4 12 19 Vol. 40 No. 34

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 40, NO. 34 | APRIL 12, 2019

PALM SUNDAY

The witness of palm branches

By Mary Marrocco Catholic News Service

N

ot far from where I live is a donkey farm. It’s highly popular because of the donkeys’ beauty.

Donkeys, the most mistreated of animals, have a gentleness that draws and heals people. It’s a sanctuary for the donkeys but also for the people.

When the Gospels were written, no therapeutic donkey sanctuaries existed, but the donkey was a common animal of service, humble and ordinary. The donkey appears in every Gospel. All four evangelists show Jesus entering Jerusalem to a great welcome — riding, not a majestic horse that a king or warrior might ride, but a donkey.

In our day, it would be like a world leader, instead of coming on a private jet welcomed by military bands and ribboned officials, putt-putting in an old, faithful station wagon. Like the pope rejecting fine limousines and driving a humble compact.

The church gives us this glimpse of Christ at the end and beginning of a special journey together. We are ending Lent, the journey into the desert. We are beginning Holy Week and the Easter triduum. To mark the end of the Lenten journey and the beginning of this year’s Easter journey, we open our gates (like the people of ancient Jerusalem) to welcome Christ — and be surprised.

It’s a perilous journey. And we are in it together.

Now, at Palm Sunday, it’s time to be accounted for. It’s time to take up something. Our Lenten journey has been mainly hidden. We’ve been meditating, praying, doing works of mercy in secret, fasting in our own ways — trying, failing, trying again.

Now it’s time to act, to take up palms and go out, as the people who welcomed Jesus did. They didn’t stay home and watch him on their newsfeed. They went into the streets, picked palm branches and met him singing “Hosanna”: “O save us!”

Palm branches are reminiscent of victory parades. But more important, they point us to martyrdom, which means “witness.” We are asked to witness Christ — not only in inward, >> See “PALM” on page 7

CNS PHOTO/DEBBIE HILL

Christians wave palm and olive branches during the annual Palm Sunday procession on the Mount of Olives overlooking the Old City of Jerusalem.

To mark the end of the Lenten journey, and the beginning of this year’s Easter journey, we open our gates to welcome Christ — and be surprised.

INTRODUCING DEACON ASHMORE

The Leaven continues its series introducing the archdiocese to the six men who will be ordained priests this year. This week features Deacon Nicholas Ashmore.

Page 16

THE EASTER TRIDUUM

Archdiocesan liturgy and sacramental life consultant Michael Podrebarac looks at the long history and mystery of the Easter Triduum.

Pages 8-9

APRIL 12, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ARCHBISHOP

2

Experience the mysteries of faith with fresh eyes this Holy Week

R

ecently, I had the opportunity to interview Sohrab Ahmari, the op-ed editor of the New York Post and a contributing editor of the Catholic Herald.

Previously, he served as a columnist and editor of the Wall Street Journal opinion pages in New York and London and as a senior writer for Commentary magazine.

Sohrab was born and spent his childhood in Iran. He was the only child of nonpracticing Muslim parents. His father was an architect and his mother an artist. They lived on the second floor of his maternal grandparents’ home, where Sohrab was exposed to Western culture, music, art and movies. His parents divorced when he was 6, but for Sohrab’s benefit they kept up the appearance of their marriage for almost seven more years.

In his schooling, he was required to memorize significant portions of the Quran. While still a young boy, Sohrab rejected Islam, in part because of the hypocrisy of how it was lived by his parents and their friends. Nevertheless, Sohrab admired and was inspired by the courage of the Shia martyrs who sacrificed their lives rather than betray their convictions.

When Sohrab reached the age of 13, his parents could no longer keep up the charade of their marriage. With his mother, Sohrab immigrated to the United States. He spoke English well and looked forward to immersing himself in American secular culture.

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN Much to his disappointment, they lived near his uncle in, of all places, Utah — the closest one could get to experience a theocracy in the United States.

By the time he graduated from high school, Sohrab professed to be a Marxist atheist. Convinced there was nothing beyond this world, he pursued with determination the many pleasures readily available in America. Eventually, he began to experience the inevitable emptiness that comes from building one’s life on pleasure, material comfort and the denial of the existence of God. In 2008, Sohrab was teaching at a charter school in Salem, Massachusetts. Previously, he had worked in Texas as part of the organization Teach for America. He was given the opportunity to earn additional money and visit New York on weekends by assisting with the training of new Teach for America recruits.

After having gotten

drunk on Saturday night and embarrassing himself at the Sunday morning training session, Sohrab found himself with a couple of hours to kill while waiting for the train to take him back to Boston. He walked around the area surrounding Penn Station depressed and realizing he needed to make some significant changes in his life.

For some inexplicable reason, Sohrab decided to enter a Catholic church.

It was the first time that he had visited a place of worship as an adult. Once inside, Sohrab was struck by the serenity of the place located amid the chaos of midtown Manhattan. While Sohrab sat in the back of the church, the Sunday evening Mass began. He had no concept of the meaning of the Mass and was only vaguely aware of what the priest was saying and doing.

Sohrab described his experience that night in these words: “Even at that moment, with my deep spiritual longing, there was part of me that scoffed at the sacred mysteries. While a young guy with an acoustic guitar and a man bun led the parishioners in singing various hymns,

the thought that crossed my mind was: You’re too smart for this. What if someone I knew spotted me? Then I would forever be counted among the ranks of these gullible saps. But all of a sudden, the singing and strumming dissolved into that all-encompassing serenity, and something extraordinary happened.”

At this moment, Sohrab heard the priest say the words of consecration: “This is my body which will be given up for you.” He had no idea that the white disk the priest was holding up was bread that had become the body of Christ. Nevertheless, he felt a tremendous peace and tears streamed from his eyes.

Sohrab then heard the priest speak the words over the cup of wine that recall Jesus shed his blood for us. It reminded him of what he felt when he first heard the story of the Shia martyrs. This was something even more phenomenal — God giving his life for us.

Sohrab describes the impact of his first experience of Mass: “Now, the friar held up a golden cup. The bell rang thrice more. My silent tears gave way to choked sobs. I was in the proximity of an awesome and mysterious force — a force bound up with sacrifice, with self-giving unto death, the idea that had made my heart tremble ever since I was a boy. I was aware, too, of my own abjection and smallness, which made me think that I didn’t belong in the presence of this holy thing.

Not sixteen hours earlier, I had drunk myself into a stupor. I had willingly

degraded myself. Now I dared to show up here?

And yet, peace continued to radiate from the altar and from the friar’s words and hands. I covered my face and bent over in my pew.”

What a powerful testimony of God’s presence in the Eucharist from one who was not Christian, much less Catholic. It would be several years before Sohrab appreciated more fully what he experienced that Sunday in New York. I encourage you to read Sohrab Ahmari’s book, “From Fire

By Water — My Journey to the Catholic Faith.”

When I asked Sohrab about are the main differences between Islam and Christianity, he noted that, for the Muslim, God is almighty and totally other. The Muslim seeks to submit to God’s will, to be God’s servant or slave.

In Christianity, God is also almighty. However, this almighty God pursues humanity. God took on our flesh and sacrificed himself on Calvary for us.

He desires for us to be able to commune with him, to enter into friendship with him.

During Holy Week, we celebrate the central mysteries of our faith: the institution of the Eucharist, Jesus’ suffering and death on Calvary, and his victory over sin and death on Easter. I encourage you to participate in the Triduum liturgies in your parish. I also invite you to come to one or more of the Triduum liturgies at the Cathedral of St. Peter.

Pray for the gift to experience the central mysteries of our faith with

Archbishop Naumann April 13 Women’s conference Mass — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park Pastoral visit — St. Matthew, Topeka April 14 Palm Sunday Mass — Cathedral April 16 Chrism Mass April 18 Holy Thursday, Mass of the Lord’s Supper — Cathedral April 19 Good Friday service — Cathedral April 20 Holy Saturday Easter Vigil — Cathedral April 21 Easter Sunday Mass — Cathedral

fresh eyes. The beauty of God’s love for us revealed in Jesus should bring us to tears. How can we not be profoundly touched by the incredible love God revealed for us on Cavalry, the privilege of sharing in his eternal life and the amazing gift to receive Our Lord in the Eucharist?

May we experience that same incredible peace Sohrab found when he wandered into a Catholic church in the middle of New York City.

What a gift we have in Jesus! What a gift our Catholic faith!

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APRIL 12, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

3

‘PART OF WHO I AM’ Archdiocese hires new director for the office of child and youth protection

By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Anyone who knows Jenifer Valenti knows there are three words that describe her well: knowledgeable, transparent and vigilant.

And the fact that unites these attributes? Her Catholic faith.

Valenti is a prosecuting attorney by trade and has been the ombudsman for the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph since 2011. She has recently been selected to be the new director of the office of child and youth protection for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

“Being Catholic is a part of who I am,” said Valenti. “I feel very strongly and passionately about how the church should be handling sexual abuse of a minor and how that crisis should be resolved.”

She is also wholly committed to bringing justice and support to all affected by abuse in the church, she said.

So, when the opportunity to take on the role of director of the office of child and youth protection in the archdiocese came up, Valenti wanted in.

“I felt like I might be a good fit as somebody who has gathered experience and expertise from working with victims, law enforcement and victim advocacy groups in the children’s divisions,” said Valenti.

And she couldn’t have been more correct.

“We were looking for a person of integrity . . . someone with knowledge and a background in what it requires for the church to really develop a safe environment and continue to make that environment safer,” said Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. “Fortunately, Jenifer has that experience.”

And Archbishop Naumann has seen Valenti’s qualifications firsthand. He and Valenti worked together in 2015 during his time as the administrator of the Diocese of Kansas City – St. Joseph.

“I could see how conscientious she was about her work, how insightful she was, in the recommendations she brought to me when I was the administrator,” said Archbishop Naumann.

“She is a woman who is highly respected and trusted within the Kansas City community,” he added. “And perhaps most important, she has a great love for the church and really wants to make the church the safest place in the world for young people to be.”

Kathleen Chastain, victim services coordinator in the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph, has worked closely with Valenti for many years and believes her management of cases of abuse and victim support demonstrates those attributes.

“Jenifer has a great ability to balance fairness, justice and empathy for individuals,” she said. “There’s the prosecutor side that understands the law

LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

Jenifer Valenti has been named the new director of the office of child and youth protection for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. She is a prosecuting attorney by trade and has been the ombudsman for the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph since 2011.

“

“BEING CATHOLIC IS A PART OF WHO I AM. I FEEL VERY STRONGLY AND PASSIONATELY ABOUT HOW THE CHURCH SHOULD BE HANDLING SEXUAL ABUSE OF A MINOR AND HOW THAT CRISIS SHOULD BE RESOLVED.” and justice and there’s the parent side of her that allows her to put the people at the center of all her activities, be it the perpetrator or the survivor, and their human needs.

“She is what I think of as the heart of the church,” she said.

Valenti is preceded in her role by Father John Riley, chancellor of the archdiocese, with whom she occasionally worked during her time in the Missouri diocese.

“From working with Jenifer, I have a great respect for her professionalism, confidentiality and thoroughness,” said Father Riley. “We both recognize the

President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

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

profound responsibility that we have to protect the legitimate rights and the reputations of both the accused and the victim in these difficult situations, while maintaining a high degree of confidentiality.”

Father Riley has worked as the director of the office of child and youth protection for 10 years and is gratified to be passing the torch on to someone as qualified and trustworthy as Valenti. “[This] role . . . is an important role which takes uninterrupted time, attention and dedication to ensure we provide a safe environment for all our children and vulnerable adults, as well as to ensure excellent care for the survivors of abuse,” said Father Riley. “I, like many of our priests, serve in multiple capacities, and the demands of this office have grown in the 10 years since I assumed the responsibilities as director.”

The director’s responsibilities include: oversight of the safe environment program and staff (including the compliance administrator, report investigator and victim assistance coordinator); response to reports of abuse and care for victims; and assuring continued compliance with the USCCB “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.”

The director also coordinates the meetings of the Independent Review Board (IRB) and prepares case files for

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Reporter Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

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

board review, although she will not be a member of the IRB. “We were looking for the bestqualified person and I think [Valenti] is it,” said Archbishop Naumann. “I think to have a layperson and, frankly, a laywoman in charge of that office is very helpful.

“I am grateful to Father John Riley for the work that he’s done. We’ve asked him to wear so many hats. . . . I think he did an extraordinary job.”

Love of her Catholic faith and empathy for others are what, for Valenti, will make her work protecting and guiding the church possible.

“I believe very strongly that the church should be guided by the . . .

Gospel in addressing sexual abuse involving children when it’s at the hands of a trusted agent of the church,” she said. “I think a lot of the tenets of our faith, including . . . reconciliation and the Resurrection, are applicable in looking at sexual abuse within the church.”

And Valenti is looking forward to stepping into her new role.

“My goal is to help continue to bring credibility and trust to the people in responding to this crisis,” said Valenti, “but also to bring a sense of security and safety to our vulnerable and the youth in the church.

“I am really excited about that challenge.”

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

APRIL 12, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

4

Knights, students collaborate on outdoor Stations

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

T

OPEKA — A reminder that we’re not walking on this earth alone.

That’s how Father John Torrez, pastor of St. Matthew Parish in southeast Topeka, tends to think about the Stations of the Cross.

Growing up, Father Torrez said reflecting on the Stations was one of his favorite devotions. Now, as pastor of a parish of 1,100 families, he’s especially gratified to see the enthusiasm the parishioners have for the devotion.

When he was approached by parishioners who wanted to erect an outdoor Stations of the Cross on the parish grounds, Father Torrez said it was easy to give his approval for the project.

Located just slightly northeast of the church building, the outdoor Stations’ area was a joint effort of the parish’s Knights of Columbus Council 13012 and the parish grade school’s Faith in Action class.

Planning for the area began more than a year ago, when Bob Broxterman, the parish administrator, and Tim O’Shea, a member of the Knights, were inspired after seeing something similar at another Catholic church.

On March 24, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann visited the parish and blessed the Stations after the 10:30 a.m. Mass.

Calling this practice of meditating on the Way of the Cross “an inexpensive way to visit the Holy Land,” the archbishop noted the outdoor setting was appropriate, given that Jesus carried his cross outside the city gates to Calvary.

The Stations themselves were purchased from Catholictothemax.com by the Knights of Columbus who held a breakfast fundraiser that brought in more than $1,300.

According to Grand Knight Mike Barnard, the Knights raised more money than anticipated originally and, as a

LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann blesses the outdoor Stations of the Cross on the grounds of St. Mathew Parish in Topeka. The Stations were a joint effort of the parish’s Knights of Columbus Council and the parish grade school’s Faith in Action class. result, were able to buy a nicer set of Stations.

Almost everything else — like posts, mulch and labor — were donated by companies such as Westar Energy, or by the parishioners themselves. A group of nearly 75 parishioners installed them this past September.

Known as the Emmerich Stations of the Cross, according to the supplier, “the set is named after Blessed Anne Catherine Emmerich, the German nun and mystic who wrote the highly influential meditation ‘The Dolorous Passion of

Our Lord Jesus Christ.’”

The Stations were painted in a German style by an unknown artist in the late 1800s and “convey the beauty and sacrifice of Jesus’ passion with a blend of modern and traditional styles.”

For Deb O’Shea, instructor of the Faith in Action class, the idea of passing the beauty of Christ’s sacrifice on to future generations is what the project is all about.

On the second Friday in Lent, she witnessed the eighth-graders making the Stations with their Bible buddies,

the second-graders. She said it was encouraging and inspiring to watch the eighth-graders and hear their witness and explanations to the younger students.

For Father Torrez, it’s yet another symbolic reminder of Christ’s love for his people and the power of Our Lord’s sacrifice.

Calling the devotional area “a manifestation of what we believe,” Father Torrez said it reminds us all that Jesus “did it for us.”

Seek a little peace this Holy Week at Marillac in Leavenworth Katie Peterson Special to the Leaven

L

EAVENWORTH — Lent is a season of prayer and fasting, a time for deep reflection on one’s faith journey, a time to reaffirm one’s connection with God. As it draws to a close, the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth will host their annual Holy Week retreat April 14-20 at the Marillac Center in Leavenworth.

“It is an opportunity for people to get in touch with God in a deeper sense,” said Sister Noreen Walter, Marillac Center director. “When you enter into silence and you enter into that as your focus, you begin to have a better understanding of who God is in your life.

“Today, there’s so many distractions with Facebook and people on their devices that you forget that sometimes it is important to unplug a little and plug into God and into your spiritual life and see where you’re being called.”

“In a retreat, you can deepen that relationship with God that you don’t do on a normal day because our lives are so hectic,” she continued. “So, in order to deepen that relationship, you need to have that time to really zero in on who

God is and what that is.”

This year’s retreat will be led by Father Richard Gielow, director of the Vincentian Parish Mission Center and member of the Vincentian religious community. The theme of the retreat is: “Where are all the prophetic voices?”

“Jesus was the greatest [prophet],” said Father Richard. “Why then did Good Friday happen?”

Participants can prepare for the retreat, he said, by pondering that question and using it to find a renewed interest in being a prophetic voice.

The cost for the retreat is $70 per day and includes meals and room and board.

Participants may attend the whole retreat or just the days that fit his or her schedule.

Scholarships are also available for those who cannot afford the entire amount.

To register, contact Sister Susan Chase, retreat coordinator, by calling (913) 680-2342; sending an email to: schase@scls.org; or going online to: www.marillaccenter.org.

The Holy Week retreat is one of several retreats that are held throughout the year at the center, including daily, weekly and directed retreats. The Marillac Center, named after Louise de Marillac, co-founder of the Daughters of Charity, was opened in 2003

by Sister Sue Miller, then-community director. It temporarily closed in 2014 while the current Ross Hall was being rebuilt, and reopened in 2016.

“The main purpose was to be a retreat and spirituality center. It was built to be that and is built beautifully,” said Sister Noreen. “Right from the beginning, we started having retreats. A lot of the retreats we had were for religious, but now we’re trying to move out and have retreats for laypeople and everyone so that they have a chance to experience God’s presence in a sacred space. We invite all faiths to be a part of our center.”

The center includes a chapel, a second chapel for the Blessed Sacrament, conference rooms, lounges with full kitchens, libraries and 32 bedrooms — 16 with one queensize bed and 16 with two twin beds — with full baths.

For more information about the Marillac Center and upcoming retreats, visit the website at: www.marillac center.org.

Father Richard Gielow

APRIL 12, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

5

Join walking Way of the Cross in KCMO

By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

K LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, assisted by master of ceremonies Father Bruce Ansems, blesses a new 3-D/4-D ultrasound machine on March 21 at the Olathe Pregnancy Clinic, located at 1313 E. Santa Fe.

Archbishop blesses ultrasound machine

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

O

LATHE — Having a new ultrasound machine blessed at a pregnancy clinic is a good thing. And when the new chairman of the Committee on Pro-life Activities for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops does it, it’s extra special.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, the new chairman, blessed a Samsung

3-D/4-D Ultrasound on March 21 at the Olathe Pregnancy Clinic, located at 1313 E. Santa Fe. “It can make black-and-white photos and go to three-dimensional and four-dimensional images when the child is in motion,” said Ron Kelsey, the clinic treasurer. “It’s a state-of-the-art machine.”

These machines can make the difference between life and death.

“It allows a mother to hear the heartbeat and see the image of her child,” said Kelsey. “So, for women

at risk of choosing abortion, it’s the most powerful tool for them to bond and choose life for their unborn child. A significant number of women have chosen life after seeing and hearing their child.”

The machine costs $40,000 and is one of about 1,000 ultrasound machines that have been contributed to pregnancy clinics in the United States by the Knights of Columbus.

Th Olathe Pregnancy Clinic opened on Nov. 4, 2018. The machine was installed in early March.

ANSAS CITY, Mo. — The modern age presents a great paradox: The human person is simultaneously the most connected and the loneliest he has ever been. For example, a recent study conducted by health insurer Cigna shows 54 percent of Americans, especially young people, feel no one knows them well.

What can enter this loneliness? Is true companionship possible?

The local Kansas City communities of the lay ecclesial movement Communion and Liberation (CL) seek to publicly engage with these questions and propose Christ as a response.

Local members of CL will be leading a walking Way of the Cross through downtown Kansas City, Missouri, on Good Friday, April 19.

Paolo Benda, a graduate student from Italy studying at Benedictine College in Atchison, looks forward to the event as an opportunity to reawaken his faith in communion with others.

“This gesture is important for me because of the questions it generates about the deepest meaning of my life, about the reasonableness of my faith,” said Benda.

“The fruit . . . is a renewed begging for Our Lord to fulfill me.”

The structure of CL’s Way of the Cross is unusual — it contains only five Stations.

These Stations include brief Scripture readings, poetry, hymns and reflections that testify to the beauty of the faith and meditate on Christ’s sacrifice for all, said Benda.

The way is walked in silence so all participants can contemplate the suffering, death and resurrection of Christ and the new life he gives.

“After an event like this, I can see myself with renewed sympathy in the certainty that I am loved by Christ the way I am,” said Benda.

The event will start with a prayer and address from Bishop James V. Johnston at 10:30 a.m. inside the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception at 11th and Broadway in Kansas City, Missouri. The event will last until 1 p.m.

All are welcome, and families are encouraged to participate.

Woman professes vows

MEN UNDER CONSTRUCTION

LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE

Former Kansas City Chiefs quarterback Elvis Grbac was the keynote speaker at the 23rd annual Men Under Construction event April 6 at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park. In addition to Grbac, Dr. David Anders — a Catholic catechist, writer and speaker, as well as the host of “Called to Communion” on EWTN radio — also spoke to the hundreds of men in attendance.

ALTON, Ill. — Sister M. Maris Stella Larkin made her first profession of vows with the Sisters of St. Francis of the Martyr St. George here during a Mass on Feb. 2.

Following high school, she earned a bachelor’s degree in biology from Benedictine College in Atchison.

Sister M. Maris Before entering the Stella Larkin congregation on Sept.

8, 2015, she taught theology for four years at St. Xavier High School in Cedar Rapids, Iowa. She also did mission work in Belize following college graduation.

Sister Maris Stella is the daughter of Dennis and Jean Larkin, members of Holy Cross Parish, Overland Park.

APRIL 12, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

FAMILY LIFE

6

Catechumens, candidates enter church with ‘eyes wide open’

“S

hould I stay or should I go?”

It’s a question that has been on many Catholics’ minds in the wake of the clerical sexual abuse crisis.

From op-eds to podcast interviews, many Catholics — even those who never could have imagined asking that question — have either entertained it as a passing thought or are seriously weighing their next steps.

In a September 2018 column, Jesuit Father Matt Malone, president of America Media, wrote: “When I was first appointed editor-in-chief, I often said that the most important question we would face in the years ahead would concern ecclesiology, that field of theological reflection that seeks to answer the question: What is the church? I still think that today, mainly because someone’s answer to the question of whether to stay in the church will depend, in large measure,

ELISE ITALIANO URENECK Elise Italiano Ureneck is the associate director of the Center for the Church in the 21st Century at Boston College.

on what he or she thinks the church is.”

His reflection came to my mind on the First Sunday of Lent, when we paused from the regular liturgical sequence for the Rite of Election. Once a year, catechumens preparing for baptism and those preparing to enter into full communion with the church come forward to affirm their intentions.

This year at my parish, seven adults and

their sponsors stepped forward.

Every year, without fail, my eyes well up at this rite. I find myself repeatedly overjoyed that adult men and women continue to find the Lord Jesus and join his church. What team doesn’t want a deeper bench? Their witness inevitably moves me to renew my own commitments and to express gratitude for the gift of the Catholic faith.

But this year, saddened and frustrated by the abuse crisis and the still-to-be determined accountability measures for leaders, I reflexively found myself asking: Knowing everything there is to know about the Catholic Church — and some of its worst sins have been on full display — how are they able to say, “Yes, I want to be a part of that”?

Their decision is obviously countercultural. It’s no secret that increasing numbers of adults are disaffiliating from institutional religion. And when looked at from a purely sociological or secular angle,

it’s arguably counterintuitive: A new Gallup poll released in March revealed that more than a third of Catholics have questioned whether to remain in the church in the wake of the crisis.

Many Catholics, frustrated and hurt, have been trying to provide answers to the question Father Malone posed: What is the church?

In an attempt to salvage weakening faith in the institutional church, some have chosen to emphasize the church as the people of God over the hierarchy.

Others are shifting their focus from Rome to

their local parish.

The reality, though, is that the church is all of these things — a community, an institution with a hierarchy, the mystical body of Christ.

And it’s both human and divine, which makes the delivery of grace messy.

I think it’s fair to say that it’s going to take the faithful who remain quite some time to interiorly integrate all of these models again, but it’s a necessary step just the same. There’s no denying the “rock of Peter” reality of the church.

How do the catechumens and those preparing

for full communion see the church? Surely, every person’s reasons for entering will be different.

But it’s a safe bet that those who have gone through RCIA this year are moving forward with their eyes wide open.

Then again, Lent is the perfect time to move through that kind of discernment, whether as a catechumen or a longtime Catholic.

The Passion narratives leave nothing to the imagination when it comes to the weakness of Jesus’ closest followers and the frailty of the church’s members.

But the Resurrection narratives — and the boldness of what follows in the years after that event — should give someone every reason to join or to stay with his or her feet firmly planted.

In these uncertain times, one thing’s for sure: The church will be stronger after the Easter Vigil when it welcomes its newest members than it was the day before.

APRIL 12, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Palm Sunday begins the journey >> Continued from page 1 hidden ways, but also publicly with the way we live.

For some, this witness is even unto death. The Coptic Christians who were beheaded in 2015 are painted holding palms in their hands, for they showed by their lives who Christ is. They met violence with love.

They remind us that being Christian is not just “all about me” and making myself a better person — though it does allow and challenge me to become more Godlike. Christianity is also about bettering one’s world, laying down one’s life for others, and in this way following Christ.

We see today the joy of letting Christ in. He is welcomed with exultant joy and singing. How overjoyed we are to know God and to know that God loves us and will never disappear or give up on us.

We can’t keep it in, so we have to go out to meet him, waving green branches and singing to him. It’s so beautiful, so glorious, it bubbles to the surface and overflows for the whole city to see. We are welcoming God! More astonishing still, we are welcoming humanity.

The early Gospel commentators saw donkeys as a symbol of Christ’s humanity, as with the donkey on which the good Samaritan placed the wounded traveler.

When we see Christ riding a donkey, we see God taking up humanity. Like the donkey, our humanity becomes a bearer of God. Christ enters into Jerusalem in a state of humility, because God enters the world carrying our humanity.

Ultimately, then, rejection of Jesus is not only rejection of God, but also of humanity, for Christ is truly human as well as truly God. Why would we reject Jesus? Because it’s not easy to be with him. To enter Jerusalem on a donkey, as he did, is not glorious like entering on a fine horse or a jet airplane. Jesus’ donkey ride shows us that this is a journey of humility. It will make us a laughingstock.

This journey will lead us through who we truly are as human beings. Along this path, we will find God even in those parts of us that are most frightened to let God in, most resistant to being changed, most inclined to cling to power and fight back.

Today, as we pick up our palms, we share our joy in Christ. At the same time, we pick up the cross. In the Byzantine liturgy, as the people pick up the palms, they sing: “Today we all take up your cross.”

As the perilous journey ends and begins, let’s enter Holy Week together.

Let’s risk accepting the joy of welcoming both God and humanity. God will not disappear on us. He gives us the capacity to love, no matter what.

Let’s not be ashamed of him or of our humanness, but claim them. Let’s look for victory not in pomp and military might but by way of humility, powerlessness, love and forgiveness. Here is true joy.

Here is the way to meet the early dawn of Easter Sunday.

Let’s be unafraid to wave the palm. To pick up the cross. And to meet the new life that awaits.

Martha and Robert Romero, members of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 12. The couple was married on April 12, 1969, at Our Lady of Guadalupe. They renewed their vows on April 7 and will take a family vacation at a later date. Their children are: Dawn Marie Romero-Hunter, Paula Jean Mattern and Robert Romero Jr. They also have six grandchildren.

Jacqulyn (Sakaitis) and Robert Cheek, members of Holy Trinity Parish, Paola, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 19.

The couple was married at St. Joseph C h u r c h , Shawnee, by Father William Dolan. Their children are Derek Cheek (deceased) and Jason Cheek. They also have one granddaughter and one great-granddaughter.

Pat and Kathy Murphy, members of Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, w i l l celebrate their 50th wedd i n g anniversary with a family trip to Ireland in July to meet their Irish relatives. The couple was married on May 24, 1969, in St. Paul Parish, Marion, Indiana. They have two daughters and five grandchildren.

Eugene and Imogen (Weishaar) Bertels, members of Immaculate Conception Parish, St. Marys, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on July 6 with a Mass and reception. The couple was married on April 20, 1954, at St. Joseph Church, Nortonville. Their children are: Catherine Rafferty, Debra Burrous, Martha Creevan, Mike Bertels, Alan Bertels, Phil Bertels, Jerry Bertels and Dan Bertels. They also have 20 grandchildren and 20 great-grandchildren.

7

THE EASTER TRIDUUM A mystery in three parts

M

By Michael Podrebarac

uch of the way in which we celebrate Holy Week is thanks to a late fourth-century Christian pilgrim named Egeria. She had the good fortune of being able to spend several years in the Holy Land and wrote of her travels, including how Christians in Jerusalem commemorated the events of Jesus’ life through the liturgy.

What they did during the week leading up to Easter became the basis for how — in time — the whole church celebrated the final mysteries of Christ on earth.

PRELUDE Just as the crowds of Jerusalem gathered at the city gate and welcomed Jesus with praises, even paving his way with the fronds of palm plants and olive branches, so did the later Christian congregation of the city do the same as their bishop — representing Christ — rode into the old part of the city on a young colt. Still today, we bless and keep these palm fronds as a reminder that, just as the Lord was welcomed into Jerusalem, so we welcome him into our parish churches and acclaim him our king.

Now, a few words about what it means to commemorate an event, especially in our liturgical prayer. We are not reenacting the event, nor pretending that we are of the same mindset as those who experienced the events as they first took place.

No, we enter our commemoration with our faith that Jesus indeed is Lord, that he died and rose from the dead, and that he is our Savior. We make use of the various rituals of Holy Week to imitate the essence of what took place in salvation history, not to simply stage some sort of dramatic production.

Unlike the disciples and the other original followers of Jesus, we know the end of the story!

HOLY THURSDAY The whole “theme” of the liturgy of the Paschal Triduum — which is, in fact, one single liturgy celebrated over three days — is the triumph of Jesus in his Paschal Mystery: Christ has died, Christ is risen, Christ will come again!

And so, the liturgy begins, even on Holy Thursday, with the entire Paschal Mystery in mind.

On each of the “days” of the Triduum (a word which simply means “three days”), however, we do commemorate different moments in the Lord’s life and ministry, each of which contributes to the larger whole. “[Jesus] rose from supper and took off his outer garments. He took a towel and tied it around his waist. Then he poured water into a basin and began to wash the disciples’ feet.” (Jn 13:4-5).

Now, it is true that Holy Thursday commemorates the institution of the Eucharist and the sacrament of holy orders, which makes possible the Eucharist for every generation. The second reading makes this clear.

But the first reading, the Passover account, sets the Eucharist in the context of the larger mystery. Whereby death passed over the Hebrews on their night of deliverance, so death also passes over us as we experience redemption in Christ.

And the Gospel reading reveals the difference our salvation is to make. The ancient Hebrews would go on to fight and struggle against their enemies for many years. We who have been saved by Christ are not to fight against one another, but to wash one another’s feet.

Although this rite, in which the priest washes feet in order to show his solidarity with the humility and service of the Lord Jesus, was not explicitly incorporated into the Holy Thursday service in Jerusalem, Egeria does mention it as a practice among Christian believers.

Only in recent times has it come into the liturgy to signify what it means to be great among others: “Do you realize what I have done for you? You call me ‘teacher’ and ‘master,’ and rightly so, for indeed I am. If I, therefore, the master and teacher, have washed your feet, you ought to wash one another’s feet. I have given you a model to follow, so that as I have done for you, you should also do” (Jn 13:12b-15).

HOLY WEEK AT THE CATHEDRAL PALM SUNDAY 11 a.m.

HOLY THURSDAY 7:30 p.m.

GOOD FRIDAY 3 p.m.

GOOD FRIDAY There are no words nor songs that commence the second part of the Triduum liturgy, the Good Friday celebration of the Lord’s passion. No words could equal the solemnity of the moment when the priest and ministers enter and prostrate themselves before a sanctuary stripped of everything save its essential furniture, just as Jesus was stripped of everything save his essential being as Son of God and Son of Man. The people kneel in this moment without words.

Egeria described a moment in the gathering of the faithful on Good Friday in which a silver casket was presented to the bishop of Jerusalem. The box contained what was believed to have been a portion of the very cross upon which Jesus was crucified, as it had been discovered by St. Helena, the mother of the first Christian Roman emperor Constantine.

After the bishop removed the relic of the cross and placed it on a table, with ministers standing on either side with lighted torches, the faithful would come and venerate the relic, usually with a kiss. “But may I never boast except in the cross of our Lord Jesus Christ, through which the world has been crucified to me, and I to the world” (Gal 6:14).

THE EASTER VIGIL In reality, the entire three days — even the entire week — was a continuous vigil for those early Christians in Jerusalem as they went from place to place, remembering what had taken place at these locations during the last week of Jesus’ life on earth.

But the greatest of vigils, in fact, what came to be known as the “Mother of All Vigils,” was reserved for Saturday night through Sunday dawn.

“This is the night!”

Thus cries out the singer of the Easter proclamation as the Passover recorded in the Book of Exodus and read aloud on Holy Thursday now becomes the core theme of the Easter Vigil on Holy Saturday night. The fire that is blessed signifies the light that “shines in the darkness, and the darkness has not overcome it.” (Jn 1:5). It is a light “divided yet never dimmed,” the singer continues, as the paschal candle and the individual tapers of the faithful illumine the church.

This is the night of redemption, signified in the blessing of the water, the baptism of the catechumens and the renewal of the baptismal promises by all the faithful. As the Israelites passed through the parted Red Sea on dry land and were not drowned, so the Christian passes through the waters of baptism, not drowned, but dying nonetheless to sin and death and rising to new life through Christ’s death and resurrection.

The deliverance of Israel through water and the deliverance of the white-robed baptized through water is renewed for all as the priest sprinkles the faithful with the same saving water. Catholic Christians throughout the world restore the Alleluia to their liturgical and devotional prayers at Easter. Christ has died and has risen. Alleluia: “The Lord be praised.”

From the entrance into Jerusalem, to the Passover feast, to the Garden of Gethsemane, to the high priest’s court, to the praetorium of Pilate, then along the suffering streets of Jerusalem, to Golgotha and the borrowed tomb, to the brightness of the angelic presence at the same tomb, now departed and empty: These are the stations of redemption, commemorated and signified by the stations of the sacred liturgy of Holy Week, celebrated long ago in Jerusalem, discovered by a Christian pilgrim and echoed in the hearts of all Christians.

Thanks be to God, alleluia, alleluia.

* Michael Podrebarac is the archdiocesan consultant for the office of liturgy and sacramental life.

HOLY SATURDAY 8 p.m.

EASTER SUNDAY 11 a.m.

APRIL 12, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NATION

10

Atlanta archbishop named new leader of Washington Archdiocese

W

ASHINGTON (CNS) — Pope Francis has named Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory of Atlanta as the new archbishop of Washington.

The appointment was announced April 4 in Washington by Archbishop Christophe Pierre, the Vatican nuncio to the United States.

Archbishop Gregory, 71, a former president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops who helped navigate the conference through the clergy sexual abuse crisis in 2002, is the first African American to be named to head the Washington Archdiocese.

He succeeds Cardinal Donald W. Wuerl, whose resignation was accepted by Pope Francis in October, nearly three years after he turned 75, the mandatory retirement age for bishops.

Cardinal Wuerl continued as apostolic administrator until his successor was named. The cardinal headed the Washington Archdiocese from 2006 to 2018.

Archbishop Gregory will be installed as the seventh archbishop of Washington May 21 at the Cathedral of St. Matthew the Apostle.

“I am deeply grateful to Pope Francis for this appointment to serve the Archdiocese of Washington and to work with all of the members of this faith community,” Archbishop Gregory said. “I look forward to encountering and listening to the people of this local church as we address the issues that face us and continue to grow in the love of Christ that sustains us.”

Cardinal Wuerl welcomed his successor’s appointment “with great joy.”

“I join all who appreciate his pastoral abilities, his intellectual gifts and his leadership qualities,” he said in a statement. “I have known Archbishop Gregory for many years. In working with him on a range of pastoral initiatives and programs, I have come to recognize how generously he shares his talents and his love for the church.”

As the Washington Archdiocese “opens a new chapter and looks to the future,” Cardinal Wuerl added, “we can all, with great confidence and enthusiasm, welcome our new shepherd.”

CNS PHOTO/BOB ROLLER

Atlanta Archbishop Wilton D. Gregory concelebrates Mass during the Catholic convocation in Orlando, Florida, in this July 2, 2017, file photo. On April 4 Pope Francis named Archbishop Gregory to head the Archdiocese of Washington.

The archdiocese’s three auxiliaries, Bishops Mario E. Dorsonville, Roy E. Campbell Jr. and Michael W. Fisher, also issued statements expressing their joy and gratitude to the pope for appointing Archbishop Gregory to Washington.

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“This appointment reflects the Holy Father’s love for our local church, for each one of us, and, especially, for our immigrant families in the archdiocese,” said Bishop Dorsonville.

“I have come to know Archbishop Gregory over the past two years and

have had the good fortune to work with him as a member of the black Catholic bishops of the United States,” said Bishop Campbell, a Washington auxiliary since 2017. “I look forward to working closely with him in his ministry of leading and healing all who make up this church and this community.”

Bishop Fisher added: “His experience and guidance as president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops during the adoption of the ‘Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People’ will be essential in our church’s continued commitment to healing and accountability. The new archbishop will be shepherding diverse and vibrant parishes with zealous and faithfilled clergy and laity ready to assist him in his ministry.”

Archbishop Gregory has served in Atlanta since 2005. He previously was bishop of Belleville, Illinois, for 11 years, beginning in 1994. He was named auxiliary bishop of Chicago in 1983. In the Archdiocese of Chicago, he served as associate pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish in Glenview; a faculty member at St. Mary of the Lake Seminary in Mundelein; and as master of ceremonies for Cardinal John P. Cody and Cardinal Joseph L. Bernardin.

In moving to Washington, the archbishop steps into a high-profile position. The area that comprises the archdiocese includes the halls of power in Congress, the White House and the U.S. Supreme Court, the many embassies of governments from around the world, and nonprofit and lobbying organizations that advocate on a wide range of public policy issues. He also automatically becomes chancellor of The Catholic University of America’s board of trustees.

Archbishop Gregory comes to an archdiocese with a rich ethnic diversity that includes a vibrant Hispanic community of 270,000 and historic parishes that date to the 19th century serving 100,000 people of African and Caribbean descent. Overall, the archdiocese has nearly 659,000 Catholics throughout the District of Columbia and five Maryland counties.

APRIL 12, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

WORLD

Family carries the cross on Via Dolorosa

By Judith Sudilovsky Catholic News Service

J

ERUSALEM (CNS) — For four decades, Mousa Kamar has taken his place at the head of the heavy wooden cross used during the Franciscan Good Friday procession on the Via Dolorosa.

Kamar, 55, can be seen every year at the front left of the cross, the same position where his father used to carry the cross. His grandfather also helped carry the front of the cross. The scores of old black-andwhite pictures, color photographs and magazine photos Kamar has collected and uploaded onto his Facebook page attest to the longheld family tradition.

“We do this not only because it is the tradition, but because we are religious and we truly believe in it,” said Kamar, looking over some of the photographs scattered on a coffee table as he sat in his mother’s living room in Jerusalem’s Old City, near the ninth station of the cross.

This is the home where he grew up and where his paternal grandmother was born.

It takes about 20 men to carry the 3-meter (3.3-yard) cross on Good Friday, and traditionally each position on the cross was taken by a representative of a different family.

Kamar is the only one who has continued with the tradition. As the older generation died off, the younger members of the other families did not continue with the tradition, he said.

The cross, though still large and heavy, is smaller than the one used generations ago, he said.

Even in the pushing and shoving of the procession, which sees local Catholics and pilgrims packing the cobblestone streets of the Old City as they make their way along the Via Dolorosa, Kamar said he is able to find a space within himself where he can reflect on the significance of the moment and on the life of Jesus.

“When I am carrying the cross I remember Jesus, how he died for us and how he walked all this way by himself,” said Kamar. “We are 20 people carrying it, and he carried

11

Pope asks anti-trafficking nun to write Way of Cross meditations

By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service

V CNS PHOTO/DEBBIE HILL

Mousa Kamar, front right, and his son, Youssef, left, carry the large wooden cross during the Good Friday procession on the Via Dolorosa in Jerusalem’s Old City March 25, 2016. Mousa Kamar and his sons are carrying on the tradition of his grandfather and father, carrying the cross on Good Friday. it by himself. Especially as we stop at each station and it is mentioned where he fell, it makes me feel like I am following the footsteps of Jesus.”

Kamar’s parents had run a family grocery store near the eighth station of the cross, and Graciella Matulleh Kamar, today 83, recalled the pride she felt as she would stand in the doorway of their shop on Good Friday and watch as her husband carried the cross during the procession. Her husband, Kamar’s father, was killed during the 1967 war in which Israel took over control of Jerusalem from the Jordanians.

“After he was killed, I couldn’t watch the procession anymore. It was too painful,” she said.

Only when Kamar, at age 15, stepped in to fill his father’s place was she able to once again watch the procession, she said.

Kamar was 5 when his father was killed.

“Especially on Good Fridays, my mother would tell me about how my father carried the cross and that one day I would carry it, too,” he said.

“The first time I carried it I couldn’t sleep the night before, I was so excited about carrying the cross and filling that space my father had had.”

Several years ago, Kamar’s oldest son, Youssef, 20, also joined the group of men carrying the cross, but during the procession, he steps aside to let others take their turn.

More recently, Kamar’s youngest son, Ramez, 15, began taking part in the carrying of the cross. One of the pictures shows a 13-year-old Ramez at the end of the cross, his head barely peeping over the top of the cross among the crowd of men surrounding it. With his dark curly hair and full cheeks he looks just like his father did in earlier pictures.

“It was very exciting to be able to carry the cross,” said Youssef Kamar. “In the future maybe I and my [future] sons will continue the family tradition. Although this is a tradition, it also helps me feel closer to Jesus and what he went through before being crucified.

“It is also a burden and an honor to do this,” he added. “Since I was young, I heard stories about this family tradition and, since my father, and his father and his grandfather have done this, I think it is important to keep the tradition and to keep our religion alive.”

ATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis has asked an Italian nun, who has been on the frontlines in the fight against human trafficking, to write this year’s Way of the Cross meditations.

Consolata Sister Eugenia Bonetti, 80, will prepare the texts for the evening service April 19, Good Friday, at Rome’s Colosseum, said Alessandro Gisotti, interim director of the Vatican press office.

Gisotti said, “The suffering of many people who are victims of human trafficking will be the central theme of the meditations,” which are meant to help participants walk in Christ’s footsteps and reflect on today’s sins and sufferings, and how Christians should respond.

Each year, the pope asks a different person to write the commentary and prayers.

Sister Bonetti is a leader among religious women working against human trafficking. She started and led antitrafficking initiatives for the Italian Union of Major Superiors and helped educate officials in Italy and the United States about the problem.

The Italian religious superiors’ anti-trafficking office she set up trains and connects religious congregations and other people around the world to provide victim support and services as well as prevent trafficking by helping people, in their home countries, who are vulnerable to being trafficked.

She was honored by the U.S. Department of State in 2004 with its “Trafficking in Persons Hero Award” for her work, and in 2007 she was given the State Department’s “Woman of Courage” award for helping “create transformative change” and setting “a positive example for emerging women leaders worldwide.” In 2014, she received Italy’s highest honor when Italian President Giorgio Napolitano bestowed on her the Order of Merit.

APRIL 12, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

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Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided.

Call (913) 940-2959.

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. Tree Trimming Tree Trimming/Landscaping Insured/References Free Estimates/Local Parishioner Tony (913) 620-6063 8 to Your IdealWeight Get Real, Get Healthy, Get Empowered.

Release your weight and restore your power in 8 weeks!

Certified coach: kathioppold.8toyouridealweight.com.

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

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

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.

Clutter getting you down? - Organize, fix, assemble, install!

“Kevin of all trades” your professional organizer and “Honey-do” specialist. Call or email me today for a free consultation at (913) 271-5055 or KOATorganizing@gmail.com.

Insured. References.

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

Rodman Lawn Care Lawn mowing, aeration, verticutting, mulching, Hedge trimming, leaf removal, gutter cleaning Fully insured and free estimates John Rodman (913) 548-3002 Decked Out in KC - www.WEFIXDECKS.com. We repair, power wash and seal concrete drives, walkways, pool decks and more. Call Brian at (913) 952-5965.

HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com

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

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

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

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

WE SELL HOMES - Looking to sell? This is a seller’s market.

Call for a free consultation detailing the steps to selling your home. Ask about our 39-day sales guarantee. Mention this ad for a special offer. Call Jim Blaufuss, Re/Max Realty Suburban, at (913) 226-7442. Jimblaufuss@remax.net

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CAREGIVING Just like family - Let me care for your loved ones in their homes. I have many years of experience. Looking for night-shift coverage, some days. Great price, great references. Experienced with hospice care. Call Ophelia at (913) 579-7276.

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

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

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

FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) For sale - Two side-by-side crypts; tier B, 13 and 15, located in the St. Joseph Chapel at Mount Calvary Cemetery, the only two left in the chapel. Call (913) 269-6176 for pricing.

For sale - One plot in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Lot number 46C, space 7 in the Garden of Everlasting Life. Asking $1000. If interested, call Judy at (913) 523-6993.

For sale - Double lawn crypt at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa, Garden of Hope section, double lawn crypt, lot 78 C, space 4. Conveyance fee included. $7500. Call Lou at (512) 294-2869.

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

WANTED TO BUY Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid.

Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.

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

APRIL 12, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

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

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

‘LINGER OVER COFFEE’ Marillac Center 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth April 9 from 9:30 - 11 a.m.

There will be discussions of prayer using the book “Prayer” by Joyce Rupp. Different Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth will facilitate the session. Registration is not required. The suggested donation is a freewill offering. For more information, call (913) 758-6552 or send an email to: retreats@scls.org.

tion and the availability of self-paced, online classes. Learn more about the class online at: www.nfptopeka.blogspot.com.

‘YOU PAID HOW MUCH? THE TRUTH ABOUT FUNERAL COSTS AND PLANNING’ Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave, Kansas City, Kansas April 17 from 10 a.m. - noon

Attend this session of unbiased advice from experts who volunteer to educate and support families in making informed decisions.

For more information or to register, call (913) 906-8990 or go online to: www.keeler womenscenter.org.

WAY OF THE CROSS Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception 416 W. 12th St., Kansas City, Missouri April 19 from 10:30 a.m. - 1 p.m.

The Kansas City area Communion and Liberation communities will lead a walking Way of the Cross through downtown Kansas City, Missouri, on Good Friday.

Bishop James V. Johnston will open the devotion with a blessing. All are welcome; street parking only. For more information, send an email to: mcarrizosaramos@ gmail.com.

SYMPHONY DESIGNERS’ SHOWHOUSE 606 W. 52nd St., Kansas City, Missouri April 22 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

FAMILY CHILI/BINGO St. Mary-St. Anthony Parish (Bishop Forst Hall) 615 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas April 13 from 5 - 8 p.m.

Join us for this fun-filled evening, the annual fundraiser of Resurrection School. There will be dinner, a silent auction and bingo. Raffle tickets will be sold all night and top winners will be announced at 8 p.m. Cash and checks will be accepted.

MEMORIAL LITURGY Curé of Ars (Father Burak Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park April 13 at 8 a.m.

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

LENTEN CRAFT AND BAKE SALE Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 106 Exchange St., Emporia April 13 and 14 after all Masses

The Mass times at Sacred Heart are: 5:30 on Saturday evening (April 13) and 8, 9:30 and 11 a.m. on Sun., April 14.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST Divine Mercy Parish (Christian Formation Center) 555 W. Main St., Gardner April 14 from 8 - 10 a.m.

The Ladies of Charity will host a private showing of the 2019 Kansas City Symphony Designers’ Showhouse. The tour includes a box lunch, raffle and shopping at the KCSA boutique. The cost for a ticket is $25 and helps support the Duchesne Clinic, Seton Center and Villa St. Francis. Mail reservation and check to: Karen Camerata, 5508 W. 129th St., Overland Park, KS 66209. For more information, call Kathy Gorman at (913) 803-4712.

OPEN HOUSE Our Lady’s Montessori School 3020 S. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas April 24 from 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Now enrolling for elementary for fall 2019, ages 6 - 9. You are invited to come learn about Our Lady’s Montessori School community. RSVP online to: jwallace@olmskc.org.

‘SEEKING GOD WITH EMILY DICKINSON’ Sophia Spirituality Center 751 S. 8th St., Atchison April 24 from 10 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

Come spend the day with Emily Dickinson.

Learn about the home life, culture and religious milieu in which she lived, all of which helped to shape her writing and understanding and experience of God. Time will be spent with others in nature, silence, prayer and lectio, discussion, lecture and learning. The fee of $70 includes lunch. For more information or to register, call (913) 360-6173 or visit the website at: www.sophiaspiritualitycenter. org.

Enjoy fun and fellowship with family and friends. The cost for a breakfast of pancakes, sausage, eggs and all the fixings is: $6 for adults; $3 for kids 6 - 12; and free for kids under the age of 6.

BREAKFAST Sacred Heart Parish (hall) 106 Exchange St., Emporia April 14 from 8 - 11 a.m.

The Knights of Columbus will be serving a breakfast for a freewill offering.

NATURAL FAMILY PLANNING Topeka April 15 at 4 p.m.

A reasonable course fee is charged, and online registration is required at: www.ccli.org. Call Dana or Eric Runnebaum at (785) 380-0062 for more information, including the class loca-

BREATHE RESPITE CARE PROGRAM Holy Cross School 8101 W. 95th St., Overland Park April 27 from 4 - 8 p.m.

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

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

BLISTERS FOR SISTERS St. Thomas More Parish 11822 Holmes, Kansas City, Missouri May 4 at 9 a.m.

Join the Serrans from Kansas and Missouri to recognize and honor the religious women in the Kansas City area for all their ministries. There will be a walk, Mass and lunch.

For more information and to register, go online to: www.serrakcmo.org, go to “Activities,” click on “Blisters for Sisters” and register there.

CHAMBER MUSIC CONCERT Mount St. Scholastica (St. Scholastica Chapel) 801 S. 8th St., Atchison April 27 at 3 p.m.

Mount St. Scholastica’s “Concerts at the Mount” will present a chamber music concert by a five-member ensemble from the Kansas City Symphony.

7TH ANNUAL CAR, TRUCK AND CYCLE SHOW Our Lady of Unity (Sacred Heart Campus) 2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas April 27 from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Each car, truck and cycle entry is $20 until April 14 and $25 after. There will be a T-shirt, goody bag and dash plaques for 100 entries. There will be food and live music.

OLU students in grades 6 - 8 will be participating in derby races in the basement; this is part of the schools’ STEM program. The event is free to the public. For information, send an email to: OLUCarClub@yahoo.com or visit the Facebook page at: OLU Car Club.

This is a “rain-or-shine” event.

DIVINE MERCY CARNIVAL Divine Mercy Parish 555 W. Main St., Gardner April 28 from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.

Join us as we celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday with food and fun for everyone. There will be hamburger ($3) and hot dog ($1) meals available that include chips and a drink. A $10 wristband for kids includes a “Divine Mercy Trivia Tour” passport book, unlimited carnival games, bounce house, hayride, egg hunt and a meal. There will also be a cakewalk, bingo and more.

SPRING FESTIVAL St. Joseph School 307 Iowa St., Olpe April 28 at 3 p.m.

A dinner of roast beef, mashed potatoes and gravy, chicken and noodles, and sides will be served for the cost of $8 for adults and $3 for children ages 10 and under. Carryouts are available. There will also be a raffle for a handmade quilt and many other cash and merchandise prizes. Bingo begins at 6:45 p.m. in the Knights hall. Proceeds benefit St. Joseph Parish religious education ministries.

FILLING ST. MARY CHURCH WITH MUSIC St. Mary Church 9208 Main St., St. Benedict April 28 at 3:30 p.m.

The Emporia State University A Capella Choir and the Emporia Chorale will perform Gabriel Faure’s “Requiem.” The a capella choir will sing additional sacred works. There is no charge to attend. A reception will follow in the parish hall. Everyone is welcome.

POTLUCK DINNER Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish (Formation Room) 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka April 25 from 5 - 7 p.m.

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POLKA DANCE Father Dolan Knights of Columbus Hall 11221 Johnson Dr., Shawnee May 3 at 7:30 p.m.

The Brian McCarty Band, with special guest premier accordionist David Austin, will be playing for the dance. The cost is $10 at the door. Polish sausage sandwiches, chips, sauerkraut, beer and soda will be available for purchase. Proceeds will go the priest and seminarian fund.

GARAGE SALE Holy Spirit Parish 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park May 31 from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m.

June 1 from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

There will be furniture, kitchen wares, clothing, baby items, toys, games, holiday items, books, art, home decor and more. Come shop and visit with friends. Net proceeds from the sale will benefit Holy Spirit School and the youth ministry’s trip to Steubenville.

FAMILY SPECIAL-NEEDS SUMMER CAMP Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg June 28 - 30

This is a summer camp for families who have a loved one with special needs. For more information, go online to: www.arch kck.org/specialneeds or contact Tom Racunas at: tracunas@archkck.org or call (913) 647-3054.

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

Registration and further information is available online at: www.stasaints.net/summer camps. For more information, call (913) 3192416 or send an email to: btriggs@stasaints. net.

CATHOLIC HEART WORKCAMP Kansas City area July 8 - 11

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

BINGO Immaculate Conception Church (hall) 606 S. Elm, Louisburg Second and fourth Thursdays at 7 p.m.

Bingo is sponsored by the Knights of Columbus. The doors open at 6 p.m. Food will also be available.

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

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

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

APRIL 12, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY HOLY WEEK April 14 PALM SUNDAY OF THE PASSION OF THE LORD Lk 19: 28-40 (procession) Is 50: 4-7 Ps 22: 8-9, 17-18a, 19-20, 23-24 Phil 2: 6-11 Lk 22:14 – 23:56 April 15 Monday of Holy Week Is 42: 1-7 Ps 27: 1-3, 13-14 Jn 12: 1-11 April 16 Tuesday of Holy Week Is 49: 1-6 Ps 71: 1-4a, 5-6ab, 15, 17 Jn 13: 21-33, 36-38 April 17 Wednesday of Holy Week Is 50: 4-9a Ps 69: 8-10, 21-22, 31, 33-34 Mt 26: 14-25 April 18 HOLY THURSDAY OF THE LORD’S SUPPER Ex 12:1-8, 11-14 Ps 116:12-13, 15-16c, 17-18 1 Cor 11:23-26 Jn 13: 1-15 April 19 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 20 THE EASTER VIGIL IN THE HOLY NIGHT Gn 1:1 – 2:2 Ps 104: 1-2a, 5-6, 10, 12-14, 24, 35c Ex 14:15 – 15:1 (Ps) Ex 15: 1-6, 17-18 Is 55: 1-11 (Ps) Is 12: 2-3, 4bcd, 5-6 Rom 6: 3-11 Ps 118: 1-2, 16ab-17, 22-23 Lk 24: 1-12

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I

14

Make no mistake about it: This week is crucial

suspect that I’ll be one of the few celebrating this on April 15. And, no, I’m not talking about Income Tax Day. April 15 is National Rubber Eraser Day! I’m not sure how many people — with the exception of some grade school kids — even use pencils anymore, let alone erasers.

The eraser’s origin goes back to before the discovery of the New World, when Indians in Central and South America tapped into wild rubber trees called “cachuchus.” In 1770, an English chemist, Joseph Priestly, found a use for small pieces of the sticky cachuchu-tree derivative: as erasers. He coined the term “rubber eraser” because it was so effective in rubbing out pencil marks.

Later in 1770, Edward Nairne developed the first marketable rubber eraser. Charles Goodyear, after discovering the process of vulcanization in 1839, made rubber erasers standard.

Finally, in 1858,

C

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.

Hyman Lipman from Philadelphia patented the pencil with an eraser on the end.

As an adult, I still use pencils, along with a large, separate eraser or two nearby. Why do I still use pencils and erasers?

Well, they’re incredibly cheap, they don’t have ink that will dry up and they save a lot of frustration when I’m doing a challenging crossword puzzle or Ken-Ken. I’ve also found that

people are much less likely to walk off with them or “borrow” them.

So, why this talk of erasers? Well, this little story was the trigger: A woman was standing on a curb, waiting for the traffic light to change. On the opposite curb was a girl about 17 years old. The woman noticed that the girl was crying.

When the light changed, each started across the street. Just as they were about to meet, the woman’s motherly instincts came rushing to the surface. Every part of her wanted to reach out and comfort that girl. But the woman passed her by. She didn’t even greet

her; she just kept going.

Hours later, the tear-filled eyes of that girl continued to haunt the woman. Over and over, she said to herself, “Why didn’t I turn to her and say, ‘Can I be of help?’ Sure, she might have rejected me, but so what! Only a few seconds would have been enough to let her know that someone cared for her. Instead, I passed on by. I acted as if she didn’t exist.” (Found in “More Sower’s Seeds: Second Planting,” by Brian Cavanaugh, TOR.) As a confessor, the sins most overlooked by penitents are those of omission, the times that they could have done something for someone but chose not to, like the woman above. This could be a compliment left unspoken, a volunteer opportunity ignored, a friendship neglected, or a word of forgiveness withheld.

Author Matthew Kelly sees an antidote to the mistake of these missed opportunities by embracing “holy moments,” being aware of ways to

live our faith in small actions and then actually doing them.

As we near the end of another Lenten season, it’s time to take stock.

How well did you use these days? If you’ve had a lackluster Lent, don’t despair. As we enter into Holy Week, commit to performing multiple, daily “holy moments.”

And don’t forget the “coming to church” part.

Although the Triduum is the most sacred time of the church’s year, many people jump from Palm Sunday to Easter Sunday without celebrating the days in between.

Read Michael Podrebarac’s excellent explanation of the Triduum on pages 8-9 to get a sense of why these days are so important to our faith life. Don’t make the mistake of being too busy to come to church.

This week, let’s celebrate wholeheartedly the One who came to erase our mistakes, our sinfulness, our selfishness and our hardness of heart.

Prophet’s treatment foreshadows Jesus’ own

ertain occupations carry with them their own expectations.

A farmer can expect to spend a lot of time outside in the sun. A doctor can expect to come into contact with sick people. And a prophet can expect to have his or her message rejected, and even perhaps be killed for it.

At least, this often happened to the prophets of the Old Testament.

Even when there was no scriptural account of it, tradition often ascribed martyrdom to them.

Jesus alludes to this belief in the Gospels, when he addresses the city of Jerusalem: “Jerusalem, Jerusalem, you who kill the prophets and stone those sent to you” (Lk 13:34).

Jesus anticipated that he himself would share

IN THE BEGINNING

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

in the fate of the prophets. He would suffer and die because he was proclaiming the word of God. At the beginning of his ministry, Jesus

announces his prophetic mission: “The Spirit of the Lord is upon me, because he has anointed me to bring glad tidings to the poor. He has sent me to proclaim liberty to captives and recovery of sight to the blind, to let the oppressed go free, and to proclaim a year acceptable to the Lord” (Lk 4:18-19).

Sunday’s first reading, Is 50:4-7, offers the vivid description of the prophet’s suffering,

POPE FRANCIS Nations that actively engage in arms dealing and help foment war in other countries should not expect to find peace in their own lands, Pope Francis said.

During a wide-ranging interview with the Spanish news program, “Salvados,” which aired March 31, the pope was asked his opinion by journalist Jordi Evole regarding the Spanish government’s sale of weapons to Saudi Arabia, which is currently engaged in a conflict with Yemen.

The pope said that while he was saddened by the

suffering that Jesus would share in. The prophet points out how God has equipped him for accomplishing his ministry: “The Lord God has given me a well-trained tongue, that I might know how to speak to the weary a word that will rouse them.”

The prophet also describes the response that he receives to his prophetic message: “I gave my back to those who beat me, my cheeks to those who plucked my beard; my face I did not shield from buffets and spitting.”

The experience of this Old Testament prophet sheds light upon Jesus’ passion and death.

That makes it especially appropriate now for us as we begin Holy Week. After all, Jesus similarly used a well-trained tongue to

carry out his ministry of teaching.

He told parables to the crowds. He challenged his opponents with sharp criticism.

In response, Jesus’ enemies plotted his death. As they crucified him, they subjected him to insults and brutality.

His experience echoes the mistreatment of the prophet in the reading from Isaiah.

Despite how badly he is handled, the prophet displays great fortitude and great trust in God: “The Lord God is my help.”

Similarly, in the face of his sufferings, Jesus would show great courage in the face of death.

He would entrust himself to God. His dying words would reflect that confidence: “Father, into your hands I commend my spirit” (Lk 23:46a).

country’s action, Spain “isn’t the only country” involved in arms dealing. Countries that sell arms, he said, “have no right to talk about peace. They are fomenting war in another country, and then they want peace in their own land.”

He said it has a “boomerang” effect in which there’s always a price to pay when taking a life. “If you start war over there, you’re going to have it at home whether you want it or not,” he added.

Asked about migration in Europe, the pope cited the Book of Deuteronomy, saying the act of welcoming migrants is “a Christian attitude.”

— CNS

APRIL 12, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

15

Iceland experience proves that disability is a pro-life issue

M

arch was Developmental Disabilities Awareness Month.

March 21 was Down Syndrome Day. April is Autism Awareness Month. May is Mental Health Awareness Month.

I could go on. If you are interested, go online to: www.disabled-world. com. Every month of the year and many days of each month target a type of disability or health condition.

Many of the organizations that work to create this awareness ask for donations in order to fund research that will cure, or eventually eliminate, the condition.

I know that many of

REACHING OUT

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

the health conditions that exist are extremely debilitating to those who have them as well

as their families. And, of course, we are all vulnerable! Eighty-five percent of disability is caused by accident or illness. But that word “eliminate” scares me.

Certainly, I want to see suffering eased so that people can have a better quality of life. So, searches for some cures and elimination of some

conditions are justified.

But then I see ads like: “Help us find a cure for autism” and I think about all the autistic people I have met during my years in education and ministry and how delightful I have found them.

They have taught me so much! Do they want to be cured? Should we want autism to be eliminated? (This is not to say that I am not in favor of finding better treatments and interventions to stop or significantly reduce some of the manifestations of autism, especially self-injurious or aggressive behaviors.)

I know a lot of people (my nephew included) who have Down syndrome. I can’t imagine a

world without them.

They cannot hide their disability the way most of us hide our weaknesses. They rejoice in life in some remarkable ways! Ways from which we can all take lessons!

However, with the rise of prenatal screening tests across the United States and Europe, the number of babies born with Down syndrome has significantly decreased. Few countries, however, have come as close to eradicating Down syndrome births as Iceland.

Since prenatal screenings were introduced in Iceland in the early 2000s, the vast majority of women — close to 100 percent — who received a positive

test for Down syndrome terminated their pregnancy.

So, the condition is “cured” by eliminating the person? We eliminate suffering, challenges and inconvenience by taking human life? Is a prenatal screening for autism next?

Disability is a prolife issue! We should pay attention to these awareness activities.

They educate us about disabilities and health conditions in order to destigmatize them.

That should motivate us to reach out and offer our loving care and concern so that we continue to build the kingdom of God where the dignity and value of every person are honored.

Charities integrates social teaching into student volunteer experience

“W

e’re feeding the hungry!” said Ethan emphatically as he loaded a bag of canned vegetables in the back of the Catholic Charities truck.

Like many of his classmates, Ethan was participating in a service project organized through his school and partnering with the Community Engagement team at Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas.

On this day, the students were collecting food donations to help feed families across our 21-county service area that experience food insecurity.

Classroom curriculum is more than just mastering the fundamentals

INSIDE CATHOLIC CHARITIES

LAUREN SOLIDUM Lauren Solidum is the executive director of Catholic Charities.

of reading, writing and arithmetic. It is often the first learning space outside the home.

Teachers and faculty, who instill core values

like compassion, respect and kindness into their students, help lay the foundation that is necessary for shaping these children into responsible, caring adults.

Unfortunately, volunteerism among young people has declined over the last 15 years.

Of those who do volunteer, research suggests

that while they may be connected with the act of service, they may not understand the complexity of the problem that necessitated their volunteering in the first place.

At Catholic Charities, we have the privilege of combining efforts on service projects with school staff, especially those within our archdiocese.

Through this partnership we are able to educate and inform students of the needs in our community and offer ways they can contribute to a solution.

Service opportunities empower the students to engage in the teachings of social justice — to love your neighbor and to recognize that everyone is our neighbor.

As a bonus, studies also reveal that kids who volunteer are more successful in school and more likely to graduate high school and college.

Volunteerism reiterates skills taught in the classroom, like organization, group collaboration and time management.

It’s amazing to witness how the simple act of volunteering extends beyond the deed itself.

For the people served

by Catholic Charities, a food donation means they are able to feed their family.

But for the students doing the serving, it’s recognizing that they are part of something bigger than just themselves and their school; they are part of a community. They learn that

Concrete Work

WERE YOU MARRIED IN 1969?

Any type of repair and new work Driveways, Walks, Patios

Archdiocesan 50th Wedding Anniversary Celebration Church of the Nativity/Leawood, KS June 2, 2019 at 2 p.m.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann invitescouples celebrating their 50th Wedding Anniversary in 2019 to a Golden Anniversary Mass in their honorwith reception following.

Member of Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish

Harvey M. Kascht (913) 262-1555

Announcement Joseph A. Butler & Son Funeral Home has re-opened as

is affiliated with Warren-McElwain Mortuary, Lawrence, KS

1844 Minnesota Ave. Kansas City, Kansas 913-371-7000 To receive your invitation from Archbishop Naumann, please call the Marriage & Family Life Office at (913) 647-0345

their efforts matter and they can make a difference.

Of the same group of young persons where volunteerism is declining, nearly half stated they wanted to become leaders in their community. Christian author and Kansas native Jim George said it best when he wrote: “Serving others prepares you to lead others.”

We are so blessed to be the conduit between young volunteers — our future leaders — and our neighbors in need.

If your school or group would like to participate in a service opportunity at Catholic Charities, we invite you to learn more on our website at: catholiccharitiesks.org.

“Dignified and Affordable Without Compromise”

“Locally Owned and Operated Since 1904” Jim Larkin

Sam Garcia

APRIL 12, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

16

Early devotion to young saint led to discernment, now ordination

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

PERSONALLY SPEAKING

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — A faithful family, a love for the Mass and a boyhood desire to become a priest are good indicators that a young man could be called to the priesthood — but it’s no guarantee.

Such was the case for Deacon Nicholas Steven Ashmore.

As he discovered, discernment is a gradual process and requires making decisions between equally good choices. Deacon Ashmore, like all seminarians had to confront this question: What does my heart really desire?

Deacon Ashmore, who will be 26 years old when he is ordained, was born in Rochester, New York. He and his twin brother Robert were the third youngest of the nine children of Willard Ashmore and Katrina Gavala.

Due to his father’s work as a nuclear operations expert, the family moved around a bit. Deacon Ashmore’s family moved to Michigan when he was 6; to Burlington when he was 7; and then Mars, Pennsylvania (near Pittsburgh) when he was 14 years old.

His father was a cradle Catholic, and his mother converted to the Catholic faith in the early 1990s.

“My family was very strong in the faith,” said Deacon Ashmore. “We prayed before all meals and went to Mass on Sunday. Dad had a great love for learning the truths of the Catholic faith, which he passed on to me.”

His time in Kansas was particularly influential. Deacon Ashmore went to St. Joseph School in Olpie, and his mother cooked there, too.

“I was an altar boy from the age of 9 or 10 until I left high school,” he said. “It was one of my main loves as a young boy. I loved serving Mass. I loved preparing for it, I always did. . . . That’s where my vocation was really fostered.”

An additional influence was to be found in his pastor, Father Michael Hawken.

“I had a wonderful example of a parish priest in Father Hawken, and I wanted to be like him,” said Deacon Ashmore.

It was about the time he was an altar server that Deacon Ashmore met another great role model — through a book.

There was a book fair at St. Joseph School, and Deacon Ashmore — an avid reader — was eager to go.

“I didn’t have any money because I was a little fourth-grader,” he said.

“I came across a book with the title ‘Dominic Savio: Teenage Saint’ [by Peter Lappin]. And I thought ‘What?

The saint was a teenager?’ I didn’t know that could happen.”

He talked about the book with the friendly lady in charge. Sadly, he began to put it back.

When she found out he had no money, she gave it to him. Deacon Ashmore excitedly took it home, showed it to his parents and finished it that night in bed with a flashlight.

And he read it through three or four times again by next week.

“I’ve felt that, in a certain way, Saint Dominic Savio adopted me as a young boy,” he said. “I’m very devoted to him.”

Later, as a middle-schooler, he found a “home away from home” at Conception Seminary’s Companion Camp, an event hosted by the seminary in

PHOTO COURTESY OF DEACON JOEL HAUG

Deacon Nicholas Ashmore is ordained a transitional deacon by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann. He will be ordained to the priesthood on May 25 at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park.

“

I WANTED SOMETHING THAT WOULD LAST, SOMETHING THAT WASN’T BASED AROUND ME, SOMETHING THAT WAS BASED AROUND OTHERS. I REALIZED THAT ONLY IN BEING A GIFT FOR THE SAKE OF THE PEOPLE OF GOD COULD I BE HAPPY. Conception, Missouri, and focused on faith, fun and fellowship.

“I went there between eighth grade and when I was a senior in high school,” said Deacon Ashmore, “when I came back as part of the staff.”

In high school, he explored other avenues as well.

The desire to be a priest remained, but he developed an interest in music.

He sang, played the French horn and participated in musical theater. He took voice lessons and his teacher encouraged him to pursue a career in classical voice.

He liked performance, the art of the stage. But he didn’t crave applause, the glory of the stage. He felt empty when

the applause faded.

“And, so, I realized that I wanted something that would last, something that wasn’t based around me, something that was based around others,” said Deacon Ashmore. “I realized that only in being a gift for the sake of the people of God could I be happy.

“And I realized, fundamentally, I wanted to pursue a relationship with Christ wholeheartedly. That was the only thing that could satisfy my heart.

For me, to pursue a relationship with Jesus Christ with no bars held, meant I had to pursue the priesthood.”

After graduating from high school in 2011, Deacon Ashmore went on to Conception Seminary College. Later, he went to Kenrick-Glennon Seminary in St. Louis. Every year since then, he has evaluated his call, and every year has received affirmation.

He was ordained a deacon by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann on May 19, 2018, at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa.

He will be ordained a priest by Archbishop Naumann on May 25 at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park.

What advice would he give to men discerning the priesthood?

“Don’t try to ‘figure out’ your vocation,” he said. “Rather, put your heart in Jesus’ hands, and trust that he will guide you wherever you go.

“Only by growing in the confidence that God will not abandon you wherever he brings you will you find the trust to continue following him wherever he calls you.”

Name: Deacon Nicholas Steven Ashmore Age: 26 (at ordination) Born: Rochester, New York Parents: Willard Ashmore and Katrina Gavala Siblings: Andrea, Danielle, Samantha, Salina, Davina, Fabian, Robert and Will Home parish: St. Francis Xavier, Burlington Education: • Mars Area High School, 2011 • Conception Seminary College, Conception, Missouri, Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy, 2015 • Kenrick-Glennon Seminary, St. Louis; Master of Divinity, Master of Arts in Theology, Sacred Theology Bachelor degree Tech I can’t live without: Life without my MacBook would certainly demand some sacrifices.

Favorite musical style/band/ performer: Frank Sinatra Most inspirational Christian(s) I’ve ever met: Several cloistered Sisters, especially the Benedictine Sisters in Gower, Missouri, and the Carmelite Sisters in Avila, Spain Favorite saint: Don Bosco, for his fatherly care and devotion, an example for my own ministry Favorite devotion: The rosary.

My father passed down a deep devotion to the Blessed Mother through this beautiful prayer. I have only grown to love it more in my time in formation.

Book to recommend: “The Confessions of St. Augustine,” by St. Augustine of Hippo. I read it every year. It has everything: love, friendship, intrigue, heartbreak and that mystical yearning we have deep within for the eternal and loving God. Favorite food: Gazpacho.

Least favorite food: This will be controversial: lasagna. Never have I grown a taste for it.

Favorite childhood toy: Beyblades (although my brothers always beat me) Favorite place: Avila, Spain Dream vacation: A combination of relaxation, sightseeing and spending time with friends.

Worst job: Snow shoveling at Conception Seminary Best job: My parish assignments Hobbies/Things I like to do: Reading, cooking and singing Guilty pleasure: Ice cream My hidden talent/party trick: I have above-average control of both eyebrows.

My Final Four saints: St. Don Bosco, St. Teresa of Avila, St. John of the Cross and St. Thomas Aquinas Best advice I’ve received seeking my vocation: Discernment is a process of trust; it does not happen overnight.