ways, irreplaceable. Specializing in hauling primarily grain and livestock, Ludolph has contracts that are still being fulfilled and he is still making over-the-road runs. But with the threat of coronavirus, Ludolph and his employees are taking
Jeremy Ludolph, an employee of Ludolph Truck Line, poses with his son Jaron in front of one of the company’s trucks. The truck line’s owner, Alton Ludolph — Jeremy’s father — says his business is mostly unaffected, but he worries about its impact in the long term. Robert Shea, owner of Trinity House, a Catholic book and gift store in Overland Park, has moved his business to online-only in the wake of the Kansas City metro area’s stay-at-home order. Shea says, however, that his business can ship items quickly to meet his customers’ needs. precautions to stay safe in the midst of the pandemic. “We try to limit our contact as much as we can,” he said. “The grain elevator operators are also doing that. They try to limit the contact they have with everybody. Just do your thing, leave and get back home.” Although the majority of his trips can be done in a day, Ludolph has heard that many long-haul truckers are having difficulties. “I know of guys who are on the road who are having a hard time finding a place to eat or to shower,” he said. Despite his business being largely unaffected, Ludolph still worries about the long-range future as some farmers could decide not to sell until prices get better. “Right now, the price [for them] is so bad that there are not many cattle or much grain moving other than what was contracted earlier,” he said. His big concern right now is keeping
President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann
Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)
his employees busy and paid. “I have two employees that I try to keep as busy as I can,” he said. “Whenever some loads come up, I let them have the first chance at them. I’m trying to keep everybody busy until this is over.”
Trading places To paraphrase an old show business saying: The government must go on. As such, Leslie Friedel, a member of Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee, is still working — but now she has to do it from home. As the principal analyst supervisor
Editor Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org
Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org
Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org
Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org
Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
Social Media Editor/Reporter Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
for Johnson County, she’s part of a team that works with departments to find process improvements, collaborative partnerships and performance measures. Until the stay-at-home order, Friedel was going into the office every day. “I like sitting down and working with people. That’s a lot of my job,” she said. “I like coming into work because it’s here, I’m here, and when I leave, it provides that clear divide between work and home.” Now that all has to change. When the stay-at-home order hit, Friedel was >> See “BUSINESSES” on page 11
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MARCH 27, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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PHONING IT IN Mental health counselors use technology to serve clients in a time of crisis By Susan Fotovich McCabe Special to The Leaven
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n March 16 at 7:11 a.m., Mary Vorsten received her first call from an anxious client. Vorsten is a licensed clinical therapist who treats clients experiencing a range of mental health disorders. And she is one of those on a list of Catholic counselors recommended by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. As such, Vorsten offers both emotional and spiritual support to her clients. Vorsten’s client was reacting to the anxiety associated with the unknowns surrounding the coronavirus pandemic. Because it’s new, there’s a lot we don’t know. We do know that it is mild in 80% of cases and most people recover without problems. We also know that the virus can be fatal in older populations and for people with other health conditions. Recently, we learned from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) that 40% of patients hospitalized for the virus are young — between the ages of 20 and 54. But what is the impact of the virus on people who are being treated for mental health disorders or who thrive on social interaction? “I never considered canceling. I can’t abandon my clients,” Vorsten said of the need to comply with social distancing recommendations yet continue to see her patients. “I started thinking about what I could do with technology,” she continued. “I realized that FaceTime and seeing patients face-to-face could be done from my office and their home or a vehicle.” During the week of March 16, Vorsten had appointments with 14 of her 30 active cases. Four of those canceled for reasons unrelated to the virus. The remaining 10 met with Vorsten via FaceTime and it worked beautifully, she said. The one-hour appointments continued as usual, and Vorsten spent at least 15 minutes of each checking her patients’ response to the pandemic. For some, it was the first thing they wanted to discuss. As expected, loneliness, anxiety and depression were just some of the emotions Vorsten encountered. To prepare, Vorsten did her homework. She researched HIPAA patient privacy laws and her own malpractice insurance before using FaceTime. It was acceptable in both instances. She created lists of new resources she could offer her clients, including online rosaries, daily devotionals and even drawing inspiration from other Christian churches who delivered messages online. Typically, she has advised clients to check out books from the library by specific authors. But with the libraries closed, she’s now teaching clients how to research credible resources online. Licensed clinical therapist Bill Art is also on the archdiocese’s list of Catholic counselors. That same week, he began a mix of in-person and phone appointments. He took strict measures to wipe down his office before and after each client. However, for safety reasons, he’s
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Clinical therapist Mary Vorsten holds a FaceTime session with a client via her smartphone. She is one of several Catholic counselors recommended by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.
12 ways — both practical and spiritual — for coping with this crisis • First, focus on what you can do instead of what you can’t do. • Just as we have meatless Fridays in Lent, choose to have a news-free day. Turn off the TV, for at least one day of less stress a week. • Get outdoors and enjoy the beautiful world God created for us. • Exercise at least 30 minutes daily. Walk, stretch, use the home equipment, play catch with the kids or shoot hoops in the driveway. • Listen to music, sing, dance, laugh. • Read religious/spiritual materials that you never thought you had time for before. Set aside a specific time of day to pray and stick to it. Try to grow that time a little each day. PHOTO COURTESY OF BILL ART
Clinical therapist Bill Art — also on the archdiocese’s list of Catholic counselors — has moved to phone-only sessions in wake of the Kansas City metro area’s stay-at-home order. moving to phone-only sessions. “I had one client call me on Wednesday to make sure that I was going to be there for their appointment at 2,” Art said. “They were afraid that I would cancel. “I had one client who is at a loss over the closing of all church activities and not being able to attend Mass in person. This person had missed Mass once in their life.” Art tailors coping strategies to each of his clients’ personalities. What works for one may not work for another. “Not being able to practice my Catholic faith in community, especially during this Lenten season, is especially hard and weighs on my thoughts,” Art said. “With my Catholic clients, I can certainly empathize with them and the need to get creative. One person said that they are going to reach out to someone by phone each day to make sure they are OK and pray with them.”
• Seek out resources online for spiritual support. Go to: www.archkck.org and www.theleaven.org for a place to start. Also, www.ascensionpress.com and www.schooloffaith.com are other websites with lots of resources. • Use FaceTime or Skype, not just to check in on loved ones and friends, but to actually visit. How long has it been since you’ve had time to visit? • Families should pull out the board games, puzzles and card games and set aside some phone-free time for family activities each day. • Keep to your regular routine. Get up, shower and dress, just as you normally would. Find ways to create some structure for your day. • Many colleges offer online classes for free. What better time to learn something new and take your mind off the moment for a while? • Finally, know we will get through this and be stronger for it. — by Mary Vorsten
It’s a sentiment Vorsten echoes. “Draw on your faith support,” Vorsten said. “The best antidote to fear is faith.” Finally, Vorsten said it’s nice to know that technology works at any age. “I have an 80-year-old client who told ‘Alexa’ on her Amazon Echo to schedule her next appointment,” Vorsten said.
To check out the list of Catholic counselors recommended by the archdiocese, visit the archdiocesan website at: www.archkck.org, go to the “Ministries” tab and pull down to “Marriage Enrichment”; there, go to the “Care/ Support” heading, and pull down to “Catholic Counselors.”
MARCH 27, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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CLOSED, BUT NOT CANCELED Teachers, administrators and students deal with the emotions of not meeting in person and the logistics of remote learning
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Classrooms throughout the archdiocese are closed thanks to the coronavirus pandemic that has swept through the nation. Though the buildings are closed, the education of students will now be done remotely.
By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — When Molly Mahoney found out Kansas schools were suddenly closed for the rest of the school year, she was “devastated.” “I was overwhelmed with memories, and I was disappointed knowing that I wouldn’t get to make anymore,” said the senior at Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas. Mahoney wasn’t alone. Kelly Lane, a senior at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park, said she “didn’t want to believe it.” “I was in complete shock and immediately began to regret any snow days I had begged for in the winter,” she said. “Not to be insensitive to the situation,” she added, “because I do understand its gravity and what was done needed to be done. But I was just so overwhelmed that these amazing four years had come to an end so abruptly.” On March 17, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly ordered schools to close for the remaining 2019-20 school year to prevent the spread of coronavirus. Although the archdiocesan school community was prepared to close schools for a few weeks, many never expected the entire school year would end.
‘God is in control’ The office of Catholic schools is working with archdiocesan school staff to send learning materials home to families, said Vince Cascone, superintendent of Catholic schools. “There’s a lot of uncertainty,” he said. “That’s what the challenging part is for everybody — there’s a lot of questions.” But the delivery of remote learning materials to families is expected to be implemented the week of March 30. “Many [staff members] already have online resources that they’re utilizing to communicate with parents and students to provide learning opportunities for students,” said Cascone. “We’re still — as much as possible — reaching out and showing them that we’re together as a community,” he added. Teachers will play a large part in the implementation of remote learning. But for those like Maggie Hair, who teaches seventh- and eighth-grade social studies and religion at St. Agnes School in Roeland Park, the transition hasn’t been easy.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
At St. John the Evangelist School in Lawrence, middle school math teacher LeeAnn Hartwick, left, and school counselor Lauren Yoshinobu discuss current and future plans for education and community and school togetherness on a conference call with 10 other teachers. “For me, as an eighth-grade teacher, it’s difficult knowing that their last quarter at St. Agnes will be very different than we expected,” she said. “This is always such a special time of year for a graduate,” she continued, “and it’s tough knowing that they will miss out on things.” Hair said the St. Agnes staff is getting creative as it takes on the challenge of reaching students virtually and wants her students to know she’s there for them. “We would love to be able to meet in person still for class and for Mass,” she said. “But God is in control of this and we need to lean on him and lean on those closest to us. “I know we will all meet again, and we will be stronger and more faithfilled than ever when we do.”
A time to ‘slow down’ For parents, the transition to remote learning has also been a challenge. Diane Leibson and her husband Seth have 9-year-old triplets. Two attend Nativity Parish School in Leawood and the third attends Ascension School in Overland Park.
“We both have concerns over effectively teaching our children to ensure they thoroughly learn the remaining academic requirements for third grade,” said Diane. Both Diane and Seth are now working from home and taking shifts to assist their children with remote learning. Although it’s a challenge, the family is grateful to experience a slower pace. “Up to this point, we were caught in the whirlwind of activities without really stepping back and determining if the activities were enjoyable,” said Diane. “With the absence of all these activities,” she added, “we have time to catch our breath and assess the importance of each activity.” Ben and Stephanie Broxterman, who have three children — two at St. Matthew School in Topeka — both work in health care and were expecting changes with the school situation, but were surprised at how quickly it escalated. “Over the course of three days, we went from our local districts stating they would be returning to school the following Monday, to a two-week delay, to being closed for the remainder of the year,” said Ben.
“We were supportive of the decisions made, but it was at that point that the gravity of all of this really set in,” he said. The transition to remote learning was hard on the Broxterman kids. “When the announcement was first made, both kids were in tears about missing their teachers and their friends,” said Stephanie. But the children adapted quickly, and the family has also noticed the benefits of being at home together. “The kids are more talkative and generally very content,” said Stephanie. “It’s been eye-opening for sure, with lots of hidden positives. We just had to slow down and look for them.”
‘I’m heartbroken’ Perhaps the most affected by this situation are high school and college seniors, who didn’t know they had experienced their last day at their schools until several days later. “It never crossed my mind that it could be a possibility we might not return,” said Lane, who plans to attend >> See “EDUCATION” on page 10
MARCH 27, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas
OUR SUNDAY SUPPLICATION
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Sunday, March 29, 2020 | The Fifth Sunday of Lent oly Mass is at the very core of our worship as a Catholic community. Nothing can ever be substituted for the celebration of the Eucharist. But in this exceptional time of difficulty for our communities, our nation and even the whole world, precautions have been made to limit the exponential growth of COVID-19, including the suspension of public Masses in the archdiocese. So, if we cannot attend Mass on Sundays, how then are we, as a church, to pray? This resource, Our Sunday Supplication, is a recommended prayer of the archdiocese. Unlike Mass, this order of prayer can be offered by individuals and families, without the presence of a priest, and engages us in our Sunday celebration of the word of God. We can pray this prayer in our homes — the “domestic churches” which help build up the body of Christ on earth — and thus be connected to the entire church at prayer. During this time of prayer, we include the opportunity to make a Spiritual Communion, since we are presently unable to receive holy Communion. Making a Spiritual Communion is a worthy practice, recommended by innumerable saints throughout the ages, which unites our whole selves to God and his church. Despite not being able to celebrate Mass together, this is certainly not a time to abandon the praise and supplication of almighty God, for he never abandons us! Now is the time to love and serve the Lord as best we can in our limited capacities.
Order of Prayer
Taken from the Mass and the Liturgy of the Hours
INTRODUCTION Leader: O God, come to my assistance. Response: O Lord, make haste to help me. Leader: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit Response: As it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
HYMN
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ord, who throughout these forty days, for us did fast and pray, Teach us with you to mourn our sins, and close by you to stay. As you with Satan did contend, and did the vict’ry win, O give us strength in you to fight, in you to conquer sin. As you did hunger and did thirst, so teach us, gracious Lord, To die to self, and always live by your most holy word. And through these days of penitence, and through your Passiontide, Forevermore, in life and death, O Lord, with us abide. Abide with us that when this life of suffering is past, An Easter of unending joy we may attain at last!
ACT OF CONTRITION Leader: Let us acknowledge our sins, and seek the Lord’s pardon and peace. Together: I confess to almighty God and to you, my brothers and sisters, that I have greatly sinned, in my thoughts and in my words, in what I have done and in what I have failed to do,
“The Raising of Lazarus” tempera and gold on panel was painted by Duccio di Buoninsegna. This scene is the subject of the Sunday Gospel on March 29. through my fault, through my fault, through my most grievous fault; therefore I ask blessed Mary ever-Virgin, all the Angels and Saints, and you, my brothers and sisters, to pray for me to the Lord our God. Leader: Father, help us to be like Christ your Son, who loved the world and died for our salvation. Inspire us by his love, guide us by his example, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Together: Amen.
THE SUNDAY READINGS A reading from the Book of the prophet Ezekiel (Ez 37:12-14)
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hus says the Lord God: O my people, I will open your graves and have you rise from them, and bring you back to the land of Israel. Then you shall know that I am the Lord, when I open your graves and have you rise from them, O my people! I will put my spirit in you that you may live, and I will settle you upon your land; thus you shall know that I am the Lord. I have promised, and I will do it, says the Lord. The Word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Responsorial Psalm (Psalm 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8) Reader: With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption.
Together: With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption. Reader: Out of the depths I cry to you, O Lord; Lord, hear my voice! Let your ears be attentive to my voice in supplication. Together: With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption. Reader: If you, O Lord, mark iniquities, Lord, who can stand? But with you is forgiveness, that you may be revered. Together: With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption. Reader: I trust in the Lord; my soul trusts in his word. More than sentinels wait for the dawn, let Israel wait for the Lord. Together: With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption. Reader: For with the Lord is kindness and with him is plenteous redemption; And he will redeem Israel from all their iniquities. Together: With the Lord there is mercy and fullness of redemption.
A Reading from the Letter of St. Paul to the Romans (Romans 8:8-11)
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rothers and sisters: Those who are in the flesh cannot please God. But you are not in the flesh; on the contrary, you are in the spirit, if only the Spirit of God dwells in you. Whoever does not have the Spirit of Christ does not belong to him. But if Christ is in you,
MARCH 27, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS although the body is dead because of sin, the spirit is alive because of righteousness. If the Spirit of the One who raised Jesus from the dead dwells in you, the One who raised Christ from the dead will give life to your mortal bodies also, through his Spirit dwelling in you. The word of the Lord. Thanks be to God. Gospel Verse Reader: I am the resurrection and the life, says the Lord; Together: whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will never die.
A reading from the holy Gospel according to John (Jn 11:1-45)
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ow a man was ill, Lazarus from Bethany, the village of Mary and her sister Martha. Mary was the one who had anointed the Lord with perfumed oil and dried his feet with her hair; it was her brother Lazarus who was ill. So the sisters sent word to him saying, “Master, the one you love is ill.” When Jesus heard this he said, “This illness is not to end in death, but is for the glory of God, that the Son of God may be glorified through it.” Now Jesus loved Martha and her sister and Lazarus. So when he heard that he was ill, he remained for two days in the place where he was. Then after this he said to his disciples, “Let us go back to Judea.” The disciples said to him, “Rabbi, the Jews were just trying to stone you, and you want to go back there?” Jesus answered, “Are there not twelve hours in a day? If one walks during the day, he does not stumble, because he sees the light of this world. But if one walks at night, he stumbles, because the light is not in him.” He said this, and then told them, “Our friend Lazarus is asleep, but I am going to awaken him.” So the disciples said to him, “Master, if he is asleep, he will be saved.” But Jesus was talking about his death, while they thought that he meant ordinary sleep. So then Jesus said to them clearly, “Lazarus has died. And I am glad for you that I was not there, that you may believe. Let us go to him.” So Thomas, called Didymus, said to his fellow disciples, “Let us also go to die with him.” When Jesus arrived, he found that Lazarus had already been in the tomb for four days. Now Bethany was near Jerusalem, only about two miles away. And many of the Jews had come to Martha and Mary to comfort them about their brother. When Martha heard that Jesus was coming, she went to meet him; but Mary sat at home. Martha said to Jesus, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died. But even now I know that whatever you ask of God, God will give you.” Jesus said to her, “Your brother will rise.” Martha said to him, “I know he will rise, in the resurrection on the last day.” Jesus told her, “I am the resurrection and the life; whoever believes in me, even if he dies, will live, and everyone who lives and believes in me will never die. Do you believe this?” She said to him, “Yes, Lord. I have come to believe that you are the Christ, the Son of God, the one who is coming into the world.” When she had said this, she went and called her sister Mary secretly, saying, “The teacher is here and is asking for you.” As soon as she heard this,
she rose quickly and went to him. For Jesus had not yet come into the village, but was still where Martha had met him. So when the Jews who were with her in the house comforting her saw Mary get up quickly and go out, they followed her, presuming that she was going to the tomb to weep there. When Mary came to where Jesus was and saw him, she fell at his feet and said to him, “Lord, if you had been here, my brother would not have died.” When Jesus saw her weeping and the Jews who had come with her weeping, he became perturbed and deeply troubled, and said, “Where have you laid him?” They said to him, “Sir, come and see.” And Jesus wept. So the Jews said, “See how he loved him.” But some of them said, “Could not the one who opened the eyes of the blind man have done something so that this man would not have died?” So Jesus, perturbed again, came to the tomb. It was a cave, and a stone lay across it. Jesus said, “Take away the stone.” Martha, the dead man’s sister, said to him, “Lord, by now there will be a stench; he has been dead for four days.” Jesus said to her, “Did I not tell you that if you believe you will see the glory of God?” So they took away the stone. And Jesus raised his eyes and said, “Father, I thank you for hearing me. I know that you always hear me; but because of the crowd here I have said this, that they may believe that you sent me.” And when he had said this, He cried out in a loud voice, “Lazarus, come out!” The dead man came out, tied hand and foot with burial bands, and his face was wrapped in a cloth. So Jesus said to them, “Untie him and let him go.” Now many of the Jews who had come to Mary and seen what he had done began to believe in him. The Gospel of the Lord. Praise to you, Lord Jesus Christ.
FOR REFLECTION 1. In what ways this week have we seen that God is truly God? How has he kept his promises to us? 2. How might we live this week more aware that the Holy Spirit is within us? What might this look like in our daily lives? 3. Why do you think that Jesus was “deeply troubled” and wept when confronted by the people’s sadness? What does this perhaps say about his love and care for us?
Response: Lord, create a new spirit in us. Leader: Healer of body and soul, cure the sickness of our spirit, so that we may grow in holiness through your constant care. Response: Lord, create a new spirit in us. Leader: Heal those who are sick, and keep safe those who are well. Response: Lord, create a new spirit in us. Leader: Strengthen those who care for the sick. Response: Lord, create a new spirit in us. Leader: Give hope to those whose livelihoods have been interrupted by this health emergency. Response: Lord, create a new spirit in us. Leader: Grant repose to all who have died in your friendship. Response: Lord, create a new spirit in us.
THE LORD’S PRAYER Leader: Remember us, Lord, when you come to your kingdom and teach us how to pray: Together: Our Father, who art in heaven . . .
ACT OF SPIRITUAL COMMUNION Leader: You have given us bread from heaven. Response: Containing in itself all delight. Together: My Jesus, I believe that you are present in the most holy Sacrament of the altar. I love you above all things, and I desire to receive you into my soul. Since I cannot at this moment receive you sacramentally, come at least spiritually into my heart. I embrace you as if you were already there and unite myself wholly to you. Never permit me to be separated from you, my Lord and my God! Amen.
CANTICLE OF PRAISE Canticle of Zechariah (Lk 1:68-79) Together: Blessed be the Lord, the God of Israel; he has come to his people and set them free. He has raised up for us a mighty savior, born of the house of his servant David. Through his holy prophets he promised of old that he would save us from our enemies, from the hands of all who hate us.
RESPONSE TO THE WORD
He promised to show mercy to our fathers and to remember his holy covenant.
Leader: Christ, Son of the living God, have mercy on us. Response: Christ, Son of the living God, have mercy on us.
This was the oath he swore to our father Abraham: to set us free from the hands of our enemies, free to worship him without fear, holy and righteous in his sight all the days of our life.
Leader: You were wounded for our offenses, Response: have mercy on us. Leader: Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit. Response: Christ, Son of the living God, have mercy on us.
PRAYER OF THE FAITHFUL Leader: Let us praise our loving Redeemer, who gained for us this season of grace, and pray to him, saying: Response: Lord, create a new spirit in us. Leader: Christ, our life, through baptism we were buried with you and rose to life with you; may we walk today in newness of life. Response: Lord, create a new spirit in us. Leader: Lord, you have brought blessings to all mankind; bring us to share your concern for the good of all. Response: Lord, create a new spirit in us. Leader: May we work together to build up the earthly city, with our eyes fixed on the city that lasts for ever.
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You, my child, shall be called the prophet of the Most High; for you will go before the Lord to prepare his way, to give his people knowledge of salvation by the forgiveness of their sins. In the tender compassion of our God the dawn from on high shall break upon us, to shine on those who dwell in darkness and the shadow of death, and to guide our feet into the way of peace. Glory be to the Father, and to the Son, and to the Holy Spirit: as it was in the beginning, is now, and ever shall be, world without end. Amen.
CONCLUSION Leader: May the Lord bless us, protect us from all evil and bring us to everlasting life. Together: Amen.
WE’RE ALL HOME-SCHOOLERS NOW The Leaven asked the experts — home-schooling parents — for tips on teaching at home By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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n March 17, Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly ordered schools in the state of Kansas to close for the remainder of the school year to prevent the spread of coronavirus (COVID-19). Suddenly, parents became their children’s primary in-person teachers. “There’s so many parents that are dead scared right now because all of a sudden they feel like they are completely responsible for their child’s education,” said Janet Harkins, a parishioner at Queen of the Holy Rosary in Overland Park. “And that’s not true. “I think once the school district has the programs that they’re going to be using figured out and they start to distribute it to the parents, there’s going to be some people taking some very deep breaths.” The Department of Education is working on an education plan for students for the rest of the 2019-20 school year, and schools and teachers are continually sending families online resources. But many parents are still overwhelmed by the sudden new responsibility they have in ensuring their children’s remote learning. Holy Trinity, Lenexa, parishioner Suzanne Andrews, St. Rose Philippine Duchesne, Westwood, parishioner Maria Klassen, and Harkins — all moms who home school — shared with The Leaven their advice to help parents get through the remaining school year in one piece.
Advice for happy home schooling • Don’t panic “First, take a deep breath,” said Andrews, who has home-schooled for 15 years. “It’s not as awful as it sounds. And then, remember the things that are most important. Try to keep your kid on top of things like math and faith — that’s the most important.” • The schools’ resources are enough “My biggest piece of advice is to remember that whatever [resources] get
sent out [by the schools] is enough,” said Harkins, who has home-schooled for five-and-a-half years. “Don’t make your kid do extra. “They’re suddenly going to be given a whole lot more free time that they haven’t had before, so let them explore. Let them be kids.” • Utilize unconventional learning “We have full days sometimes that we devote to that,” said Andrews. “We call it life skills, [and it includes] how to properly clean a bathroom, laundry, sewing, knitting, embroidery and cooking.” “Remember that baking cookies is learning, cooking dinner is learning, fixing the tire in the car and the honey-do list that every family has is full of opportunities for kids to learn,” said Harkins. “Whether it’s practical activities that they’re going to need to know later in life or turning baking cookies into math class with fractions, it’s all learning,” she added. • Take advantage of technology “Even though we’re all hunkering down, FaceTime friends,” said Harkins. “Set up play dates over the internet. We need the social interaction.” “There are a lot of educational videos, especially on different science topics,” said Andrews. “All of this stuff is available to watch online [through] YouTube videos. Some of the resources that do charge are now opening up free trials for parents who are finding themselves in this situation.” • Share your own interests with your kids and make memories “If you ever had a hobby that you enjoyed, now’s the time to show it to your kids,” said Harkins. “If there’s a book series that you love, sit down and have your child read that book series to you.” “Those kinds of things that are really enriching and beautiful [to you are important to share], especially right now thinking about what’s going on currently and all the unknowns,” said Klassen, who is in her second year of home schooling. “I really want my children to have memories of this time that were beautiful and joyful.” • Give your kids time to read “My kids read so much because they have so much time at home,” said Klassen. “It’s become a culture of reading in our house. That is probably the richest part of their home schooling is they have
Gabe Andrews helps his mom Suzanne make lunch. Utilizing unconventional learning can be a form of te measurement. With schools closed for the remainder of the school year in the state of Kansas, parents m
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Katie Andrews, a senior at Kansas State University and student teacher, helps her brother Philip with an assignment. access to a lot of books.” • Don’t put pressure on yourself “God gives you what you need, and he gives you what your children need,” said Klassen. “Don’t feel it’s not enough. Just do the best you can, and your children will benefit from it.” • Establish time for yourself each day, and don’t forget to pray “That’s really important for peace of mind and to be able to stay steady on a day-to-day basis — to know that you have that time to rest and to pray,” said Klassen. “Be praying for your kids and for the patience to deal with your kids,” said Andrews. “The only reason I can do this is because I take that time every morning for myself and to pray about it.” • Make the most of extra family time “Bring back dinner around the family table,” said Harkins. “Bring back all those
things that fell by the wayside because everybody’s so busy. “Remember that there’s ways to bring in all sorts of subjects just in topics of conversation. Even dinner table conversations can be learning experiences.” • Don’t be afraid to ask for help “Reach out to other parents who either have experience [home schooling] or who are going through the same thing you are, even if it’s just by text message,” said Andrews. “And encourage each other. It’s hard being isolated.”
Tips for parents of multiple children • Ask your older children to help your younger ones “It keeps them sharp on their basics and it frees you up if there’s another
LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HARKINS FAMILY
eaching, and many parents who home school use meal preparation to teach math, fractions and units of might consider taking the opportunity to teach their children practical life skills.
Janet Harkins works with her son Dominic on math. Harkins has home-schooled her four sons for fiveand-a-half years and says it’s an opportunity to share your hobbies and interests with your children. “If you feel less than confident, your kids are going to pick up on that,” said Harkins. “Be calm, whether you feel calm or not.”
A (not so) typical school day
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE HARKINS FAMILY
Sebastian Harkins, left, and his brother Isaac sit side-by-side while they work. For many parents who home school, the typical school day brings opportunities for siblings to grow closer and for parents to understand how their children learn best. child who needs attention right in that moment,” said Andrews. • Schedule time to work with your kids individually
“Staggering their independent work and their one-on-one work with the parent usually helps, too,” said Andrews. “That’s a good time to insert an educa-
tional video so you’re occupying somebody else while you’re working with another kid.” • Remain calm and confident
Home schooling allows for a flexible learning schedule with more time for play, sleep and other activities. It’s also an opportunity for you to get to know how your children learn best. Here’s what a typical day of remote learning might look like for your family. 1. Wake up after getting plenty of sleep (for many home-school families this means 9 a.m.). 2. Eat breakfast and start the day off with a family prayer. 3. With younger kids, start with hands-on learning and devote your attention to helping them. If you have multiple young ones — depending on their age gap and the curriculum and resources the schools give you — you can teach them together or one at a time. Older kids are much more independent and can work and study on their own. 4. Take a break for lunch and allow your kids time to play. Finish up any schoolwork during the afternoon. With a typical home-school schedule, curriculum for an 8-year-old would only take about two hours of a school day. Children younger than that would be done in even less time. So, don’t be surprised if by the early afternoon your young kids are done with their learning or have no more attention left to give to it. Older kids will have more work to do, but they should still be able to complete their studies by or before the time they would normally get out of school.
MARCH 27, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
Talking to your children about the coronavirus By Susan Fotovich McCabe Special to The Leaven
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he kids are out of school (in the traditional sense) for the remainder of the school year. We all know why. But do children of all ages really understand the implications of the coronavirus, or COVID-19, pandemic? Are they scared, indifferent, confused? Libby DuPont, MTS, a consultant for the office of marriage and family life for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, has created a simple resource — “Talking to kids about COVID-19” — to help parents talk with their children, encourage them to express their emotions and stay positive. DuPont, who is also a mom, begins with bringing God into the conversation. She starts with a passage from St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans: “We know that in all things, God works for the good of those who love him, who have been called according to his purpose. Even in trial, God has good things in store” (8:28). DuPont has a 15-year-old son and a 9-year-old daughter. Sadly, she and her husband Brad lost two more children in infancy. At that time, she learned a lot about resiliency, prayer and rebuilding. It’s the foundation for the archdiocese’s new, educational resource. “I’m not a psychologist, I’m just a mom. But some of the things we learned all those years ago are helpful today when discussing awkward or hard things,” DuPont said. Her tips include: Be honest: Even young children know when something isn’t right. Use language appropriate for their age. Keep it simple and brief for
Education changes in midst of pandemic >> Continued from page 5
Talking with your children about COVID-19 can be daunting. Libby DuPont, MTS, a consultant for the office of marriage and family life for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, has created a simple resource — “Talking to kids about COVID-19” — to help parents talk with their children, encourage them to express their emotions and stay positive. young children. They just want the facts. Be open to a dialogue with older children. Acknowledge feelings: Don’t be afraid to share your own feelings and encourage your children to share theirs. Maybe they are searching for the words to describe how they feel. You can help by offering some language that helps. For example, you might ask, “Are you feeling sad?” Apologize. Forgive. Repeat: The close quarters we share for the next few weeks may cause tensions to flair. Don’t forget to apologize to one another and start again each day. Be patient: Things will go smoothly, and then they won’t. This pattern will repeat itself in this “new normal.” Be patient with your children and yourself. “It’s important to remember that even if you’re home schooling under normal times, we don’t experience this much togetherness,” DuPont said. “Patience is important.”
To cope, DuPont suggests families find ways to connect while still complying with social distancing. For example, technology and handwritten notes are great for checking in on elderly neighbors, grandparents and others. Have fun: Even when there’s work to do, remember to take breaks throughout the day. And pray: There’s always time for prayer, whether you pray as a family or join online platforms. Finally, DuPont encourages parents and children not to waste this unplanned time together. Establish a goal for what you want to accomplish during this period of unrest. “The crisis is here. And the Lord has beautiful things in store,” DuPont said. “Right now, we’re not busy. So let’s take the opportunity to decide what we want to achieve.” For a copy of “Talking to kids about COVID-19,” send an email to: Famlife@archkc.org.
Join School of Faith’s daily rosary online By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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n March 19, Pope Francis brought the world together to pray the rosary for the protection of families, the sick and health care providers in an effort to combat the coronavirus through an act of faith. At 3 p.m. that day, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann joined Mike Scherschligt, president and founder of Holy Family School of Faith, for a livestream of the rosary on YouTube, where they prayed together with a community of Catholics who joined them from afar. Their video is still on YouTube and has been streamed more than 15,000 times. Although it was a special occasion with the archbishop present, Scherschligt draws an audience for his daily rosary meditations every day of the week. During each podcast episode, which is typically 24 minutes long, he prays the rosary, shares his reflections, and encourages others to pray together and build friendships rooted in faith. Scherschligt’s podcast can be downloaded on Apple Podcasts, Google Podcasts, Podbean, Spotify, Stitcher and
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the University of Notre Dame this fall. “Looking back now and realizing that was my last day ever walking those halls as a student, sitting in the desks or eating at the lunch tables with all my friends,” she said, “I’m heartbroken. “Had I known, I would’ve taken some moments or exchanged words that would bring some closure.” Lane and her classmates have relied on one another during this difficult time. “We’ve cried together about it and smiled as we remembered all the memories made. But we all share a sense of loss for what we will never get to experience,” she said. Worse still, the best memories were yet to come, said Lane, with Aquinas traditions like the spring Olympics and senior Mass that will no longer happen. “I feel the community at Aquinas is something that cannot be recreated, and I’m going to miss all the people that made that school feel like a home,” she said. Mahoney, who plans to attend the University of New Mexico, had just finished the spring musical and never even had the chance to break the set down or celebrate with her friends. She was looking forward to events like Ward’s annual “Wardskers,” a drama club event similar to the Oscars where students recognize the talents of their classmates and relive senior year memories. “I’m going to miss the community at Bishop Ward,” said Mahoney. “We really are a family. I love every one of my teachers, and it is obvious how much they care for each of their students. “I’ve made lifelong memories with my high school friends,” she said, “and I don’t know who I would be without them. It’s the people who make Bishop Ward what it is, and I’m going to miss them most of all.”
William “Tony” and Patricia Johnson, members of Sacred H e a r t Parish, To n g a n oxie, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 5. The couple was married on April 5, 1970, at St. Anthony Church in Hawthorne, New Jersey. Their children are: Christopher, Melinda and Carly. They also have eight grandchildren. Plans to celebrate will be at a later date due to the coronavirus.
The Holy Family School of Faith has many offerings on YouTube, as well as on its website at: www. schooloffaith.com.
ANNIVERSARY submissions
invite viewers to share where they are watching from. Visit the website at: www.schoolof faith.com/daily-rosary-meditations to stay updated on the rosary podcast, and subscribe to the YouTube channel by searching “Holy Family School of Faith” on www.youtube.com. After you click on the account, click “Subscribe.”
Because of the coronavirus, The Leaven staff will be working remotely for the foreseeable future. As such, we can no longer accept anniversaries by mail. All anniversaries must be emailed to: todd. habiger@theleaven.org.
Tune-In. You can find links for each of these channels at: www.anchor.fm/ school-of-faith, where you can also listen to the podcast directly. Moreover, the rosary livestream on YouTube wasn’t a one-time event. Scherschligt has continued to use the Holy Family School of Faith account to livestream the rosary at his home and
DEADLINE: eight days before the desired publication date.
MARCH 27, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
Priests navigate uncharted waters By Katie Peterson Special to The Leaven
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ltimately, God is going to take care of us through this,” said Father David Simpson, O.Carm, in residence at St. Boniface Parish in Scipio. “But we’ve got to keep saying to God: ‘I trust in you. I trust in you. I know you’ll take care of me and my loved ones.’” he added. On March 17, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann canceled all Masses in light of the coronavirus pandemic currently spreading across the world. But priests and deacons throughout the archdiocese have already found ways for Catholics to keep their faith strong during this time of fear and panic. “We’re in kind of unchartered waters here,” said Father David McEvoy, pastor of Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph Church in Leavenworth, “so it is important for Catholic families to realize the home is really the domestic church, and we need to pray at home. “Archbishop Naumann has encouraged us to pray the daily rosary for an end to the pandemic, that people can stay safe, [and] that those that are suffering will be OK.” While Masses in person have been canceled throughout the archdiocese indefinitely, Deacon Tim McEvoy of IC-SJ Church said there are ways to connect online or through television. Archbishop Naumann has celebrated live daily Mass on his Facebook page and plans to celebrate Sunday Mass there, too, and you can tune in for Bishop Robert Barron’s daily Mass online at: www.wordonfire.org/daily-mass. “You can watch the Mass, you can be spiritually nourished through the readings and the homily even though you’re not able to receive Communion,” Deacon McEvoy said. Not being able to receive Communion is one of the most difficult parts of this experience for most Catholics. “Not being able to go to Mass is a painful reality, but it also makes you more aware of the times you’ve taken it for granted,” Deacon McEvoy said. “Often in everyday life, we shuffle in and don’t get ourselves focused on what we’re participating in. So, maybe the good part [of this crisis is that it] makes us hunger for the Eucharist. I think in that regard, it helps us identify with those people joining the church.” The Easter Vigil is not just the final celebration of the Triduum before Easter Sunday. It is also the time when catechumens and candi-
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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Worried about that looming April 15 federal income tax filing deadline? Well, take heart. You’ve been given a little more time. “At [President Donald J. Trump’s] direction, we are moving Tax Day from April 15 to July 15. All taxpayers and businesses will have this additional
Businesses adapt during unusual time >> Continued from page 3
PHOTO BY KATIE PETERSON
Deacon Tim McEvoy assists celebrant Carmelite Father David McEvoy (right) before Masses were canceled throughout the archdiocese. The two, along with Fathers Bill McEvoy and David Simpson, O.Carm., offer tips on how to still have a successful Lent despite the coronavirus pandemic. dates all around the world join the Catholic Church. And even though catechetical instruction has been suspended, Deacon McEvoy, who is a former Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults instructor, said that’s not the most important part of their journey anyway. “The catechumens and candidates for full communion should intensify their prayer life,” he said. “Deep prayer and spiritual union with Christ are the most important thing during this period, not catechetical instruction.” Though the ability for any lay Catholic to receive Communion is unobtainable right now, this current crisis is something that the priests agreed could make this Lent even more meaningful. “We’ve been hearing the word ‘quarantine’ a lot. That word literally means ‘40 days,’” said Father Bill McEvoy, pastor of St. Francis de Sales Church in Lansing. “I’ve never associated Lent with a quarantine, but this Lent has changed some of my thinking. “Jesus ‘quarantined’ himself in the wilderness for 40 days, and now many of us are quarantining ourselves and — perhaps for the first time — have had to do some real praying in our inner room,” Father McEvoy continued. “Putting real trust in God, focusing on what is essential, feeling not so much in control, but placing ourselves in God’s hands while avoiding the temptation to make ourselves the exception to the rules.” Father David McEvoy said this is an example of the cross all Catholics have to bear this Lenten season. “Jesus says, ‘Pick up your cross and
follow me,’” he said. “In Lent, we come up with different things we want to do that we think are going to deepen our faith and help us have a deeper conversion of heart.” “But the [real] crosses that come our way are the ones I’ve always felt come out of the blue,” he continued. “They’re not things we choose. No one would choose to have to go through this, but this is what we have to do. . . . We have to realize that by isolating, we’re loving our brothers and sisters by not spreading germs to them. “I think it really makes Lent probably more real for us, and we’re all in it together. This has no division based on economic background, political party, racial [or] ethnic background, rich, poor, or what country you live in. “It really is something that unites us as human beings, and that’s something we can really think about during Lent.” All agreed that it’s important to make sure everyone’s faith stays strong, including their own — through prayer, walks, connecting with loved ones and parishioners via phone or email, reading Scripture and more. “I hope we can deepen our own spiritual journey, and I hope that we can become stronger Catholics, stronger spiritual persons, [and] stronger persons in general,” said Father David Simpson. “And we can really embrace the basis of the life of Jesus the Christ in being more loving of each other and self and society in general. “It’s a great time for personal prayer — having some conversations with God and just sitting and listening to the depths of one’s heart.”
Federal income tax filing, payment extended By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
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time to file and make payments without interest of penalties,” announced U.S. Secretary of the Treasury Steven Mnuchin March 20 in a statement on Twitter. “All taxpayers will have additional time to file and make payments without interest or penalties,” confirmed Beth Coleman, archdiocesan director of accounting. “The new deadline date is July 15.” At the same time, Mnuchin still encouraged Americans to file their tax
returns by April 15, if possible, because many will receive a refund. Those filing at the regular time will be able to take advantage of their refunds sooner. Moving back the filing and payment deadline will provide for about $300 billion in additional liquidity in the economy in the near term. Kansas and Missouri have also extended their filing and payment deadlines to July 15 to accommodate taxpayers during this crisis.
suddenly forced to work from home. With her husband Tim, also working at home, as well as three adult children living with them, the Friedels scrambled to find a way to accommodate all their working needs — but they did it. Still, Friedel still expects there to be challenges. “I will have to be disciplined on not working into the evenings and/or weekends,” she said. Friedel hopes to adhere to a semistrict work routine to avoid becoming consumed by work. “Things change quickly,” she said. “I’m just trying to be flexible and live in the moment.” As part of the government, Friedel has seen up-close how hard the county health department has been working during this pandemic. “Major props [to them],” she said. “They have been putting in long hours with the cities to take all the precautions necessary. They’re working hard and doing their best.”
On the front lines There’s no escaping coronavirus for Judy Highberger, a parishioner of St. Teresa Parish, Westphalia. Highberger is an emergency room nurse at Allen County Regional Hospital in Iola. While the ER is focused on dealing with immediate life-threatening situations, the specter of coronavirus hangs over everything the ER does. “We are taking a few extra precautions,” Highberger said. “For instance, we are just allowing one person back with the patient — but even that could change soon. We mask everybody as they come into the hospital, and visitors are limited throughout the hospital.” Still, just coming into contact with so many people daily makes medical personnel at a high risk for catching the virus. But that doesn’t change the type of care Highberger and her co-workers give. They just give it with a little more caution. “We are sure to keep our distance more than usual,” she said. And there is no longer any hugging of patients, which is difficult, said Highberger, because “they always want to hug you.” But nurses are nothing if not resourceful. “I kind of do a dance and say this is a corona hug for you,” she said. Highberger prays the rosary every time she drives to work. She has for years. She sees her job as a corporal work of mercy — to care for the sick. “That’s part of what drives us. This is what we do,” she said. “If you are nursing for the right reason, you feel that every day. Right now, this is just a little bit more of a challenge.” Despite the highly contagious nature of coronavirus and the risks she and her fellow nurses take going to work every day, Highberger is proud of how those in her profession have reacted in the face of the pandemic. “I have not met a nurse yet who is afraid to come to work. That’s what we signed up to do,” she said.
MARCH 27, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
WORLD
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Sao Paulo offers center to house homeless with COVID-19 By Lise Alves Catholic News Service
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AO PAULO (CNS) — The Archdiocese of Sao Paulo has offered the city a community center, House of Prayer, to lodge homeless who get the coronavirus. Homeless communities throughout the country are among the most vulnerable to COVID-19, church officials said. The House of Prayer “is already used for activities with the city’s homeless population. We have activities and courses and also provide meals, like breakfast,” Father Julio Renato Lancellotti, coordinator of the episcopal vicariate for the homeless, told Catholic News Service. “It is not a hospital, so it needs to be adapted, with beds, etc., but it is a viable place to put those who have nowhere to go,” he added. Church officials said the home would be able to accommodate 50 hospital beds. The House of Prayer was built with money from the Niwano Peace Prize won by Cardinal Paulo Evaristo Arns, former archbishop of Sao Paulo, “for his interfaith collaboration to promote
CNS PHOTO/NACHO DOCE, REUTERS
A homeless man covers himself with a blanket on a street in Sao Paulo. The Archdiocese of Sao Paulo, through its homeless population pastoral, has offered the city a community center, House of Prayer, to lodge those who live on the streets and get the COVID-19 virus. development, conserve the environment and create a world of peace.” As of March 17, Father Lancellotti
said, four homeless citizens were suspected of having COVID-19. “We are hoping they are more
resilient because of their time on the streets, but they are also a risk group,” he said, explaining that many homeless have or have had tuberculosis and other diseases; many are elderly with no place to go. Father Lancellotti said on the street it is difficult to ensure even basic hygiene, like washing hands, wearing clean clothes, having a clean place to sleep. “Where are these people going to find soap and water to wash their hands every two hours?” Father Lancellotti asked. Merchants “won’t even let them drink water, much less use the bathroom to wash their hands,” the priest said. The other problem is the sheer number of homeless in cities as big as Sao Paulo. Father Lancellotti, who has worked with the city’s homeless population for more than 40 years, said the homeless population in South America’s largest city has been vastly underestimated by authorities. “Officially they say there are 24,000 living on the streets of Sao Paulo, but I believe that there are more than 30,000,” he said.
Pope: Personnel, priests caring for COVID-19 patients are heroes By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service
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ATICAN CITY (CNS) — With the number of priests and religious dying from coronavirus-related illnesses rising, Pope Francis offered his prayers for those who died after being infected helping COVID-19 patients and their communities. At least 50 priests, four nuns and at least 24 doctors have lost their lives, and 5,000 health care workers in Italy were known to be infected as of March 24 because of the pandemic. At the start of his morning Mass March 24, the pope said he was aware of the growing number of doctors, nurses and priests who have died after becoming infected while being “at the service of the sick.” “Let us pray for them and their families. I thank God for the heroic example that they have given us in their care for
the sick,” he said. Archbishop Cesare Nosiglia of Turin told his priests in a letter they are called to a ministry in some ways similar to that of doctors, nurses and psychologists. “The people turn to you with trust and hope, seeking help or even just a word of support, of accompaniment,” he wrote. Recognizing the difficulties and restrictions placed upon them for the safety of themselves and others, the archbishop said they were still shepherds, and Jesus teaches that when confronted by a wolf, a good shepherd “is not afraid and does not run away like a mercenary, but defends his flock.” The Diocese of Bergamo website has a page dedicated to commemorating the more than 20 priests who have died after March 6. Meanwhile, the Italian bishops’ conference daily newspaper, Avvenire, has a special section online paying tribute to the many deceased priests — with
photographs and biographical details — using the hashtag #pretipersempre or #PriestsForever. After the worst-hit Diocese of Bergamo are the other northern dioceses like Milan, Parma, Cremona and Brescia. At least three bishops, retired and active, were still being hospitalized, in quarantine or isolation for either testing positive or having contact with a person known to be positive, Avvenire reported March 18. Dozens of priests have tested positive for the coronavirus, and some were in serious condition, it said. The number of religious men and women was still being tallied, it said, with at least four men and four women having died as of March 20. Entire communities of women religious have been infected or are in quarantine or isolation. In the northern city of Tortona, four members of the Little Missionary Sisters of Charity died and at least 20 were hospitalized; near Rome, in Grottaferrata,
tests were conducted on members living in the motherhouse of the Daughters of St. Camillus, resulting in 59 sisters testing positive, as well as one security guard. Local health authorities will be monitoring them as they remain isolated in their community, which also houses students and older nuns. In another community in Rome, the Congregation of the Angelic Sisters of St. Paul, 19 of its 21 members tested positive for the coronavirus. The papal almoner, Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, visited both communities March 23 to personally convey the pope’s prayers and affection. The cardinal brought fresh milk and yogurt produced by dairy cows at the papal villa of Castel Gandolfo. The same products were also donated to the John XXIII retirement home run by the Sisters of Charity Association; its residents were also put under quarantine after two health care workers tested positive.
MARCH 27, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CLASSIFIEDS
EMPLOYMENT Bus drivers - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality early childhood education in a safe, loving, Christian environment. With a balanced curriculum of preacademics and social-emotional development, children grow with us, build confidence, and a strong self-esteem. At Special Beginnings, we believe providing the right environment will give children the foundation to be successful in life. Special Beginnings Early Learning Center is seeking a part-time bus driver (15-20 hrs/week; no weekend hours) of a 15-passenger bus to drive children to school and/or pick them up after school. Duties include: safely transport children to and/or from school following ALL safety & security procedures; safely transport children to and from field trips and other off-site activities; follow a planned route on a time schedule; help children get on and off the bus; ensure children stay in their seat at all times; follow traffic laws and state and federal transit regulations; carefully navigate roads and watch for ice, debris or slippery spots; report accidents immediately; maintain “clean” driving record during off hours. We require the following: driver must be at least 25 years old (due to insurance requirements) with a “clean” driving record for at least 2 years; pass a background check; must maintain and practice safe driving and have a “clean” driving record; have patience and understanding when working with children ages 5-12 years old; enjoy working in a child friendly environment. Benefits: competitive benefit package; excellent support and training from an experienced leadership/management team; pay: $11-15/hour depending on experience. Communications coordinator - Holy Cross in Overland Park is looking for a faith-filled person with a heart for serving others to join our team! The communications coordinator’s main focus is to consistently highlight and promote the mission of the parish through the various communication channels available today. The position also works with staff, ministry leaders and parishioners to communicate our vision and encourage engagement. Demonstrated proficiency in creating online and printed media a plus. The position is part time and hours are flexible. Check out our website at: www.holycrossopks.org for a complete position description and an application form. Please submit application and resume online to Phil Thacker at: pthacker@holycrossopks.org. Career opportunity – Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City, Kansas, and Missouri metro areas, St. Joseph, Mo., and Maryville, Mo. This is ideal for a determined, high energy, high expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual, who desires to serve others yet earn a better than average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families, and will provide excellent benefits and training. This is a full-time position. For more information or an interview, please contact John A. Mahon, General Agent, 1275 S.W. Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS 66612; call (855) 356-4849; or email: mahonagencymail2@kofc.org. 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. Director of formation in sacred music - Christ the King Church and School in Kansas City, Kansas, invites music educators to apply for the position of director of formation in sacred music. Educators who seek to shape students in both wisdom and virtue, and who share the belief that music and aesthetics play an integral part in the content of a Catholic education, should apply. Salary is commensurate with the qualifications of the applicant. The director is an integral member of the school faculty with professional knowledge of music in the celebration of the sacred liturgy of the modern Roman rite. This ministry aims to create fluency in the language of beauty for the children of Christ the King School by instructing them in the fundamentals of reading music and singing technique with a goal toward training them for sung prayer. As a secondary role, the director provides formation in the planning, execution and celebration of Sunday and feast day parish liturgies. Contact Father Nick Blaha at: nblaha@archkck.org for application details. Male services coordinator - Advice and Aid is seeking a part-time, 30 hours/week, male services coordinator. He will oversee male client services, meet with male clients, oversee male aspects of education programs and oversee volunteer male mentors. The ideal candidate has organizing and prioritizing skills; health, counseling experience; social services, nonprofit or ministry experience; is an excellent communicator; available for some Tuesday/Thursday evenings; bilingual a plus. We are looking for a committed, pro-life Christian who can affirm our vision, mission and statement of faith. Send cover letter and resume to: deniser@adviceandaid.com by March 16. No phone calls.
Administrative assistant (long-term, temporary position) – Office of Child and Youth Protection, Restorative Initiative - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking qualified candidates to fill a full-time, benefit-eligible position of administrative assistant for the Office of Child and Youth Protection, Restorative Initiative. This position is expected to last 12 - 24 months. Qualified applicants must have experience handling general office duties; participate in both long-term and short-term projects; planning, coordinating, and executing events, retreats, restorative programs and special events; facilitate positive experiences; assisting with travel arrangements; creating and maintaining databases; using software platforms to create fliers and promotional materials; must be proficient using the Microsoft Suite of Office Products including Word, Excel and PowerPoint, internet and the ability to learn other software and social media as required; and file management of both paper and electronic files. Must have a high school diploma or equivalent plus a minimum of three years’ prior experience working in a professional office environment. Must have strong writing and creativity skills. Must be self-motivated with the ability to work independently as well as part of a team. For a complete job description and to download the job application, go online to: archkck.org/jobs. Completed application and resume/cover letter can be emailed to: jobs@archkck.org. Application deadline is April 3. Administrative assistant - Looking for something new? Use your administrative skills to help a developmental optometrist change people’s lives. The hours are: T/W/TH from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; summer hours vary. No health benefits. Need to know basic bookkeeping skills. Background needed in Work, Excel and QuickBooks. Customer service and medical office experience helpful. Send resume to: Dr. Beth Bazin, 13600 Washington, Kansas City, MO 64145 or send via email to: bbazin@visiondevelop.com. Data manager – The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking an experienced individual to manage and maintain its Raiser’s Edge database. The position reports to the executive director of stewardship and development, but interfaces with many departments in maximizing use of the database software. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic in good standing; have demonstrated attention to detail in data input, management and analysis; strong communication skills — written, verbal and listening; and strong mathematical aptitude. This position requires a college degree and a minimum of two years’ experience in professional data management, preferably in a fundraising setting. Prior experience with Raiser’s Edge preferred. A complete job description, application and benefits information are available on the archdiocese’s website at: www.archkck.org/jobs. Interested individuals should email cover letter, resume and application by April 3 to: jobs@archkck.org. Social worker - Advice and Aid is seeking a part-time social worker, 25 hours/week. Will determine client needs and match to social services. Evaluate services and programs to maintain resource list. The ideal candidate has master’s degree in social work, LMSW or LSCSW and two to five years’ experience. Organizing and prioritizing skills and objectivity; nonprofit or ministry experience; excellent communicator; bilingual a plus. Looking for a committed, pro-life Christian who can affirm our vision, mission and statement of faith. Send cover letter and resume to: deniser@adviceandaid.com by March 16. No phone calls. Chief operating officer - The St. Lawrence Center at KU seeks a chief operating officer (COO) to align the internal working and external relations of the center to its mission. The COO manages key staff and oversees the fundraising plan and budget. The ideal candidate has experience with fundraising, staff development, human resources and business operations. The COO must be personally inspiring and able to sell the church’s mission to all constituents, especially benefactors. Find a full job description and inquiries online at: kucatholic.org. Director of administrative services - Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee has a June 1 full-time opening for the director of administrative services. Qualified applicants will have successful management experience with an emphasis in human resources, accounting and financial management. In addition, a demonstrated commitment to the Catholic faith and mission is essential. This position is responsible for managing the parish front office; managing all human resources responsibilities including the processing of payroll; managing all accounting functions; coordinating the parish/school finances with the parish accountant; and supervising a staff of one. Strong communications skills are essential, along with a desire to work in a positive faith-oriented environment. Competency with Microsoft Office programs, internet use and email required. This full-time position is eligible for parish and archdiocese benefits. Please submit cover letter and resume to: slemons@gsshawnee.org or to: frkent@ gsshawnee.org by April 6. Teaching positions - Nativity Day School in Leawood is hiring full- and part-time preschool teachers for the 202021 school year. Must have experience working in primary education or preschool setting. Competitive pay, holidays, breaks and summers off. Please send resumes to Jami Huderski at: jami.huderski@kcnativity.org. Welcoming new preschoolers - Prince of Peace Early Education Center, where children, faith and learning come first, has openings in full-time preschool for ages 2, 3 and 4, as well as part-time preschool for ages 3, 4 and 5. Come by for a tour today!. Contact Kate Potter, director, at: kpotter@popolathe.org or call (913) 829-2728.
Part-time accountant - The St. Lawrence Catholic Center at KU seeks a part-time accountant. The accountant inspires trust among staff, the board of directors and benefactors by accurately recording and communicating the financial transactions and position of the center. Find a full job description and inquiries online at: kucatholic.org. Parish office receptionist - St. Michael the Archangel Parish is seeking a part-time receptionist to work three days per week from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. It is a job-share position with some flexibility. Duties include: taking and routing incoming calls; welcoming guests; scheduling Mass intentions; data entry; and other office duties. Applicants must be practicing Catholics, compassionate, possess excellent communication skills and be proficient with the Microsoft Office Suite. Experience with databases also preferred. This position is highly visible and represents St. Michael the Archangel to parishioners and guests. The receptionist reports to the parish administrator. Desired start date is on or about May 4. Pay will be based on skills and experience. Send resume and cover letter to: St. Michael the Archangel, attention: Denise Greene, 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood, KS 66223 or email to: denise.greene@ stmichaelcp.org. Teachers - Preschool and toddler teachers needed. Competitive salary and good benefits. Applicants should be capable of warm and caring interaction with young children. Call (913) 248-4589. Part-time equipment repair person - Seeking individuals looking for flexible part-time work maintaining and repairing small equipment for our dynamic company. Service is completed at customers’ locations and electrical knowledge is a plus. Position involves regional travel with overnight stays, some lifting and walking; dependable transportation is a must. Positive attitude, dependability, time management and organizational skills, as well as being quality- and customer-oriented, are required. Please send resume to: Yourcareer101@gmail.com. General office work - Seeking a versatile, adaptable, motivated and customer-focused individual for a general office position in our dynamic small business. Individual will perform a wide variety of tasks including, but not limited to, receptionist, customer care and product processing. Computer skills are a must; QuickBooks knowledge is a plus. Professional phone etiquette, clear communication skills, dependability and excellent customer service skills are required. Please send resume to: Yourcareer101@gmail.com.
HOME IMPROVEMENT STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa. DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time. Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com
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EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 935-0176
SERVICES Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@ kc.rr.com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlawyer. com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress. Tutor - Available for K - 12 in various subjects and test preps. Tutor has 17 years of experience teaching and tutoring. Call Kathleen at (913) 206-2151 or email: Klmamuric@yahoo.com. Speedy Guzman Moving and delivery Licensed and insured Anytime (816) 935-0176 Handyman - Furloughed railroader trying to keep the bills paid for my family. I advertised here as Father and Son Home Exteriors and Remodeling for 13 years previously. I can do carpentry, windows, doors, trim, siding and decks. Also paint, sheetrock and tiling. No project too big or too small. Give me a call and ask for Josh at (913) 709-7230. Garage Door Repair New Garage Doors Platinum Amarr dealer, Elite Home Advisor top rating. Call Joe, mention The Leaven discount. A Total Door (913) 236-6440. Doll dresses - First Communion dresses for American Girl dolls or any 18” dolls. To include dress, veil, shoes, tights, and cross necklace for $35. Call (913) 345-9498 or send an email to: wwelch4@kc.rr.com to order. The dress is on display at Trinity House, 6731 W. 119th St., Overland Park, KS. Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959. Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install! “Kevin of all trades” your professional organizer and “Honey-do” specialist. Call or email me today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055 or KOATorganizing@gmail.com. Insured. References. Tree trimming/landscaping Free estimates licensed/insured/references (913) 620-6063 8 to Your Ideal Weight Get Real, Get Healthy, Get Empowered. Release your weight and restore your power in 8 weeks! http://8toyouridealweight.com/coach/kathi/
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.
Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your T-shirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704.
Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, power washing, staining, masonry (chimney repair, patio’s) gutter cleaning, water heaters, junk removal, lawn mowing, window cleaning, honey - do list and more!! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.
Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com.
The Drywall Doctor, Inc. – A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655.
Custom countertops - Laminates installed within five days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.
NELSON CREATIONS Affordable home remodeling: Kitchens, baths, basements and room additions. All interior and exterior work. Honest, dependable, experienced and family owned. Licensed and insured. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. (913) 927-5240 or nelsport@everestkc.net Popcorn texture removed and apply knockdown texture. Renew your walls with a fresh coat of quality paint! Sheetrock and plaster repair Fully insured, serving Kansas for 27 years Call or text Jerry at (913) 206-1144. Concrete construction - Tear out and replace amped, 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.
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. WE SELL HOMES - Looking to sell? This is a seller’s market. Call for a free consultation detailing the steps to selling your home. Ask about our 39-day sales guarantee. Mention this ad for a special offer. Call Jim Blaufuss, Re/Max Realty Suburban, at (913) 226-7442. Jimblaufuss@remax.net. 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. >> Continued on page 15
MARCH 27, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY FIFTH WEEK OF LENT March 29 FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT Ez 37: 12-14 Ps 130: 1-8 Rom 8: 8-11 Jn 11: 1-45 March 30 Monday Dn 13: 1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62 Ps 23: 1-6 Jn 8: 1-11 March 31 Tuesday Nm 21: 4-9 Ps 102: 2-3, 16-21 Jn 8: 21-30 April 1 Wednesday Dn 3: 14-20, 91-92, 95 (Ps) Dn 3: 52-56 Jn 8: 31-42 April 2 Francis of Paola, hermit Gn 17: 3-9 Ps 105: 4-9 Jn 8: 51-59 April 3 Friday Jer 20: 10-13 Ps 18: 2-7 Jn 10: 31-42 April 4 Isidore, bishop Ez 37: 21-28 (Ps) Jer 31: 10-13 Jn 11: 45-56
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Ain’t it good to know you’ve got a friend
piece of art has been hanging in my home for almost 25
years. It’s an original work by Suzi McCord, a former parishioner. In bold colors, it shows planet Earth and standing all around it are 10 children, dressed in attire typical for their region. Each of the kids is smiling and holding hands with one another. It’s entitled, “Friends Around the World.” This coronavirus has reminded me that we all belong to one race: the human race. We’re all in this together, as this story can remind us: Some missionaries in the Philippines set up a croquet game in their front yard. Several of their Agta Negrito neighbors became interested and wanted to join in the fun. The missionaries explained the game and started them out, each with a mallet and ball. As the game progressed, an opportunity came for one of the players to take advantage of another by knocking that person’s ball out of the court. A missionary explained the procedure, but the advice puzzled
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MARK MY WORDS
FATHER MARK GOLDASICH Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.
the Negrito friend. “Why would I want to knock his ball out of the court?” he asked. “So you will be the one to win!” replied the missionary. The man shook his head in bewilderment. Competition is generally ruled out in a hunting and gathering society, where people survive not by competing, but by sharing equally. The game continued, but no one followed the missionaries’ advice. When a player successfully got through all of the wickets, the game
wasn’t over for him. He went back and gave aid and advice to his friends. As the final player moved toward the last wicket, it was still very much a team effort. And finally, when the last wicket was played, the “team” shouted happily, “We won! We won!” (Adapted from a story in “Illustrations Unlimited,” edited by James S. Hewett.) Never before in my life have I felt such an intense bond with my fellow human beings. Not being able to celebrate Mass publicly has sharpened my sense of those Catholics in many mission countries for whom weekly — let alone daily — Mass is a luxury. The “stay at home” directive has made me
acutely aware of what homebound individuals experience daily — a world limited to the confines of their house. Practicing social distancing has taught me the pain and isolation that many families feel in being separated from loved ones. The empty shelves of essential items in stores has highlighted what the “have nots” in our world experience each day. This coronavirus has exposed the lie of the “self-sufficient” person. We need one another to survive. Naturally, we’re aware of and grateful for all of those in the medical profession on the front lines and those searching for a vaccine. But there are also many people that are overlooked — the janitorial staff in hospitals, railroad workers, truck drivers, store clerks and stockers, those in the food service industry, those in the arts community, barbers and hairdressers. And the list could go on and on — whose service I will never take for granted in the future. The other day I saw a letter from Jesuit Father Joseph McShane, president of Fordham in New
York, addressed to the university community. In it, he quoted St. John XXIII from his famous “Moonlight Speech,” delivered the night the Second Vatican Council opened, to a group of pilgrims gathered spontaneously under his window in St. Peter’s Square. The pope’s words — here excerpted — seem especially apropos: “Let us continue to love each other, to look out for each other along the way: to welcome whoever comes close to us and set aside whatever difficulty it might bring. When you head home, find your children. Hug and kiss your children and tell them: ‘This is the hug and kiss of the pope.’ “And when you find them with tears to dry, give them a good word. Give anyone who suffers a world of comfort. . . . And then, all together, may we always come alive — whether to sing, to breathe, or to cry — but always full of trust in Christ, who helps us and hears us, let us continue along our path.” And as one human family, may we finally emerge from these trying times, hand in hand, smiling and shouting, “We won! We won!”
Like Israelites, God calls us, too, to a change of heart
f someone calls us enthusiastic, we most often would take that as a compliment. However, originally the term was employed as an insult. Anglicans in England labeled the newly formed Methodists as such. It meant “showing extravagant religious emotion.” For the prim and proper Anglicans, the Methodists were showing a deplorable lack of decorum. Literally, the word “enthusiastic” derives from the Greek, meaning “filled with God.” In a sense, though, that is the idea behind Sunday’s first reading, Ez 37:12-14. God promises to give the people of Israel new life: “I will put my spirit in you that you may live.” They will be filled with God.
IN THE BEGINNING
FATHER MIKE STUBBS Father Stubbs is the pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.
Those words echo the second creation account: “The Lord God formed man out of the clay of the ground and blew into his nostrils
POPE FRANCIS
the breath of life, and so man became a living being” (Gn 2:7). This creation of the first human being in the Book of Genesis inspires this metaphor in the Book of Ezekiel to describe a spiritual awakening. Here, the resuscitation of the dead does not refer to the physical resurrection of individuals after their death, as
As Italy entered its second week of lockdown, Pope Francis urged Christians to remember the elderly who are suffering not only loneliness but also fear due to the spread of the coronavirus. “Today, I would like us to pray for the elderly who are suffering now in a particular way, with great interior solitude and sometimes great fear. Let us pray that the Lord would be close to our grandfathers and grandmothers — to all the elderly — and give them strength,” the pope said March 17 during a live broad-
we might tend to think. Rather, it means a change of heart, which will transform the entire people of Israel. No longer will they remain dispirited and depressed because of their defeat as a nation, because of their exile in Babylon. Instead, they will become animated, energetic and enthusiastic. They will have new life. This change in the people of Israel will come about not because of any pep talk that God has given. Neither will it require a change in personality. They will not all become extroverts. Rather, this change of heart will result from the firm hope that they will experience on hearing the promise that God has made them: to “bring you back to the
land of Israel.” Similarly, God promises: “I will settle you upon your land.” In fulfilling this promise, God will make clear to the people of Israel his true identity: “You shall know that I am the Lord.” They will recognize God’s power and sovereignty in accomplishing this. They will also recognize God’s compassion and care for the people of Israel. Even though the original circumstances surrounding this prophecy of Ezekiel have disappeared, these powerful words can still give us new life. God’s promise to breathe the spirit into us can inspire us with hope. Those words reveal God’s compassion and care for us as well.
cast of his morning Mass. According to a March 13 report by the Italian National Institute of Health, the median age of men and women who have died from COVID-19 is 80. As of March 16, the Italian health ministry reported that over 2,150 people have died from the virus. The elderly “gave us wisdom, life, history — let us also be near them in prayer,” Pope Francis said at the beginning of his Mass. In his homily, the pope reflected on the day’s Gospel reading from St. Matthew, in which Peter asks Jesus how often must one forgive “if my brother sins against me.” — CNS
MARCH 27, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY
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At the heart of every vocation is a call to love
s I write this article while sequestered in Lawrence, I do so experiencing — along with the rest of the world — a new kind of normal. For the next several weeks, maybe months, we find ourselves entering into a time of imposed social distancing — no sports, eating out, going out, large social gatherings or even public Masses . . . . Talk about March Madness! As one person posted on Facebook, “I never intended to give this much up for Lent!” At the very least, it’s a reminder that there’s a difference between
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hese are strange days. As Americans, we are used to our freedom, which allows us to do what we like, when we like it — even to our own detriment. No questions asked. So, when we find ourselves in this time of restricted freedom, it feels deeply unfamiliar, upsetting and even wrong. But as the fight against the invisible threat of COVID-19 rages around us, here we are: inconvenienced, restricted and, for some of us, alone. And the best thing we can do for ourselves, our loved ones and our neighbors is to stay put. This means that many of our regular routines will have to change as much as humanly possible. It means that conveniences we have come to know, love and expect as our birthright will be severely limited. It means that we will not
VOCATIONS CORNER
FATHER DAN MORRIS Father Dan Morris is the archdiocesan vocations director. You can email him at: dmorris@archkck.org.
choosing how we enter
into this holy season and having that chosen for us. While the first affords us the opportunity to maintain a false sense of control over our lives and avoid things that we probably need to work on, the latter exposes
opportunities that remain for us to exercise a greater faith and trust in God, something that only serves to benefit us in the long run. I’ll be honest. If the first week of this “new normal” is any indication of the possibilities that exist, I think this season of Lent holds the potential to be one of the best ever. Because, for the first time in a long time, many of us truly find ourselves in a desert not of our choosing. It’s a desert that holds the power to remind us of the things that truly matter, such as faith, family and investing in the many people that God has put into our lives.
Also it’s a desert helping us identify and return to those things we may have started taking for granted, such as the Mass, the Eucharist, the sacrament of reconciliation — and, overall, just how we have been choosing to spend the gift that is our time. Lent is a sacred time that Jesus Christ and his church give us to rediscover what it means that we have been made for relationship — first with God, and then with one another. At the heart of which stands an invitation from Jesus Christ to “remember” that we have been created, saved and called to eternally share in the
life of a God who is love. Pray that in just a few short weeks, we find ourselves once again able to gather publicly as the body of Christ to celebrate now with greater appreciation and devotion, the LAST, FIRST and ONLY supper that matters in our lives. It is a supper at which Our Lord will once again give us the “novum mandatum” (“new commandment”), as well as the grace to “love one another, as I have loved you.” Come Easter, may all of us find ourselves recommitted to fully engaging this life and vocation that Jesus Christ has won for us!
Stay home; we are all in this together
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GUEST COMMENTARY This unsigned editorial appeared on March 17 on the website of Our Sunday Visitor, a national Catholic newsweekly based in Huntington, Indiana. It was written by the editorial board.
be able to lead with “I want” but, rather, “we need.” For Catholics, this is both innate and inconceivable. It’s innate in that loving our neighbor as ourself goes to the very heart of what it means to be a Christian. We are meant to put “we need” — the common good — ahead of “I want.” At this moment in time, we are called to restrict our own actions — in every possible way — for the good of others, especially the most vulnerable. The spread of the disease is exponential, and even those who have mild symptoms — or no symptoms at all — may greatly harm others.
Announcement Joseph A. Butler & Son Funeral Home has re-opened as
In an episode of The New York Times podcast “The Daily,” Donald McNeil Jr., a Times reporter who has covered infectious diseases for decades, explains clearly what’s at stake. “Do you have a parent? Do you have a grandparent? Do you want to be the vector that carries that disease to them? Do you know anybody and love anybody who’s older and might be frail? You don’t want your last memory of that person being that
you gave them the virus that killed them. You’ll kick yourself for the rest of your life if you did that.” That should be enough to make any person of goodwill understand what is at stake — and act accordingly. But, yes, some restrictions we now face are inconceivable. In an attempt to do the least harm, most public Masses have been canceled. To say this is painful for many who
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AS THE FIGHT AGAINST THE INVISIBLE THREAT OF COVID-19 RAGES AROUND US, HERE WE ARE: INCONVENIENCED, RESTRICTED AND, FOR SOME OF US, ALONE. AND THE BEST THING WE CAN DO FOR OURSELVES, OUR LOVED ONES AND OUR NEIGHBORS IS TO STAY PUT.
have come to expect and rely on receiving Jesus daily or weekly during the celebration of the Eucharist is an understatement. It seems unfathomable that, in the midst of Lent, with Easter approaching, we might be physically separated from Our Lord. It is our consolation, then, that the Lord is never separated from us. We are reminded that where two or three are gathered, he is there with us. For those of you reading this newspaper, that includes you. You are a part of Our Sunday Visitor’s community, and Jesus is present with you at this very moment and always. You are not alone. In her comments at the White House briefing March 16, Dr. Deborah Birx, White House coronavirus response coordinator, said: “The only thing we have right now is the amazing ingenuity and compassion of the American people.”
Jim Larkin
Sam Garcia
Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. Wanted to buy - Old cars or hot rods. Uncompleted project cars in any condition, with or without titles. Cash buyer. Call (913) 980-3559.
FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) For sale - White Oaks, 5.2 country acreage. Can be subdivided into three properties, multiple uses. Near Preston, MO, Lake of the Ozarks and Pomme de Terre Lake. For more information, send an email to: novafam@liv.com.
“We’re appealing to all Americans to take . . . steps to protect each other and to ensure that the virus doesn’t spread,” she added. “They will only work if every American takes this together to heart and responds as one nation and one people to stop the spread of this virus.” Because of a deadly virus, we are unable to participate in Mass in this country and around the world. We likely will reach a point where we won’t even be able to enter churches. Do not let these drastic measures be in vain. Stay home if you can. Keep your families home. Take every precaution. We are all in this together. Each one of us has a responsibility to the common good, and every decision we make has the potential to impact both ourselves and others — for good or for ill.
For sale - Two side-by-side plots at Mount Moriah South Cemetery. Lot 92, block 2G, spaces 2 and 4. Value: $7200; asking $4000. Call JoAnn at (913) 262-9582.
CAREGIVING Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.benefits ofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591. Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.
Concrete Work
Any type of repair and new work Driveways, Walks, Patios Member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish
Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555
MARCH 27, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Priests use creativity, technology to adapt to pandemic By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
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HAWNEE — About a year ago, Father Kent O’Connor decided to create a personal YouTube channel for his own show, “Tuesday Night Live.” He had no idea at the time how important this would be. The coronavirus pandemic has brought nations to a standstill and created a new way of life: social distancing. People have been advised to keep at least six feet apart, and some governments have ordered citizens to “shelter in place” — or stay home and only go out for basic necessities. Many public events, schools and businesses have closed. Even Catholic churches have ceased public Masses, weddings and funerals. Now, more than ever, people are turning to social media platforms via the internet. The church, too, is learning to adapt through technology. “We’re not doing church as normal, but we are still doing church,” said Father O’Connor, pastor of Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee. “We are doing a lot of learning about what it means to livestream,” he added, “and . . . about technology like Zoom — all these things I didn’t know before. “I had some interest in learning. I have a YouTube show I’ve been doing for a year now, and I’m very grateful that I’ve had a year to practice livestreaming, because now it’s necessary. “I had a little head start on that and worked some of the kinks out over the year and learned how to do livestreaming better.” Father O’Connor and associate pastor Father Nicholas Ashmore have had to scramble to adapt to rapidly changing circumstances and “think outside the box” for creative solutions. To maintain parish life, the priests have maintained a schedule of happenings and offer them to parishioners via social media — most notably, livestreaming on the parish Facebook page. They livestream Sunday Mass and daily Mass (times vary, in English and Spanish), have a “Fireside Chat” daily at 10 a.m., a daily rosary at varying times and the Stations of the Cross every Friday (English at 5:30 p.m.; Spanish at 6:30 p.m.). “The basic premise is to keep things as normal as possible as far as a schedule goes,” said Father O’Connor. All this activity has forced Father O’Connor to upgrade his internet and platforms to premium service. “By the time the article is published, we hope to be on all platforms,” said Father O’Connor. “Currently, most of our activities are on Facebook Live,” he said, “and
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Father Kent O’Connor, pastor of Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee, grants absolution to a penitent whose confession he heard from his car. The coronavirus pandemic has forced priests to get creative in ministering to their flock.
Keeping up with Good Shepherd To find out more of what Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee is doing, go online to: www.gsshawnee.org, or on Facebook at: www.facebook. com/gsshawnee.
that will continue. But we hope to be on YouTube, Twitch, Periscope and others through a simulcast capability.” He’s also been keeping in touch with parishioners personally through email and telephone. But even technology will only take you so far, and administering the sacraments requires an actual presence, like confession. On March 20, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas issued new directives that included the need for social distancing during the sacrament. Father Andrew Strobl, pastor of St. John Paul II Parish in Olathe, is in a particularly difficult situation because his church hasn’t been built yet. The only property the parish owns is the rectory/parish office. He hit upon the idea of hearing confessions through a storm door that
leads into the converted former garage, now the parish office. He called it “Storm of Mercy.” “People are hungry for the sacraments,” said Father Strobl. Even here, technology assists. Parishioners sign up anonymously for a time slot using a website called Sign UpGenius. He heard confessions on March 18, March 22 and March 23. Father O’Connor and Father Ashmore also hit upon a creative way of offering confession. They brainstormed various ideas for inside the church, then thought of setting something up outside, in the parking lots, where people could confess from their cars or standing before a screen. The seal of confession and sacramental proximity would be preserved. “We had a few hours to figure out what to do, because the order went into effect immediately,” said Father O’Connor. “So, we said, ‘Why don’t we do it outside?’ It was a little bit cold outside, so we thought, ‘Why not have people stay in their cars?’ We decided both of us would sit in separate parking lots, one on the east side and one on the west side, and allow people to drive up, maintain their distance and stay in their cars. Or, they could come out as fami-
lies, and the rest of the family stay in the car while one person comes up to the screen — our screens are portable enough to carry outside. If it’s raining, if we can see the person, you can do it by cellphone.” Their trial run was late Saturday afternoon, and it seemed that more people went to confession than usual, he said. “It worked out really smoothly,” said Father O’Connor. “We got a positive response. People love the idea.” This adaptation worked, but maybe not for long. The various city governments of the Greater Kansas City metropolitan area — including Wyandotte and Johnson counties — have issued a stay-at-home order. As of March 24, people will only be allowed to leave their homes to perform “essential activities.” These do not include “weddings, funerals, wakes, memorial services or similar gatherings.” Going to confession is not on the list. “At the moment, we are planning on doing this until the crisis ends — doing it in this way, as long as we are permitted,” said Father O’Connor. “If not, we are brainstorming other possibilities how we can hear confessions and obey the law.”
Grocery stores work to make shopping efficient and safe By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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or many, what was once a simple trip to the grocery store has now become a cause of major stress. The coronavirus outbreak has caused a shift in daily life and shopping habits, and grocery stores around northeast Kansas are doing what they can to make the shopping experience as efficient and safe as possible. Here’s a list of some of the grocery
stores in the area that are reserving special time slots for the vulnerable and offering delivery services for their shoppers. 1. Hy-Vee stores are reserving one hour of shopping time each day for customers who are at a high risk for illness. This includes customers 60 years old or older, expectant mothers and anyone with underlying health conditions. Those who fall into any of these categories can shop at any Hy-Vee location from 7 to 8 a.m. each day of the week.
2. Hen House Market is asking that the first hour its stores are open be reserved for seniors and guests with disabilities. All stores now close at 8 p.m. for the time being, to give employees additional time to sanitize and restock shelves. 3. Price Chopper delivers groceries to you through its online ordering system. Visit: www.mypricechopper delivers.com and fill out the prompts, then start shopping. Once you’re finished, you can schedule the delivery time and an employee will deliver your
groceries then. 4. Walmart has several locations that offer delivery services. Visit the website at: www.grocery.walmart.com/ locations/delivery and click “Kansas,” then choose your city and the store near you. There will be an option to “Start Shopping Now,” and you can start shopping from there and select a delivery time. Check with your grocery store of choice to see if they offer delivery, pickup or special hours during this time.