THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 43, NO. 34 | APRIL 8, 2022
POLAND STEPS UP Olathe parish teams up with Polish church to help Ukrainian refugees By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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LATHE — Father Michael Hermes, pastor of St. Paul Parish here, has a new hero. They’ve never met, and the man is 5,000 miles away. But Father Jan Golembiewski, pastor of Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Otwock, Poland, a city 17 miles outside of Warsaw, has earned the affection of his fellow priest. Since Russia invaded Ukraine, Father Golembiewski has taken dozens of refugees into his rectory, opening his home to women and children fleeing war. “Looking at Poland opening its doors like this is quite amazing,” said Father Hermes. “Then, when I found out this priest opened his rectory, that really touched my heart. “I respect this priest and that he opened his doors. I said, ‘We have to help.’”
A Polish connection Helena Anderson, a St. Paul parishioner and native of Poland, couldn’t sit idly by while friends and relatives in her home country sacrificed to help Ukrainian refugees. “I just felt it on my heart [to do something],” she said. “They’re helping so much back there. Why can we not help here?” “I messaged all my cousins,” she said, and asked, “Do you guys know what’s going on? Do you know somebody >> See “THOSE” on page 4
COURTESY PHOTO
PHOTO BY MOIRA CULLINGS
A child is seen sleeping on a cot inside an elementary school near Warsaw, Poland, where some Ukrainian refugees have found temporary shelter after fleeing the war. Several of the refugees have found further help at Father Jan Golembiewski’s rectory at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Otwock. Helena Anderson, left, her colleague Anna Karasinska and Father Michael Hermes, pastor of St. Paul Parish in Olathe, research a map of Otwock, Poland, where they’ve been working to help Father Jan Golembiewski in his efforts to shelter Ukrainian refugees. The priest’s rectory has welcomed dozens of women and children in need of a home.
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ARCHBISHOP
APRIL 8, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Jesus alone can give us a peace that the world cannot destroy
t. Paul is one of the most fascinating and important figures in Christian history. He was a Jew but enjoyed the status of being a Roman citizen. In St. Paul’s day to be a Roman citizen was considered the gold standard for political and social status. It entitled Paul to rights and privileges that most of his fellow Jews did not possess. We see an example of these privileges in the Acts of the Apostles. When he is in Roman custody in Caesarea because of the accusations made by Jewish leaders, who are actually plotting to assassinate him, Paul appeals to Caesar. The Roman governor suspends the proceedings and grants the request for Paul to be taken to Rome to present his case. Paul studied under Gamaliel, the most respected rabbi of his era and thus was well-educated in Jewish Scriptures and law. Paul was a Pharisee and as such held himself accountable to a very high standard for the observance of Jewish law. For Paul to have Roman citizenship and the opportunity to study under Gamaliel reveals that he came from a family of economic means and social status. Paul was certainly not poor and until his conversion to Christianity was considered an emerging leader within Judaism. Paul possessed a
LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN privileged status both as a Roman citizen and within Judaism because of his elite education regarding Mosaic law. However, in the third chapter of his Letter to the Philippians, Paul declares that he considered his privileged status actually as a liability in comparison to “the supreme good of knowing Christ Jesus my Lord” (3:8). In the same verse, Paul goes on to say: “For his sake I have accepted the loss of all things and I consider them so much rubbish, that I may gain Christ.” During the infancy of Christianity, the life of an apologist for Jesus and his Gospel was, to say the least, difficult and fraught with many dangers. His material needs were met from either his hard physical work as a tentmaker or the freewill offerings from those who had come to know Jesus through his preaching. In Chapter 11 of his
Second Letter to the Corinthians, Paul presents his credentials as a minister of Christ and an authentic teacher of the Christian faith. In humility, Paul acknowledges that to make this claim he is talking like one who is insane (2 Cor 11: 23). What are Paul’s credentials? They are “far greater labors, far more imprisonments, far worse beatings and numerous brushes with death.” Paul continues detailing his resume as a disciple of Jesus: “Five times at the hands of the Jews, I received forty lashes minus one. Three times I was beaten with rods, once I was stoned, three times I was shipwrecked, I passed a night and a day on the deep; on frequent journeys, in dangers from rivers, dangers from robbers, dangers from my own race, dangers from Gentiles, dangers in the city, dangers in the wilderness, dangers at sea, dangers among false brothers; in toil and hardship, through many sleepless nights, through hunger and
thirst, through frequent fastings, through cold and exposure” (2 Cor 11: 24-26). Our English translation of Paul considering everything apart from his friendship with Jesus as rubbish is quite sanitized. The Greek word is much more graphic and is more accurately translated into English words that I prefer not to use in The Leaven. The fact that you are reading this column indicates a high probability you are a very engaged Catholic. I encourage you to enter into the liturgies of Holy Week with a profound gratitude for those who have helped you come to know Jesus, the joy of his Gospel and the beauty of our Catholic faith. We have received, though most do not realize it, what every person on planet Earth desires and longs for in their hearts. We were built to be in communion with God. It is only the divine presence that can satisfy the hunger of our souls. During Holy Week, invite Jesus to penetrate your heart with the depth of his love for you in fresh and more profound ways. The Passion narratives and the Holy Week liturgies reveal to us the depth of God’s love for us. They make clear what God was willing to go through in order that we might know his merciful love and share in his divine and eternal life. Jesus can bring
ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR April 8 Bishops’ advisory group on eucharistic revival April 9 Rosary — Kansas City Pregnancy Clinic, Kansas City, Kansas April 10 Palm Sunday Mass — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas April 12 Chrism Mass — Savior Pastoral Center April 13 Mass — Hayden High School, Topeka April 14 Holy Thursday Mass — Cathedral April 14 Good Friday Service — Cathedral April 16 Easter Vigil Mass — Cathedral April 17 Easter Sunday Mass — Cathedral
peace to our souls. He alone can bring meaning and purpose to the adversities and suffering of our lives. When we surrender our hearts to him and are willing to follow him all the way to Calvary, Jesus can give us a peace that the exterior world cannot destroy or steal. No other world religion believes what we believe — that the Creator of the Cosmos, the Lord of Lords and King of Kings has pursued us and desires to be in communion with us. We believe in a God who entered fully into our human condition. We believe in a God
St. Philippine Duchesne Park to host outdoor Stations of the Cross St. Philippine Duchesne Memorial Park near Centerville, will host an outdoors Stations of the Cross on Good Friday April 15 at noon. Participants are asked to bring a meatless sack lunch to have at the park afterwards. Come visit the site where St. Philippine lived for about a year.
who suffered and died an excruciating and humiliating death on Calvary so that you and I could know the depth of his unconditional and merciful love for us. No human relationship, no worldly recognition, no earthly accomplishment, no physical pleasure, no exhilarating entertainment can compare, can come close to comparing, with the love of God for us revealed in Jesus Christ. Apart from Jesus all else is rubbish. Have a grace-filled Holy Week!
LOCAL NEWS
APRIL 8, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG
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FIGHTING THE GOOD FIGHT
Opponents are hopeful in battle against the death penalty in Kansas By Steve Buckner Special to The Leaven
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OPEKA — Don’t expect a repeal of Kansas’ death penalty law in 2022. Kansas Legislature leaders have informed the Topeka-based Kansas Coalition Against the Death Penalty that two bills backed by the coalition will not be voted on this year. The two bills — one in the House; the other in the Senate — will have been stymied for two years if no action is taken on them. Still, KCADP board member Ron Wurtz remains positive about future progress on the hot-button issue. “[Legislators] have indicated that come next year, they expect it to be reintroduced and we’ll have a better chance of moving it,” he said. “The bill in the House has bipartisan sponsorship. We’re hopeful.” Currently, nine people are on death row in Kansas, said Diane Garlock, a KCADP board member from Leavenworth. The hope that Wurtz professes is grounded in his Catholic faith and current events. “Virginia, one of the oldest and most prolific users of the death penalty, repealed it last year,” he said. “It’s happening across the country. And it will happen in Kansas, too. “If good people stand up and express their beliefs, things will change.”
History and faith Change has served as a constant regarding the death penalty in the United States in the past half-century. The U.S. Supreme Court struck down the death penalty in 1972. In the 50 years since, state legislatures across the nation have voted to bring back the death penalty, with Kansas joining those ranks in 1994. Wurtz, a retired federal assistant public defender, said the Supreme Court’s 1972 decision noted the application of the death penalty was random, like “a lightning strike.” The court pointed out that someone who committed a capital crime at one time or place would be executed, and a person who did the same in a different time and place would not. “It’s just totally unfair,” said Wurtz, who with his wife belongs to Christ the King Parish in Topeka. Sister Therese Bangert, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth and a KCADP board member, said the coalition brings this issue before Kansans and their legislators “with the conviction that Kansas does not need a death penalty law to keep citizens safe and victims remembered and honored.” Naturally, both Sister Therese and Wurtz, draw heavily on their Catholic faith when working for the repeal of the death penalty. “The foundational piece of all Catholic social teaching is the dignity of every human being, from womb to
CNS PHOTO/BRYAN WOOLSTON, REUTERS
Above, Opponents of the death penalty gather at the U.S. Penitentiary in Terre Haute, Indiana, on Jan. 12, 2021. Right, momentum may be changing against the death penalty nationwide. Virginia, one of the oldest users of the death penalty, repealed it last year.
tomb,” said Sister Therese. Wurtz agreed. “To me, I firmly believe that life is not to be taken by anyone other than the giver of the life,” he said. “When I read the New Testament, Christ sat down with sinners, he didn’t sit down with kings.”
Justice and innocence The KCADP formed in response to the Kansas Legislature’s attempts to bring back the death penalty even before it was finally successful in 1994. Sister Therese said KCADP’s mailing list contains 1,235 addresses. Wurtz retired in 2013 and has campaigned heartily against the death penalty ever since. “It is my mission, my ministry, my passion — a stubborn hobby,” he said. “It’s been part of my life so long that it is my life. My kids, when it comes time for my birthday present, give a donation to the Kansas Coalition Against the Death Penalty in my name.” “To me, if you’ve studied the death penalty at all, it is the most unjust sector of the criminal justice system,” Wurtz added. “It is racist, it takes resources away from other places where it could do more good and it discriminates in many factors.”
CNS PHOTO/TAMI CHAPPELL, REUTERS
Sister Therese has witnessed 50 or more people on this journey in the last 30 years who have lost loved ones to homicide. “They say, ‘Don’t kill for our loved ones. It does not respect or honor them at all,’” she said. Garlock explained that no study exists that indicates the death penalty deters people from killing other people. “It does not have an effect in terms of reducing the number of murders,” she said. “The death penalty costs far more than a life in prison. The families of victims are not helped by the death penalty. Findings show it does not change their level of grief, and they have to repeatedly show up in court.” Nationally, 56 elected prosecutors have signed a document against the death penalty, Garlock added. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann put out a statement calling the death penalty President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann
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“immoral” in his former role as chair of the Committee on Pro-Life Activities for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. And Sister Therese added that more than 155 people have been released from death row because they were later found innocent of their alleged crimes. For some people on death row, the findings of innocence came too late. “There have been innocent people who have been executed — not in Kansas, but it has happened across the country,” Wurtz said. He added that Catholics should pray that “true justice and Christ’s mercy be observed in our criminal justice system at large — that it were colorblind, blind to wealth or poverty [and] that everyone receives fair treatment when they run afoul of divine law or criminal law.” Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org
Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org
Social Media Editor/Reporter Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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LOCAL NEWS
APRIL 8, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Those with disabilities face added challenges as wartime refugees A daunting journey
>> Continued from page 1 that needs more help than the others?” Her cousin Milena Makarewicz, who is a therapist, knew a Polish woman named Hanna Litwin, who is the wife of a Polish ambassador in Ukraine. Litwin has become the first point of contact for refugees who arrive in Otwock. She welcomes them to an elementary school that’s serving as a temporary shelter. Then, she works with the city to find the individuals and families more permanent places to stay. One of the places she’s been able to recommend is Father Golembiewski’s rectory. His home was vital for a single mom and her daughter Wiktoria, who has Down syndrome and autism. “Polish people are super-generous,” said Anderson. “[The refugees are] getting a lot of help from Polish people, like apartments and places to stay with [local] families. “But whenever there’s somebody with challenges, it’s harder to find a place that is wheelchair accessible for a family like that.” Yet Father Golembiewski welcomed the mom and daughter with open arms, and his hospitality made it difficult for them to leave. But they ultimately received an offer from another generous person — an apartment free of rent for an entire year and close to where she can receive therapy — and couldn’t say no. The more Anderson learned about similar stories, the more determined she became to get involved. And she knew exactly who to turn to for help.
After Mass one Sunday, Anderson approached Father Agustin Martinez, associate pastor of St. Paul, asking if he knew how she could help Poland. She eventually received a phone call from Father Hermes, who was wondering what she knew about the situation in her native country. When she told him about Father Golembiewski, Father Hermes was moved. “That touched my heart,” he said, “because I’ve got a rectory.” Father Hermes imagined what it would be like for him to open his home to refugees. He asked Anderson how they could help. She got in touch with Father Golembiewski and discovered his greatest need was financial aid for the gas bill. With up to 15 people at a time staying at the rectory, the bill skyrocketed. Father Hermes raised the issue with his informal men’s group, a handful of parishioners who call themselves “The Breakfast Club.” “Two of them pulled out their checkbooks right at the breakfast,” said Father Hermes. Between the group and a few parishioners who approached Father Hermes after he spoke about the rectory during a Spanish Mass, the parish quickly raised more than $1,300 for the Polish rectory’s heating bill.
Home away from home When Father Golembiewski heard the St. Paul community wanted to help his parish, he was humbled. He believes his rectory was destined
COURTESY PHOTO
Wiktoria, a young girl with special needs, plays with toys at the elementary school near Warsaw that’s serving as a temporary shelter for Ukrainian refugees. Wiktoria and her mom were welcomed at Father Jan Golembiewski’s rectory, where they stayed until they found more permanent housing.
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‘The Breakfast Club’
“ THEY CAME TO POLAND FROM PLACES WHERE FIGHTING CONTINUES. THEIR HOMES ARE BEING BOMBED, [AND] THEY ARE FLEEING THE WAR TO ENSURE THE SAFETY OF THEIR CHILDREN. FATHER JAN GOLEMBIEWSKI PASTOR OF IMMACULATE HEART OF MARY PARISH IN OTWOCK, POLAND
to be a shelter from the war. “In January this year, part of the rectory, which had been in a raw state for over 30 years, was finished,” he said. “The completion of the renovation work coincided with the outbreak of war in Ukraine. “I took it as a hint from God, and with the consent of my bishop ordinary, I decided to open the door of the rectory to refugees from Ukraine.” With help from parishioners, Father Golembiewski equipped the newly renovated rooms with furniture and appliances. On March 11, he welcomed his first five families. His home offers five bedrooms, three bathrooms and a kitchen.
“I tried to provide [the refugees] with a sense of security, privacy [and] create a substitute for a home,” said Father Golembiewski. At the time of this publication, the priest was housing 15 people — including a pregnant mother with two kids. Having the additional guests hasn’t been too stressful for him. “I come from a large family,” he said, “so I do not get tired of contact with many people under one roof.” Father Golembiewski gives his guests privacy. They have their own entrance into the rectory, and when he does talk to them, he uses a Vasco electronic translator device. Although the guests are cheerful, the priest said the experiences they’ve had in recent weeks have been daunting. “They came to Poland from places where fighting continues,” he said. “Their homes are being bombed, [and] they are fleeing the war to ensure the safety of their children.” Some of the families have come and gone, moving on to more permanent apartments in Poland and other European countries. But others, he said, are wary to move farther from the Ukraine border. “Everyone misses and wants to go home to their families and friends,” said Father Golembiewski. “For my part,” he continued, “I will do everything to facilitate their acclimatization in Poland, so that they can become independent and lead a safe and peaceful life.”
So far, Poland has welcomed more than 2.3 million Ukrainian refugees. But Anderson worries that helping them in the long run will become tricky. “I think the Polish people did the first part,” she said. “They were really welcoming. But we have to think outside the box.” She and her colleague Anna Karasinska recently started their own business in Kansas City, helping individuals — the majority of them refugees — learn to drive, find employment and become acclimated to American society. Karasinska said that as an immigrant herself who works with refugees, it’s easy to understand the fear the Ukrainian people must be facing. “For somebody from a small town with a sick child to go all the way to France, [where they] don’t speak the language — it’s terrifying,” she said. The refugees are mostly women and children, as the majority of Ukrainian men were required to stay behind and fight. The Otwock school has housed single mothers, as well as a grandmother whose husband couldn’t make the trip because of a handicap. She had to leave him behind. “For me being a mom,” said Anderson, “and trying to imagine that I have to leave my husband behind . . .” The thought left her speechless. The women often don’t know who to trust and face the additional danger of human trafficking on their journey, Anderson explained. Father Hermes, overwhelmed by the personal stories he’s heard, stressed the importance of people like Father Golembiewski. “For a long-term stay, [the refugees] have to be integrated to get work, to be able to drive [and have] kids in school,” he said. “It’s a lot.”
Solidarity Father Hermes hopes his parish’s interest in the Polish rectory will spark a sense of solidarity in other parishes around the archdiocese. He calls to mind St. John Paul II’s encyclical “Sollicitudo Rei Socialis” (‘On Social Concern’), written in 1987. The pope emphasized that neighbors are “the living image of God the Father.” “One’s neighbor must therefore be loved,” the pope wrote, “even if an enemy, with the same love with which the Lord loves him or her; and for that person’s sake, one must be ready for sacrifice, even the ultimate one: to lay down one’s life for the brethren (1 Jn 3:16).” “I’m very proud of our parishioners for wanting to help,” said Father Hermes. “This is a huge issue, and we’re responding with solidarity, which is a Christian virtue. “And that means treating people, even people you don’t know, as your neighbor. This parish, this priest, this rectory, the people there — they’re our neighbors. “We’re going to help. That’s our attitude.” If you’re interested in learning more about the Polish rectory and how you can help, send an email to: giving@ spcatholic.org. All donations will go toward Father Golembiewski’s parish for refugee assistance.
APRIL 8, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG
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GOD’S COUNTRY
LOCAL NEWS
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outh from all corners of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas descended on Prairie Star Ranch, Williamsburg, for the annual Rural Catholic Youth Conference March 25-27. The conference, planned by the Northeast Kansas Rural Youth Council, featured guest speakers, spiritual opportunities, and more. PHOTOS BY KATHRYN WHITE
s Members of the Northeast Kansas Rural Youth Council lead a song with The Mikey Needleman Band. The NEKRYC helped plan and lead the whole weekend.
s From left, Sydney Johnson, Neah Servaes and Helen Harris, members of St. Benedict Parish in Atchison, choose rocks on which they wrote a prayer. Participants were encouraged to pick a stone and inscribe a prayer on it, then drop it into baskets on the stage near the altar. The prayer rocks were then placed at the foot of the altar.
s Speaker Stacey Sumereau expands on the weekend theme of “Your Story Matters.” Sumereau talked about identity — that we are all children of God — on March 26 and finished the weekend off with a discernment talk on March 27. She also offered a spiritual workout during free time March 26 and was present throughout the conference.
t Madi Abbott, far left, Catholic Charities outreach coordinator, staffed the Catholic Charities table where participants could volunteer to make hygiene kits for the Catholic Charities resource bus. Student participants, from left, are: Lincoln McIntire from Holy Trinity Parish in Paola, and Emma Jones and Bailey Aubert, both from Immaculate Conception Parish, St. Marys.
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LOCAL NEWS Dan and Peg (Carney) Lenzen, members of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 16 with a family dinner. The couple was married on April 15, 1972, at St. Patrick Church, Perry, Iowa. Their children are: Heather Lenzen Tow, Mark Lenzen and Mary Lenzen Stauffer. They also have four grandchildren.
APRIL 8, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Dave and Denise Staudenmyer, members of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, Overland Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with a trip to Hawaii in April. The couple was married on April 8, 1972, at Queen of the Holy Rosary. Their children are: Alicia Hart, Spencer Staudenmyer, Tara Souders and Ashley Siebert. They also have 12 grandchildren.
ACROSS 1 Tap in lightly 5 Traveler’s aid 8 End 12 Voiced 13 Priest 15 __ mater 16 Festive 17 Publish 18 Dregs 19 A wife of David 21 Hosts 23 First husband of Bathsheba 25 Eastern st. 26 Heed 28 Sweet potato 30 Word interpreted by Daniel 33 Roman title 35 Dad’s mate 37 Royalty 39 Danish krone (abbr.) 40 Cain fled to this land 42 Furniture wood 44 Miner’s goal 45 Confident 47 Flying rodent 49 Burrowing rodent 51 One of the Gospels 53 Pen brand 55 Secret of Samson’s strength COPYRIGHT © BY CLIFF LEITCH, THE CHRISTIAN BIBLE REFERENCE SITE, WWW.CHRISTIANBIBLEREFERENCE.ORG. USED BY PERMISSION
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Correction In the March 25 issue of The Leaven, an article about the relics of St. Bernadette touring the United States named the wrong church as the place hosting the relics. The relics will be displayed at St. Michael the Archangel Church, 14251 Nall, Leawood, from June 30 to July 3. The Leaven regrets the error. The full schedule of the relics’ U.S. tour can be found online at: stbernadetteusa.org.
Delivery service __ con carne First Christian martyr Amount that a room can hold Journalist’s question Suit Otherwise Plain Popular condiment Connection Crank up Furrow Wood
DOWN 1 Roman garment 2 Middle East dweller 3 African country 4 Afflictions sent against Egypt 5 Misplace 6 American Cancer Society (abbr.) 7 Saul, later 8 Sea of __ 9 Fake butter 10 Last word of a prayer 11 Young girl 13 Roman eight 14 Swamp plant 20 White
22 24 26 27 29 31 32 33 34 36 38 41 43 46 48 50 52 54 57 59 60 61 62 63 65 66 67 70
Precious stone Youngest son of Noah Ship’s caulking Baseball player Yogi Cow interjection Mother-in-law of Ruth Mistake Disks Fleece Mayan language Allow Pat Painter Freida Burst out Facial twitch Clothing (KJV) Km/h The Messiah Southeast by south Small particle Southwest by west Siamese Make Approach Ice sheet U.S. Department of Agriculture Onion-like vegetable Respiratory disease
Solution on page 11
SCRIPTURE
APRIL 8, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG
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How can we, too, be blessed as a peacemaker? By Effie Caldarola Catholic News Service
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lessed are the peacemakers, for they will be called children of God.” — Mt 5:9
CNS PHOTO/COURTESY HOMEBOY INDUSTRIES
Jesuit Father Greg Boyle, founder of Homeboy Industries in Los Angeles, poses for a photo with trainees in this undated photo. Homeboy Industries is a project that works with former gang members in the Los Angeles area and helps them move from violence and hostility to peaceful and productive lives.
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When Jesus said this as he spoke from the hilltop, what did he mean? An ordinary first-century Jewish citizen could do little to bring political or military peace to the territory of Palestine, conquered and subjugated by a sprawling empire in faraway Rome. Did Jesus have a more personal mission in mind for the people to whom he spoke? Peace, after all, starts with us, but most important, it must start within us. So what do Jesus’ words mean for us today, this call to be peacemakers, especially for those of us who have more influence on our society than a firstcentury Palestinian did? It was in 1972 that Pope Paul VI, in his World Day of Peace message, spoke words that have been memorialized ever since: “If you want peace, work for justice.” Peace begins within us, and calls us to service for peace and justice. Where do we turn as Catholics to find peace and to be peacemakers? When we look at our families, our communities and our nation, we can usually spot the peacemakers because they are, like Pope Francis, people of hope. They are listeners, people of positive attitudes, people who see a problem and try to solve it with humanity and love. Jesuit Father Greg Boyle is a great example of a peacemaker. The priest is the founder of Homeboy Industries, a project that works with former gang members in the Los Angeles area and helps them move from violence and hostility to peaceful and productive lives. Father Greg’s books combine wisdom with great humor. “Tattoos on the Heart,” his first book, introduces you to the remarkable people who have risen above tough environments, scarred childhoods and violent backgrounds to find good lives. Father Greg inspires us to see the possibility within people and not stereotypes. Sister Norma Pimentel, of the Missionaries of Jesus, is another Catholic who embodies the words of Pope Paul VI. She labors at the U.S.-Mexico border to help the thousands of migrants who seek refuge in the United States. As the executive director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley in Brownsville, Texas, Sister Norma has become a national symbol of the peacekeeping to which Christians are called
“ PEACE . . . STARTS WITH US, BUT MOST IMPORTANT, IT MUST START WITHIN US. SO WHAT DO JESUS’ WORDS MEAN FOR US TODAY, THIS CALL TO BE PEACEMAKERS? in the refugee crisis. Mercy Sister Kathleen Erickson spent 18 years at the border, and later, stationed in Omaha, Nebraska, helped establish a group there called “Mothers and Others: Justice and Mercy for Immigrants.” This group provided a witness on a busy Omaha street corner every Thursday morning, calling attention to the plight of migrants, especially during the time children were being separated from their parents at the border. They provided opportunities for citizens to volunteer at the border, to be firsthand participants in the work of peace and justice.
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Jack Jezreel, a Catholic layman, is the founder and now senior adviser to JustFaith Ministries. JustFaith was created to help people of faith respond to, as Jezreel writes, “the life-changing and world-changing call of the Gospel to help heal the world.” Over 65,000 people have participated in JustFaith programs since 2001. A visit to their website — justfaith.org — reveals a wealth of programs on racial justice, eco-justice, migration and nonviolence. Parishes or faith-sharing groups can sign up, facilitators are trained, all at a minimal cost. In these times of national discord, an eight-session program, “Want to Talk? Communication Tools for Divided Times,” can help us find peace in our communities, neighborhood and families. Another heroic peacemaker in our midst is Sister of St. Joseph Helen Prejean. After serving as a spiritual adviser to a death row inmate, Sister Helen launched a career of working to abolish the death penalty in the U.S. What about our role as world peacemakers? This year, so many issues dominated the news that it was almost overlooked when Congress passed the secondlargest defense spending budget in history (adjusted for inflation).
When the U.S. withdrew from earlier wars, we experienced a “peace dividend” of reduced defense spending. But as we left Afghanistan and scaled back in Iraq, no such dividend has come about. How does a Catholic respond to this, particularly as the U.S. ramps up its nuclear arsenal? The Catholic group Pax Christi USA involves tens of thousands of laypeople, religious and clergy who look at issues of war and peace, and study, pray and take action. They have labored in the U.S. for 50 years and have existed internationally for over 70 years, founded in France following the devastation of World War II. As followers of Jesus, we are impelled to examine and speak out about the issue of war, the escalating arms race and our participation in the arms trade. We look to Dorothy Day, whose cause for canonization has been presented in Rome. Day, who died in 1980, lived a life of poverty and espoused pacifism, an unpopular and challenging stand for her day and our own. Peacemakers are often called to be countercultural and to strive for peace as children of God.
REVS ARE BACK AND RUNNIN’ R
Photos by Kathryn White
unnin’ with the Revs is back after a two-year hiatus because of the COVID-19 pandemic. The first game was played March 21 at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park. The game, which features archdiocesan priests and seminarians teaming up with local high school and middle school boys, has long been an entertaining affair. This night, an estimated crowd of 250 saw the Revs’ white team beat the Revs’ black squad 85-77. The next Runnin’ with the Revs game will be at 7 p.m. on April 25 at Hayden High School in Topeka.
s GAME ON
Archdiocesan vocations director Father Dan Morris (left) huddles up with his team as he gets ready to lead them onto the court for the second half.
u EYES OPEN
Father Quentin Schmitz, pastor of St. Gregory the Great Parish in Marysville, and St. Malachy Parish, Beattie, tries to decide whether to pass the ball or drive to the hoop.
s FLOP?
Was it a charge or a flop? Father Mitchel Zimmerman, chaplain/director of the St. Lawrence Catholic Cam Center at the University of Kansas, lies on the floor after the charge/flop as teammate Jack Elder (in black) o a hand up. Meanwhile, William Anderson (in white) laughs at the theatrics. For the record — it was a flop.
t RUN AND GUN
Seminarian prospect Landry Weber, a Bishop Miege alum and former K-State football player, leads a fast break in his old gym.
s REBOUND
Father Viet Nguyen, associate pastor of Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, tries to position himself for a rebound on a missed free throw.
mpus offers
s IT’S UP
Friar Martin of the Immolated Lamb Jesus, PJC, takes aim and lets a free throw fly as the players and spectators look on.
t YOUR TURN
Father Kent O’Connor goes to the stands and offers the basketball to Sister Maria Delores, PJC, to shoot a free throw. She gave it her best shot but ultimately missed the free throw.
APRIL 8, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG
NATION
10
It’ll take more than housing to eradicate homelessness By Mark Pattison Catholic News Service
W
ASHINGTON (CNS) — Homelessness has been a persistent problem in the United States since the late 1970s. Then, people who had been in mental hospitals, asylums and the like were “de-institutionalized.” Some were placed in group homes if those living near them didn’t raise too much of a ruckus. The others, lacking life skills, money or both, started showing up on city streets. Now, those problems continue, augmented by drug and alcohol abuse, spiraling housing prices and the lifting of eviction moratoriums imposed during the start of the coronavirus pandemic two years ago. It takes a multipronged effort to make a serious dent in homelessness, according to those who have spent much of their working lives trying to end this scourge one household, one person at a time. “The biggest changes I’ve seen, when I started 23 years ago, homelessness was mostly older males, chronic and inebriate, riding the rails,” said Rob McCann, CEO of Catholic Charities Eastern Washington, serving the Diocese of Spokane. “Now, most of our homeless are 20 years old with significant behavior and health struggles.” The average age of a homeless person when McCann started was 50-55. Now, it’s 22. He said things started shifting around 2005-06, and the Great Recession of 2008 did people no favors. “It changed the landscape quite dramatically, and it’s only gotten worse,” McCann told Catholic News Service in a phone interview. “As we’re having this phone call, someone in Spokane is becoming homeless.” Homelessness in the Diocese of Santa Rosa, California, is “one of the largest issues in the [San Francisco] Bay Area in particular,” said Jamie Lynn Holmes, chief program officer for
CNS PHOTO/SHANNON STAPLETON, REUTERS
A homeless teenager in New York City holds a sign March 23. Catholic Charities in the diocese. Holmes estimates there are about 3,000 in the diocese whom she calls “underhoused,” with two-thirds of them sleeping on “literally unsheltered hillsides,” she said. Catholic Charities works in tandem with cities, counties and privatesector partners to address the issue. “Hospitals are a larger partner in particular here locally. Our partner Catholic hospitals have similar values and alignment around these issues,” Holmes said. “The situation is becoming more and more discussed and more and more front of mind.” She added, “A big part of what we do is case management. We just can’t place people in a home and think it’s all better.” Holmes said, “We are not about managing homelessness. We are about abolishing homelessness . . . turning 3,000 into zero. We need housing. We need to build, and we need to create housing.” The will is there, she added, but “it’s complex, especially building in California. It’s expensive, but at the end of the day, it’s much more expensive to not provide these services.” “We serve 65,000 homeless,
460 beds a night are filled within our shelters,” said John Westervelt, CEO of Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Newark, New Jersey, which serves the four counties that make up the archdiocese. “It depends on the shelter. They can stay up to 60 days, depending on the funding we get from the federal government and the Newark government.” Westervelt said, “Even Newark, where it used to be cheap to live, it’s hard to find a one-bedroom rental for less than $1,600 a month. With affordable housing, he said, “you can get people off the shelter and the streets.” But that can’t be the be-all and end-all. “If you don’t have wraparound services,” Westervelt said, “they’re going to be in a real fix.” Hope and a Home in the District of Columbia — where city officials have taken heat for ridding the streets of homeless encampments without having somewhere all those displaced can go — has had a successful track record. And a good track record means eligibility for more grants to serve more people. The secular agency’s direction was greatly influenced by two of its early dynamos, both of whom were Menno-
nite, according to Rosa Mooten, its operations director. The goal is to transition formerly homeless families into sustainable apartment living in three years, although the eviction moratorium had stretched that out to five years. But with a city mandate to include affordable housing units in new residential construction, buying a house may be possible, as each household’s plan includes squirreling away money for a down payment. Hope and a Home starts with 20 families, a larger number than before due to its track record. Another 13 families, whom Mooten called “graduates,” are still supported with rent money by Hope and a Home, as many mothers lost their day care jobs at the start of the pandemic. “Others we connect through the education sector. We support them with college, either the adults or their children,” Mooten said. All in all, 64 families get help now. Families set a goal, while Hope and a Home staff check in to see how they’re faring on their household budget. “By the time they leave us, they should leave with a GED. If they have a high school diploma, by the time they’re ready to leave us, they should be in a vocational trade,” she said, or if in college, they should be working on an associate’s or bachelor’s degree. But everything is easier said than done, it seems. In Spokane, the number of chronically homeless runs 500-700. “That’s a solvable, manageable problem,” McCann said. “In Seattle, where you have 5,000-7,000 on the streets, it’s much harder. There’s a way, but it’s much harder.” “We’ve ended homelessness for about 600 people every year,” said Holmes in Santa Rosa. Some of the hard part, she acknowledged, is “the complexity of the funding makes it a challenge, but we are well-versed in that and what we’re trying to accomplish.” A sanctioned homeless encampment is seen near City Hall in San Francisco May 19, 2020, amid the coronavirus pandemic.
CNS PHOTO/DRONE BASE, REUTERS
CALENDAR
APRIL 8, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG
PANCAKE BREAKFAST St. Patrick Parish (center) 1086 N. 96th St., Kansas City, Kansas April 10 from 8 - 11 a.m.
The St. Patrick’s Knights of Columbus will host a breakfast featuring pancakes, sausage, scrambled eggs, and biscuits and gravy. The cost is a freewill offering.
‘JUXTA CRUCEM CUM MARIA: STANDING NEXT TO MARY AT THE FOOT OF THE CROSS’ Holy Angels Parish (main church) 15408 Leavenworth Rd, Basehor April 11 - 13 at 6:30 p.m.
The Holy Week retreat will be directed by Father Robert Conroy, a priest of the Missionaries of Charity Fathers in Tijuana, Mexico. This retreat offers an opportunity to surrender ourselves to the maternal protection of Mary so that we remain faithful to her crucified son Jesus. For more information and a full liturgy schedule, including Father Conroy’s Holy Week homilies, call the parish office at (913) 724-1665 or visit the website at: www.HolyAngelsBasehor.org. The cost is a freewill donation benefiting the work of the Missionaries of Charity Fathers.
‘THE MANY WAYS OF PRAYER: EMBRACING THE EUCHARIST’ Keeler Women’s Center 759 Vermont Ave., Kansas City, Kansas April 11 from 2 - 3 p.m.
Learn different ways to pray to God, including lectio divina, visio divina, journaling and prayerful art. Attend in-person or by Zoom. Register by calling or texting (913) 689-9375. You can also register by going online to: kwc@mountosb. org, scroll and click on “Full List of Keeler Women’s Center Offerings” then scroll down to “The Many Ways of Prayer” to register. There is no cost to attend.
CATHOLIC ESTATE AND GIFT PLANNING WORKSHOP Curé of Ars Parish (Father Burak Room) 9401 Mission Rd., Leawood April 20 from 11 a.m. - noon
Jon Stanfield, an estate planning attorney, will explain how to create your estate plans, blending gifts to family and charity to create a lasting legacy using wills, trusts and the U.S. tax code. Walk-ins are welcome; RSVPs preferred to (913) 6470465 or send an email to: plannedgiving @archkck.org.
‘POPE FRANCIS’ VISION FOR THE CHURCH IN AN AGE OF PANDEMICS’ Rockhurst University (Arrupe Hall Auditorium) 5151 Troost Ave., Kansas City, Missouri April 22 from 7 - 9 p.m.
The Ignatian Spirituality Center of Kansas City invites you for an evening with Professor J. Matthew Ashley of the University of Notre Name. Ashley’s presentation is part of our 2022 Ignatian Weekend. In this evening presentation, Ashley will share how Ignatian spirituality provides a lens for understanding how Pope Francis exercises his Petrine ministry today. For more information and to register for this free lecture, see Ignatian Weekend 2022 at: www.
ignatiancenterkc.org/events.
FIELD DAY Benedictine College (Murphy Recreation Center) 1020 N. 2nd St., Atchison April 23 from 9 a.m. - noon
This will be a fun morning of physical activity for families and individuals of all ability levels, ages 3 and up. Register online at: fieldday2022.wixsite.com/ atchison for this free event.
BISHOP MIEGE AUCTION Bishop Miege High School 5041 Reinhardt Dr., Roeland Park April 23 at 6 p.m.
Bishop Miege will hold its 49th annual auction “Back to Miege,” along with dinner, cocktails and a dance. Come and enjoy this evening of fun.
LINGER OVER BREAKFAST St. Teresa’s Academy, Windmoor Center 5600 Main St., Kansas City, Missouri April 23 from 9 - 11 a.m.
The talk this year is: “From trauma to transformation: COVID-19 healing in all of our lives” with Sister Patrice Coolick, PA, MA, CSJ, and Sister Rosario Bobadilla, MA, LMFT, LPC, CSJ. The effects of COVID have pervaded our society. In addition to our physical and mental health, these effects have transformed our workplace, education, and social, volunteer and daily lives. Join us as we acknowledge the trauma of what we continue to go through, sharing how to heal and transform our experiences into a brighter future. Register online at: Linger Over Breakfast. The cost is $15.
RETREAT FOR MARRIED COUPLES Holy Spirit Parish 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park April 23 & 24
The Living in Love retreat is back in person and better than ever! Now called the Weekend Immersion offered by EverMore in Love, this weekend will help married couples experience the wonder of being more in love. More information and a special coupon code for our archdiocese can be found online at: www.archkck.org/ livinginlove.
FREE INFORMATION SESSION ON END-OF-LIFE PLANNING Church of the Ascension (St. Matthew/St. Mark Room) April 26 from 12:45 - 2 p.m.
Learn about the Catholic Circle of Protection of end-of-life planning during this session, sponsored by Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas. There will be a free box lunch and beverages as we discuss the importance of choosing a Catholic cemetery, preplanning and the streamlined process to pre-arrange funerals and burials/ entombments. Preregister by calling (913) 371-4040 or send an email to: balonzo@ cathcemks.org.
BEGINNING EXPERIENCE WEEKEND Savior Pastoral Center 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas April 29 - May 1
The Beginning Experience Weekend is for persons who are separated, divorced or widowed. This program helps men and women work through the grief process associated with the end of a marriage and move into the future with new hope. For more information, go online to: beginningexperiencekc.org or call Maria at (913) 314-9844.
WORLDWIDE MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER EXPERIENCE Savior Pastoral Center 12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas April 29 - May 1
During this joyful Easter season, as we celebrate the risen Christ and the promise of new life, come away and tend to the garden of you marriage. For more information, visit the website at: www.wwme.org, and follow us on Facebook. To apply for the weekend, call Deacon Tony and Barb Zimmerman at (816) 741-4066 or send an email to: tonybarbz@prodigy.net.
11 ‘REVIVE’ - CAMP TEKAKWITHA’S ANNUAL WOMEN’S RETREAT Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg April 29 - May 1
The retreat begins on April 29 at 6 p.m. and ends on May 1 at 1 p.m. There will be space to relax, rejuvenate and reconnect. There will be speakers that inspire you, sacraments that draw you into the heart of Christ and time for fellowship with other women. There will also be free time, friendship, laughter and joy. To register, go online to: archkck.org/camp and scroll down and click on “Women.”
SUDS & SCHOLARSHIPS Boulevard Brewing Company 2501 Southwest Blvd. Kansas City, Missouri May 2 from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Join us for our annual benefit for the Holy Name of Jesus School student scholarship fund. We need your help to support the vibrant, faith-filled community at Holy Name in Kansas City, Kansas, where 86% of students rely on scholarships to attend. There will be dinner, beer and musical entertainment by The Hamptones. Learn more and purchase tickets online at: one. bidpal.net/holyname22/welcome.
FINISH FAITHFUL Holy Spirit Parish 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park May 14 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
The Finish Faithful conference will feature four dynamic speakers on preplanning for end-of-life, both spiritual and practical. Register online at: archkck.org/ finishfaithful-registration or call Terri Lynn in the archdiocesan office of stewardship and development at (913) 647-0365.
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS SUMMER CAMP St. Thomas Aquinas High School 11411 Pflumm Rd., Overland Park May - August
There will be a variety of camps for students entering grade K - 8 to explore. The summer camps give students the chance to discover their potential in both sports and other activities. Registration and further information is available online at: www.stasaints.net/summercamps. Questions? Call the student life office at (913) 319-2416 or send an email to: btriggs@stasaints.net.
Crossword solution
THE SHEPHERD’S VOICE 8:30 a.m. Sundays on 92.9 FM and KEXS AM 1090 Encore Monday at 11:30 a.m.
CLASSIFIEDS
12 EMPLOYMENT Elementary school principal - Holy Spirit Catholic School in Overland Park is seeking an individual with demonstrated spiritual, academic and advancement leadership skills for the 2022-23 school year. The principal plays a critical role in safeguarding and promoting our school’s aim to lead students to encounter and grow as disciples of Jesus Christ and directing the school’s activity — learning, teaching, culture, finances and formation — toward that goal. The principal is responsible for ministering to staff, students and families. The principal is responsible for administering the school’s education program: supervising teaching, administrative and support staff; implementing archdiocesan curriculum guidelines and standards; and supervising and directing all other programs and services provided at or by the school. Applicants for principal must be a practicing Catholic, understand the mission of Catholic schools, and have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Apply online at: www.archkckcs.org and send resume and credentials to Superintendent Dr. Vince Cascone, Catholic schools office, via email to: vcascone@ archkckcs.org. Position open until filled. Part-time companions needed - Perfect job for any kind-hearted, energetic person wanting to be a team player in a small growing family company. Must have reliable transportation. Job entails driving clients to appointments and running errands. Person must be personable, able to talk, do puzzles, play cards and entertain. We are not a hands-on caregiving company. Some clients may be standby assist. Driving around metro area may be required. Trip charge or mileage also given. Drug, background checks and COVID vaccine are mandatory. Call Jen at (913) 530-1795. Clarkson Companion Care. Seventh/eighth grade math teacher - St. Ann School, Prairie Village, is seeking a seventh grade homeroom and math teacher for the 2022-23 school year. This teacher will also teach eighth grade math classes through a rotation. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs.org and email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org. The city of Lenexa is hiring - We are looking for fulltime, part-time, seasonal and summer youth workers. Full-time opportunities: park maintenance (turf/ groundskeeper); public works (street and storm water); and custodian/building services. Part-time opportunities available at our recreational center: child watch attendant; fitness attendant; activities attendant; recreational program instructor - preschool. Summer positions: pool cashier - minimum age 15; lifeguards; head dive coach; camp counselors; and head camp counselors. If you are interested or know of anyone that may have an interest in working for the city of Lenexa, visit our website at: www.lenexa.com/jobs for additional information and to apply. Seventh/eighth grade science teacher - St. Ann School, Prairie Village, is seeking a seventh grade homeroom and science teacher for the 2022-23 school year. This teacher will also teach eighth grade science classes through a rotation. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs. org and email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv. org. Elementary school secretary - Sacred Heart Catholic School in Ottawa is seeking an individual with a wide range of skills to run a welcoming and organized school office. Please contact Lisa Blaes at (785) 242-4297 or send a resume to: lblaes@sacredheartottawa.eduk12.net. Seventh/eighth grade ELA teacher - St. Ann School, Prairie Village, is seeking an eighth grade homeroom and ELA teacher for the 2022-23 school year. This teacher will also teach seventh grade ELA classes through a rotation. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs.org and email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org. Teacher - Holy Spirit School, Overland Park, is seeking a certified middle school math teacher (pre-algebra, algebra and geometry) for the 2022-23 school year. Please contact Michele Watson at: mwatson@hscatholic.org if you are interested in learning more about this position. Fourth grade teacher - St. Ann School, Prairie Village, is seeking a fourth grade teacher for the 2022-23 school year. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs.org and email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org. Fifth/sixth grade teacher - St. Ann School, Prairie Village, is seeking a sixth grade homeroom and ELA teacher for the 2022-23 school year. This teacher will also teach fifth grade ELA classes and sixth grade reading classes through a rotation. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs.org and email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org. Technology teacher - St. Ann School, Prairie Village, is seeking a part-time technology teacher, approximately 20 hours per week, for computer and keyboarding skills for grades K - 6. This teacher will also potentially work with middle school students in elective courses. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs.org and email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org. Physical education teacher - St. Ann School, Prairie Village, is seeking a physical education teacher for the 2022-23 school year. Interested applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs. org and email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org.
Director of marketing and communications - The monastic community of St. Benedict’s Abbey is seeking a full-time director of marketing and communications to lead and oversee communications initiatives that effectively describe and promote the abbey and its mission. To learn more and apply, go online to: Kansasmonks. org/jobs or call (913) 360-7908. Business development specialist - Servpro is an industry leader in cleaning and restoration, and we currently have an opening for a business development specialist in the Lawrence/Topeka area. The successful candidate will be self-motivated, organized and a personable individual to market the services that our company offers, actively search for new accounts and manage existing accounts. This position will also become active in the community and local networking associations. Marketing/sales experience is preferred and/or experience in the insurance claims/property management fields. This position is full time with bonuses. Send resumes to: SP9721@servpro-lawrenceottawa.com. Maternity home residential mentor - Hiring for all shifts. Do you have the passion to serve mothers and babies? Nativity House KC is a nonprofit maternity home in Kansas City, Kansas. Our mission is to provide help, hope, healing, shelter and services for adult pregnant women experiencing homelessness in a faith-based environment. Essential duties and responsibilities: provide ongoing support services and spiritual mentorship to mothers and their new babies; work with mentees to progress toward an individualized service; lead devotions, prayer and/or book study; lead parenting, budgeting and other classes as a part of curriculum; participate in assigned team meetings and/or consultations, staff development and training; provide all assigned paperwork, completely, accurately and on time. Requirements: high school diploma; GED or higher; understanding of and sensitivity to homeless women with children; understanding and support of a trauma-informed system of care; valid and clean driver’s license; basic computer skills; be self-directed and flexible to meet the needs of the clients; ability to support the agency’s mission and philosophy and demonstrate sensitivity to cultural diversity and workplace harmony. Experience with infant and child care preferred. If interested, email: lkabuya@nativityhousekc.org. Child care workers - John Paul II Preschool/Child Care is seeking fun-loving, energetic individuals, age 18 or over, to work in our summer program. Responsibilities include: interacting with children during indoor and outdoor play; supervising children on field trips; serving snacks; and helping to maintain the classroom space. Great job for a college student! Full and part-time positions available, with the opportunity for year-round employment if desired. Competitive wages based on education and experience. Contact Donna at: dhogue@ archkckcs.org for more information or to apply. Catholic Charities is hiring - We have both part-time and full-time positions available at our TurnStyles stores! Currently hiring for: assistant manager. Earn up to $17 per hour based on experience. Have a great work/life balance. Serve neighbors in need! www. catholiccharitiesks.org. Director of communications and digital engagement - The Church of the Nativity in Leawood is seeking to recruit a full-time, dynamic, creative and consistently visible director of communications and digital engagement. The director will collaborate with the pastor, parish staff and parishioners in creating and implementing a comprehensive vision for communications and digital presence for the parish, including social media; website; weekly bulletin and emails; livestream ministry; content creation; and print materials. Familiarity with Adobe InDesign and database software preferred. Send resume and letter of interest to Mark Hyde, business manager, at: mark@kcnativity.org. Middle school English/language arts teacher - St. Benedict Catholic School in Atchison is seeking a grades 6 - 8 ELA teacher for the 2022-23 school year. This individual must possess a Kansas teaching certification (or be in the process of gaining necessary licensure); endorsement in English/language arts is a plus. Interested candidates are asked to email Helen Schwinn, principal, at: hschwinn@stbenedict.eduk12.net or call (913) 3673503 during regular school hours. Youth ministers for junior and senior high parishioners - Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, Overland Park, is seeking a part-time youth minister for junior and senior high youth parishioners. This person will work alongside the office of religious education and our parish school staff to engage our youth in meaningful, dynamic programming. The youth minister will coordinate, help develop and supervise teams of volunteers to carry out programs, activities and events designed to engage the youth and their parents of this parish. This individual will perform a wide variety of activities to direct and coordinate a strong faith-filled youth ministry program aimed at helping youth grow as disciples of Jesus Christ, acting as liaison and presence to our youth community by providing support, resources and a prayerful presence to this ministry. We are looking for that unique individual who has the spirit and heart for ministry as well as the ability to organize and run a comprehensive, fun, engaging ministry. BA in theology, pastoral ministry or related field; knowledge of Catholic teachings, catechesis and documents on youth ministry are required. Applicants must be Virtus-trained. Please send your resume to Father William Bruning, Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park, KS 66204 or email to: wmbruning@gmail.com.
Live-in or live-out caregivers (assistants) - Looking for purposeful volunteer or paid work? Live-in or liveout caregivers (assistants) needed for all shifts with adults with intellectual disabilities. L’Arche Heartland has five residential group homes that house a max of five individuals, located in old Overland Park. Duties include but are not exclusive to: be responsible for the overall growth and direction of the home; foster appropriate relationships between all members of the home; foster positive and supportive relationships with families and professionals; attend community nights and other community events. Qualifications: a person who has lived or worked in a community with persons with disabilities preferred. A person with good organizational skills; good communication skills; and the ability to deal with conflict objectively. Have a valid driver’s license and a high school diploma or equivalent. Pass all required background checks; pass required pre-employment readiness evaluation. All training provided after hire: CPR/first aid; medication administration; rights and responsibilities — abuse, neglect and exploitation; emergency preparedness and documentation. Hourly pay for live-out assistants dependent on experience: range from $13.50-$15/hour. Perks for full-time employees: eight paid holidays; flexible hours available; health, dental, vision insurance benefits (premiums paid by L’Arche Heartland), 401(k) and PTO. Email letter of inquiry, contact information and experience to: heartland@larcheks.org. Middle school science teacher - St. Benedict Catholic School in Atchison is seeking a grades 6 - 8 science teacher for the 2022-23 school year. This individual must possess a Kansas teaching certification (or be in the process of gaining necessary licensure); endorsement in a specific science is a plus. Interested candidates are asked to email Helen Schwinn, principal, at: hschwinn@stbenedict.eduk12.net or call (913) 3673503 during regular school hours. Lead preschool teachers - St. Ann Young Child Center is currently seeking lead preschool teachers for the 2022-23 school year. The lead teacher is responsible for creating lesson plans and implementing teacherled activities. All potential candidates should have a love for children and for maintaining the principles of Catholic education. We offer competitive wages based on education level and experience. If you are interested, please contact Cara Schwarz, preschool director, at (913) 362-4660 and/or send resume and cover letter to: cschwarz@stannpv.org. School counselor - Holy Spirit Catholic School is currently seeking a school counselor. Applicants must hold a current Kansas counseling license. Previous experience working in an elementary school is preferred. To apply go to: archkck.org/catholicschools/employment/ and click on school counselor application. You may also send a letter of interest along with a copy of your resume to: Michele Watson at: mwatson@hscatholic. org. Full and part-time assistant preschool teachers – St. Ann Young Child Center is currently seeking assistant preschool teachers for the 2022-23 school year. Interested candidates should have a love for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. We offer competitive wages based on education level and experience. If you are interested, please contact Cara Schwarz, preschool director, at (913) 362-4660 and/or send resume and cover letter to: cschwarz@stannpv.org. Accountant - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is seeking an organized, passionate accountant. This position is responsible for managing housing grant reconciliations and reimbursement submissions, and the document analysis and recording of cash receipts. Bachelor’s degree in accounting preferred. Apply online at: www.catholiccharitiesks.org/careers. Director of faith formation - Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park is seeking candidates for the position of director of faith formation. This full-time, exempt employee is responsible for providing leadership, oversight and direction in the design, development, implementation and evaluation of initial and lifelong faith formation. This includes children’s catechesis; sacramental preparation; youth and young adult ministry; and ongoing adult formation. Preferred skills include: a bachelor’s degree in a field commensurate with the qualifications of the position and experience in managing a religious education office; recruitment, training and supervision of all program staff and volunteers; planning programs for both youth and adult; and evaluation of program curriculum. Bilingual skills in English and Spanish would be beneficial but not required. Applicant will be a practicing Catholic in full communion with the church. Compensation will be commensurate with the candidate’s education and work experience. To apply, please send resume to: Father William Bruning, pastor, Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park, KS 66204 or email to: wm bruning@gmail.com. Resumes accepted through the month of April. Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, has the following staff job openings available: admissions counselor, ADN specialist, nursing intake coordinator and comptroller. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers. Assistant director - Assistant director for Catholic radio stations in the friendly, Catholic, safe community of Hays. Job description and how to apply at: dvmercy. com. Will train the right person. Chance for advancement.
APRIL 8, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG Faculty/adjunct faculty positions available - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served, has the following faculty job openings include: Director of Baccalaureate. Adjunct faculty job openings include: biology, clinical nursing, math, and sociology. Find job descriptions and details on: www. donnelly.edu/careers. Part-time lunch coordinator - St. Ann Young Child Center is seeking a lunch coordinator for the 2022-23 school year. Hours and wages are negotiable. If you are interested, please contact Cara Schwarz, preschool director, at (913) 362-4660 and/or send resume and cover letter to: cschwarz@stannpv.org. Coordinator of youth ministry and confirmation Corpus Christi Church in Lawrence is seeking a dynamic and enthusiastic individual to fill the full-time role of coordinator of youth ministry and confirmation. This person will be responsible for creating and implementing, administering and evaluating a high school and middle school ministry including sacramental preparation for confirmation. Ministry nights will include mostly evenings and weekends. He or she will collaborate with the pastor, parish, school staff and parents, as well as the archdiocesan youth ministry. Salary based on experience. You must be an active Roman Catholic, with a deep faith in Christ, rooted in the word of God and the Catholic tradition, and a model of a moral life for our youth. For a full job description go to: cccparish.org/ our-parish/ and scroll down and click on “Employment Opportunities.” Please send cover letter and resume to Father Jerry Volz at: frjerry@cccparish.org by April 8. Financial representatives - Knights of Columbus has full-time openings in northeast Kansas and western Missouri for full-time financial representatives. Ideal for determined, disciplined, professional, high-expectation individual desiring to serve others. We work exclusively with the families of brother Knights and Catholic gentlemen who are eligible to join the Knights. We have established territories where agents devote their working day to the needs of the members in their assigned councils. Excellent, multi-tiered training and benefits are provided, allowing the successful field agent to earn a professional level income. This is a career opportunity that may be the right fit at the right time for you, or possibly for someone you know. For further information, contact John A. Mahon, general agent, at (785) 4088800 or email: john.mahon@kofc.org. Caregivers - Daughters & Company is looking for several compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide light housekeeping/light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation services for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. A CNA background is helpful, though not mandatory. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match up hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team. Part-time assistant teacher for preschool classrooms - Prince of Peace Early Education Center is seeking a year-round, part-time assistant teacher in our preschool classrooms who has a love for children and a background in early childhood (education and/ or experience preferred). Job duties include: care and supervision of children at all times; face-to-face parent communication; closing and cleaning procedures; and implementing activities. We offer competitive wages based on education level and experience. You may find the application on our website at: popolathe.org/earlyeducation-center. Full-time lead teacher - Prince of Peace Early Education Center is seeking a year-round, full-time, lead teacher in our two-and-a-half-year-olds classroom who has a love for children and a background in early childhood (education and/or experience required). Job duties include: care and supervision of children at all times; face-to-face parent communication; closing and cleaning procedures; and creating and implementing lesson plans and activities. We offer competitive wages based on education level and experience. This position will be available for training in May and teaching at the end of May. You may find the application on our website at: popolathe.org/early-education-center. Part-time teacher in our after-school care program - Prince of Peace Early Education Center is seeking a year-round, part-time teacher in our after-school care program who has a love for children and a background in early childhood (education and/or experience preferred). Job duties include: care and supervision of children at all times; face-to-face parent communication; closing and cleaning procedures; and implementing activities. We offer competitive wages based on education level and experience You may find the application on our website: popolathe.org/early-education-center. Early childhood educators – With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child care in a safe, loving Christian environment. Our classrooms are full, and we are looking to add to our amazing team. We are looking for both full-time and part-time teachers for all ages of children. If you have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education, we would love to meet you. For more information or to apply, call Carolyn Andruss at (913) 894-0131, ext. 102. >> Classifieds continue on page 13
CLASSIFIEDS
APRIL 8, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG >> Continued from page 12 Nonmedical caregivers - Saint Rita Home Care is hiring nonmedical caregivers for seniors. Seeking compassionate individuals to fill all shifts. Call or text Renee Margush at (913) 229-4267. Drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is now hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students with special needs in Johnson, Wyandotte and Clay County, Missouri, in company vans. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour. Aides earn $12 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Make a difference in your community by helping those in need. Call (913) 521-4955 for more information. EEO
SERVICES ACT Prep - Founded by a Bishop Miege graduate, Pathway Prep has helped over 250 students during the last four years improve their scores. In-person or virtual sessions available. For more information, visit: path wayprepkc.com and contact Alex Pint at (913) 991-8217 or: alex@pathwayprepkc.com. Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload, and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com. Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential *Lawn renovation *Mowing *Cleanup and hauling *Dirt grading/installation *Landscape design* Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! Call Lupe at (816) 252-1391 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.
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.
WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy - Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME! I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905. Will buy firearms and related accessories - One a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
CAREGIVING Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.
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.
Local Handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, masonry (chimney repair), gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior) honey-do list and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.
Popcorn ceiling texture removal Interior wall painting specialist. Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
REAL ESTATE
Free estimates - We are offering free estimates to all those thinking about painting this year. At Stone Painting, we put the customer first. We provide interior, exterior house painting along with deck staining, fence painting, etc. Stone Painting ensures a professional, clean and fair-priced job. Call today for your free estimate. (913) 963-6465. Nelson Creations LLC. Home remodeling, kitchens, baths, basements. All interior, exterior work. Licensed and insured. (913) 927-5240 or: dknelson2001@gmail.com.
Caregiving - Retired nurse with 30 years experience. Reasonable rates. Kansas City metro area. Will do light housework and cooking. Reasonable rates. References available. For more information call Pam at (913) 602-1289.
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
Family member with dementia or need help at home? - We specialize in helping seniors live SAFELY at home, where they want to live! We also offer free dementia training and resources for families and caregivers. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www. Benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.
Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dandeeconst@aol.com.
HOME IMPROVEMENT
Diamond painting - Residential/commercial, exterior/interior, decks; free estimates. Affordable rates. KCMO/Overland Park, metropolitan area. (913) 648-4933.
Thank you to all my clients last year! - We had to take my ad out for a few months to catch up. This year, we are looking for more deck jobs, exterior wood rot and house painting jobs. We are also looking for larger interior jobs to include full kitchen remodels, cabinet refinishing, as well as bathroom remodels and basement finishing. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.
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Roofing America, Inc. — Local, Catholic-owned roofing company. FREE INSPECTIONS and estimates on roofs, gutters and siding. We work with your insurance company. Residential and commercial buildings. Mention this ad and call Bill (4th-degree Knight) at (913) 222-4279.
WE WANT TO BUY YOUR HOUSE - There are so many new companies in town advertising to buy houses. But we’re the only ones that have been here and we’re local Holy Trinity parishioners. I will give you a fair price on any conditions you are up against. Call Mark Edmondson. (913) 980-4905. 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.
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 - Single patio crypt with paid interment at Resurrection Cemetery. Patio B, tier E, crypt 6. $4395 value discounted to $3000, obo. Call Sy at (913) 642-2191. For sale - One plot at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Topeka, Rossiter section, lot 93 near road. Asking $2000. Call (785) 478-3556. Estate sale - April 2, 9 and 16 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at 53 S. Valley St., Kansas City, Kansas. Furniture, medical equipment, antiques, collector dolls and poodle figurines. Lots of miscellaneous items. For more information, contact Cathy at (913) 206-1524.
CLASSIFIED ADVERTISING The Leaven reaches approximately 50,000 subscribers. Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter. To purchase a Leaven classified ad, email: beth.blankenship@theleaven.org.
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COLUMNISTS
DAILY READINGS HOLY WEEK April 10 PALM SUNDAY OF THE PASSION OF THE LORD Is 50: 4-7 Ps 22: 8-9, 17-18, 19-20, 23-24 Phil 2; 6-11 Lk 22:14 – 23:56 April 11 Monday of Holy Week Is 42: 1-7 Ps 27: 1-3, 13-14 Jn 12: 1-11 April 12 Tuesday of Holy Week Is 49: 1-6 Ps 71: 1-4a, 5ab-6b, 15, 17 Jn 13: 21-33, 36-38 April 13 Is 50: 4-9a Ps 69: 8-10, 21-22, 31, 33-34 Mt 26: 14-25 April 14 HOLY THURSDAY OF THE LORD’S SUPPER Ex 12: 1-8, 11-14 Ps 116: 12-13, 15-16bc, 17-18 1 Cor 11: 23-26 Jn 13: 1-15 April 15 FRIDAY OF THE PASSION OF THE LORD (Good Friday) Is 52:13 – 53:12 Ps 31: 2, 6, 12-13, 15-17, 25 Heb 4: 14-16; 5: 7-9 Jn 18:1 – 19:42 April 16 EASTER VIGIL Gn 1:1 – 2:2 Ex 14:15 – 15:1 Is 55: 1-11 Rom 6: 3-11 Ps 118: 1-2, 16-17, 22-23 Lk 24: 1-12
Peter of Verona 1205-1252 Born in Verona, Italy, to parents who adhered to the Cathar heresy, Peter nonetheless received a Catholic education. His reaction to licentiousness at the University of Bologna was to join the new Dominican order, receiving the habit from St. Dominic in 1221. He gained a reputation for effective preaching and miracles, and overcame malicious and false accusations of impropriety. After serving as prior in several houses and inquisitor in Milan, in 1251 he was named inquisitor for northern Italy. Increasingly, he denounced the Cathars, who put a price on his head. Ambushed on the road, he was killed, the first Dominican martyr. He is the patron saint of inquisitors.
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APRIL 8, 2O22 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Partner up with Jesus this coming week
ccompaniment. Culture of encounter. Synodality. It’s rare to listen to Pope Francis and not hear him speak these words. They remind us of what it means to be a companion, literally “one who breaks bread with another.” Over and over, the pope reminds us that we are all brothers and sisters of Jesus and one another. Because of that, we have a sacred duty to lovingly care for one another and our planet, and to listen attentively not only to spoken words but to the desires held deeply in people’s hearts. The upcoming Triduum, the three days from Holy Thursday evening through Easter Sunday, is a special time when Christians are invited to accompany Jesus — not for his sake, but for our own. These days remind us of how intensely God loves and understands us, especially in times of
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.
sorrow, difficulty and pain. This family story from Jim Johnson, a pastor in Longview, Texas, captures how our God encounters each of us: In June 2001, Johnson and his son Jordan were working on their driveway, removing old asphalt with a hammer and chisel and then patching it with new asphalt. It was hard work and gradually they both became so tired that their accu-
racy declined. At one point, Jordan pounded his finger with the hammer. He jumped up in agony, holding back tears as he ran for ice. Realizing that no one was in the house to help him, Johnson ran after his son. As he neared the house, the father could hear Jordan screaming in pain. He tried to calm him down and get some ice on the injured finger, but his son was having none of it. Finally, Johnson put some ice in a bowl and filled it with water. Jordan agreed to put his hand in the bowl . . . as long as his father would put his hand in the bowl as well. So,
father and son sat on the cold kitchen floor tiles with their hands in the ice water. Occasionally, they’d take their hands out to let the feeling return to them. After 10 minutes, Jordan started to feel better and said to his dad, “I’m glad you’re here.” (Story adapted from “Easing a Child’s Pain,” found in “1001 Illustrations That Connect,” edited by Craig Brian Larson and Phyllis Ten Elshof.) From this experience, Jim Johnson concluded, “As a pastor or even a father, I can seldom take the pain away, but my presence can somehow make it more tolerable.” These last two years have taken a toll on everyone as we’ve navigated the pandemic and its effects. We’re burdened and exhausted — physically, emotionally and spiritually. That’s why participating in the Triduum this year is even more important for our allaround health. Sadly, most people jump from Palm
Sunday to Easter Sunday and skip the celebrations of Holy Thursday, Good Friday and the Easter Vigil. Some folks have never attended any of them. Excuses range from “They’re too long” to “Whoever heard of going to church so many days in a row?” How I wish our churches would be as full for the Triduum as Mass Street was in Lawrence these past few days with Jayhawk fans. And would that we’d participate with as much enthusiasm! Let Jesus accompany you in a profound way this coming week. Make time to celebrate the Triduum at your parish. Bring to church your worries, sorrows and difficulties. While the Lord may not take your pain away, his presence will definitely make it more tolerable. As we walk with Jesus through his passion, death and resurrection in these days, see him smile and say to you, “I’m glad you’re here!”
Jesus wants to meet each of us wherever we are in our life
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re you weary? I ask because the first reading has a special message for “the weary.” I totally put myself in the weary group. I am weary of certain politicians and their views, of certain leaders on the world scene, of endless conversations about certain social ills — and even more of the social ills. Descending from the global to the personal, I am tired of things about me. But I won’t weary you with a list of particulars. Again, I ask: Are you weary? What wearies you? “The Lord God has given me a welltrained tongue,” a
,
KEVIN PERROTTA Perrotta is the editor and an author of the “Six Weeks with the Bible” series, teaches part time at Siena Heights University and leads Holy Land pilgrimages. He lives in Ann Arbor, Michigan.
prophet begins, “that I might know how to speak to the weary a word that will rouse
them” (Is 50:4). He is speaking about his own experience but also foreshadowing the experience of someone to come. By scheduling this text for the celebration of Jesus’ triumphal entry into Jerusalem, the church makes it perfectly clear who that someone is. In effect, taking over the prophet’s words, Jesus speaks to us. He has come to rouse the
weary. This is along the same line as a call he made during his public ministry: “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened, and I will give you rest” (Mt 11:28). What is the “word” he has come to speak? In one sense, it is everything that is going to be said and done this next week, from Palm Sunday to Easter. Jesus’ Last Supper for us, his death for us, his resurrection for us — this is his rousing word. Wherever we are worn down, discouraged or depressed, God, through his Son, has gotten at the roots of the problem. Out of human evil and suffering, he has brought forth resur-
rection and life. In another sense, Jesus’ word to the weary is what he wants to say to you and me individually, in the depths of our hearts. Somewhere in the Scripture readings and the liturgical celebrations of these coming days, he has a word for each of us. He wants to say something that meets us where we are. How can we respond? The prophet sets an example. “Morning after morning,” he says, “he opens my ear that I may hear.” With God’s help, the prophet was attentive to God. God is with us, too, to help us hear whatever it is he wishes to say to us.
Losing sense of spirit means becoming blind to God, pope says VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis asked people to pray for his upcoming trip to Malta and to pray for an end to the “savage cruelty” of war. After delivering his general audience talk in the Paul VI hall March 30, he warmly greeted a group of children from Ukraine who are receiving assistance in Italy, and members of the audience gave the
children a long applause. But, the pope said, “with this greeting to the children, let us also think again about this monstrosity of the war. Let us renew our prayers that this savage cruelty that is war may end.” He also greeted the people of Malta — the Mediterranean island where St. Paul was shipwrecked and found “great humanity” and hospitality, and
where, still today, the people are dedicated to welcoming so many people in search of refuge, he said. The pope’s trip to Malta April 2-3 was a chance to “go to the source of the proclamation of the Gospel, to get to know firsthand a Christian community” that has such a long history and is so active and alive, he said.
COLUMNISTS
APRIL 8, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG
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CEF makes largest scholarship allocation in history for ’22-’23
T
he Catholic Education Foundation sympathizes with the many families that have been hit hard by the high costs of consumer goods because of inflation and the lingering effects that COVID has had on the job market. CEF wants to help as many families as possible during this challenging time. The Catholic Education Foundation is proudly announcing that it will be increasing its scholarship funding to make it easier for more families to send their children to a Catholic school next year. The CEF board of
CEF CENTERED
VINCENT ANCH Vince Anch is the executive director of the Catholic Education Foundation.
directors has approved a minimum of $3.5 million in scholarship awards for next year and has also agreed to make more funding
available if additional need exists. This will be CEF’s largest scholarship allocation in its history. CEF’s goal is to award 1,600 scholarships to youth throughout the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas for the 2022-23 school year. We are inviting
parents who have interest in sending their children to a Catholic school to contact their parish schools to see if they qualify for CEF or other scholarships. CEF scholarships are financial assistance scholarships that are awarded to families who might have financial challenges in affording tuition. These are not scholarships based on academic performance or athletic achievement but solely based on financial need. Scholarships are available for students in grades K-12. There is no obligation to parents to inquire about scholarships. Parents might even be
surprised by what they qualify for with CEF financial assistance scholarships. Catholic schools are providing a vital service to families and entire communities. Now, more than ever, Catholic schools are becoming a safe haven for families who want a tried-and-true curriculum in a wholesome and safe environment. Today’s youth are facing unbelievable influences and challenges. Many parents are becoming increasingly frustrated with the state of public schools and are turning to Catholic schools for their children’s educational and personal development.
Because Catholic schools also provide faith formation, they successfully develop children spiritually as well as intellectually, emotionally and socially. The Catholic Education Foundation wants to help as many children and youth as possible to reach their learning and spiritual potential. CEF scholarships make this possible for hundreds and hundreds of families each year, and the results are significant. CEF hopes to help even more families next year with the gift of a Catholic education, especially during this challenging time.
Holy Week reminds us that it is Christ himself calling us to the margins
P
ope Francis has exhorted us to fight the tendency to view people as “disposable.” But what does it mean to be disposable? First, if something is disposable, it may be used at another’s whim. For example, “disposable income” is money that I am free to use as I choose. Second, if something is disposable, it’s meant to be replaced. Eventually the blade in my disposable razor becomes dull, but then I will replace it with a new blade exactly like the old one. Third, if something is disposable, it will be thrown away once it has served its purpose, like a used light bulb. And lastly, once
ORDAINED TO SERVE
LEON SUPRENANT Leon Suprenant is the co-director of the Office of the Permanent Diaconate. He may be reached at leons@archkck.org.
something is used, replaced and thrown away, we want to have nothing further to do with it. We want garbage trucks to take away our disposable diapers, because this
once-useful product is now trash. I’ve been talking about “things,” and very often our treating things as “disposable” does not reflect good stewardship or adequate concern for the world in which we live. Yet it’s even worse to treat people as disposable, which happens far too often in our “throwaway culture.”
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Deacons, and indeed all Christians, are called to reach out to those on the “peripheries” or “margins” of society. That all sounds very noble, but also a little vague. What does that really mean? One way of looking at it is that those on the peripheries or margins are those most at risk of being treated as “disposable.” Who are those being “used” rather than truly loved? Who, because of age or disability, aren’t considered useful? Who has been removed from our midst because of incarceration or deportation so that we don’t have to deal with them? Whose lives are seen by the rich and powerful as not having
any value? This has everything to do with our “eucharistic revival.” Each host used for Communion costs approximately two cents, and there is nothing remarkable about it. It is, in a word, disposable. Yet behind this nondescript appearance lies the King of Kings, such that martyrs have risked death rather than allow a single consecrated host to be desecrated. As we come to more fully recognize and reverence Christ “in the breaking of the bread” (Lk 24:35), so also we must come to recognize and reverence Christ, in the words of Mother Teresa, “in the distressing disguise of the poor.” She could
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just as easily have said, “in the distressing disguise of those who are considered disposable.” It’s no accident that Our Lord washed the feet of his disciples in the context of instituting the holy Eucharist. The Eucharist is meant to heighten our concern for the material and spiritually poor in our midst, and draw us out of our comfort zones in service. Christ united himself with every human person, thereby giving each one of us, without exception, inestimable value. In Christ we have a mission on earth and a destiny in heaven — the very opposite of being “disposable.”
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APRIL 8, 2022 | THELEAVEN.ORG
A REFLECTION FOR HOLY WEEK
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A LESSON IN MERCY
The thief who stole heaven By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven
“N
ow two others, both criminals, were led away with him to be executed. When they came to the place called the Skull, they crucified him and the criminals there — one on his right, the other on his left. “Now one of the criminals hanging there reviled Jesus, saying, ‘Are you not the Messiah? Save yourself and us.’ “The other, however, rebuking him, said in reply, ‘Have you no fear of God, for you are subject to the same condemnation? And indeed, we have been condemned justly, for the sentence we received corresponds to our crimes, but this man has done nothing criminal.’ “Then he said, ‘Jesus, remember me when you come into your Father Dennis Wait kingdom.’ “He replied to him, ‘Amen, I say to you, today you will be with me in Paradise’” (Lk 23: 32-33, 39-43). There were three men crucified on Calvary that most holy day almost 2,000 years ago. Father Luke Doyle One was an unrepentant criminal. The second came to be known as “the good thief,” traditionally called St. Dismas. And the third is revered as Jesus, our savior Father Thomas Maddock and redeemer. As Holy Week 2022 approaches, three archdiocesan priests reflected on the significance of the story of the good thief in Luke’s Gospel. One of the priests is approaching the 50th anniversary of his ordination; the other two are newly ordained.
Mercy exemplified In their commentary on Luke’s Gospel, the U.S. bishops tell us, “No gospel writer is more concerned than Luke with the mercy and compassion of Jesus.” Ordained in May 2021, Father Thomas Maddock describes the Good Thief account as a “message of mercy.” The associate pastor of Christ the King Church and chaplain of Hayden High School, both in Topeka, believes, “This account embodies God’s desire for all of us to be with him in paradise. The Good Thief turns to Jesus and asks for forgiveness. The exchange that occurs signifies that Jesus opens
There were two men crucified with Jesus on Calvary almost 2,000 years ago. One was an unrepentant criminal. The second came to be known as “the good thief,” traditionally called St. Dismas. the doors to paradise for everyone.” Newly ordained Father Luke Doyle, associate pastor of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, points out that the good thief has been known as “the thief who stole heaven.” The good thief passage represents our belief, he said, that because of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection, suffering and death do not have the last word — God’s mercy does. “Mercy is love that chooses to suffer with and to suffer for people who are worthy of love — all of us,” said Father Doyle. “Jesus chooses to enter into suffering to heal us, his friends. He comes to show us the way to abundant life. He offers us the gift of humble confidence that we can welcome him to live in our own brokenness and woundedness.” Father Dennis Wait, who is preparing to celebrate 50 years of priesthood soon, has developed over the years a deep appreciation for the story of the good thief. And he takes this New Testament passage personally. “With Jesus, I always have the opportunity for forgiveness,” said Father Wait. “When things look impossible, Jesus makes them possible. He gives the good thief direct knowledge that not tomorrow, not the next day, but that today he will be with Jesus in Paradise. The good thief dies in peace.”
Character connections Father Wait, who has served in parish and archdiocesan ministries and was the founder and spiritual director of Sanctuary of Hope in Kansas City, Kansas, for 25 years, identifies with the good thief in the scriptural account. He admires that the man admits his wrongdoing and defends
Jesus in his words to the other thief. The good thief allows himself to be transformed by Jesus’ forgiveness. Father Doyle also associates with the good thief, whom he describes as “speaking for me personally and for all God’s people.” He believes that “we get to know Jesus when we allow ourselves to meet him in a communion of wounds.” “Jesus takes on all pain, all the evil that has ever occurred,” he added. “He takes it all upon himself, and the consequences of sin — pain, suffering and evil — die in the heart of Jesus and his ultimate mercy.” At different times, Father Maddock said he identifies with each of the three men crucified on Calvary. The unrepentant thief is someone who appears frustrated or angry with God; he challenges Jesus’ power. “If things are not going my way,” said Father Maddock, “I can enter into this mindset and want God to do something about the situation.” At other times, Father Maddock shares a kinship with the repentant sinner. Like the good thief, the newly ordained priest feels blessed with the faith to acknowledge Jesus as his Lord and savior who died on the cross for him. Since becoming a priest, Father Maddock has also come to identify with Jesus in this account. He considers being a minister of God’s mercy in the sacrament of reconciliation a beautiful gift. He encourages the practice of the sacrament as a faith-filled way to experience this mercy. Father Doyle, meanwhile, became a priest because he has known the healing power of Jesus’ love in his own life. “Through my vocation, I believe I am sent by Jesus to help heal others so they can be a source of healing for other people,” he said.
‘Remember me’ The good thief’s request to be remembered by Jesus in his kingdom resonates deeply with Father Wait. “By his expression and then his words,” he said, “Jesus communicates that he will never forget the good thief — or us.” “The account of the good thief is a beautiful reminder to all of us to invite Jesus to be with us where we are most broken and wounded,” agreed Father Doyle. “That’s where true healing occurs.” Father Maddock has found singing the hymn “Jesus, Remember Me” with others to be a powerful witness to their longing for God and his mercy. “As a priest, this makes me want to show God’s mercy to them,” he said.
Modern-day parable of mercy Early in his priesthood, Father Maddock prepared to celebrate the funeral of an older man. When he met with family members to gain insights, they didn’t sugarcoat the man’s life; they acknowledged that he struggled with his faith and was not a churchgoer. During the last months of his life, however, thanks to his wife who prayed the rosary daily at his bedside, the man opened his heart to faith. Father Maddock chose the good thief passage for the funeral Mass’ Gospel. Sharing the deceased man’s story in this context proved very moving, he said. Both stories demonstrate that no one is ever too lost for God. “God never stops pursuing us — even to the last moments — to bring us into his kingdom,” he said.