Our Lord has triumphed over sin and death. May you be renewed this Easter season, and throughout the year, in hope and confidence of his power and love.
The Passion narratives are true Christian literary treasures that provide the central core of what we believe as Catholics. This year for Palm Sunday we heard the Passion of St. Luke.
Luke begins by recounting the Last Supper, the first Eucharist. Jesus made clear that what he instituted that night was intimately connected with what would happen on Calvary. The Eucharist is the new Passover meal. Jesus is the lamb of sacrifice and his blood liberates his disciples from the enslavement of sin and the domination of death.
Amazingly, after the meal, Jesus’ apostles argued about which one of them should be considered the greatest. Their obtuseness, after all the formation Our Lord had provided them, must have been incredibly frustrating to Jesus.
At the same time, I find consolation in the honesty of the apostles in revealing their weaknesses and poverty. Jesus counseled them if they wished to follow him, then they must strive to be servant leaders.
Jesus urged the apostles to pray for strength for the trials that lay before them. Instead, they fell asleep. Again, this is consoling for modern disciples as we struggle to be vigilant in our own prayer. Jesus prayed with intensity to the Father, asking him to remove the cup of suffering that is now imminent.
However, in the end, Jesus, unlike the first Adam in the Garden of Eden, desired to do the Father’s will above everything else. St. Luke is the only evangelist to illustrate the fervor
of Our Lord’s prayer by describing his sweat becoming like drops of blood.
As Jesus emerged from his prayer and the apostles were waking up, the chief priests and the temple guard arrived to apprehend Jesus. They are led by Judas, the betrayer. Luke relates that a disciple struck with a sword the ear of one of the high priest’s servants. Jesus rejected any violent effort to protect him and actually healed the servant’s ear.
I have often wondered what happened to the high priest’s servant. What must he had thought about the One he came to help arrest manifesting this remarkable kindness to him? Did he become a Christian?
Jesus was dragged off to the home of the high priest, where he underwent the first of several sham trials. Our Lord was insulted, mocked and beaten by his interrogators. Peter, who after the Last Supper had bragged that he would go to prison or even die in defense of Jesus, fulfilled Our Lord’s prophecy by denying three times that he knew Jesus.
Luke includes the detail that after the third denial the eyes of Peter and Jesus meet.
I often wonder what Jesus communicated with his eyes at that moment.
Though Peter exited the Passion weeping bitterly because of his cowardice, on Easter morning, Peter ran to the empty tomb in search of Jesus. I think the gaze of Jesus in the high priest’s courtyard communicated Our Lord’s enduring affection for Peter.
The chief priests and their mob brought Jesus to Pilate. According to Roman law, the Jews did not have the authority to execute someone. They lied to Pilate claiming that Jesus opposed the payment of taxes. Pilate realized that Jesus had done nothing that warranted capital punishment.
When Pilate discovered that Jesus was from Galilee, he sent Jesus and his accusers to Herod who had jurisdiction over Galilee. Herod Antipas — the son of Herod the Great, who attempted to kill Jesus as a child — was curious about Jesus and the reports of the miracles he performed. Jesus refused to even answer questions, much less perform any wonders for Herod’s entertainment. Herod quickly sent Jesus back to Pilate.
Pilate knew that Jesus was not guilty of any capital crime so he has Jesus flogged, mistakenly hoping that would satisfy the chief
priests and Jewish leaders. Ironically, the mob called for the release of Barabbas, who actually was an insurrectionist. In the end, Pilate acquiesced to the demands of the mob, because it was the easier and more politically convenient action.
The mob continued mocking Jesus during his crucifixion. They taunted Jesus, if he was the Messiah, to save himself. Of course, they were unwittingly testifying that Jesus did not come to save himself but to save everyone else.
Our Lord was crucified between two criminals — one of whom also taunted Jesus. He challenged Jesus to save the three of them. The other criminal, whom tradition identified as Dismas, defended Jesus and made an incredible profession of faith, asking Jesus to remember him when Our Lord comes into his kingdom.
Dismas was able to see what no one else could see. Dismas recognized the lordship of Jesus, despite Our Lord’s beaten, humiliated and crucified body. Jesus responded to Dismas’ beautiful act of faith by promising: “This day you will be with me in Paradise.”
Interestingly, after Jesus had died, the Roman centurion, who no doubt had witnessed many similar executions, declared Jesus to be innocent. He recognized the unjust travesty of Our Lord’s crucifixion.
From the cross, Jesus interceded to his Father for mercy for his executioners. Of course, those words of mercy are for all of us. Our sins, our rebellion against God, caused the crucifixion. From the throne of the cross, Jesus sought to extend his mercy to all of us.
I encourage you to read the Passion narratives throughout the year. Do not speed read them, but slowly and prayerfully. The Passion narratives reveal the unconditional and merciful love that Jesus offers to all of us, who are willing to accept and embrace the crucified savior.
Meditate on the Passion of Jesus. It
April 15
Good Friday Service — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas
April 16
Easter Vigil Mass — Cathedral
April 17
Easter Sunday Mass — Cathedral
April 19
FOCUS leaders Mass and breakfast — Savior Pastoral Center, Kansas City, Kansas
Priests Personnel board meeting — chancery
Administrative Team meeting — chancery
Confirmation — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park
April 20
Meeting of the Curia — Savior
Confirmation — Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee
April 21
Confirmation — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park
April 22
Donnelly College Transformations celebration and campus dedication
April 23
Abbot’s Table banquet — Overland Park Convention Center
April 24
Benedictine College RCIA Mass
Divine Mercy pro-life prayer service — St. James Academy, Lenexa
April 25
“Shepherd’s Voice” recording — chancery
Confirmation — St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood
April 26
Adoration — Hayden High School, Topeka
Vespers and dinner with recently ordained priests
April 27
Deposit and Loan board of trustees — chancery
April 27-28
Jesus Caritas with Kansas bishops
April 28
Confirmation — St. Agnes Parish, Roeland Park
April 29
Mass — Association of Diocesan Liaisons, Charismatic Renewal annual convocation — Savior
April 30
Knights of Columbus convention banquet — Capital Plaza Hotel, Topeka
May 1
Knights of Columbus state convention Mass and chaplains dinner — Capital Plaza Hotel
May 2
Pastoral Council meeting — Savior
May 4
Donnelly College board of directors meeting — Donnelly College
Confirmation —St. Patrick Parish, Kansas City, Kansas
presents us with the depth of God’s amazing love for us. Praying over the Passion will inevitably deepen your
gratitude and love for Jesus. Indeed, it is the greatest story ever told.
KANSAS CITY, Kan.
— Exactly what she needed.
That’s how Hope (not her real name) described her retreat two years ago.
That’s because the retreat helped her to forgive herself for decisions she made long ago.
It was the late 1970s. Hope was away at college.
She was 19 when she learned she was pregnant.
Confiding in a peer, she walked into a Planned Parenthood clinic for an abortion less than two weeks later.
“Total panic and fear drove that [decision]. . . . I remember being so numb about it. I didn’t talk all the way home,” she said, even though home was an hour from the clinic.
Six months later, she found herself pregnant again by the same boyfriend. So, she had a second abortion.
For decades, Hope tried to push the abortions out of her mind. But there was one place the guilt always found her.
“It always bothered me when I went into church,” she said.
And for 40 years, at least once a year, she confessed the abortions.
“I’d never felt forgiven,” she said.
Active in her parish, Hope dedicated herself to pro-life ministry, always acting “in an anonymous way to convince people that abortion is wrong.”
In 2019, she met Debra Niesen, consultant for the archdiocese’s pro-life office.
Niesen was distributing tickets to “Unplanned,” which tells the story of Abby Johnson. She went from Planned Parenthood Employee of the Year to prolife advocate.
Hope had not met Niesen previously, but Niesen’s kindness disarmed her, allowing her to share her pain.
“When our eyes met, I knew she was someone who would understand,” said Hope. “I was right. She was very empathetic and compassionate.”
Niesen returned to her office and immediately emailed Hope information about Project Rachel. But Hope put off acting on it for six months.
Founded in 1984 in Milwaukee by Vicki Thorn, Project Rachel has since spread to more than 150 dioceses across the country, including the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Its mission is “to provide care for those suffering in the aftermath of abortion” by offering “pastoral counseling, support
groups, retreats and referrals to licensed mental health professionals.”
In March 2020, Hope found herself as the only participant at a weekend retreat with two facilitators and a priest.
“The whole entire weekend I was there, they did nothing but comfort me and walk me through [the pain]. . . . I cried, I wept and I grieved,” Hope said, adding that a priest celebrated Mass for her babies, whom she named Hope and Grace.
Later, Hope said the weekend was “exactly what I needed.”
“I knew I was healed after that, and I knew I was forgiven,” she said.
“I saw and felt the mercy of God that weekend,” she continued, “and I hope that other women [and men] can experience healing, mercy and forgiveness like I did.”
Unlike Hope, who called Project Rachel seeking healing, Dawn Wilson, a parishioner at Holy Name of Jesus in Kansas City, Kansas, called Project Rachel for another reason.
In 1982, Wilson was 19. Living in Rhode Island away from her “perfect Catholic family” in Massachusetts, she and her boyfriend learned she was pregnant.
At the time, the couple didn’t seek counsel from any family members, not even those who were members of the clergy. Instead, the pair sought an abortion.
Wilson even walked to and from the abortion, a fact that has played over and over in her mind, especially since the boyfriend (now her ex-husband) snapped a photo of her as she walked away from him on her way to the abortion clinic.
Recently, she found that picture and realized it’s the only one she has of her and her first baby whom she later named Charles.
“It snowed that day,” she said, clutching the photo, her voice trembling and her eyes filling with tears.
The abortion, Wilson said, cost $200. The price, however, proved much higher.
Not only did Wilson lose Charles, but the abortion injured her physically, leading to several miscarriages. Later, while expecting her son Jason, now 35, she was classified as a high-risk patient and was on bed rest for the pregnancy’s duration.
In addition to the damage to her physical health, Wilson said she suffered psychologically and spiritually more than she ever imagined.
“It never goes away,” Wilson said of the pain.
When Wilson was 33, she finally mentioned her abortion in confession and attempted to return to Mass, but her attendance was often sporadic.
That is until this year.
In January, she finally started attending Mass regularly. Not only that, but she called Project Rachel, offering to serve as a volunteer in whatever way the ministry can use her.
Dawn Wilson has broken her silence after 40 years in the hopes that telling her story will help other women heal. For more information on Project Rachel, go online to: projectrachelkc.com. For information on the “Value Them Both” campaign that seeks to restore the Kansas Constitution to the pre2019 Kansas Supreme Court ruling and protect commonsense restrictions on the abortion industry, go online to: valuethemboth.com.
Last month, Wilson researched abortion statistics and learned in 1982, the year of her abortion, there were 1.57 million abortions in the United States alone. So, she said there are millions of women suffering, aching and struggling with the pain of their abortions weighing heavily on their hearts and souls.
“Giving up my silence is the best thing I could ever give up for Lent,” she said. “I’m giving up my silence for the other women out there who are thinking about abortion and the ones who had an abortion.”
THE WHOLE ENTIRE WEEKEND I WAS THERE, THEY DID NOTHING BUT COMFORT ME AND WALK ME THROUGH [THE PAIN]. . . .
I CRIED, I WEPT AND I GRIEVED.
HOPE REFLECTING ON A PROJECT RACHEL RETREAT
OLATHE — “We started with the welcome-back mosaic,” said Larissa Smith, director of adult formation and evangelization at Prince of Peace here. “And we turned it into a prayer project.
“We prayed an intentional rosary for all 2,600 parish families.”
With the pandemic subsiding and the Sunday Mass dispensation being lifted last June, churches were looking for ways to welcome back their communities.
One idea presented by the archdiocese was a mosaic to be filled in by returning parishioners.
That appealed to pastor Father Greg Hammes. And so, a mosaic of the parish logo, representing Jesus the Prince of Peace, was designed by parish social media coordinator Jordan Schmitz.
“The mosaic has 2,600 tiles,” said Father Hammes. “Each represents one of our parishioner families.
“Our goal was that — as all the families returned to Mass — we were ‘piecing’ back together our parish community.”
With the help of her evangelization team, Smith put together a packet for every family or individual in the parish data base.
Each packet contained information on upcoming activities, a magnet piece with the words “renew, reunite, remember and reclaim”; and a little tile piece with instructions to glue it into the proper square on the mosaic board.
A parish event was planned for the solemnity of Corpus Christi. Following a procession, returning parishioners would position their tiles in the mosaic.
“We didn’t tell anyone what [the final design] was,” said Smith.
Parishioners were also invited to write a blessing or prayer intention to be placed in a box.
“So basically,” said Smith, “it was like their prayer being placed onto this mosaic board.
“We took all those prayers and started bringing them up during Mass and praying over them.”
Parishioners loved the Corpus Christi event. But, unfortunately, not enough tiles were returned to fill in the mosaic — nearly 1,400 spaces were vacant.
Despite its empty appearance, Father Hammes wanted the mosaic hung.
“We stood it up in our gathering space and it was very bleak,” said Smith. “People came in and said, ‘Are you going to add more tiles to that?’”
The answer was “not yet.” Father Hammes understood the empty spaces in the mosaic stood for something — a big part of the parish family was still missing.
He also felt the 1,200 tile pieces placed by parishioners were significant.
To acknowledge that effort, those returned parishioners were invited in small groups to join Father Hammes for wine and cheese after Saturday evening Masses.
“The idea was if we pour into the group who respond,” said Father
OUR GOAL WAS THAT — AS ALL THE FAMILIES RETURNED TO MASS — WE WERE ‘PIECING’ BACK TOGETHER OUR PARISH COMMUNITY.
FATHER GREG HAMMES PASTOR, PRINCE OF PEACE PARISH, OLATHE
Hammes, “they can then pour into others, and keep building our community.”
The wine and cheese events were especially beneficial to Father Hammes who came to the parish during COVID.
“So, these were done with small groups,” said Father Hammes. “And I was able to talk to everyone.
“We also had an icebreaker to encourage parishioners to meet others they do not know as well.”
Last September, as the wine and cheese events were in full swing, Father Hammes suddenly knew how they could complete the mosaic.
During October, the month of the rosary, Father Hammes challenged the church community to say an intentional rosary for everyone in the parish.
“Once a rosary was prayed for
a family,” he said, “[the one who prayed the rosary] got to glue a tile on the board.”
Smith ran with the idea.
She printed each family name in the parish database on a card, then put a basket filled with the 2,600 cards in the gathering area.
“We wanted every single person/ family in the parish prayed for by name with a rosary in October,” said Father Hammes. “We then re-used the tile project to symbolize those prayers.”
The new twist on the mosaic project was embraced with enthusiasm by individuals, families and children from Prince of Peace Grade School.
“Once we had all the names taken and all the tiles filled,” said Father Hammes, “we knew we had achieved our goal of a rosary for every parishioner.
“In the end, prayer completed our project.”
By the end of October, the mosaic was finished and lacquered — a symbol of an evolving project that helped a parish unite through a difficult time.
In March, it was permanently hung in the gathering space and blessed by Father Hammes.
“I think the projects show our need for prayer and community,” said Father Hammes. “People absolutely loved doing it and have asked to do it again.
“We need prayer and community in our faith more than ever.”
Michael and Janice Mathieu, members of St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 29. The couple was married on April 29, 1972, at Immaculate Conception Church, Masonville, Iowa. Their children are: Joseph and Rick, Olathe; and Robert, Lenexa.
Dick and Carol Erpelding, members of St. Louis Church, Good Intent, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on April 22. The couple was married at Sacred Heart Church, Atchison. Their children are: Pat McLenon, Jan Wohletz, Lori Kloepper, Melissa Eckert and Rick Erpelding.
Phil and Judy (Gillen) Wegman, members of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 30. The couple was married on April 15, 1972, at St. Patrick Church, Kingman. Their children are: Elizabeth Wegman-Davis and Susan Wells. They also have one grandson. They will celebrate at the 4 p.m. Mass at Holy Trinity followed by a dinner at the parish’s Quigley Center.
Elsa and Michael Robinson, members of Sacred Heart/St. Casimir Parish, Leavenworth, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 15. The couple was married on April 15, 1972, at St. Joseph Church, Killeen, Texas. A family celebration is planned for later this summer. Their children are: Alexandra Robinson Graham and David Michael Robinson. They also have five grandchildren.
Easter decorations placed at monuments and in mausoleums of cemeteries managed by Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas will be removed on April 25. Approved decorations include:
• For upright monuments and flat memorials: Seasonal artificial and live flowers placed in cemetery-approved vases are permitted.
• For mausoleum areas: Only artificial flowers can be used inside the interior chapel mausoleum areas. Artificial or live flowers are permitted in the exterior patio and garden mausoleum areas.
For information, visit the website at: www.cathcemks.org or call (913) 371-4040.
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — History was made at the 94th Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences awards on March 27, and it had nothing to do with a slap.
The film “CODA” surpassed the big name, big budget films to win in the categories of Best Picture, Best Supporting Actor (Troy Kotsur) and Best Adapted Screenplay (Sian Heder). The film was by Apple streaming service.
But the reason it made history was because it was the first film with a predominantly deaf cast to win Best Picture — and the hearts of so many film fans.
“CODA” is the story of 17-year-old Ruby Rossi and her family — father, mother and brother. She is the only hearing member of her family, which has a fishing business in Gloucester, Massachusetts. She plays a key role in her family — being the interface between her family and the hearing world. In fact, the family fishing business depends on her.
But of course, there are complications, which are alluded to in the film’s title, “CODA.”
It has a double meaning. A coda is a musical notation signaling the end of a piece of music. “CODA” is also an acronym: Children of Deaf Adults. In a majority-hearing world that doesn’t understand the Deaf, CODAs often play a vital role of communication and bridging the two cultures of the Deaf and hearing.
Ruby has a love of singing and chooses choir in her senior year. She shows some real talent and is paired for a duet with a boy she has been secretly attracted to. Their musical collaboration grows into a romantic relationship.
The tensions come from Ruby being pulled by two forces — the family that needs her and cannot fully appreciate her talent and her chance to go to a prestigious music college.
Should she stay or should she go?
Duty or personal fulfillment?
The film has caused some excitement in the Deaf community.
David and Roberta Westerman, deaf members of St. Paul Parish in Olathe, have seen “CODA.” To them, it’s a film about family and the expectations that a “CODA” child faces within their family. They wanted to see the movie because of the deaf actors and actresses, and their use of American Sign Language.
The film showed some realities deaf people face.
“It’s accurate,” said David. “It showed how frustrated [deaf family members] were, especially with no hearing child nor the interpreter around while work-
ing at the fishing area. The hearing people were talking and the deaf felt left out.”
This is a film for both the Deaf and the hearing communities.
“I think it helps the hearing people understand how the deaf people live with frustration,” said David. “The deaf people can do anything the hearing people can do, except hear.
“[‘CODA’] means a lot to we deaf people and the whole Deaf community,” he continued. “It shows a lot of barriers with hearing people — especially the communication, and a lot of misunderstandings.”
Such as music appreciation.
“Deaf people like music because of the feeling of the beats and vibration, but we don’t know the words until we have the hearing child interpret or interpreters,” said Roberta.
Naturally, a realistic film includes a few gritty things.
“Yes, even dirty words and language,” said Roberta. “Why? The deaf people [in the film] were so frustrated. We, David and I, don’t swear. We have a better life. Bless the videophone used to communicate. The interpreters are the number one key.”
Sister Hosea Rupprecht, a Daughter of St. Paul who reviewed the film for Catholic News Service, said there are no explicit, overt references to God, faith or religion in the film. Nevertheless, the divine is present, albeit subtly.
“I think when you have an example of a loving family, of a married couple that obviously loves each other as Ruby’s parents did, then God is there, because God is love,” said Sister Hosea.
“I think there was a lot of love in this family. They had fun,” she added. “You know the banter that goes on between people who sincerely care for each other? That was really evident in this film. I would say God was there in that you had a family that sincerely worked out their difficulties without personal attacks.”
Although her family couldn’t understand her music, they wanted Ruby to follow her dream. And by Ruby following her dream, the family — providentially — integrated within the community in ways it hadn’t before.
There was also a scene where Ruby brought her duet partner home, and they walked into an embarrassing situation for Ruby. But the classmate, whose parents were divorced, was impressed by how much Ruby’s parents loved each other.
“It was a beautiful example of married love and going through the struggles of a family trying to make it financially and being able to give up Ruby, who is one of the linchpins of the family, to follow her dream,” said Sister Hosea.
The Catholic News Service classification for “CODA” is A-III — adults. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG-13 — parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under age 13.
I THINK IT HELPS THE HEARING PEOPLE UNDERSTAND HOW THE DEAF PEOPLE LIVE WITH FRUSTRATION.
DAVID WESTERMAN DEAF MEMBER OF ST. PAUL PARISH IN OLATHECODA has a double meaning. A coda is a musical notation signaling the end of a piece of music. CODA is also an acronym: Children of Deaf Adults.
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — With the virus receding and the weather improving, local farmers are hoping for a return to normalcy this summer.
And that is good news for farmers markets.
But if you want a jump on getting the freshest produce available, there’s no better plan than to buy a farm share from New Roots for Refugees.
A collaboration of Cultivate KC and Catholic Charities, the program empowers families from the refugee community to start farm businesses by selling produce they grow at Juniper Gardens Training Farm in Kansas City, Kansas.
Cultivate KC executive director Brien Darby moved to Kansas City a year ago, and buying into a CSA (Community Supported Agriculture) was one of her first priorities.
“Being new to town and not having developed garden space at our house,” she said, “we knew we were going to need a CSA to help supplement our local produce intake every week.”
She bought a New Roots farm share and the experience went beyond her expectations.
“I love it,” she said. “There aren’t too many CSAs like this — you get a good mix of traditional vegetables most people would anticipate.
“But then, they kind of push the envelope by getting in some of those Southeast Asian vegetables and African vegetables that I would not pick for myself.”
“We want [refugees] to make this their home,” said New Roots for Refugees program manager Meredith Walrafen. “And that means growing what they’re familiar with.
“We try to include [in the shares] things that are unique to a Midwestern palate.”
But no worries; recipes are available to help customers experiment with what often becomes a new favorite food.
“There’s one called chin baung,” said Darby. “I love it.
“They gave us a recipe in one of the newsletters and I tried that. Now I feel comfortable experimenting with it.”
As New Roots’ farmers adapt to the Midwest climate and market, an important part of their learning process is
practicing organic agriculture.
If you are in the market for fresh, local, organic produce, there’s no better bargain.
“One of my favorite things about this program is if you’re ordering from us,” said Walrafen, “[the produce has] been harvested within one to three days.”
Darby has been impressed by how much the program helps her save time and money.
“If anyone is on the fence about trying this CSA,” she said, “you will absolutely get an amount of vegetables equal to and probably exceeding what you pay up front.
“And then, pickup is extremely easy with the four locations and someone there to provide guidance for you when you pick up.”
Newsletters inform customers about what produce to expect in their share, and other items can be added from the online store open each week from Monday afternoon to Tuesday afternoon.
Customers can purchase extra produce or items such as meat, honey and fresh flowers to add to their orders.
People who don’t own a share, but would like to support the program, can also set up an account and shop at the online store, then choose a pickup location.
New this year, aligning with Catholic Charities’ goal to serve neighbors in need, New Roots has been approved to accept food stamps for a farm share or for the online store.
And, of course, customers are always encouraged to participate in the Sharea-Share program, which enables a purchased share to be sent to a local food pantry.
‘Everybody seems to be reverting back to normal,” said Walrafen about the upcoming farm season. “So, the markets are continuing on and we’ll have people all over the metro area.
“You can find an updated list on our website of where New Roots farmers and graduates are selling.”
Farm share customers can secure their share by going online to: new rootskc.localfoodmarketplace.com.
On this site, you can purchase a farm share subscription, place weekly orders and choose a convenient pickup location, or place a wholesale order if you are a restaurant, grocery store or other food retailer.
• Early Summer Vegetable Share –May 15 – July 24: $24/week
• Late Summer Vegetable Share –Aug. 7 – Oct. 16: $24/week
• Full Summer Share – one week free!
You can also purchase gift certificates for farm shares or online shopping. For more information visit the website at: newrootsforrefugees.org.
Spring is in the air and summer is coming fast, so grab your farm share before they’re sold out.
KANSAS CITY, Kan. — “There is an appointed time for everything, and a time for every affair under the heavens,” according to the Book of Ecclesiastes (1:1).
And now there is a time for spiritual reparation for offense and for healing.
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann has determined that April 27 is to be observed in all parishes of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas as a Day of Prayer in Atonement of and for the Healing of All Those Harmed by Sexual Abuse. For specific times at your parish, check your parish bulletin or website.
The idea for this is “rooted in the archbishop’s solicitude for those who have been abused and affected by sexual abuse within the church,” said Michael Podrebarac, archdiocesan consultant for liturgy and sacramental life.
“For too long, the survivors of abuse by representatives of the church have gone unseen and unheard,” said one abuse survivor, “which only served to exacerbate our pain and shame.
“Having a Mass with the focus on healing and repairing relationships gives me hope that things are really changing.”
The archdiocese offered three regional healing services in 2016 for those affected by any sort of abuse or harm, and in 2018, held the first archdiocesan-wide day of prayer for the protection of children.
“The Diocese of Kansas City-St.
Joseph first adopted the day in their liturgical calendar several years ago,” said Father John Riley, archdiocesan chancellor. “Archbishop Naumann thought that we, too, should offer a day of prayer and atonement annually in our liturgical calendar.”
The archdiocese and the diocese decided to hold their Days of Prayer in Atonement on the same day in April so they could collaborate, but this year, they are off by a day. They will use the same date next year and from then on.
The two dioceses decided to choose April because it is National Child Abuse Prevention Month.
All Catholics are urged to attend Mass on April 27 and unite their prayers for this special intention.
“Parishioners should want to participate because we all make up the church, the body of Christ,” said Amy Stork, a victim care advocate in the archdiocesan office for protection and care. “The survivors sit among us. This is our way to help participate in that healing.”
“This issue has affected every member of our community in some way, if only by the absence of some members of our community,” said Kathleen Chastain, consultant in the office for protection and care.
If they cannot attend, all Catholics should offer prayer on that day, but all Catholics are encouraged to attend. Those who have been hurt, and those especially close to them, are especially welcome.
“It is a day of observance for the whole church,” said Podrebarac. “Obviously, the focus is on the victims of abuse themselves, but it also reaches out to those who are family members — spouses and children of those who have been abused sexually.
“In a wider sense, it draws all the faithful’s attention to this scourge within our church and the world so we can be prayerfully vigilant toward the eradication of all forms of abuse in the church and the world.”
Why do bad things happen to good people? I wonder how many victims of persecution across the ages asked themselves some version of that now-famous question.
Jesus singled out persecuted people in his beatitudes, along with people who were poor, hungry, or meek and humble (Mt 5:3-13; Lk 6:20-23). The crowd that first heard the beatitudes in Jesus’ Sermon on the Mount surely included many suffering the effects of their world’s oppression.
Notably, Jesus called them “blessed,” a term synonymous with calling them “holy,” Pope Francis observed in “Rejoice and Be Glad” (“Gaudete et Exsultate”), his 2018 apostolic exhortation on holiness today.
That papal document includes an extended discussion of the beatitudes, driving home a message that the beatitudes “are in no way trite or undemanding” (No. 65); they should be allowed “to unsettle us” (No. 66).
In the Gospel of Matthew, Jesus says, “Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness” — persecuted for following God’s will, according to a note in the New American Bible. “Theirs is the kingdom of heaven” this beatitude adds (Mt 5:10).
It must have been wonderful for oppressed people to hear. But did the powers that be in their world leave them to fear for the future and their families’ well-being?
It may be safe to assume that many in the crowd felt oppressed. What seems unsafe to assume is that God is absent from persecuted people’s lives or unconcerned with their plight.
Jesus’ “tenderness for the lowly and the poor” is apparent in the beatitudes, the Jerusalem Bible notes in discussing Luke’s Gospel.
Persecuted people today suffer from indifferent, inhospitable and cruel treatment. Some persecuted people have been driven from their homelands.
Are they haunted by the tragedy of warfare that forced them away from their extended families’ support? Are they unable to make sense of the demonization they now experience due to their religion, race, ethnicity or customs?
Words are a likely culprit when it comes to creating an atmosphere that makes persecution acceptable in society or, at least, enables many to overlook it. I am talking about words that brand people in negative ways and serve to isolate them from the care and concern of so many others.
The negative power of words is a point of interest for Christians. Their faith that Christ is God’s incarnate word on earth tells them that the negative power in human words is not their only power. Human words can reflect God’s own word in highly positive ways.
In his 2021 homily for the Christmas Eve Mass at St. John’s Abbey in Collegeville, Minnesota, Benedictine Abbot John Klassen exclaimed, “The Word was made flesh; the Word was made love!”
But countless times in human history words worked fiercely against the broad range of love’s purposes. Words were exploited to cast a shadow over the dignity
of human beings.
The 20th-century Holocaust at the time of World War II under Adolf Hitler and Nazi Germany killed some 6 million Jews. It remains a never-to-be forgotten instance of human persecution’s horrors.
Cardinal Blase J. Cupich of Chicago has examined the role words played at
that time in establishing an atmosphere designed to obscure the dignity of Jews and some others from the public’s view.
“It all began with words. Words that called people ‘other,’ that targeted people as worthy of fear” or as a threat to a nation’s greatness, the cardinal observed in a 2019 commentary in the
Chicago Catholic newspaper. His remarks related directly to “our Jewish brothers and sisters.” But Cardinal Cupich added:
“As Jonathan Sacks, former chief rabbi of the United Kingdom, reminds us, ‘The hate that begins with Jews never ends with Jews.’’’ Intolerance also must
A Russian military doctor examines Holocaust survivors after the liberation of the Nazi death camp Auschwitz-Birkenau in 1945 in Oswiecim, Poland. Nazi Germany to-be forgotten instance of human persecution’s horrors. CNS PHOTO/CARLOS BARRIA, REUTERS A homeless person in San Francisco sits on a corner as steam emerges from a vent Oct. 22, 2021.be shown, said the cardinal, “for hate speech that targets others who are easily marginalized in society.”
Words can wreak tremendous harm. But words also are able to bring human dignity into the light. Isn’t that what Jesus’ beatitudes intended?
Jesus pointedly advised a crowd that “you who are poor” are blessed, as are “you when people hate you” (Lk 6:2022).
Pope Francis advised in “Rejoice and Be Glad” that while Jesus’ words in the beatitudes “may strike us as poetic, they clearly run counter to the way things are usually done in our world,” and “we can only practice them if the Holy Spirit . . . frees us from our weakness, our selfishness, our complacency and our pride” (No. 65).
But “practice them”? The beatitudes do not in themselves constitute a set of direct instructions. Still, no one involved in persecuting others will feel comforted by the beatitudes.
“Persecutions are not a reality of the past,” Pope Francis noted. “Today, too, we experience them, whether by the shedding of blood, as is the case with so many contemporary martyrs, or by more subtle means, by slander and lies” (No. 94).
For Pope Francis “the beatitudes are like a Christian’s identity card.” In them, “we find a portrait of the Master that we are called to reflect in our daily lives” (No. 63).
By Tricia Hoyt Catholic News Service“Blessed are they who are persecuted for the sake of righteousness, for theirs is the kingdom of heaven” (Mt 5:10).
My blood ran cold the moment I read her words:
“You say you don’t want anything to happen to me. . . . I’d prefer it that way myself — but I don’t see that we have control over the forces of madness, and if you could choose to enter into other people’s suffering, or to love others, you at least have to consent in some way to the possible consequences. Actually, what I’ve learned here is that death is not the worst evil. We look death in the face every day. But the cause of the death is evil. That’s what we have to wrestle and fight against.”
The visceral reaction I experienced was because of the realization that Maryknoll Sister Ita Ford had written those words to her own sister just a few months before she died. She was one of four U.S. Catholic women who were kidnapped, raped and murdered in El Salvador on the night of Dec. 2, 1980, by members of the Salvadoran National Guard.
She hadn’t set out to be persecuted. She and her companions were just doing in El Salvador what they were called to do — not only as religious Sisters and ministers, but as people of faith. They lived, ate and breathed the beatitudes.
If the first four beatitudes refer to the abject conditions of those who are poor in spirit, who mourn, who are meek, and who hunger and thirst for justice, then the second four refer to those who respond to these conditions with mercy, purity of heart, peacemaking and a willingness to endure persecution.
This, Sister Ita and her colleagues did. Recognizing that in El Salvador the rich and powerful had, in the words of then-U.S. Ambassador Robert White, “systematically defrauded the poor and denied 80% of the people any voice in the affairs of their country,” they brought their pastoral ministry to families and children in need of comfort and hope.
“If we leave the people when they suffer the cross, how credible is our word to them?” her companion in ministry and death, Sister Maura Clarke, had commented to a friend some weeks earlier.
Their story is all too well-known. It serves as the quintessential commitment to the eighth beatitude, doesn’t it?
Pope Francis, in his July 2017 document issued “motu proprio” (on his own initiative) “Greater Love Than This,” recognized that those whose heroic acts of service are lived in the face of violence
and danger should properly be considered as worthy of sainthood. Maybe they will be, some day.
How I wish that “persecution for the sake of justice” (in Hebrew and New Testament Greek thought, “justice” and “righteousness” are the same) were a thing of the ’80s, a thing of the past. But no.
Not in the heartbreaking conditions still affecting too many poverty-stricken countries. Not in the economic milieu of multinational corporations. Not in the troubled world of the U.S. media. Not in the raucous environment of our state and national legislatures.
Not even in our parishes and dioceses. We have serious work to do to live into the Gospel imperative of the beatitudes, both as communities — as the people of God — and as puny individuals struggling to haul our courage up from our bootstraps to stand against injustices.
‘They lived, ate and breathed the beatitudes’CNS PHOTO/COURTESY MARYKNOLL Maryknoll Sister Maura Clarke, right, talks with a Central American woman in this undated file photo. Sister Maura was one of four churchwomen killed in El Salvador by national guardsmen on Dec. 2, 1980. CNS PHOTO/SIPHIWE SIBEK, REUTERS Nelson Mandela spent 27 years in prison for his role as an anti-apartheid leader in South Africa. Released in 1990, Mandela continued his quest to end apartheid in the country. In 1994, he was elected president of South Africa. CNS PHOTO/YAD VASHEM ARCHIVES VIA REUTERS Germany killed some 6 million Jews. It remains a never-
Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, 22779 Metcalf, Bucyrus, will have a Divine Mercy service at 3 p.m. on April 24 in the church. They will sing the Divine Mercy chaplet and have exposition of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction. Confessions will also be heard at this time.
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, LaCygne, will have a Divine Mercy celebration at 3 p.m. on April 24. There will be eucharistic adoration and the Divine Mercy chaplet. Confessions will be available. The event will conclude with Benediction.
St. Patrick Parish, 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas, will host a Holy Hour on Divine Mercy Sunday from 5-6 p.m. on April 24. Holy cards and other items will be available. Framed images will be available for purchase.
Holy Angels Parish, 15438 Leavenworth Rd., Basehor, will host a Divine Mercy Holy Hour at 1 p.m. on April 24. Included will be the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Litany of Divine Mercy, sacred song throughout, chanting of Divine Mercy chaplet and Benediction with the Divine Praises. Confessions will be heard during the Holy Hour.
St. Paul Parish, 21650 W. 115th Terr., Olathe, will have a Divine Mercy celebration on April 24 at the church. At 2 p.m., there will be a video to learn about St. Faustina and Divine Mercy. At 3 p.m., the chaplet of Divine Mercy will be prayed. The sacrament of reconciliation will be available from 2 to 3 p.m.
St. Michael the Archangel Parish, 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood, will have a Divine Mercy Holy Hour beginning at 3 p.m. on April 24. Confessions will also be available from 3:30 to 5 p.m.
Divine Mercy Parish, 555 W. Main, Gardner, will have a Divine Mercy Family Holy Hour at 2 p.m. on April 24. There will also be a special Divine Mercy carnival from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. that day.
Church of the Ascension, 9510 W. 127th, Overland Park, will host a Divine Mercy Holy Hour on April 24 at 3 p.m. The service will include Exposition of the Eucharist, the chaplet of Divine Mercy and Benediction. Confessions will be available throughout the hour.
Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, 101 Cottonwood St., Emporia, will have a Holy Hour and Divine Mercy chaplet at 3 p.m. on April 24.
St. John the Evangelist Parish, 1234 Kentucky, Lawrence, will pray the Divine Mercy chaplet at 3 p.m. from April 16-23.
The St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center will recite the Divine Mercy chaplet at 10:40 a.m. on April 24 at the center. Divine Mercy Mass will follow at 11 a.m.
Prince of Peace Parish, 16000 W. 143rd, Olathe, will have a Holy Hour and Benediction with the recitation of the Divine Mercy chaplet at 3 p.m. on April 24 in the church.
CATHOLIC ESTATE AND GIFT PLANNING WORKSHOP
Curé of Ars Parish (Father Burak Room)
9401 Mission Rd., Leawood
April 20 from 11 a.m. - noon
Jon Stanfield, an estate planning attorney, will explain how to create your estate plans, blending gifts to family and charity to create a lasting legacy using wills, trusts and the U.S. tax code. Walk-ins are welcome; RSVPs preferred to (913) 6470465 or send an email to: plannedgiving @archkck.org.
‘HEALING THE DIVORCED HEART’ DIVORCE SUPPORT GROUP
St. Michael the Archangel Parish (Gabriel Room)
14251 Nall Ave., Leawood
April 20 at 7 p.m.
(1st & 3rd Wednesday of each month)
We who have experienced divorce understand, as perhaps few others can. We, too, were sad, lonely, scared and angry, but we have found that with God, time and the support of others, healing is possible. For more information, go online to: www.stmichaelcp.org/divorce-support.
RUMMAGE SALE
Holy Family Parish
513 Ohio Ave., Kansas City, Kansas
April 21 and 22 from 9 a.m. - 6 p.m.
April 23 from 8 a.m. - 3 p.m.
Come and shop at our 4th annual rummage sale. We have treasures for every age.
Rockhurst University
(Arrupe Hall Auditorium)
5151 Troost Ave., Kansas City, Missouri
April 22 from 7 - 9 p.m.
The Ignatian Spirituality Center of Kansas City invites you for an evening with Professor J. Matthew Ashley of the University of Notre Name. Ashley’s presentation is part of our 2022 Ignatian Weekend. In this evening presentation, Ashley will share how Ignatian spirituality provides a lens for understanding how Pope Francis exercises his Petrine ministry today. For more information and to register for this free lecture, see Ignatian Weekend 2022 at: www.ignatiancenterkc.org/events.
FIELD DAY
Benedictine College
(Murphy Recreation Center)
1020 N. 2nd St., Atchison
April 23 from 9 a.m. - noon
This will be a fun morning of physical activity for families and individuals of all ability levels, ages 3 and up. Register online at: fieldday2022.wixsite.com/ atchison for this free event.
BISHOP MIEGE AUCTION
Bishop Miege High School
5041 Reinhardt Dr., Roeland Park
April 23 at 6 p.m.
Bishop Miege will hold its 49th annual auction “Back to Miege,” along with dinner, cocktails and a dance. Come and enjoy this evening of fun.
LINGER OVER BREAKFAST
St. Teresa’s Academy, Windmoor Center
5600 Main St., Kansas City, Missouri
April 23 from 9 - 11 a.m.
The talk this year is: “From trauma to transformation: COVID-19 healing in all of our lives” with Sister Patrice Coolick, PA, MA, CSJ, and Sister Rosario Bobadilla, MA, LMFT, LPC, CSJ. The effects of COVID have pervaded our society. In addition to our physical and mental health, these effects have transformed our workplace, education, and social, volunteer and daily lives. Join us as we acknowledge the trauma of what we continue to go through, sharing how to heal and transform our experiences into a brighter future. Register online at: Linger Over Breakfast. The cost is $15.
RETREAT FOR MARRIED COUPLES
Holy Spirit Parish
11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park
April 23 & 24
The Living in Love retreat is back in person and better than ever! Now called the Weekend Immersion offered by EverMore in Love, this weekend will help married couples experience the wonder of being more in love. More information and a special coupon code for our archdiocese can be found online at: www.archkck.org/ livinginlove.
HOLY SPIRIT GRADUATION MASS
Holy Spirit School
11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park
April 24 at 6:30 p.m.
Inviting all Holy Spirit Parish and school families with a graduating high school senior to join us for the 6:30 p.m. Mass. There will be a reception following the Mass for a time of celebration and connecting.
DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA
LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE
Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall)
5972 S.W. 25th St., Topeka
April 24 at 12:40 p.m.
A rosary will be followed by a business meeting and social time. If anyone knows of a member or family member of Daughters of Isabella in need of the circle’s prayers, call Diana Ortiz at (785) 213-0374.
DIVINE MERCY SUNDAY CARNIVAL
Divine Mercy Parish
444 S. Main St., Gardner
April 24 from 11:30 a.m. - 2 p.m.
Come to the Divine Mercy Parish carnival. Bring your family. Enjoy bouncing on inflatables, playing games and riding horseback. All proceeds benefit the Divine Mercy youth program. Please join us at 2 p.m. for a family Holy Hour.
FREE INFORMATION SESSION ON END-OF-LIFE PLANNING
Church of the Ascension
(St. Matthew/St. Mark Room)
April 26 from 12:45 - 2 p.m.
Learn about the Catholic Circle of Protection of end-of-life planning during this session, sponsored by Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas. There will be a
free box lunch and beverages as we discuss the importance of choosing a Catholic cemetery, preplanning and the streamlined process to pre-arrange funerals and burials/entombments. Preregister by calling (913) 371-4040 or send an email to: balonzo@cathcemks.org.
Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish (Culhane Room)
3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka
April 28 from 5 - 7 p.m.
The Christian Widow and Widowers Organization will host a potluck dinner. There is no cost to attend. For more information, call (785) 233-7350.
St. Ann Parish
7231 Mission Rd., Prairie Village
April 28 at 7 p.m.
Learn about the Walking with Purpose Bible study. All will be invited to an inperson open house to discover how Walking with Purpose helps women to: learn how to read Scripture and apply it to day-to-day life; invest in the hearts of other women; and create community in the parish. Go deeper into our Catholic faith and connect Sunday Mass to the rest of the week. For more information, contact Leah Nguyen by email at: Lnguyen@stannpv.org or call (913) 660-1196. To register, go online to: www. tfa forms.com/4974737.
Savior Pastoral Center
12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas
April 29 - May 1
The Beginning Experience Weekend is for persons who are separated, divorced or widowed. This program helps men and women work through the grief process associated with the end of a marriage and move into the future with new hope. For more information, go online to: beginningexperiencekc.org or call Maria at (913) 314-9844.
sacraments that draw you into the heart of Christ and time for fellowship with other women. There will also be free time, friendship, laughter and joy. To register, go online to: archkck.org/camp and scroll down and click on “Women.”
SUDS & SCHOLARSHIPS
Boulevard Brewing Company
2501 Southwest Blvd.
Kansas City, Missouri
May 2 from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.
Join us for our annual benefit for the Holy Name of Jesus School student scholarship fund. We need your help to support the vibrant, faith-filled community at Holy Name in Kansas City, Kansas, where 86% of students rely on scholarships to attend. There will be dinner, beer and musical entertainment by The Hamptones. Learn more and purchase tickets online at: one.bidpal.net/holyname22/welcome.
DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA
MARY’S HOLY HOUR
Mater Dei-Holy Name Parish (chapel)
911 S.W. Clay, Topeka
May 7 at 10 am.
Mary’s Holy Hour will be celebrated with a rosary followed by the auditors’ meeting in the parish hall. Deacon Chris Seago will officiate. Call chancellor general Orozco at (785) 272-9411 if you have questions.
FINISH FAITHFUL
Holy Spirit Parish
11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park
May 14 from 9 a.m. - 1 p.m.
The Finish Faithful conference will feature four dynamic speakers on preplanning for end-of-life, both spiritual and practical. Register online at: archkck. org/finishfaithful-registration or call Terri Lynn in the archdiocesan office of stewardship and development at (913) 6470365.
ST. THOMAS AQUINAS SUMMER CAMP
St. Thomas Aquinas High School
MARRIAGE ENCOUNTER EXPERIENCE
Savior Pastoral Center
12601 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, Kansas
April 29 - May 1
During this joyful Easter season, as we celebrate the risen Christ and the promise of new life, come away and tend to the garden of you marriage. For more information, visit the website at: www.wwme.org, and follow us on Facebook. To apply for the weekend, call Deacon Tony and Barb Zimmerman at (816) 741-4066 or send an email to: tonybarbz@prodigy.net.
Prairie Star Ranch
RETREAT
1124 California Rd., Williamsburg
April 29 - May 1
The retreat begins on April 29 at 6 p.m. and ends on May 1 at 1 p.m. There will be space to relax, rejuvenate and reconnect. There will be speakers that inspire you,
11411 Pflumm Rd., Overland Park
May - August
There will be a variety of camps for students entering grade K - 8 to explore. The summer camps give students the chance to discover their potential in both sports and other activities. Registration and further information is available online at: www.stasaints.net/summercamps. Questions? Call the student life office at (913) 319-2416 or send an email to: btriggs@stasaints.net.
CATHOLIC HEART WORKCAMP
Kansas City Area
July 10 - 16
Do you or anyone you know need assistance with minor home repairs, yard cleanup or house painting? Catholic HEART Workcamp will be in the Kansas City Area July 11 - 14. If you would like to be considered, please call (402) 3069043 or send an email to: chwc@gmail. com.
Music director - St. Agnes Church, an active and vibrant parish community of close to 1,300 families in Roeland Park, is seeking a music director to facilitate worship experiences that celebrate and strengthen our parishioners’ faith journey. Five Masses are celebrated each weekend. Duties would include: Easter week, Christmas and other holy days; communal sacramental celebrations of first Communion, confirmation and reconciliation. The director is responsible for a range of ministries, including: volunteer recruitment and support; musical direction of vocal choirs, both adult and children’s; handbell choirs; accompanist responsibilities; and art and environment direction. The director will be responsible to collaborate and coordinate with families on music for weddings and funerals. The director must be flexible and demonstrate collaborative skills with staff and music volunteers. Hours are negotiable. Qualifications: must be a practicing Catholic in good standing; bachelor’s degree in music or equivalent program of study required; knowledge of and prior experience as music director a plus; supervisory experience and ability to speak Spanish helpful. To see a full job description go to: www.stagneskc.org, and look for the “Career” tab. Employment is contingent upon successful completion of interview with key members of staff, background check and attendance at a Virtus Protecting God’s Children program at the first available opportunity. Send resume and cover letter including salary requirements to: Director of Parish Ministries, St. Agnes Catholic Church, 5250 Mission Rd., Roeland Park KS 66205. Email: gomez.mike@stagneskc.org. Please apply by May 6.
Teachers - Christ the King School, Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking elementary and middle school teachers for the 2022-23 school year. Partnering with parents in their role as primary educators, Christ the King School extends the mission of the church in forming true disciples of Jesus Christ. Through a Catholic classic liberal arts education centered on Christ, we provide an integrated approach fostering a love of truth, beauty and goodness. We seek to instill a natural desire for wisdom and virtue in all students. We seek candidates who will provide engaging and active instruction and also exhibit a love of lifelong learning. The ideal teacher at Christ the King has not only developed a level of mastery in the discipline/grade level that they teach, but also understands how that discipline belongs within the context of a strong liberal arts education. The candidate should understand how a Catholic worldview permeates the curriculum and the instruction, understand the role of poetic imagination in education, and be a disciple of Christ committed to providing a Gospel witness. Qualifications include: a bachelor’s degree; master’s degree preferred and reflected in compensation; mastery of subject matters to be taught, as demonstrated by references and education; two years of teaching experience preferred, with exceptions granted for outstanding candidates who demonstrate a record of effective leadership in a relevant field of work; the applicant must also possess a love of teaching and a passion for mentoring and a desire to continue in their own learning. Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume and CV to Cathy Fithian, principal, at: cfithian@ctkkck.org or mail to: Christ the King School, 3027 N. 54th St., Kansas City KS 66104.
Client advocate - Wyandotte and Olathe Pregnancy Clinics each have a need for a part-time client advocate. This is a rewarding but challenging position requiring a deep faith and belief in the sanctity of life. You will help mothers choose life for their unborn children and provide services that lend support to mothers, their unborn babies and their families. You will be a front- line worker in the goal of making abortion unthinkable one life at a time. Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic requires someone who is bilingual. Please contact Leah Conner at (913) 207-0186 or at: lconner@wppcnetwork.org. Olathe Pregnancy Clinic desires a bilingual counselor but it is not required. Please contact Diane Drouhard at (913) 669-7089 or at: ddrouhard@olathepregnancyclinic.org.
Music in youth ministry - Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, is seeking to fill this full-time role of leadership that integrates music into all aspects of youth ministry. Responsibilities include: leading worship; organizing and rehearsing the band for our Sunday night youth Mass; coordinating and implementing music into other aspects of youth ministry (prayer meetings, core meetings, retreats, special events, etc.); assisting in the planning and implementation of weekly Life Nights and periodic adoration/song/prayer events; and participation in weekly staff meetings and monthly core meetings. Applicants must have experience leading a band and be familiar with contemporary Christian music and the Catholic Mass. Sight-reading skills, experience as a worship leader, and experience and knowledge of Life Teen a plus. College degree in related field preferred. Competitive compensation based on experience. Please email questions and/or resumes to: mneal@htlenexa.org.
Volunteer engagement manager - Are you compassionate, motivated, mission-driven and desire to empower others? Do you have experience with volunteer coordination and/or management? Catholic Charities is seeking a volunteer engagement manager to lead our volunteer engagement team in our recruiting and on-boarding initiatives for the 21+ programs at Catholic Charities. To learn more or apply, visit: catholicccharitiesks.org, then click on “Careers.”
Catholic high school principal - Maur Hill-Mount Academy in Atchison is seeking an individual with demonstrated skill in spiritual and academic instructional leadership for the 2022-23 school year. Maur Hill-Mount Academy is a top-ranked Catholic, Benedictine boarding school with around 200 students in the 9th - 12th grades. Applicants for principal must be an active, practicing Catholic in good standing with the church, and have licensure in educational leadership. Please send resume and cover letter to MH-MA president Phil Baniewicz at: philb@mh-ma.com, or apply online at: www. archkckcs.org. If you have questions, call the Maur HillMount Academy office at (913) 367-5482.
Outreach coordinator - Do you have a passion for educating and advocating on social justice issues? Catholic Charities is seeking a compassionate, joy-filled and motivated individual to serve as an outreach coordinator. Primary responsibilities include collaborating with parishes, school and community organizations in the 21 counties of the archdiocese to educate on the social mission of the church and invite others to respond to live out the Gospel call to love and serve our neighbors. To learn more or apply, visit: catholicccharitiesks.org then click on “Careers.”
Nativity Day School open positions - Our school is growing! We are a private preschool in Leawood that provides a premier school experience. We are open from August-May. We are seeking teachers for the 2022-23 school year. Desired skills and experience: must meet basic requirements of local child care regulatory agency; previous teaching or assistant teaching position in a licensed early childhood program preferred; four-year degree in early childhood or related field required; must meet all KDHE requirements; must be Virtus trained; if not Virtus trained, will be asked to take class and to complete all required bulletins in accordance with the archdiocese. Nativity Day School is an equal opportunity employer. Open positions: lead pre-kindergarten teacher, M - F, full time; lead preschool teacher, M - F, full time; assistant preschool teacher, M - F, part time; and special education teacher, M - F, part time. Interested applicants, please email our day school director Katie King at: Katie.King@kcnativity.org.
Early Education Center (EEC) program directorHoly Trinity Parish, Lenexa, is seeking an EEC program director. The program director is responsible for overall operation and administration of the early education center. The EEC serves 250+ children through our preschool, after-school and summer programs. This position oversees a staff of 35 - 40; ensures that EEC policies and staff fulfill all requirements necessary for state licensing; determines program curriculum; and maintains relationships with parents. Position is full time and qualifies for archdiocesan benefits. A full position description can be found at: htlenexa.org/positionopening. Interested applicants should email cover letter and resume to: smerfen@htslenexa.org.
Elementary school principal - Holy Spirit Catholic School in Overland Park is seeking an individual with demonstrated spiritual, academic and advancement leadership skills for the 2022-23 school year. The principal plays a critical role in safeguarding and promoting our school’s aim to lead students to encounter and grow as disciples of Jesus Christ and directing the school’s activity — learning, teaching, culture, finances and formation — toward that goal. The principal is responsible for ministering to staff, students and families. The principal is responsible for administering the school’s education program: supervising teaching, administrative and support staff; implementing archdiocesan curriculum guidelines and standards; and supervising and directing all other programs and services provided at or by the school. Applicants for principal must be a practicing Catholic, understand the mission of Catholic schools, and have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Apply online at: www.archkckcs.org and send resume and credentials to Superintendent Dr. Vince Cascone, Catholic schools office, via email to: vcascone@archkckcs.org. Position open until filled.
Part-time companions needed - Perfect job for any kind-hearted, energetic person wanting to be a team player in a small growing family company. Must have reliable transportation. Job entails driving clients to appointments and running errands. Person must be personable, able to talk, do puzzles, play cards and entertain. We are not a hands-on caregiving company. Some clients may be standby assist. Driving around metro area may be required. Trip charge or mileage also given. Drug, background checks and COVID vaccine are mandatory. Call Jen at (913) 530-1795. Clarkson Companion Care.
The city of Lenexa is hiring - We are looking for fulltime, part-time, seasonal and summer youth workers. Full-time opportunities: park maintenance (turf/ grounds keeper); public works (street and storm water); and custodian/building services. Part-time opportunities available at our recreational center: child watch attendant; fitness attendant; activities attendant; recreational program instructor - preschool. Summer positions: pool cashier - minimum age 15; lifeguards; head dive coach; camp counselors; and head camp counselors. If you are interested or know of anyone that may have an interest in working for the city of Lenexa, visit our website at: www.lenexa.com/jobs for additional information and to apply.
Seventh/eighth grade science teacher - St. Ann School, Prairie Village, is seeking a seventh grade homeroom and science teacher for the 2022-23 school year. This teacher will also teach eighth grade science classes through a rotation. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs.org and email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org.
Youth ministers for junior and senior high parishioners - Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, Overland Park, is seeking a part-time youth minister for junior and senior high youth parishioners. This person will work alongside the office of religious education and our parish school staff to engage our youth in meaningful, dynamic programming. The youth minister will coordinate, help develop and supervise teams of volunteers to carry out programs, activities and events designed to engage the youth and their parents of this parish. This individual will perform a wide variety of activities to direct and coordinate a strong faith-filled youth ministry program aimed at helping youth grow as disciples of Jesus Christ, acting as liaison and presence to our youth community by providing support, resources and a prayerful presence to this ministry. We are looking for that unique individual who has the spirit and heart for ministry as well as the ability to organize and run a comprehensive, fun, engaging ministry. BA in theology, pastoral ministry or related field; knowledge of Catholic teachings, catechesis and documents on youth ministry are required. Applicants must be Virtus-trained. Please send your resume to Father William Bruning, Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park, KS 66204 or email to: wmbruning@gmail.com.
Maternity home residential mentor - Hiring for all shifts. Do you have the passion to serve mothers and babies? Nativity House KC is a nonprofit maternity home in Kansas City, Kansas. Our mission is to provide help, hope, healing, shelter and services for adult pregnant women experiencing homelessness in a faith-based environment. Essential duties and responsibilities: provide ongoing support services and spiritual mentorship to mothers and their new babies; work with mentees to progress toward an individualized service; lead devotions, prayer and/or book study; lead parenting, budgeting and other classes as a part of curriculum; participate in assigned team meetings and/or consultations, staff development and training; provide all assigned paperwork, completely, accurately and on time. Requirements: high school diploma; GED or higher; understanding of and sensitivity to homeless women with children; understanding and support of a trauma-informed system of care; valid and clean driver’s license; basic computer skills; be self-directed and flexible to meet the needs of the clients; ability to support the agency’s mission and philosophy and demonstrate sensitivity to cultural diversity and workplace harmony. Experience with infant and child care preferred. If interested, email: lkabuya@nativityhousekc.org.
Elementary school secretary - Sacred Heart Catholic School in Ottawa is seeking an individual with a wide range of skills to run a welcoming and organized school office. Please contact Lisa Blaes at (785) 242-4297 or send a resume to: lblaes@sacredheartottawa.eduk12.net.
Business development specialist - Servpro is an industry leader in cleaning and restoration, and we currently have an opening for a business development specialist in the Lawrence/Topeka area. The successful candidate will be self-motivated, organized and a personable individual to market the services that our company offers, actively search for new accounts and manage existing accounts. This position will also become active in the community and local networking associations. Marketing/sales experience is preferred and/or experience in the insurance claims/property management fields. This position is full time with bonuses. Send resumes to: SP9721@servpro-lawrenceottawa.com.
Seventh/eighth grade ELA teacher - St. Ann School, Prairie Village, is seeking an eighth grade homeroom and ELA teacher for the 2022-23 school year. This teacher will also teach seventh grade ELA classes through a rotation. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs.org and email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org.
Fourth grade teacher - St. Ann School, Prairie Village, is seeking a fourth grade teacher for the 2022-23 school year. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs.org and email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org.
Fifth/sixth grade teacher - St. Ann School, Prairie Village, is seeking a sixth grade homeroom and ELA teacher for the 2022-23 school year. This teacher will also teach fifth grade ELA classes and sixth grade reading classes through a rotation. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs.org and email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org.
Technology teacher - St. Ann School, Prairie Village, is seeking a part-time technology teacher, approximately 20 hours per week, for computer and keyboarding skills for grades K - 6. This teacher will also potentially work with middle school students in elective courses. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs.org and email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org.
Physical education teacher - St. Ann School, Prairie Village, is seeking a physical education teacher for the 2022-23 school year. Interested applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs. org and email principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org.
Director of marketing and communications - The monastic community of St. Benedict’s Abbey is seeking a full-time director of marketing and communications to lead and oversee communications initiatives that effectively describe and promote the abbey and its mission. To learn more and apply, go online to: Kansasmonks. org/jobs or call (913) 360-7908.
Child care workers - John Paul II Preschool/Child Care is seeking fun-loving, energetic individuals, age 18 or over, to work in our summer program. Responsibilities include: interacting with children during indoor and outdoor play; supervising children on field trips; serving snacks; and helping to maintain the classroom space. Great job for a college student! Full and part-time positions available, with the opportunity for year-round employment if desired. Competitive wages based on education and experience. Contact Donna at: dhogue@ archkckcs.org for more information or to apply.
Catholic Charities is hiring - We have both part-time and full-time positions available at our TurnStyles stores! Currently hiring for: assistant manager. Earn up to $17 per hour based on experience. Have a great work/life balance. Serve neighbors in need! www. catholiccharitiesks.org.
Director of communications and digital engagement - The Church of the Nativity in Leawood is seeking to recruit a full-time, dynamic, creative and consistently visible director of communications and digital engagement. The director will collaborate with the pastor, parish staff and parishioners in creating and implementing a comprehensive vision for communications and digital presence for the parish, including social media; website; weekly bulletin and emails; livestream ministry; content creation; and print materials. Familiarity with Adobe InDesign and database software preferred. Send resume and letter of interest to Mark Hyde, business manager, at: mark@kcnativity.org.
Part-time aide - St. Michael the Archangel Preschool is seeking a pert-time aid for transitional kindergarten and LEAP (Learn, Explore and Play) class for the 202223 school year. This position is Tuesday and Thursday from 8 a.m. - 3:30 p.m. Teacher aides assist the lead teacher in conduction daily activities, carrying out licensure rules and regulation and maintaining principles of sound Catholic education. Send cover letter and resume to Jennie Wente at: jennie.wente@stmichaelcp. org.
Middle school science teacher - St. Benedict Catholic School in Atchison is seeking a grades 6 - 8 science teacher for the 2022-23 school year. This individual must possess a Kansas teaching certification (or be in the process of gaining necessary licensure); endorsement in a specific science is a plus. Interested candidates are asked to email Helen Schwinn, principal, at: hschwinn@stbenedict.eduk12.net or call (913) 3673503 during regular school hours.
Full and part-time Lead preschool teachers - St. Ann Young Child Center is currently seeking lead preschool teachers for the 2022-23 school year. The lead teacher is responsible for creating lesson plans and implementing teacher-led activities. All potential candidates should have a love for children and for maintaining the principles of Catholic education. We offer competitive wages based on education level and experience. If you are interested, please contact Cara Schwarz, preschool director, at (913) 362-4660 and/or send resume and cover letter to: cschwarz@stannpv.org.
School counselor - Holy Spirit Catholic School is currently seeking a school counselor. Applicants must hold a current Kansas counseling license. Previous experience working in an elementary school is preferred. To apply go to: archkck.org/catholicschools/employment/ and click on school counselor application. You may also send a letter of interest along with a copy of your resume to: Michele Watson at: mwatson@hscatholic.org.
Full and part-time assistant preschool teachers – St. Ann Young Child Center is currently seeking assistant preschool teachers for the 2022-23 school year. Interested candidates should have a love for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. We offer competitive wages based on education level and experience. If you are interested, please contact Cara Schwarz, preschool director, at (913) 362-4660 and/or send resume and cover letter to: cschwarz@stannpv.org.
Drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is now hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students with special needs in Johnson, Wyandotte and Clay County, Missouri, in company vans. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour. Aides earn $12 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply. Make a difference in your community by helping those in need. Call (913) 521-4955 for more information. EEO
>> Classifieds continue on page 13
Director of faith formation - Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park is seeking candidates for the position of director of faith formation. This full-time, exempt employee is responsible for providing leadership, oversight and direction in the design, development, implementation and evaluation of initial and lifelong faith formation. This includes children’s catechesis; sacramental preparation; youth and young adult ministry; and ongoing adult formation. Preferred skills include: a bachelor’s degree in a field commensurate with the qualifications of the position and experience in managing a religious education office; recruitment, training and supervision of all program staff and volunteers; planning programs for both youth and adult; and evaluation of program curriculum. Bilingual skills in English and Spanish would be beneficial but not required. Applicant will be a practicing Catholic in full communion with the church. Compensation will be commensurate with the candidate’s education and work experience. To apply, please send resume to: Father William Bruning, pastor, Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish, 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park, KS 66204 or email to: wm bruning@gmail.com. Resumes accepted through the month of April.
Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, has the following staff job openings available: admissions counselor, ADN specialist, nursing intake coordinator and business office comptroller. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.
Assistant director - Assistant director for Catholic radio stations in the friendly, Catholic, safe community of Hays. Job description and how to apply at: dvmercy.com. Will train the right person. Chance for advancement.
Part-time lunch coordinator - St. Ann Young Child Center is seeking a lunch coordinator for the 2022-23 school year. Hours and wages are negotiable. If you are interested, please contact Cara Schwarz, preschool director, at (913) 362-4660 and/or send resume and cover letter to: cschwarz@stannpv.org.
Financial representatives - Knights of Columbus has full-time openings in northeast Kansas and western Missouri for full-time financial representatives. Ideal for determined, disciplined, professional, high-expectation individual desiring to serve others. We work exclusively with the families of brother Knights and Catholic gentlemen who are eligible to join the Knights. We have established territories where agents devote their working day to the needs of the members in their assigned councils. Excellent, multi-tiered training and benefits are provided, allowing the successful field agent to earn a professional level income. This is a career opportunity that may be the right fit at the right time for you, or possibly for someone you know. For further information, contact John A. Mahon, general agent, at (785) 4088800 or email: john.mahon@kofc.org.
Caregivers - Daughters & Company is looking for several compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide light housekeeping/light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation services for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. A CNA background is helpful, though not mandatory. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match up hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team.
Faculty/adjunct faculty positions available - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served, has the following faculty job openings include: Director of Baccalaureate programs and Director of Title V Project. Adjunct faculty job openings include: biology, clinical nursing, math, and sociology. Find job descriptions and details on: www.donnelly. edu/careers.
Part-time assistant teacher for preschool classrooms - Prince of Peace Early Education Center is seeking a year-round, part-time assistant teacher in our preschool classrooms who has a love for children and a background in early childhood (education and/ or experience preferred). Job duties include: care and supervision of children at all times; face-to-face parent communication; closing and cleaning procedures; and implementing activities. We offer competitive wages based on education level and experience. You may find the application on our website at: popolathe.org/earlyeducation-center.
Full-time lead teacher - Prince of Peace Early Education Center is seeking a year-round, full-time, lead teacher in our two-and-a-half-year-olds classroom who has a love for children and a background in early childhood (education and/or experience required). Job duties include: care and supervision of children at all times; face-to-face parent communication; closing and cleaning procedures; and creating and implementing lesson plans and activities. We offer competitive wages based on education level and experience. This position will be available for training in May and teaching at the end of May. You may find the application on our website at: popolathe.org/early-education-center.
Part-time teacher in our after-school care program
- Prince of Peace Early Education Center is seeking a year-round, part-time teacher in our after-school care program who has a love for children and a background in early childhood (education and/or experience preferred). Job duties include: care and supervision of children at all times; face-to-face parent communication; closing and cleaning procedures; and implementing activities. We offer competitive wages based on education level and experience You may find the application on our website: popolathe.org/early-education-center.
Early childhood educators – With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child care in a safe, loving Christian environment. Our classrooms are full, and we are looking to add to our amazing team. We are looking for both full-time and part-time teachers for all ages of children. If you have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education, we would love to meet you. For more information or to apply, call Carolyn Andruss at (913) 894-0131, ext. 102.
Nonmedical caregivers - Saint Rita Home Care is hiring nonmedical caregivers for seniors. Seeking compassionate individuals to fill all shifts. Call or text Renee Margush at (913) 229-4267.
Garage Door Repair
Joe Pickert
New Garage Doors
A Total Door - KC family owned since ‘83 www.ATotalDoor.com or (913) 236-6440
STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835.
Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.
Popcorn ceiling texture removal
Interior wall painting specialist. Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience.
Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
Thank you to all my clients last year! - We had to take my ad out for a few months to catch up. This year, we are looking for more deck jobs, exterior wood rot and house painting jobs. We are also looking for larger interior jobs to include full kitchen remodels, cabinet refinishing, as well as bathroom remodels and basement finishing. Call Josh at (913) 709-7230.
DRC Construction
We’ll get the job done right the first time.
Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding
Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com
Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dandeeconst@aol.com.
Roofing America, Inc. — Local, Catholic-owned roofing company. FREE INSPECTIONS and estimates on roofs, gutters and siding. We work with your insurance company. Residential and commercial buildings. Mention this ad and call Bill (4th-degree Knight) at (913) 222-4379.
Local Handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, masonry (chimney repair), gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior) honey-do list and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.
ACT Prep - Founded by a Bishop Miege graduate, Pathway Prep has helped over 250 students during the last four years improve their scores. In-person or virtual sessions available. For more information, visit: path wayprepkc.com and contact Alex Pint at (913) 991-8217 or: alex@pathwayprepkc.com.
Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload, and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com.
Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.
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.
Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor, at (913) 909-2002.
Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your T-shirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704.
Wanted to buy - Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME!
I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.
Will buy firearms and related accessories - One a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.
Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.
Wanted to buy - Cemetery plot in section 2 of Mount Calvary Cemetery, 1150 N. 38th St., Kansas City, Kansas. Call (404) 542-7860 or (678) 464-3023 or email: FCooper316@ gmail.com
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.
Family member with dementia or need help at home? - We specialize in helping seniors live SAFELY at home, where they want to live! We also offer free dementia training and resources for families and caregivers. Benefits of Home - Senior Care , www. Benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.
Saint Rita Home Care - Compassionate care in the comfort of home. We serve people in Miami and south Johnson counties. Kansas state licensed, nonmedical home care agency. Contact us today for supportive care at: www.saintritahc.com; margush@saintritahc. com; (913) 229-4267; owner, member of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe.
WE WANT TO BUY YOUR HOUSE - There are so many new companies in town advertising to buy houses. But we’re the only ones that have been here and we’re local Holy Trinity parishioners. I will give you a fair price on any conditions you are up against. Call Mark Edmondson. (913) 980-4905.
We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000.
Wants to buy - Growing family looking for 1800+ square-foot home to buy within the St. Joseph/Good Shepherd (Shawnee) parish boundaries. Contact Brandon (St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner) at (816) 7264036.
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).
Estate sale - April 2, 9 and 16 from 10 a.m. - 3 p.m. at 53 S. Valley St., Kansas City, Kansas. Furniture, medical equipment, antiques, collector dolls and poodle figurines. Lots of miscellaneous items. For more information, contact Cathy at (913) 206-1524.
For sale - Double crypt at Gate of Heaven Cemetery. Inside Holy Redeemer Chapel, tier D, crypts 21 -23. Today’s value $16,000. Make offer. Call (913) 235-8822. Thinking about downsizing? - Just want to get some stuff gone? I am always buying: old jewelry, old coins, pocket watches, pocket knives, old trains, crocks, oil lamps, old toys, glassware, old clocks, old fans, Coca Cola items and spool cabinets. Most old items considered. Call Patricia at (913) 515-2950.
It’s called “the Easter laugh.” And it’s an ancient tradition well worth re-adopting.
16-17, 22-23
April 18
MONDAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER
April 19
TUESDAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER
April 20
WEDNESDAY WITHIN
OCTAVE OF EASTER
April 21
THURSDAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER
According to belief. net, hundreds of years ago, a monk, whose name was lost in history, was pondering the events of the Triduum. He was especially taken by the astonishing event of Easter.
He thought to himself, “What a surprise ending!” And then, surprising himself, he let loose with a trumpeting laugh, disrupting the silence of his fellow monks.
“Don’t you see?” exclaimed the monk. “It was a joke! A great joke! The best joke in all history! On Good Friday, when Jesus was crucified, the devil thought he’d won. But God had the last laugh on Easter when he raised Jesus from the dead!”
teries to churches, and the day after Easter became known as a “Day of Joy and Laughter,” when people told jokes to celebrate God’s great joke on the devil.
FRIDAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER
April 23
SATURDAY WITHIN THE OCTAVE OF EASTER
14-15b, 16-21
Mk 16: 9-15
SECOND WEEK OF EASTER
April 24
SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER (OR SUNDAY OF DIVINE MERCY)
Acts 5: 12-16
Ps 118: 2-4, 13-15, 22-24
Rv 1: 9-11a, 12-13, 17-19
Jn 20: 19-31
April 25
MARK, EVANGELIST
1 Pt 5: 5b-14
Ps 898: 2-3, 6-7, 16-17
Mk 16: 15-20
April 26
Tuesday
Acts 4: 32-37
Ps 93: 1-2, 5
Jn 3: 7b-15
April 27
Wednesday
Acts 5: 17-26
Ps 34: 2-9
Jn 3: 16-21
April 28
Peter Chanel, priest, martyr; Louis Grignion de Montfort, priest
Acts 5: 27-33
Ps 34: 2, 9, 17-20
Jn 3: 31-36
April 29
Catherine of Siena, virgin, doctor of the church
Acts 5: 35-42
Ps 27: 1, 4, 13-14
Jn 6: 1-15
April 30
Pius V, pope
Acts 6: 1-7
Ps 33: 1-2, 4-5, 18-19
Jn 6: 16-21
Thus was born “the Easter laugh.” The idea spread from monas-
What a fun way to usher Easter joy into our families and world. To get you started, enjoy this wonderful letter: Dear Stella,
I’m writing this letter slow because I know you can’t read fast. We don’t live where we did when you left for college. Your dad read in the newspaper that most accidents happen within 20 miles from your home, so we moved. I won’t be able to send you the address because the last family that lived here took the house numbers when they moved so that they wouldn’t have to change their address.
This place is real nice. It even has a washing machine.
I’m not sure it works too well, though. Last week, I put a load in, pulled the chain and haven’t seen the clothes since.
The weather isn’t bad here. It only rained twice last week: the first time for three days and the second for four.
The coat you wanted, your Uncle Stanley said would be too heavy to send in the mail with the buttons on, so we cut them off and put them in the pockets.
John locked his keys in the car yesterday. We were worried because it took him two hours to get me and your father out.
Your sister had a baby this morning, but I haven’t found out what it is yet, so I don’t know if you’re an aunt or an uncle.
Uncle Ted fell in a whiskey vat last week. Some men tried to pull him out, but he fought them off and drowned.
We had him cremated and he burned for three days.
Three of your friends went off a bridge in a pickup truck. Ralph was driving; he rolled down the window and swam to safety. Your other two friends were in back; they drowned because they couldn’t get the tailgate down. There isn’t more news. Nothing much has happened.
Love, Mom P.S. I was going to send you some money, but the envelope was already sealed. (Found in Brian Cavanaugh’s “Sower’s Seeds that Nurture Family Values: Sixth Planting.”) May your Easter laugh last all through this joyful season. Smile extravagantly, be grateful for all you have and keep your eyes peeled for the humor around you. The Lord is risen! And we are glad indeed!
Across the ages, artists have portrayed the Gospel scene we hear proclaimed on Easter Sunday, namely Mary Magdalene’s encounter with the risen Jesus soon after his resurrection.
One particularly evocative depiction is the mid-15th century painting titled “Noli Me Tangere,” completed by Fra Angelico, the renowned Dominican friar artist.
Mary Magdalene kneels in astonishment as the risen Lord calls her by name and she reaches out to touch him. The risen Jesus, radiating light, reaches out his hand to Mary Magdalene to assure her of his enduring presence, now transformed
into his glorious, resurrected body.
Our Easter faith invites us to a similar transformation patterned after Jesus’ passing from life to death to glorious, new, resurrected life.
“This is the day the
Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad,” sings the psalmist.
On this Easter Sunday, we join in this hymn of praise at the great mystery of our new life in the mystery of Jesus’ resurrection. The world has been weighed down by a global health crisis, the war in Ukraine, and the endless spread of violence, poverty and fear.
We might wonder what the way is out of the darkness of the human condition.
Faith gives us a new perspective as we hear Peter preaching boldly in Sunday’s first reading when he says of Jesus: “Everyone who believes in him will receive forgiveness of sins through his name.”
At Easter, we celebrate the mystery of Jesus’ resurrection and our rising to new life in him. Our Easter festivities mean little to nothing if we do not experience in ourselves the renewing life of God’s love and the new life of hope and peace that comes from God alone.
As St. Paul reminds the Colossians: “If then you were raised with Christ, seek what is above. . . . For you have died, and your life is hidden with Christ
in God. When Christ your life appears, then you too will appear with him in glory.”
As people of faith, we celebrate the resurrection of Jesus as God’s answer to the darkness of the human condition of sin that leads to separation from God. Easter is a gift of faith because our faith is in vain without the resurrection of Jesus.
In the light of his resurrection, everyone and everything is capable of being made new.
As we rejoice in God’s victory over sin and death in the resurrection of Jesus, we seek to have eyes of faith to recognize God’s presence transforming our lives this Easter day as we pray, “Speak to me, Lord.”
VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Smaller countries like Malta are called to set an example of true freedom in a world that can seem overwhelmed by powerful nations that seek to extend their own economic, military or ideological interests, Pope Francis said.
Reflecting on his recent visit to the Mediterranean archipelago during his weekly general audience April 6, the pope said Malta “represents the rights and power of the ‘small’ nations,” which exemplify the respect, freedom and
coexistence that stands “opposed to the colonization of the most powerful.”
“After World War II, the attempt was made to lay the foundations of a new era of peace. But unfortunately — we never learn, right? — the old story of competition between the great powers went on. And, in the current war in Ukraine, we are witnessing the impotence of the United Nations,” he said.
Pope Francis told people at the audience that the motto
of his April 2-3 trip described the “unusual kindness” of the people of Malta when St. Paul shipwrecked on the island nearly 2,000 years ago.
That “unusual kindness,” Pope Francis said, not only describes how countries should treat migrants today, but how countries should treat each other and everyone “so that the world might become more fraternal, more livable, and might be saved from a ‘shipwreck’ that menaces all of us.”
FATHER MARK GOLDASICH Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.Do you begin your Lent setting expectations?
If our Lenten journey went how we expected, every Sunday we would pray “My will be done.”
Lent is the time of year when we give up our favorite food, chocolate or social media, and we pray one more Our Father every day hoping to have some life-changing “God experience.”
Do we also consider that we are supposed to draw close to Jesus in his 40-day journey in the desert and his passion and crucifixion on Calvary where he was submitting himself completely to the will of the Father?
JOSHUA RUOFFIf your Lent didn’t go as planned, praise God because his will for our life is prevailing. He is calling us to submit ourselves to
him and to trust him. This doesn’t apply just during Lent. This should be our focus every day of our lives.
As I started my position as the lead consultant for special needs for the archdiocese last August, I found myself struggling to make this my focus. I felt obligated to make things how I
wanted them or how others expected.
It didn’t take long for God to quickly stop me and remind me that I am not in charge. Some people that God placed in my life suggested I pray something called the “surrender novena.” A novena is normally a nine-day prayer; I just start over at the beginning after the ninth day. Taking time to do this is a great reminder of who is in control of your day and your life.
As we come to the end of our Lenten journey, things for the office of special needs are about to get busy. In June, we will have the opportunity for specialneeds family camp at Prairie Star Ranch.
In July, we will be offering a specialneeds Totus Tuus. We are so excited to have the opportunity to grow in our faith through these opportunities.
If you would like to also experience this as a participating family at family camp, or if you have a loved one with special needs who you would like to have involved at Totus Tuus, or if you want to volunteer and have the opportunity to be the hands and feet of Christ, contact me at (913)647-3054 or by email at: jruoff@ archkck.org or visit our website at: archkck.org/ special-needs/home.
“You are sleepless; you want to judge everything, direct
everything and see to everything, and you surrender to human strength, or worse — to men themselves, trusting in their intervention — this is what hinders my words and my views. Oh how much I wish from you this surrender, to help you and how I suffer when I see you so agitated! Satan tries to do exactly this: to agitate you and to remove you from my protection and to throw you into the jaws of human initiative. So, trust only in me, rest in me, surrender to me in everything.” (Day 6 of the Novena of Surrender to the Will of God by Father Don Dolindo Ruotolo)
As the clouds seem to clear on the pandemic, we are realizing that the lockdowns hurt many of our teens’ mental health.
According to recent findings released by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, based on a survey of 7,705 U.S. high school students, “44% of them reported feeling sad or hopeless almost every day for at least two weeks in a row. Thirty-seven percent said their mental health was most of the time or always not good during the pandemic.”
Christianity prescribes helping others as a sure path to peace, and mental health experts concur. There is a science to resilience,
and the data shows that providing teens opportunities for meaningful connections with positive adults and peers is extremely powerful in mitigating the effects of trauma.
We have only to
look at the mystery of the Visitation, in which Mary, a teenager, responds to the distress of an unplanned pregnancy (at least for her and Joseph) by pondering God’s calling in her heart and going out in haste to help her cousin Elizabeth.
Pope St. John Paul II described Mary’s response as one of “prayer and action.” The Prayer and Action
mission (aka PandA) could be just what the youth in your parish need right now.
Prayer and Action is a local mission trip that enables teens to experience Christ through meditative prayer, Mass and the sacraments, works of charity and authentic Christian fellowship. It also happens to be a lot of fun.
Because this mission occurs in the archdiocese, costs remain low and scholarships are available. This year, Prayer and Action will serve Emporia and will be hosted by Sacred Heart Parish there.
This summer ministry enables Catholic teens to get out of themselves to help others who are most in need. This service
is done by the laboring hands and the open hearts of high school students and their adult leaders.
The most important aspect of Prayer and Action is encountering Christ through service. Teens grow as disciples when they get out of themselves.
Prayer and Action sessions last five days, with parish youth groups arriving on Sunday evening and staying until Friday morning. Throughout the week, teens paint, do yardwork, and perform other meaningful tasks for the poor, disabled and elderly.
Teens spend the week in an atmosphere free of distractions, which fosters faith, inspires charity and leads them closer to Christ. The experience
also allows them to encounter other high school students from other parts of the archdiocese who share their Catholic faith.
Prayer and Action is led by a team of archdiocesan seminarians and dynamic Catholic women.
Staff and volunteer chaperones work with the teens at each site.
In the evenings, teens experience “Collatio,” the retreat portion of Prayer and Action. This is perhaps the most important part of the day as the students play, worship and grow together in Jesus Christ. Prayer and Action is happening from midJune to mid-July. To learn more about how your parish can bring a group, or to register, go online to: PandAKC. org.
If your Lent didn’t go as planned, praise God
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Eight months ago, my life changed forever. I was diagnosed with Goodpasture syndrome, a rare autoimmune disease where the body attacks its own lungs and kidneys.
If you’d told me that I’d have an autoimmune disease at 27, I would’ve said you were crazy. How could someone with hardly any medical history end up with kidney failure?
It all started with what I believed to be a bad case of food poisoning. What followed was a few weeks of repeated episodes of vomiting, nausea, night sweats, coughing and other strange symptoms.
After two negative COVID-19 tests, I set up a doctor’s appointment. The nurse practitioner said they’d run blood tests and get back to me the following day.
The next morning on July 21, I received a call. My doctor told me the results showed that my kidneys were failing. She said I needed to get to the ER immediately because my creatinine and hemoglobin levels were critical.
I remember being confused and scared. I knew I’d been feeling crummy, but nothing prepared me for the news that I was in renal failure.
I was admitted to the ICU that same night to begin dialysis and plasmapheresis treatments. My nephrologist started me on chemotherapy and corticosteroid drugs to combat the anti-GBM (Goodpasture syndrome) antibodies.
I spent the next 20 days at Overland Park Regional Medical Center.
It’s been less than a year since that call from my doctor and my life has never been the same. I’ve lost nearly 20 pounds and more than 75% of my hair. I’ve been following a strict renal diet and taking a handful of pills twice a day. Every night, I hook myself up for a 12-hour dialysis treatment.
Being immunosuppressed has meant avoiding crowds and always wearing a face mask. I had to rely on all kinds of technology to stay connected to my friends.
It was hard limiting my social life. I hated turning down certain invitations.
But I knew my health was more important.
To this day, I still have to be cautious about where I go and what I do.
After months of living at home, I decided to give up my one-bedroom apartment. With all the ups and downs of my health, I needed my family close by. It was a relief not to waste money on rent and utilities, but after living on my own for over four years, I was sad to lose my independence.
I don’t need to lie and tell you that my journey has been an easy one. There have been many days where I’ve cried, yelled, cursed and sulked. I can admit it’s tough to be connected to a dialysis machine. It’s tough to be more susceptible to infection. It’s tough getting tired so easily. Bottom line: It’s tough to be sick.
Little did I know that God had a reason for giving me the cross of end-stage renal disease. It was never meant to punish, but rather to sanctify.
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Embracing the weight of my cross has given me lasting joy and reaffirmed my hope in the Lord’s goodness.
Since that first day in the hospital, God has been by my side, giving me the strength and courage I’d need to keep fighting. He’s surrounded me with so much love that there’s no room for any fear or anger.
I never understood how someone could suffer joyfully until my diagnosis. When I was in the hospital the first time, I remember praying and promising to offer all my suffering to God. I knew I couldn’t carry this burden on my own. Instead of casting blame and feeling sorry for myself, I put my full trust in his divine will.
By accepting my illness, I had the opportunity to grow closer to Jesus, the One who knows. He who knows all my pain, fear, loneliness, frustration, weakness and confusion. He is with me through it all.
In this earthly life, we will all experience
crosses of different sizes. Each one is designed intimately by God. He knows exactly what we’re capable of handling when we rely on him instead of ourselves.
I had no idea how strong and brave I was until getting diagnosed with Goodpasture syndrome. It’s made me into a powerful witness. One that uses her God-given testimony to encourage others.
If I could share one piece of wisdom with all of you, it’s this: When you’re in the midst of suffering and you feel lost and alone, quietly say this prayer: “Dear Jesus, I trust in you.”
It brings me comfort and I hope it does the same for you.
At 28 years old, Amy Reinhardt is an Overland Park native and has been a parishioner at Church of the Ascension for over half her life. If you’d like to read Amy’s health updates, you can follow online at: www.caringbridge.org/visit/ amyreinhardt.
