THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 41, NO. 35 | APRIL 17, 2020
THE LITTLE THINGS
Benedictine grads make free ‘ear savers’ for surgical masks By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
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VERLAND PARK — Sometimes the smallest thing can make a big difference — like a bit of plastic to make wearing a medical mask a
PHOTO COURTESY OF JAKE SCHMITZ
LIVE IN 3D
Jake Schmitz shows off his 3D printer and the design for “ear savers” — an idea he and friend Ryan Johnson came up with to protect ears from prolonged contact with surgical masks. The two entrepreneurs are making “ear savers” as fast as they can, but are having a hard time keeping up with demand.
INSIDE THIS ISSUE
FEED THE HUNGRY
Schools are working to ensure that their students get fed during the pandemic. Page 3
SPIREFEST
The University of Saint Mary takes its major fundraising effort online this year. Page 4
#IGIVECATHOLIC
Online donation tool makes it easy to give back to those who’ve given so much to you. Page 5
bit easier. Making a big difference is what Jake Schmitz and Ryan Johnson, friends and co-workers, are doing in response to the coronavirus crisis. The two entrepreneurs — who met at Benedictine College in Atchison and work for Overland Park-based Catholic Faith Technologies — are making and donating “surgical mask tension release bands for ear comfort for extended use.” They call them “ear savers.” To protect themselves from the coronavirus, medical professionals and workers — and other people like paramedics — have to wear masks for long hours and many days at a stretch. The elastic bands on the masks that loop around the ears can wear, leading to some serious soreness. So just as the demand for masks of all kinds has soared, so, too, has demand for “ear savers.” There aren’t enough to go around. “It all started after Mass on April 5,” said Johnson, a member of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park. “My wife and I streamed Mass with Archbishop Naumann. I hopped on Facebook for just a few minutes and saw a friend who I’d gone to college with . . . [who shared] a design for facemask tension release holders for surgical masks.” There was such an overwhelming demand for the “ear savers” from a hospital in the friend’s community that the hospital put the plans online and made a plea for people to make them with their personal 3D printers. “I didn’t have a 3D printer, but I knew that Jake did,” said Johnson. “So, I texted him. I sent him the plans and said, ‘Hey, this would be really cool to do together.’” Schmitz saw the same story. When Johnson contacted him, he liked the idea. “I took a look at the object and said, ‘Let’s do a test run,’” said Schmitz, a member of Ascension Parish in Overland Park. The technology involves making a three-dimensional object from a >> See “AS REQUESTS” on page 4
STAYING ENFLAMED An “Enflame Our Hearts” Facebook page has kept people connected during the pandemic. Page 7
SUPPLICATIONS
Look for future Sunday Supplications on The Leaven’s website at: www.theleaven.org.
APRIL 17, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
ARCHBISHOP
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Find in our Risen Lord peace, even amid a pandemic
n Feb. 26 (Ash Wednesday), I began the Lenten season celebrating Mass in the Cathedral of St. Peter with the children and teachers of Resurrection Catholic School. The students, faculty, parents and other adults were packed into the pews. It was before the era of social distancing. The economy was booming. Unemployment was at record lows and the stock market at record highs. KU basketball fans were anxiously awaiting a Jayhawk run for the national championship. Royals fans were enjoying the hope and optimism that comes with spring training. Restaurants and stadiums were packed. If we had heard of the coronavirus, it seemed something faraway, nothing that threatened our lives. During recent weeks, the world as we knew it has been shaken. Our churches are closed. Public celebrations of Mass are disallowed for an indefinite period of time. Our economy has been shut down. Restaurants are shuttered and most small business owners are struggling to keep afloat. There was no March Madness. The baseball season is in limbo. Students are being educated not in classrooms, but at home in front of computer screens. The stock market has plummeted. Record levels of unemployment are anticipated. “Shelter in place” orders confine us to our homes. City streets are
LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN empty. We are unable to visit the elderly residents in independent living, assisted living and skilled nursing centers. Even gatherings of extended family are discouraged. New York City has constructed temporary hospitals and expanded its morgues. Family members are not allowed to be with those approaching death and only 10 people can participate in funeral Masses. We ask ourselves the questions: How can we celebrate Easter in the midst of such grim circumstances? How can we celebrate anything with so much human suffering? Where is the risen Jesus in all of this? Has God fallen asleep? Does God not hear the prayers of a suffering world? This feels more like perpetual Good Friday than Easter. Even before the pandemic, mental health professionals were alerting us to an epidemic of loneliness and alienation. More than four times as many Americans died of suicide this past year
than have died from the coronavirus thus far. Some 70,000 Americans die annually from drug overdoses, 10,000 more than now is projected to die from COVID-19. Our booming economy and all our entertainment options evidently were not bringing peace and joy to the hearts of many Americans. Our crucified Redeemer did not promise his disciples living in this sin-fractured world a pain-free life. In fact, Jesus told his disciples, if we want to follow him we must be willing to lose our life; we must be prepared to carry the cross; we must follow him all the way to Calvary. Jesus did not promise his disciples an easy, carefree life. Jesus, however, did model for us fidelity to the truth and courage in the midst of suffering. Our Lord revealed how it was possible to give mercy and love even from the cross. He provided us with an example of surrendering his will to the Father’s, trusting that his Father would bring forth good from evil, love from hatred, hope from despair and life from death.
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St. John’s Passion and Easter narratives are filled with irony. A great illustration of this is the passage describing Mary Magdalene’s first encounter with the risen Jesus. Mary is moping around the empty tomb. She assumes Our Lord’s corpse has been stolen either by the Roman or Jewish authorities. Mary sees the risen Jesus, but she is so overwhelmed with grief that his resurrection is inconceivable to her. Mary assumes the man to be a gardener. Probably having to employ his divine power to keep a straight face, Jesus asks her why she is weeping and for whom she is looking. Mary replies by asking Jesus if he has taken the body and, if so, where he has laid her Lord? At this point, the risen Jesus responds by simply saying: “Mary!” By the way Our Lord pronounces her name, Mary realizes immediately that it is Jesus. Mary does not practice social distancing, but embraces her Lord. Jesus then sends her on a mission to inform the apostles that he has risen. Mary hurries to tell the apostles that she has seen the risen Lord. For this reason, Mary Magdalene is sometimes referred to as the “Apostle to the Apostles.” This encounter of Mary with the risen Jesus is one of my favorites in all the Scriptures, because it reveals the relationship that Jesus desires to have with each of us. He does not love us
collectively as a large group. Jesus knows us by name and desires to have a friendship with each of us, similar to the relationship he had with Mary Magdalene. When we are preoccupied with anxieties and feeling that God is absent, this passage suggests Our Lord is probably right next to us, though we are having difficulty recognizing him. During the Easter season liturgies, we read frequently from the Acts of the Apostles that describes the development and growth of the early church. One of the most compelling proofs of the truth of Our Lord’s resurrection is the transformation of the apostles. Peter and the other apostles, who in the Passion narratives were so afraid of being identified with Jesus, we now see boldly proclaiming the Gospel of their risen Lord. The same apostles, who had abandoned Jesus on Good Friday now openly profess his resurrection. Except for John, all of the apostles were martyred. People do not die for a hoax. Jesus is alive and each one of us is also called to proclaim the truth of his resurrection. Our mission is to radiate Easter hope and joy in the midst of all of our difficulties, problems and sufferings. Now is a great time to be a disciple of Jesus. Our families, friends, communities, nation and world desperately need witnesses of authentic hope and joy. When others recognize in us a
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peace even in the midst of a pandemic, when others see in us joy as we experience suffering, when others receive love from us despite the preoccupations of our own problems, they will be drawn to the source of our joy, hope and power to love. May our lives become living alleluias that proclaim to the entire world: Jesus Christ is risen!
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APRIL 17, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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‘There was no doubt in my mind that I needed to do this’ By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org
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ANSAS CITY, Kan. – “When I first heard of the ‘stay at home’ order,” said Cathy Fithian, principal of Christ the King School here, “my concern was feeding the kids.” That sentiment echoed across the archdiocese in schools that typically serve our low-income population, especially in Wyandotte County. “As we were hearing more and more about our families becoming unemployed,” said Our Lady of Unity School principal Cally Dahlstrom, “we knew we had to figure out something to make sure they were able to feed their children.” Schools found the answer by applying to provide grab-and-go breakfasts and lunches through the federally assisted meal program. “Seventy percent of our students here at Bishop Ward qualify for free and reduced lunches,” said president Jay Dunlap. “So, we thought it was important to help our families. “And when this opportunity came along, there was discussion of, ‘Well, should we try to do as little as possible?’ “And as a community we decided, ‘No we should try to do as much as possible.’”
Cafeteria staff members — from left, Linda Burch, Carmen Oregel and Gladis Arevalo — at Our Lady of Unity School in Kansas City, Kansas, prepare grab-and-go lunches. Mariana Mendez, who normally works in the Bishop Ward High School business office, delivers meals on April 3 in the Ward parking lot.
Serving all children Administrators approached their lunch staff about continuing to provide meals for children and were met with unanimous support. Laura Jennings, lunch manager at Resurrection School, had been sitting at home for two weeks worrying about the students she served when principal Lynda Higgins approached her. “I had done a lot of praying and a lot of reflecting on what I could do to help,” she said. “So, there was not a doubt in my mind, I needed to do this. “God was calling me to do this.” Executive chef Rick Atallah, Bishop Ward High School’s food director, felt the same. “These kids depend on these meals,” he said. “Our faith wants people to take care of their family and neighbor, to take care of the needy and be merciful to anyone who needs help.” Schools providing the grab-and-go meals are serving not only their students or those who qualify for free and reduced lunch, but any child between the ages of 1 and 18 who needs a meal. Schedules vary, but most schools serve three times a week, providing enough meals for two days each time. “Its one of the ways we’ve been able to keep our part-time staff employed and engaged,” said Dunlap. “We know that’s a great help to them.” Jennings admits the process of ordering, preparing and packaging up the food — all while being super-vigilant about sanitation and health department guidelines for food handling — is intense. “The state gives us guidelines and
suggestions on what to serve,” she said. “So, I go by their suggestions and what I know our kids will eat.” Atallah agreed it’s a challenge to offer variety, nutrition and something the kids will enjoy. “We basically give them full meals,” he said. “Today, for instance, we served them [a] cheese quesadilla, rice, vegetables, milk, juice and fruit. “When they pick up their lunch, they get another meal for breakfast. Today, they got cereal, muffins, juice, milk and fruit.” On average, each school is providing meals for 100 to 150 students. “We [distribute meals] Monday, Wednesday and Friday,” explained Fithian. “On Monday, we served 600 meals because we served for Monday and Tuesday.” And numbers continue to go up.
Staying connected “We’re telling people anyone they know who needs a meal is welcome to come as long as they are between the ages of 1 and 18,” said Fithian. “We also put it on our sign out front. “So, we’ve had people from all over KCK come.” It literally is grab and go. “People pull up to the door that is nearest to our cafeteria and let us know how many children we’re serving in their family,” said Dunlap. “We have one of our staff out there handing them the lunches off of the cart and
President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann
Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)
then it’s the next one through.” Higgins takes part in the process of handing out meals at Resurrection and finds it allows her to stay involved with her students. “It’s really been a great time for me to touch base with the kids and make sure they’re getting online and to see if they have any questions,” she said. “We’ve used it as a time to pass out packets and to get information back and forth. “It’s been good for me to keep that connection going.” Their efforts have been met with a flood of relief and gratitude from the families they’re helping. “Our parents are so thankful,” said Dahlstrom. “I know today a parent shared with me that her 1-year-old was sitting at home waiting for the sack lunches to get there because they hadn’t eaten anything in a long time.” At Christ the King, on the first day of grab and go, Fithian encountered a gentleman from the neighborhood who walked over to ask what the school was doing.
Editor Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org
Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org
Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org
Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org
Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
Social Media Editor/Reporter Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
“I told him and asked if he had any children,” she said. “He said had three; and then he went back home and brought his children to get lunches. “They don’t go to our school and it was really sweet to see. I think they were hungry.” The schools want to get the word out that they have meals available. “I feel like part of our mission as Catholics is to reach out and do anything we can to support one another, especially in crisis time,” said Dahlstrom. “There’s something driving me to make sure kids are okay, and I’m sure that’s the Holy Spirit.” Jennings, who has three children at home, admits it’s a great challenge to provide so many meals each week, and asked for prayers that they have the strength to continue this mission. “The need for lunches might increase as the process keeps going,” she said. “So, keep us in your prayers. “And thank you to the people who have already been praying for us. “It is definitely working.”
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APRIL 17, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Organizers hope new format makes SpireFest a virtual success By Katie Peterson Special to the Leaven
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EAVENWORTH — Online schooling, “stay at home” orders and social distancing because of COVID-19 is not stopping the University of Saint Mary here from hosting the 17th annual SpireFest April 25 via YouTube. “Our mission doesn’t stop in the midst of a pandemic,” said Madeleine Bryce, USM advancement office special events and annual giving manager, “and it’s kind of even more crucial right now to continue supporting our mission. “Our students’ lives have been upended, and we still need to provide them support while they’re adapting to their new living and learning environments.” SpireFest is USM’s largest annual fundraising event for student scholarships, which brings together alumni, board members, students and friends of the university for a night of entertainment and a silent auction. “It started from a committed group of friends and alumni who wanted to do something fun and different to help Saint Mary and the students,” said Matt Astleford, USM vice president for advancement. “It’s just grown into this wonderful thing that it is now.” The premiere event begins at 5 p.m. on April 25 and will include prerecorded videos from Sister Diane Steele, SCL, USM president, and students. There will also be a silent auction. “It will feel similar to the in-person event, just online,” Bryce said. “We’re trying to mimic the live event as closely as we can for people from the comfort of their homes,” said Astleford. Although the main event is April 25, the silent auction will go live at 8 a.m. on April 20 and close at 11:55 p.m. on April 25. The 80-plus items include a signed Patrick Mahomes MVP jersey as well as trips to Ireland; Palm Springs, California; and Myrtle Beach, South Carolina.
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE UNIVERSITY OF ST. MARY
Sister Diane Steele, SCL, University of Saint Mary president, sits down for a prerecorded address as part of the Leavenworth university’s 17th annual SpireFest. The event has been moved online via YouTube on April 25. SpireFest is USM’s largest annual fundraising event. “I think people will be looking forward to getting back to traveling again and looking forward to a little bit of respite after everything calms down, so we decided to keep [the trips] in the auction this year [instead of holding them for next year],” said Bryce. Though conducting SpireFest online is new territory, Bryce said it has its advantages. “A silver lining in all this is to have a bit more of a captive audience, since more people are looking to the digital landscape to mitigate the isolation,” Bryce said. “I think more people will tune in and we’ll have a wider audience because often we’re restricted by who is able to travel to the Kansas City area for one day in April,” he added. “This way, we can reach a lot of friends and alumni across the states.”
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“I THINK MORE PEOPLE WILL TUNE IN AND WE’LL HAVE A WIDER AUDIENCE BECAUSE OFTEN WE’RE RESTRICTED BY WHO IS ABLE TO TRAVEL TO THE KANSAS CITY AREA FOR ONE DAY IN APRIL. The event is open to everyone, too, Astleford said. “SpireFest isn’t exclusive for Saint Mary alumni and friends,” he said. “It is for anybody who believes in the
value of a good, Catholic education. We would welcome anyone who values that to join us and be a part of this to really help out our students during this difficult time.” “Our students really count on events like this,” added John Schultz, USM vice president for marketing and admissions. “This is our single biggest fundraiser for student scholarships each year. We are about 40% first generation and 40% Pell Grant (U.S. federal government aid) recipients. So, it’s a big help to them.” A link for the event and the silent auction will be released April 20 via email and social media, including Facebook, Instagram and Twitter. For more information, visit the website at: stmary.edu/spirefest or send an email to Bryce: at madeleine.bryce@ stmary.edu.
As requests pour in, entrepreneurs look for partners >> Continued from page 1 computer-aided design by adding layers of plastic. “The way the printer does that is with a big spool of plastic filament, like a really, really big fishing line,” said Schmitz. “You hook the spool to a printer, and it feeds the wire into the printer, heats it up, and will [build] the object layer by layer . . . from a heated nozzle.” It worked beautifully. Since 3D printers are expensive, Johnson’s parents donated some money so he could also start printing at his home. The “ear savers” that Schmitz and Johnson make come in two sizes. Because they have different kinds of printers, Johnson can produce four every 45 minutes, and Schmitz can make eight every three hours. Schmitz and Johnson used social media to offer the free “ear savers” to local individuals, hospitals, clinics and other entities. “Locally, we’ve delivered to nurses [at hospitals],” said Johnson. “There’s a local nurse at a neonatal intensive care unit who needed 25 for her floor. We have another local nurse who works on a mother and baby floor . . . who
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OUR GOAL IS TO HELP AS MANY AS POSSIBLE, ESPECIALLY LOCALLY. THESE ARE COMPLETELY FREE OF CHARGE. WE’D LIKE TO HAVE A BIG IMPACT LOCALLY AND WE’RE TRYING TO GROW THAT.” wanted 25 for her floor. “We’ve also reached out to local hospitals and clinics. We’ve contacted fire and police departments to see if we can help. Our goal is to help as many as possible, especially locally. These are completely free of charge. We’d like to have a big impact locally and we’re trying to grow that.” Word is spreading beyond the Greater Kansas City metropolitan area. Schmitz and Johnson are filling an order for a hospital in Dallas. They’ve
sent them to various facilities (urgent care clinics, hospitals, emergency rooms) in Iowa; a hospital emergency room in St. Louis; a children’s hospital in Tucson, Arizona; and hospitals in Denver and San Antonio. They’ve also sent them to a lab in Hiawatha. “We’ve delivered close to 200, and have 60 or 70 we’re fulfilling for individuals,” said Johnson. “We’re thinking that number will continue to grow as more people find out about this and we make more contacts.” The demand is always higher than what they can produce. So, the two men are casting about via social media to find other printers. “There is a national effort around providing 3D printed materials for medical professionals, especially if they are personal protection devices,” said Schmitz. “We have reached out to a few schools, because most in the archdiocese are closed,” he continued. “If they have a 3D printer that isn’t being utilized, my basement is ready to go. “I’ve got a whole empty wall we can line printers up on. But the point isn’t for us to do it all. If someone has a 3D printer . . . we can handle distribution.” Persons who want to help Schmitz
PHOTO COURTESY OF RYAN JOHNSON
Ryan Johnson displays an “ear saver” that he made with a 3D printer. The “ear savers” have been in high demand since the coronavirus pandemic hit. and Johnson print the items — or need “ear savers” — can contact them via email at: johnson.ryan45@gmail.com or jakeschmitz87@gmail.com.
APRIL 17, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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You can be there for those who have been there for you By Jan Dixon Special to The Leaven
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any churches around the world now sit empty, their collection baskets bare. But the 120 parishes in the 21 counties that comprise the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas still have bills to pay and obligations to meet. Parishes, schools and ministries are facing financial stress due to the cancellation of their various fundraising activities, like 5Ks, auctions and galas — while nonprofit organizations are experiencing much greater demands for their services. With most of the country under “stay at home” orders due to the coronavirus threat, Catholics have been provided a unique opportunity to act as faithful stewards. Now, directly from the safety of their own homes, they can come together to support the organizations that have been there for them all their lives — their parishes, schools and ministries. #iGiveCatholic Together is a new online tool developed to aid with donations during the COVID-19 crisis. It is a global crowdfunding platform for giving. The #iGiveCatholic campaign started five years ago as a way to connect parishes, dioceses, schools and ministries with Catholics who wished to donate to worthy causes once a year on Giving Tuesday. But with the coronavirus pandemic shutting down weekend collections and fundraisers, the #iGiveCatholic campaign has been activated to provide those same Catholic organizations with a solution to keep funds flowing and their lifelines going, especially those without online portals already established. “I have been impressed by #iGive Catholic since it was first conceived as a secure and convenient opportunity for Catholics to affirm our faith by sharing our gifts out of love for God and one another,” said Lesle Knop, executive director of the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas of the archdiocese. “We are grateful to be able to offer this program now.” With charity at the heart of the church and needs within our communities greater than ever, donations can be made to parishes, schools and other organizations on the #iGiveCatholic
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
No Masses means no collection baskets and no money coming into the parish. #iGiveCatholic Together is a new online tool developed to aid with donations during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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“I HAVE BEEN IMPRESSED BY #IGIVECATHOLIC SINCE IT WAS FIRST CONCEIVED AS A SECURE AND CONVENIENT OPPORTUNITY FOR CATHOLICS TO AFFIRM OUR FAITH BY SHARING OUR GIFTS OUT OF LOVE FOR GOD AND ONE ANOTHER.” Together platform. “The main advantage for our parishes, schools and ministries to use the platform is it is already established and has national exposure,” said Kathryn Robards, marketing coordinator for the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas.
With “stay at home” orders in place, it’s an immediate way to be able to donate to them, without using cash, and support their critical ministry. “It is an advantage for donors to use the platform as a secure and safe way to contribute and remain engaged with their Catholic community during these unique times,” Robards said. “It is especially wonderful that donors have the freedom to safely donate from the comfort of their home,” she continued. “They don’t have to mail a check or drive a check to the parish. They can contribute via the online portal.” With a basic 1-2-3 click system, donors are able to locate the organization of their choice and make one or more donations. That’s the beauty of #iGiveCatholic Together: It’s not just parish-centered. It’s parish, school and nonprofit ministry driven. Saint Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park is just one of the many archdiocesan organizations participating in the program and using donations to meet the current needs.
“When the announcement came from #iGiveCatholic about utilizing their platform to solicit donations, we immediately jumped onboard and selected the Guardian Angel Fund to help our families who are experiencing hardship,” said Amber Krumbholz, Aquinas’ advancement officer for alumni relations. Using #iGiveCatholic Together is an opportunity for parishes, schools and ministries to begin to address the looming financial stresses that lie ahead. “I think the crowdfunding platform helps us unite as Catholics because it gives us options to support ministries that align with our Catholic beliefs and join together to make a bigger impact than each of us could do individually,” said Debra Niesen, lead consultant for archdiocesan pro-life ministries. Every gift will make a difference, say organizers. But collectively, archdiocesan Catholics can make a world of difference for the ministries they love — and that represent Christ’s love to our brothers and sisters less fortunate than us.
Easter of a different sort, but not really By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven
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aster was different this year. But then again, it wasn’t. Church pews were empty without congregations to proclaim the good news, exchange signs of peace, and share bread and wine. We prayed in front of computer and television screens. There were fewer large gatherings of family and friends around bountiful tables laden with ham and rolls and sweet desserts. Precaution, fear or sickness kept us apart. Easter egg hunts were limited, and parades minimized. There were fewer opportunities for fashionable
spring clothing to make its debut. Easter was different this year. But then again, it wasn’t. Trees were budding, and flowers abloom. Nature affirmed the cycles of life. Rain fell intermittently on newly mown lawns. People connected with phone calls and emails, expressions of love and good will. Children bit ears off chocolate bunnies and ate jelly beans. Alleluias rang out across sound waves and airwaves. Hope resounded with the words, “Christ is risen,” and our belief that so will we. Easter was a glorious day for all the right reasons: spring, joy and Resurrection. Easter is a season to continue to share all that is good about life: faith, family and friends.
APRIL 17, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Reconnecting brings young adults sense of peace By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Setting up for a musical performance is something Mikey Needleman has done countless times over his career. But lately, he’s been singing his heart out to an empty room, knowing that eventually, thousands of people will watch his performance online. His music is a key part of Digital Prayer Nights (DPN), a weekly video series from Camp Tekakwitha at the Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg. It includes prayer, worship and testimonies, and is designed to connect people during this time of social distancing. “The church has survived everything — from the early church when they couldn’t even have Mass in public for the fear of being murdered or jailed,” said Needleman. “Now, we’re in a time where we can’t have Mass. “What’s our alternative? The alternative is to make it happen the way that we can and be creative in how the church is going to continue to gather and be sustained. “This is new territory,” he continued, “but that doesn’t mean the church doesn’t have a place. We just have to be creative in what gathering looks like right now.”
Musician Mikey Needleman is a key part of Digital Prayer Nights, a weekly video series from Camp Tekakwitha at the Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg. It includes prayer, worship and testimonies, and is designed to connect people during this time of social distancing. DPN videos are posted on Tuesdays at 7 p.m. on Camp Tekakwitha’s Facebook page and YouTube channel. They last around 45 minutes and include Needleman’s performance, a message from Deacon Dana and Deborah Nearmyer, as well as from other families and young adults. The videos are filmed beforehand and pieced together by Needleman, who then premieres them online, so the format is similar to a livestream. One profound moment during the first DPN was when Christina LeDesma, a junior at Basehor-Linwood High School, and her twin sister Sierra, a junior at Bonner
Springs High School, shared a piece of their struggles, which God has helped them overcome. “I love sharing my testimony with others,” said Christina. “Though it can be hard, I know that if I join my suffering with Christ, he can use it for good.” Christina noticed the positive effects quickly after the video ended, when a friend texted her words of gratitude for opening up during the video. “By me sharing my story,” she said, “it actually started a conversation with one of my friends, which led to her opening up to me about some of her struggles that she’s been
dealing with in her own life. “She said that me sharing my story made her feel like she wasn’t alone.” Christina emphasized the important role videos like DPN have on the faith of young people during this time. “I honestly feel like God is using this time to shift our focus onto him,” she said. “For a person who struggles with mental health, I know that having to be inside all day and not being able to go anywhere can really take a toll on your mental health. “However, through this scary and uncertain time, I have found so much peace and so much joy in the simplicity of things.”
For J.D. Reece, a senior at St. James Academy in Lenexa, there were many reasons to tune into DPN. “I heard about it from friends,” he said, “[and] I have a lot of free time. But the real reason was that I just wanted to have that connection again. “Praying alongside people is such a beautiful thing, and we haven’t gotten to do that in person for a while, so it was cool we figured out how to do it at home.” Reece was impressed with how relatable those who shared testimonies were, and he was grateful for the opportunity to lean on God with other young people during a time when many feel isolated. “I think everyone involved that night got the sense of peace that we’ve all been searching for these past couple of weeks,” he said. Needleman, who usually records his performances between 9 p.m. and 2 a.m. so as not to be interrupted by his young family, said positive feedback has made the hours of work he puts into each video worth it. “I think right now, we’re all called to step up in our own ways,” he said. “I have the ability to pull some of this stuff off that maybe a lot of people don’t. “I think it’s my duty to use [the gifts] that I’ve been given to bless the church.”
Aquinas dance coaches get creative for annual tryouts By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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VERLAND PARK — For two years, the St. Thomas Aquinas High School Spirits dance team prepared for nationals, to be held this spring in Dallas. But when the coronavirus pandemic hit the United States, the in-person competition was canceled, and teams were encouraged to send in videos of their dances to be judged electronically. “I was completely heartbroken,” said Marika Davis, a senior dance team member at the high school in Overland Park. “Not only was I upset about not being able to show off our months of hard work,” she said, “but I was also upset that my dance career ended so abruptly.” Lydia Davis, also a senior dance team member, agreed. “I know I can speak for the rest of the seniors in saying we were ready to leave our heart out on that floor,” she said. “At least for me, this was going to be my last chance to dance in front of an audience and with my teammates that have become family. “And it’s heartbreaking to know that the last time I danced, I didn’t even know it was the last time,” she said. The nationals competition only occurs every other year, leaving the entire team disappointed, but head coach Tara Yantis couldn’t be more impressed by how the girls have handled the anticlimactic end to their season.
The St. Thomas Aquinas High School dance team has held several team meetings and its spring banquet online. The coaches also hosted virtual tryouts for the 2020-21 school year, with hopefuls sending in videos of themselves dancing to choreography put together by the coaching staff. “These seniors, in particular, have stepped up with such wisdom beyond their years,” she said, “and I’ve never been prouder. “While it was definitely devastating at first, I’ve been so proud of their extraordinary reaction to lead their team with grace.”
‘We have to be resilient’ Since schools closed, Yantis and her assistant coaches have worked hard to keep the spring season flowing as smoothly as possible for their team, turning to the virtual world for assistance. The team held its banquet virtually on March 31 and has held multiple meetings online.
It also held tryouts for the 2020-21 school year virtually — with girls applying online and sending in videos of themselves dancing to choreography put together by the coaching staff. “When you do something like this when the kids aren’t [there] in person, you’re creating a lot of variables that are hard to control,” said Yantis. “There are emotions wrapped into it,” she added, “so you really want it to be as fair and equitable as possible.” Several complexities came with the tryouts, including girls having enough space to dance in their homes, and wearing clothes that contrasted with the background of the space they danced in. Despite the change in format, the number of girls trying out was roughly the same as the last couple years, said
Yantis, due to the efforts taken by the team and school to spread the word about the tryout process. “I think it says a lot about Aquinas,” she said. “That’s our culture. We really take care of these kids and these families and give them the absolute best opportunities.” Although they could have hosted tryouts this summer, the team wanted to get started earlier because “we need a team that’s ready to go and do very positive things, and to help uplift a community [after the coronavirus crisis],” said Yantis. “Now, our job as spirit leaders is more important than ever,” she said. “We have to be resilient in these situations.”
‘Forever grateful’ Although their work was not fulfilled at nationals, the practices helped the seniors grow as young women preparing for life after high school. “During this time, we are pushing our bodies to the limit and are perfecting all of our routines,” said Marika. Both the time and the effort forge permanent bonds. “Dance team to me has been the absolute best part of my experience here at Aquinas,” said Lydia. “We have all formed very close friendships and have truly become a little family. “We hope when all of this is over for all of us to get together with the team and truly end the best part of high school on the right note.”
APRIL 17, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Locked down, but not locked out, thanks to Facebook By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Last October, 1,500 Catholics in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas came together for the largest gathering in the local church’s history: the “Enflame Our Hearts: Be Disciples, Make Disciples” convocation. “We talked all last fall about closing social distance and living in close relationship with Christ and his church — other people,” said Deacon Dana Nearmyer, director of evangelization efforts for the archdiocese. But since the coronavirus outbreak, those plans have shifted drastically. “While we now need to physically maintain social distance, closing ‘spiritual distance’ and living in close relationship with Christ and his church — other people — could not be a timelier pursuit,” said Deacon Nearmyer. The pandemic has called for social distancing, and the church has worked hard to minister to people from afar. That’s why the “Enflame” Facebook group was launched this past March, said Emily Lopez, lead consultant for adult evangelization. The group was created in June 2019 but was never shared with anyone other than the evangelization team until recently. “We quickly enlarged the scope of our audience and mission, officially launching the group in a newsletter to convocation attendees on March 18,” said Lopez. “We realized it made absolute sense at that time to launch the ‘Enflame’ Facebook group as a platform for conversation and connection within our archdiocesan community,” she said. Within 23 days of its launch, group membership grew to 1,274 members with more than 7,400 posts, comments and reactions. As of April 14, the group had 1,371 members. “We are indebted to our parish priests and leaders for their support,
PHOTO COURTESY OF DEACON DANA NEARMYER
Deacon Dana Nearmyer, director of evangelization efforts for the archdiocese, displays the “Enflame” Facebook group that was launched on March 18. Since then, group membership has grown to over 1,300 members. membership and encouraging the ongoing engagement and activity of those they invite,” said Lopez. The group is open to anyone interested in joining, and members are able to post about opportunities to grow in faith, including through livestream eucharistic adoration, Mass and videos from archdiocesan priests. Members can also share their favorite prayers and positive stories going on in northeast Kansas. “I think it has grown quickly because our human hearts desire connection, and our souls desire this connection to a source of shared Catholic identity,” said Lopez. “In the midst of this crisis, there is
much uncertainty and many sources with a variety of information,” she added. “What the world lacks is clarity. We are blessed to have this clarity in our archdiocesan vision: ‘Be Disciples, Make Disciples.’” That vision is alive in the “Enflame” Facebook group, where people have shared stories of hope during this unsettling time and have found refuge in a community praying for their intentions. “Throughout history, Christians in even the most challenging times have found ways to communicate,” said Deacon Nearmyer. “We are so blessed to live in an age where we can see, hear and write to each other instantly over
the internet. “The ‘Enflame’ Facebook group and other connection portals remind us that we are seen, known, loved and appreciated by God and other local Catholics.” The evangelization team hopes the group can be a place for people to continue to share the faith with other Catholics despite physical distance. “Our vision as the laity of the church does not change because we’re living through a pandemic,” said Lopez. “We continue to be called to love Christ and bring his light to others.” You can join the “Enflame” group by going online to: facebook.com/groups/ enflame and clicking “Join Group.”
Prairie Village girl’s skull fracture leads family on journey of faith By Olivia Martin Special to The Leaven
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RAIRIE VILLAGE — It was April 20, 2018. Julie Overlease, a parishioner of Curé of Ars Church in Leawood, went to pick up her daughter Evelyn from a friend’s house. As Julie approached the house, she heard a thunderous crack. Then another. An entire section of a tree had fallen on 12-year-old Evelyn’s head as she rushed to save her puppy from the blow. Today, you’d never know Evelyn sustained multiple skull fractures, broken foot bones, and countless scratches and bruises. She miraculously survived — and completely recovered. In fact, she was back to playing tennis only days after her release from the hospital. But now, it’s time for her story to be told. On April 20, exactly two years after the accident, Julie’s book “Hope Upon Impact” will be released by Paraclete Press. “What began as an effort to share information with family and our community about my daughter’s accident turned into a writing process that helped
me heal after experiencing a traumatic event,” said Julie. And that healing has been made possible by faith, trust, prayer and a loving community.
Firm in faith The Catholic faith has always been central to the Overleases’ lives but, as Evelyn grew stronger after the accident, so did their faith — particularly through the support of Curé of Ars Parish. “Evelyn’s accident shows you what the community of faith is capable of,” said Robbie Overlease, Evelyn’s father. Julie agreed. “There was an exponential [response],” she said. “It had been demonstrated when other people have experienced crises, so that display is a beautiful norm within our faith community.” Overwhelmed with thankfulness for the support and healing given to her family, Julie wanted to give back through becoming a more active supporter of the pro-life movement. “I had for a number of years a little whisper that I should be involved in [the pro-life] effort,” she said. So, in the summer of 2019, Julie began
How to order “Hope Upon Impact” is available online for preorder at major booksellers and, starting April 20, at the following locations: • Trinity House at: www.mytrinityhouse.com • I. Donnelly Co. at: idonnelly.com • An audio version will be available on Audible.com
training as a client advocate for Advice & Aid Pregnancy Center, a clinic and education site that provides medical and mental support for women facing crisis pregnancies. She now volunteers there weekly. And for Evelyn, an eighth-grader at Curé of Ars School, her involvement in
the pro-life movement is simple yet profound: a life filled with gratitude. “I am grateful [to be] able to wake up every day and be with the people I love,” she said.
Learning to trust Julie and Robbie agree that one of the biggest challenges they face as parents of their four children is learning how to trust. “I’m convinced that bubble wrap is the answer!” joked Julie. “Sometimes, the fear of what could go wrong is paralyzing and it requires a prayer for trust.” Robbie agreed. “Sometimes, the prayer is more for me than for the children, to not worry,” he said. Praying the rosary, reading spiritual books and listening to podcasts are a few ways that have helped the Overlease family stay faithful to God’s presence in their lives. “I’m receiving confirmation this year,” said Evelyn, “and I chose Saint Thérèse of Lisieux because she’s known for doing small things with great love. “And that’s something I can do.”
A HOLY WEEK LIKE NO OTHER
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PHOTOS BY JAY SOLDNER
worldwide pandemic caused the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas to get creative for Holy Week and Triduum Masses. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, along with a select few, livestreamed Masses from the Cathedral of St. Peter so that people could watch online. Channel 38 The Spot carried the Good Friday service and Easter Sunday Mass live over basic cable, helping bring the Triduum to the people of the archdiocese.
Michael Rebout, master of ceremonies at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas, lights the altar candles in preparation for Mass on Holy Thursday.
Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann begins a historic Holy Week with Palm Sunday Mass at the cathedral. F thousands throughout the archdiocese tuned in to the archdiocesan website for the livestreamed Mas
The cathedral sits nearly empty except for those few gathered to livestream Palm Sunday Mass as Holy Week begins on April 5.
The piano in the foreground offers a mirrored effect at the cathed Archbishop Naumann, lector Mike Wilson and cantor Matt Winterh
ed palms from Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee to make this work of art in front of the church for passersby to see. n Meanwhile, parishioners — Emma (bottom), Maureen, Hannah and Hunter Jones join their pastor Father Kent O’Connor for Mass online. n Father Peter Jaramillo, pastor of St. John the Baptist Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, honors an age-old Croatian tradition by blessing the baskets of food lining the wall in front of the church on Holy Saturday morning. n Parishioners of Corpus Christi Parish in Lawrence hold a Happy Easter sign outside their sunroof as part of a drive-thru activity at the parish on Holy Saturday.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
ELSEWHERE IN THE ARCHDIOCESE Photos from left: n Matt Dehaemers used the undistribut-
Deacon Michael Hill prepares to proclaim the Gospel at the Easter Vigil.
For the first time in living memory, public Masses had been canceled and gatherings were limited to 10 or less. But ss celebrated by the archbishop.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Cantor Monica Brentano sings to empty pews on Easter Sunday at the cathedral. Despite the lack of a congregation, the Mass was broadcast live on channel 38 The Spot in Kansas City and livestreamed via the internet.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
LEAVEN PHOTO BY TIM JONES
dral on Good Friday. From left, Deacon Michael Hill, halter read the Passion account in St. John’ s Gospel.
Tim Chik, director of Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas, operates the camera for the archdiocese’s livestream Mass on Easter Sunday. All services of Holy Week and the Triduum were livestreamed and watched by thousands.
APRIL 17, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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GOING OLD SCHOOL
Parish phone trees offer support to parishioners in need By Susan Fotovich McCabe Special to The Leaven
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odern technology has become a lifeline for millions of people across the globe sheltered at home during the COVID-19 pandemic. We can work from home, bank from our phones and order groceries within minutes. Still, despite those conveniences, never underestimate the power of a simple phone call to those in need, especially for those who may lack the resources and experience to harness newer technology. In recent weeks, several parishes in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas have done just that, reaching out to older parishioners in particular. Using what some might call a “phone tree,” volunteers from many parishes are calling parishioners ages 70 and older to check in and offer assistance, spiritual support and fellowship. “Three weeks ago, we had no idea what it was going to look like now,” said Jared Rottinghaus, the youth minister at St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee. “We were just thinking there were going to be some type of regulations coming that were going to decrease the church’s ability to practice publicly and decrease people’s ability to get out. “Rather than sending an impersonal email or using Flocknote, especially for that older group who don’t have access to that stuff very well anyway, we thought of having somebody call and check in and say the parish cares and God still cares and is interested in your struggle, in your loneliness, the anxiety you’re feeling. “It’s really just parishioners contacting parishioners and expressing the church’s care for them.”
Shirley Spiller, who with Cathy Johnson co-chairs the Helping Hands ministry at Divine Mercy Parish in Gardner, helps connect more than 300 parishioners who may need assistance during the pandemic with volunteers who can help them. access many other available Catholic resources. To date, 55 volunteers have reached more than 1,000 parishioners.
Friends for life
By the numbers Aided by its Christian formation office, parish staff and Father Scott Wallisch, St. Joseph attempted to prepare for what was to come. Volunteers focused on people they believed were more vulnerable to social distancing. Approximately 100 volunteers from various parish ministries began calling older parishioners. They have now expanded the call list to people under the age of 70 who might be at risk for social isolation, such as those who have lost a spouse, those living alone and those who may have non-COVID-19 illnesses, Rottinghaus said. At Divine Mercy Parish in Gardner, volunteers are reaching out to the same population and working to extend the effort to all parishioners, according to Shirley Spiller, who co-chairs its Helping Hands ministry with Cathy Johnson. Spiller said they are brainstorming ways to connect with the rest of its church family in prayer, love and help where available. Divine Mercy has nearly 1,000 registered families. “Some parishioners were homebound prior to this pandemic and were already assisted by our Helping Hands group (household help, errands, taking them to doctor visits and just visiting with them),” Spiller said. “Our Legion of Mary visits and delivers the holy Eucharist to them
Allison Jaksa, a St. Joseph, Shawnee, parish volunteer, reaches out to parishioners in need via the phone for a more personal touch. weekly. They will not have that weekly visit until this pandemic is over. One of our oldest parishioners (age 101) is cared for by another Divine Mercy parishioner. The highlight of her week is to go grocery shopping and the visit. “I suspect many of the folks on our contact list that we are trying to reach feel the same way.”
Beyond the basics Divine Mercy started with a list of 300-plus parishioners and divided the calls among five volunteers. The list of volunteers has grown to 25. Today, each volunteer has been matched with six or seven “adopted” parishioners, Spiller said. “We have delivered the Magnificat (daily prayer resource) and advised
many parishioners of the amended sacrament times and how they can receive them,” she continued. “We are also offering to pray with them and asking them to pray for the rest of our parish by saying a Memorare. “(Pastor) Father Adam Wilczak has challenged our parishioners to pray 25,000 Memorares by Divine Mercy Sunday. With all of our adoptees helping, we’ll make our goal!” What started out as an outreach to older individuals is now a parish-wide initiative during the pandemic at Church of the Nativity in Leawood. With 2,000 families and 6,300 individuals, Nativity’s youth director Liz Hagen said volunteers are doing much the same as the other parishes. That includes teaching parishioners how to navigate the Nativity website, participate in online Stations of the Cross and
“We have received many grateful responses for the outreach,” Hagen said. “One of our callers was able to help pick up a prescription for someone and satisfy their craving for fried chicken and mac and cheese! “We are reaching the rest of the parish during the crisis by establishing neighborhood groups led by volunteers called ‘Lamplighters,’ inspired by Mt 5:14-16,” she continued. “Lamplighters are each assigned 10 to 15 households within their neighborhood. This will ensure everyone is in close communication with their neighborhood parishioners throughout the current crisis and will serve our community in multiple ways when the crisis is over as well.” Throughout their efforts, volunteers at all the parishes are taking precautions to keep themselves and others safe from infection, including dropping groceries off on the porch and staying the recommended six feet apart when talking with parishioners. The outreach was born of the need to meet today’s isolation challenges. But it may also spark new, enriched relationships for the future when the “stay at home” orders have been lifted, Rottinghaus said. “I’ve had some of the callers say, ‘I didn’t know this person, but I think I made a friend,’” he said. “Toward the end of all this, I’m going to encourage the callers to meet their folks that they’ve been talking to in person, bring lunch over to them or take them to church when the time comes that they’re able to do that again.”
APRIL 17, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
FAMILY LIFE
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am writing these notes while we are still in the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic. Since our country, state and city are on lockdown, Teri and I are spending our days at home, each morning trying to figure out what day this is, since our routines are similar day after day. We remind each other of “Groundhog Day,” the movie. While there is gloom and fear in the air, from time to time I am pleased to find in my inbox articles that spotlight a possible silver lining when it comes to the future of marriage and the family. A series of such articles came from the Institute for Family Studies. I want to share what experts are projecting. The rise of a “Family First” model of marriage. Dr. Bradford Wilcox, visiting scholar at the American Enterprise Institute, believes that the current upheavals will change the way couples look at marriage. Unmarried men and women, faced with economic insecurity and unemployment, will be looking for marriage partners that can bring stability to their life and the life of their family. They will be looking to build a marriage that puts the basic financial, social and educational needs of their family first — hence, a “Family First” model of marriage. According to Wilcox, this will replace the “Soul Mate” model of marriage, which has been prevalent since the ’70s, and which has failed many couples. The “Soul Mate” marriage model is based primarily on
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Is there a silver lining?
JOHN BOSIO John Bosio is a former marriage and family therapist, director of religious education and diocesan family life coordinator. He is a member of the National Association of Catholic Family Life Ministers.
romance, physical attraction and self-fulfillment, and has been glorified in numerous romcoms, pop songs and movies. Couples coming out of today’s crisis, according to Wilcox, will look for more than romance and physical attraction when entering marriage. They will want a relationship that brings stability in their life. Dr. Marina Adshade, professor of economics at the University of British Columbia, addresses the impact of today’s forced social isolation on the domestic roles of men and women in the home. In this crisis, both men and women are being laid off and are stuck at home, short of income, trying to make do with what they have — more home-cooked meals, home schooling the children, housework and more home production to save money.
Adshade writes that this is a difficult time for many families, but it presents an opportunity to reconsider how men and women divide their responsibilities at home. She predicts that more couples will be sitting down to discuss how they can help each other address the needs of their families. Dr. Clay Routhedge, a professor of psychology at North Dakota State University, writes that, after the pandemic, many men and women will reconsider their own balance of work-family priorities. Having realized the fragility of life, we tend to evaluate what makes life worthwhile and we focus our attention on what gives meaning to our life. We will realize how important family relationships are to us. Many of us will want to spend more time with our families and less time at work. This crisis may challenge us to come up with innovative ways to provide for our families and, at the same time, give more attention to the people important in our life. Dr. Justin Coulson, a best-selling author of parenting books, points out that COVID-19 has brought unpredictability and insecurity to every family, and the mental health of both parents and children has gotten worse, especially for those who were already ill. Domestic violence statistics show an alarming increase in domestic abuse reports during this crisis. However, Coulson points out that during this time, many families have decided to get back
Question for reflection: What is the silver lining for your family? to basics. They want to reconnect with their roots and traditions, their faith and other activities that bring them hope and surround them with a supporting community. All of these reflections remind me of comments about the current situation made by Cardinal Robert Sarah in an interview with the French journal Valeurs. “The experience of confinement has allowed many to rediscover that we are really dependent on each other,” he said. “When everything collapses, only the bond of marriage, family and friendship remain. Above all, we have rediscovered that we are dependent on God.” Once the pandemic moves on, individuals and families will be eager to reconnect face to face. They will be looking for community. They will hunger for meaning and spiritual guidance. Our faith communities, our parishes, are places where many will find what they need: a faith community that offers tradition, meaning, hope and spiritual comfort. Teri and I look forward to the day when we can join our parish’s extended family at Mass in our church and resume our life as a community.
A priest without parishioners is a sad priest
will let you all in on a secret. It’s something that we priests are a bit ashamed to admit, but it’s true. Sometimes, we complain about you. Complaining about parishioners has been a temptation for priests throughout history, and some would say such ill-informed, nasty things about the laity that they came to think they didn’t need you. To combat this sort of attitude, Cardinal Newman quipped that us clergy would look pretty foolish without you. Justified or not, we still complain. We talk about how parishioners have annoyed us or made our lives difficult. I’ve done this, too. I’m not proud of it. The body of Christ, like any family, has its ups and downs, and I’m sure parishioners have been exasperated with my stubbornness on more than one occasion. These things happen. In an ideal world, we would be generous and
FATHER MICHAEL RENNIER Father Rennier graduated from Yale Divinity School and lives in St. Louis with his wife and children. He was ordained a Catholic priest through the pastoral provision for former Episcopal clergymen that was created by St. John Paul II.
patient with each other. We would overlook flaws and quickly forgive. I’ve been blessed to have parishioners who have done that for me, and I work hard to return the love. Still, I know I’ve been
impatient with you. I’ve taken you for granted. And now, you’re not here. Each morning, I say Mass in an empty church, my voice echoing off the pews. Because our city placed us all under a strict limit of 10 people-per-gathering for the foreseeable future, I also celebrated Holy Week on my own. I celebrated Holy Thursday — which is the anniversary of the gift of the priesthood — without parishioners. I lit the paschal candle and welcomed Christ as the light of the world by myself. As the Easter dawn rose this year, it didn’t illuminate the faces of my beloved brothers and sisters praying in the darkness. I’ve already cried about this more than once. If I ever thought that, instead of being a parish priest, it would be better to say Mass alone, I would have been horribly wrong. I miss every single parishioner. I miss your quirks, your smiles, the way you pretend
to laugh at my jokes. I even miss the ones with whom I have had personality conflicts in the past. Absence makes the heart grow fonder, right? Never has a cliché rung more true. Friends, the body of Christ is suffering. It’s okay to feel that suffering. It’s all right to be frustrated. We cannot avoid the suffering, but we can put our faith in God, that he will turn all situations to the good. If you are missing Jesus and feeling the pain of being separated from the sacrament, consider that feeling. I don’t think any of us will be taking Mass for granted any time soon. Never let that feeling go. You are probably also missing seeing each other and feeling the separation as much as I am. This drives home how important our spiritual family really is. I will never take this family for granted again. Please pray for me and I will pray for you.
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Kenneth and Vera Kaiser, members of Holy Trinity Parish, Paola, will celebrate their 75th wedding anniversary on April 26. The couple was married on April 26, 1945. They have three sons, nine grandchildren (one deceased), 15 great-grandchildren and four great-greatgrandchildren. Dwight H. and Irma (Gordon) Thomas, members of Mater Dei Parish, To p e k a , will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary at a later date with a small reception planned with family and friends. The couple was married on April 15, 1950, at Assumption Church, Topeka, by Msgr. Eugene Vallely. Their children are: Vickie Hayes, Kevin Thomas, Tyrone Thomas, Deonn Jensen, Denise Moodispaugh and Darin Thomas. They also have nine grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren. Donna
and Tom Kellerman, members of St. Agnes Parish, Roeland Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on April 18. The couple was married on April 19, 1970, at St. Patrick Church, Chanute. Their children are: Joe, Ryan, Mark, Lisa and Mathew. They plan to celebrate at a later date due to the coronavirus. Beverly and Joseph Biondi, members of Christ the King Parish, Kansas C i t y , Kansas, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on April 11. The couple was married on April 11, 1970, at Sts. Cyril & Methodius Church, Kansas City, Kansas. Their children are: Jill, Anthony and Ashley Biondi. They also have two granddaughters. Janet A. and John R. Arnold, members of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on April 23. The couple was married on April 23, 1960, in Pittsburgh. Their children are: Jessica Charpentier, Julie Kish, Jay Arnold, Bob Kish and Lisa Arnold. They also have nine grandchildren and six great-grandchildren. They plan to take a trip to Cabo, Mexico, at a later date.
ANNIVERSARY submissions Because of the coronavirus, The Leaven can no longer accept anniversaries by mail. All anniversaries must be emailed to: todd.habiger@theleaven.org. DEADLINE: eight days before the desired publication date.
APRIL 17, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
NATION
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Dominicans donate 60 beds to a Michigan overflow facility By Daniel Meloy Catholic News Service
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ETROIT (CNS) — The Dominican Sisters of Peace were putting their affairs in order, getting ready for their final act of service in Oxford, Michigan. In September 2019, the congregation voted to sell its motherhouse and grounds, including the St. Mary’s Retreat House it has been operating for 60 years. The Sisters closed the retreat house March 8 — but God wasn’t quite done yet. Dominican Sister Rita Birzer, director and administrator of the retreat center, said the community was set to donate the center’s beds and linens to the Ann Arbor-based nonprofit House Into Homes, until she received a phone call from Dave Raymond from Trinity Health. “[He] also works with the group that provides homes for the homeless,” Sister Birzer told Detroit Catholic, the online news outlet of the Archdiocese of Detroit. “He knew about our beds, and knew they were trying to supply a place for an overflow facility for St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ypsilanti, but they didn’t have any beds.” On March 30, St. Joseph Mercy arranged a team to pick up the beds from the retreat center. After a brief check for bedbugs, the hospital system claimed 60 beds, bed linens and desks from the retreat center to be used in St. Joseph’s auxiliary facility in Ypsilanti for overflow COVID-19 patients. The 10,000-square-foot auxiliary facility, a former mental health institution, is being repurposed for patients and staff suspected of having the coronavirus to stay in quarantine if they have nowhere else to go. “Basically, it’s a ‘just in case’ scenario,” said Raymond, director of planning and design at St. Joseph Mercy Health System. “St. Joseph Mercy in Ypsilanti is not in an overflow situation as of today. We pray we don’t have to use it, but the indication is that we might have to if the numbers keep accelerating the way they are.” As of late April 9, the state of Michigan had 21,505 confirmed cases of the coronavirus; the death toll was at 1,076.
CNS PHOTO/COURTESY ST. MARY’S RETREAT HOUSE
Movers load a truck with 60 beds, frames and linens March 30, from the recently closed St. Mary’s Retreat House in Oxford, Mich., which will transport the items to an overflow facility for St. Joseph Mercy Hospital in Ypsilanti, Mich. St. Joseph Mercy Hospital is preparing an auxiliary space to quarantine those suspected of being infected with COVID-19, as numbers of the coronavirus continue to increase.
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“IT’S A JOY TO SEE PEOPLE HELPING OUT, DIFFERENT COMMUNITY MEMBERS STEPPING UP, TACKLING THIS AS A COMMUNITY AND A FAMILY.” The beds donated by the Dominicans will furnish rooms that Raymond said will resemble hotel rooms, complete with a desk, television, cable and internet access, and dining services for those in quarantine. After the pandemic subsides, the beds will be used by House Into Homes, a nonprofit that assists home-
less people in their transition to permanent housing. “Sister Rita was so gracious and wanted to step up in any way she could,” Raymond said. “We got there early to pick up the 60 beds, and they had all the chairs, desks, dressers, bedding, pillows and sheets all laid out, washed and ready to go. It’s a joy to
see people helping out, different community members stepping up, tackling this as a community and a family.” Sister Birzer said she’s glad the beds are being put to good use, one final act of service for the Oxford Dominicans to care for those in need. “I think this is a sign that God is working with all of these events,” Sister Birzer said. “I received a note from one of the ladies who went on retreat [at St. Mary’s] who was praying for the person who would next be in that room, using that bed. Many of them did that. I believed that many of these people who will use these beds will be prayed for by the people they don’t know, but who are with them.”
USCCB Administrative Committee cancels U.S. bishops’ June assembly
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ASHINGTON (CNS) — The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has canceled the U.S. bishops’ spring general assembly that was planned for June 10-12 in Detroit. “Given the current situation with the coronavirus that has been classified by the World Health Organization as a pandemic, the Administrative
Committee of the USCCB voted earlier this week to cancel the June assembly,” said a USCCB news release issued the afternoon of April 8. This marks the first cancellation of a plenary assembly in the conference’s history. “The Administrative Committee made this very difficult decision with consideration of multiple factors, but most importantly the health, well-
being and safety of the hundreds of bishops, staff, observers, guests, affiliates, volunteers, contractors and media involved with the general meetings, Archbishop Jose H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the USCCB, said in announcing the decision. “Additionally, even if the numerous temporary restrictions on public gatherings resulting from conditions associated with COVID-19 are lessened
by June,” he said, “the priority for the physical and pastoral presence of the bishop in his See will be acute to tend to the faithful.” The USCCB bylaws state that a plenary assembly is to be convened at least once a year. As such, the November 2020 general assembly meeting in Baltimore — scheduled for Nov. 16-19 — would fulfill this requirement.
APRIL 17, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
WORLD
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CNS PHOTO/CLAUDIO PERI, POOL VIA REUTERS
Pope Francis leads the Via Crucis procession in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican April 10. The Good Friday service was held with no public participation because of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Pope leads Way of the Cross in empty St. Peter’s Square By Junno Arocho Esteves Catholic News Service
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ATICAN CITY (CNS) — For the first time in his papacy, Pope Francis led the Way of the Cross from St. Peter’s Square rather than Rome’s Colosseum, where it has been held annually for more than five decades. Two rows of torches lit the pathway from the stage set in front of St. Peter’s leading down to the square; they surrounded the famed ancient Egyptian obelisk that once stood in the Circus of Nero and is believed to be a “witness” to the martyrdom of St. Peter. The sounds of the Vatican choir chanting somber hymns broke through the eerie silence and echoed throughout the empty square April 10.
Vatican City and Italy have nationwide restrictions on public gatherings to prevent the spread of the coronavirus. It is the first time since 1964 that the annual service commemorating Christ’s passion and death did not take place in the ancient Colosseum, which for centuries has served as a symbol of the persecution of early Christians. While the site of the traditional Way of the Cross changed, the meditations remained centered on those who share in Christ’s pain and suffering on the cross. Each year, the pope asks a different person to write the commentary and prayers for the service. This year, the meditations for the latenight event were written by members of the Catholic community of the Due Palazzi prison in Padua. Various people from the prison — including a former prisoner, the prison
director, police officers, a volunteer and the prison’s chaplain, Father Marco Pozza — took turns carrying a large black cross. The Vatican said five representatives of the Vatican City State health services also participated in carrying the cross. The meditations on the traditional 14 stations were written not only by prisoners, but also by people directly affected by crime, including prisoners’ families, victims and even a priest falsely accused of a crime. In a letter published in the Italian newspaper Il Mattino di Padova March 10, the pope said he chose the prison community so that the meditations would reflect on the lives of those involved in the prison system, including “the victim, the prisoner, the prison officer, the volunteer, the family of those detained, probation officers, the church,
and the innocent person who, at times, is unjustly accused.” Although the program released by the Vatican stated that Pope Francis would speak, the pope ended the prayer service with a blessing before leaving. In a message to the prisoners released by the Vatican April 10, Pope Francis thanked the prisoners for sharing their stories through their meditations. God, he said, “speaks to us within a story, he invites us to listen attentively and mercifully.” “I want to thank you also because you have scattered your names not in the sea of anonymity but of the many people linked to prison life,” the pope said. “Thus, in the Way of the Cross, you will lend your story to all those in the world who share the same situation.” Hope “doesn’t take away the pain,” he added, “but it doesn’t disappoint.”
Nigerian bishops lead effort to combat COVID-19 By Peter Ajayi Dada Catholic News Service
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AGOS, Nigeria (CNS) — Nigeria’s Catholic hospitals and clinics can all be used to treat COVID-19 patients, the country’s bishops told the presidential task team set up to combat the spread of the coronavirus. The 435 hospitals and clinics in Nigeria’s dioceses and archdioceses will
be made available along with other services that may be needed, a bishops’ delegation, led by Archbishop Ignatius Kaigama of Abuja, told government representatives in the capital, Abuja. On behalf of Archbishop Augustine Akubeze of Benin City, president of the Nigerian bishops’ conference, Archbishop Kaigama gave the addresses of all Catholic health facilities to task team leaders at the April 8 meeting. Dr. Emmanuel Okechukwum, who
heads up the bishops’ health department, will liaise between the team and the church’s hospitals and clinics. The church has the structures, track records and the reach to be able to help in the government’s efforts to treat patients and curb the virus’ spread in the West African country, Archbishop Kaigama said. Boss Mustapha, secretary to the government, thanked the bishops and appealed to church leaders to disseminate
information on prevention through personal hygiene and to urge compliance with government directives on staying at home and social distancing. According to World Health Organization figures April 9, Nigeria has 276 confirmed cases of COVID-19, with six deaths. A two-week lockdown on Abuja and Lagos, Nigeria’s commercial hub with a population of 20 million people, began April 1.
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APRIL 17, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY SECOND WEEK OF EASTER April 19 SECOND SUNDAY OF EASTER (OR SUNDAY OF DIVINE MERCY) Acts 2: 42-47 Ps 118: 2-4, 13-15, 22-24 1 Pt 1: 3-9 Jn 20: 19-31 April 20 Monday Acts 4: 23-31 Ps 2: 1-9 Jn 3: 1-8 April 21 Anselm, bishop, doctor of the church Acts 4: 32-37 Ps 93: 1-2, 5 Jn 3: 7b-15 April 22 Wednesday Acts 5: 17-26 Ps 34: 2-9 Jn 3: 16-21 April 23 George, martyr; Adalbert, bishop, martyr Acts 5: 27-33 Ps 34: 2, 9, 17-20 Jn 3: 31-36 April 24 Fidelis of Sigmaringen, priest, martyr Acts 5: 34-42 Ps 27: 1, 4, 13-14 Jn 6: 1-15 April 25 MARK, EVANGELIST 1 Pt 5: 5b-14 Ps 89: 2-3, 6-7, 16-17 Mk 16: 15-20
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M
y back has been hurting the past few weeks, and it took me awhile to figure out why. It’s jigsaw puzzles. Since the “stay at home” order, I’ve been assembling puzzles to escape for a bit from all of the pandemic news. So, why do they hurt my back? Well, even though I have a special puzzle table, I’ve still got to lean over — a lot — to properly see the pieces. I started out by doing a Nativity puzzle. That was followed by a street scene from Paris, a front-yard Christmas picture and a nostalgic rendering of a ‘50s drive-in parking lot. Right now, I’m working on one that shows the interior of an old-fashioned confectionary. As I’ve rediscovered jigsaw puzzles, I find that they’re pretty good at mirroring life, especially in this strange time. Here are some of the lessons I’ve learned: • It’s messy. When you begin a new puzzle, it’s disordered. As you
This coronavirus has me puzzled MARK MY WORDS
FATHER MARK GOLDASICH Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.
dump the pieces out, they don’t all magically flip right side up. They often hide underneath one another — sometimes even fall on the floor — and it’s a chore to get them organized. • Some are easier than others. Since I hadn’t done puzzles for some time, I started with a few 100-piece ones. I breezed through one depicting Times Square in New York; another of a mountain scene reflected in a lake;
and one of Vincent van Gogh’s “Starry Night.” The messiness above still applied, but on a much-reduced scale. • There’s more than one way to put it together. I usually start out trying to assemble the frame first, but then I get distracted. I’ll see pieces that go together from inside the puzzle and I’ll have a bunch of those partial elements sitting around in various places until I can connect them to the whole. • It helps to compartmentalize. I use sorting trays to put like pieces with like. It gets them off of the main table and eliminates distractions from my eyes as I’m trying to concentrate on a particular section.
• You have to be patient. You don’t see the whole picture all at once. Some days, the pieces just seem to fly together; other days, if you get one or two pieces to match, you’re doing great. It helps to know that any progress, no matter how small, is moving you to your final goal. • Prepare to be surprised. Inevitably, as I’m going along, I’ll convince myself that I’m definitely missing a piece of the puzzle because what I think a particular piece should look like, doesn’t. When the “missing piece” actually presents itself, I’m surprised at how it looks and fits into the whole. • It’s essential to have a guide. As I work my way through a puzzle, I’ll refer to its picture on the box time and time again. That keeps me focused and moving in the right direction. • There’s a sense of real joy and accomplishment when it’s finished. I’ll take a photo of each puzzle I complete, so I can remember it. (Then, I pass the puzzle on.) So, these points
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above illustrate how life often is. It can be messy at times and demands patience. It’s helpful to compartmentalize, to concentrate on one thing at a time. Sometimes, you’ll be surprised at who or what fits together in your life. Most importantly, we’re lost if we don’t have a guide, and for us Christians, that’s Jesus. He’s the picture that we’re called to pattern our lives after. And when we do, we get a sense of real joy! One last point is that each life is not really one puzzle, but many. I recently saw a photo of a 40,000-piece puzzle that a family put together. It extended over a huge area and was composed of scenes from many Disney movies. We’re like that as well. We have a slew of “scenes” that make up our lives — some of those easier than others — but only God sees the entire picture. Our task is to trust in the Guide and confidently forge ahead, one piece at a time.
Sunday’s reading explains origin of Liturgy of the Eucharist
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alfway through Mass, after the intercessions (those prayers of the faithful when the congregation responds, “Lord, hear our prayer”), we experience a break in the action. The readings from the Bible have been proclaimed. The homily has been preached. On Sundays, our parishes take advantage of this moment to pass the collection basket before moving on to the second half of the Mass, the Liturgy of the Eucharist. How did this two-part structure of the Mass originate? We see an answer to this question in Sunday’s first reading, Acts 2:42-47. It describes the life of the early Christian community in Jerusalem, sometime before the year 70 when that city
IN THE BEGINNING
FATHER MIKE STUBBS Father Stubbs is the pastor of Holy Cross Parish in Overland Park and has a degree in Scripture from Harvard University.
was destroyed: “They devoted themselves to the teaching of the apostles and to the communal life, to the breaking of bread and to the prayers. . . . .
Every day they devoted themselves to meeting together in the temple area and to breaking bread in their homes.” When the Christians go to the temple area, they join with their fellow Jews in their prayers, which would consist primarily of readings from the Scriptures. This would correspond to our Liturgy of the Word, the first half of the Mass.
POPE FRANCIS While countries have enforced social distancing measures to prevent the spread of the coronavirus, Pope Francis warned of serious consequences if the same measures aren’t applied to overcrowded prisons. During the live broadcast of his morning Mass April 6, the pope said that unless authorities make efforts to solve the problem of overcrowded prisons, “there is a danger that this pandemic will end in a serious calamity.”
Afterwards, the Christians would gather in one of their homes for the breaking of the bread, the Liturgy of the Eucharist. “The breaking of the bread” served as the oldest term for this most central action of our faith. It survives among us insofar as the priest always breaks the large host shortly before receiving Communion at Mass. In the early church, this action would have reflected a practical necessity. Instead of many small wafers, there would have been only one large loaf for the congregation. For them to receive Communion, the priest needed to break it into pieces. But this was not only a practical measure. It reminded everyone of Jesus’ action at the Last
Supper, when he “took bread, said the blessing, broke it and gave it to his disciples.” The one loaf also reflected the unity of the church, a unity nourished by this sacrament: “Because the loaf of bread is one, we, though many, are one body, for we all partake of the one loaf” (1 Cor 10:17). Certainly, the early Christian community in Jerusalem gave evidence of this unity by their concern for one another: “All who believed were together and had all things in common; they would sell their property and possessions and divide them among all according to each one’s need.” It is no accident that the words “community” and “communion” sound similar. They are definitely related.
“Let us pray for those responsible, for those who have to make decisions at this time, so that they may find just and creative ways to solve this problem,” he said at the start of the Mass. In his homily, the pope reflected on the day’s Gospel reading from St. John in which Mary, the sister of Lazarus, anoints Jesus’ feet with a costly perfume. Judas Iscariot, the Gospel recounted, detests the use of such a perfume and argued that it would have been better to sell the perfume and give the money to the poor. “There are always people” like Judas who value wealth under the guise of charity, the pope said.
— CNS
APRIL 24, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Assistant principal - Our Lady of the Presentation School in Lee’s Summit, Mo., is seeking an assistant principal committed to Catholic education with experience in administration. The assistant principal works collaboratively with the administration team to support instruction; administer discipline; moderate 8th-grade events; coordinate middle school activities; and assist principal with the day-to-day operation of the school. The assistant principal has decision-making responsibilities in keeping with school policies and the diocesan administrative manual. The position is hired and evaluated by the principal. Basic qualifications: master’s degree in educational leadership from an accredited university, or in process to earn a degree; valid teaching certificate with at least three years of teaching experience; trained in Protecting God’s Children, or willing to be trained; and experience with elementary or middle school students. Technology integration preferred. Interested candidates can apply at: careers.hire ology.com/thecatholicdioceseofkansascitystjoseph and click on “Jobs for the Catholic Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph,” then scroll down and click on “Assistant Principal – Lee’s Summit MO.“ Career opportunity – Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City, Kansas, and Missouri metro areas, St. Joseph, Mo., and Maryville, Mo. This is ideal for a determined, high energy, high expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual, who desires to serve others yet earn a better than average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families, and will provide excellent benefits and training. This is a full-time position. For more information or an interview, please contact John A. Mahon, General Agent, 1275 S.W. Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS 66612; call (855) 3564849; or email: mahonagencymail2@kofc.org. Community live-in assistants - L’Arche Heartland of Overland Park serves adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities in day program support services and in residential services. We are seeking assistants who are looking for a unique opportunity in a faith-based organization. We are in immediate need of live-in assistants and potential live-out assistants to work in our day program serving 30 adults. We have a recycling program and community activities. Our core members participate in distributing for Meals on Wheels and Rise Against Hunger. They also attend community events such as the library, movies, bowling and going to parks. We also have a need for live-in and live-out assistants in our five residential homes. If interested, contact Jamie Henderson, community leader, by email at: jamie@larcheks.org. Director of facilities - Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee has a June 1, full-time opening for a director of facilities. Qualified applicants will have successful management experience with an emphasis in facilities management. In addition, a demonstrated commitment to the Catholic faith and mission is essential. This position is responsible for managing and maintaining the parish structure, fixtures, grounds, the rectory and grounds, maintaining vendor/contractor relationships and supervising a staff of one. This is a hands-on position. It is essential that the successful candidate has a strong background in facilities management, including hands-on experience with plumbing, electrical, carpentry and other facilities-related maintenance issues. Strong communications skills are essential, along with a desire to work in a positive faith-oriented environment. Competency with Microsoft Office programs, internet use and email required. This full-time position is eligible for parish and archdiocesan benefits. Please submit a cover letter and resume to: slemons@ gsshawnee.org or to: frkent@gsshawnee.org by May 1. Computer science teacher - St. James Academy is seeking a full-time computer science teacher for the 2020-21 school year. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic with a passion for creating disciples of Jesus who has experience teaching computer science and/ or incorporating educational technology at the secondary level. If interested, apply at the archdiocesan website at: www.arch kck.org/schools/2015/schools7-teacher-application-page and send a cover letter and resume to the St. James principal, Dr. Shane Rapp, at: srapp@ sjakeepingfaith.org. Resource and enrichment specialist - Holy Name School in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking a part-time resource and enrichment specialist. This individual would provide support and service to Holy Name School by working with students, teachers, administration, staff members and parents as appropriate to implement a multiphase resource and enrichment program. Interested applicants should send a resume and cover letter to principal Dr. Lorenzo Rizzi at: lrizzi@archkckcs.org.
Parish office receptionist - St. Michael the ArchangelParish is seeking a part-time receptionist to work three days per week from 8:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m. It is a job-share position with some flexibility. Duties include: taking and routing incoming calls; welcoming guests; scheduling Mass intentions; data entry; and other office duties. Applicants must be practicing Catholics, compassionate, possess excellent communication skills and be proficient with the Microsoft Office Suite. Experience with databases also preferred. This position is highly visible and represents St. Michael the Archangel to parishioners and guests. The receptionist reports to the parish administrator. Desired start date is on or about May 4. Pay will be based on skills and experience. Send resume and cover letter to: St. Michael the Archangel, attention: Denise Greene, 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood, KS 66223 or email to: denise.greene@stmichaelcp.org. Director of administrative services - Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee has a June 1 full-time opening for the director of administrative services. Qualified applicants will have successful management experience with an emphasis in human resources, accounting and financial management. In addition, a demonstrated commitment to the Catholic faith and mission is essential. This position is responsible for managing the parish front office; managing all human resources responsibilities including the processing of payroll; managing all accounting functions; coordinating the parish/school finances with the parish accountant; and supervising a staff of one. Strong communications skills are essential, along with a desire to work in a positive faith-oriented environment. Competency with Microsoft Office programs, internet use and email required. This full-time position is eligible for parish and archdiocese benefits. Please submit cover letter and resume to: slemons@gsshawnee.org or to: frkent@ gsshawnee.org by April 6. Caregivers needed - Personal assistance: someone during the days to be with her; help with meals and getting in and out of chairs. Also need someone three nights per week at either 8 - 9 p.m. or 6 - 10 p.m. to help with meds and getting in bed. Call Deloris at (913) 788-9110. Math teacher - St. James Academy is seeking a fulltime math teacher for the 2020-21 school year. The ideal candidate will be a practicing Catholic with a passion for creating disciples of Jesus who has experience teaching at the secondary level, particularly in the areas of geometry, college algebra and/or pre-calculus. Those interested should go to the archdiocesan website at: www.arch kck.org/schools/2015/schools7-teacher-application-page and should also send a cover letter and resume to the St. James principal, Dr. Shane Rapp, at: srapp@sjakeeping faith.org. Administrative assistant - Looking for something new? Use your administrative skills to help a developmental optometrist change people’s lives. The hours are: T/W/TH from 10 a.m. - 6 p.m.; summer hours vary. No health benefits. Need to know basic bookkeeping skills. Background needed in Work, Excel and QuickBooks. Customer service and medical office experience helpful. Send resume to: Dr. Beth Bazin, 13600 Washington, Kansas City, MO 64145 or send via email to: bbazin@visiondevelop.com.
HOME IMPROVEMENT STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hot mail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa. DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time. Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. – We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful. Woodwork will glow. Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125. Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, power washing, staining, masonry (chimney repair, patio’s) gutter cleaning, water heaters, junk removal, lawn mowing, window cleaning, honey - do list and more!! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.
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The Drywall Doctor, Inc. – A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655.
Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 829-4336.
NELSON CREATIONS Affordable home remodeling: Kitchens, baths, basements and room additions. All interior and exterior work. Honest, dependable, experienced and family owned. Licensed and insured. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. (913) 927-5240 or nelsport@everestkc.net
For sale - New story-and-a-half energy-efficient country home off of blacktop on five acres. Twenty minutes from Lawrence and Topeka. Three bedroom, two-and-a-half bath with unfinished basement, main floor laundry room and attached two-car garage. For sale by builder. Call Cody at (785) 383-4590. $325K
Concrete construction - Tear out and replace amped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dandeeconst@aol.com. EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 935-0176
SERVICES Handyman - Furloughed railroader trying to keep the bills paid for my family. I advertised here as Father and Son Home Exteriors and Remodeling for 13 years previously. I can do carpentry, windows, doors, trim, siding and decks. Also paint, sheetrock and tiling. No project too big or too small. Give me a call and ask for Josh at (913) 709-7230. Popcorn texture removed and apply knockdown texture. Renew your walls with a fresh coat of quality paint! Sheetrock and plaster repair Fully insured, serving Kansas for 27 years Call or text Jerry at (913) 206-1144. Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@ kc.rr.com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlawyer. com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress. Doll dresses - First Communion dresses for American Girl dolls or any 18” dolls. To include dress, veil, shoes, tights, and cross necklace for $35. Call (913) 345-9498 or send an email to: wwelch4@kc.rr.com to order. The dress is on display at Trinity House, 6731 W. 119th St., Overland Park, KS. Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your T-shirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704. Tree trimming/landscaping Free estimates licensed/insured/references (913) 620-6063 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 five days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor, at (913) 909-2002. 8 to Your Ideal Weight Get Real, Get Healthy, Get Empowered. Release your weight and restore your power in 8 weeks! http://8toyouridealweight.com/coach/kathi/
REAL ESTATE
For sale - Maintenance-free villa in Holy Trinity area! Palisades at College across from Aquinas. Three-bedroom/ sunroom floor plan. All new paint, flooring. Beautiful south and east exposure. Within walking distance of parks, trails, eateries. Must see. Call Joe at (913) 274-8822. $290K. We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000. WE SELL HOMES - Looking to sell? This is a seller’s market. Call for a free consultation detailing the steps to selling your home. Ask about our 39-day sales guarantee. Mention this ad for a special offer. Call Jim Blaufuss, Re/Max Realty Suburban, at (913) 226-7442. Jimblaufuss@remax.net. Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it? We buy it all at once in as-is condition. Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com.
WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. Wanted to buy - Old cars or hot rods. Uncompleted project cars in any condition, with or without titles. Cash buyer. Call (913) 980-3559.
FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) For sale - Inside tandem space for two traditional entombments. Tier F, Mount calvary Mausoleum, Holy Trinity in Topeka, last ones available. Call (785) 215-9540 or (785) 580-3928. For sale - Double lawn crypt at Resurrection Cemetery in Lenexa, Garden of Hope section, double lawn crypt, lot 78 C, space 4. Conveyance fee included. $7500. Call Lou at (512) 294-2869.
CAREGIVING Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.benefits ofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591. Caregiving - Caregiver available - reasonable rates, years of experience with all kinds of medical issues and conditions. Can do days, nights, weekends, and help with food preparation and basic personal care. Just came from a job in quarantine with a client for the last four months. Will consider live-in. Will be available when the stay-at-home order is over. Call (913) 602-1289. 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.
APRIL 17, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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CHALK-FULL OF FAITH PHOTOS BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
N
o public Masses. No religious education. No problem. A mothers’ group of St. Matthew Parish in Topeka came up with a fun activity to remind their children of Christ’s sacrifice. The children of various families took to the driveway to draw one Station of the Cross in sidewalk chalk. Put together, the complete Stations come to life. On this page, you can see the artwork and the artists who created them.
FIRST STATION — “Jesus Is Condemned to Death,” by Simon, Aiden and Collin Potts, children of Trevor and Nichole.
SECOND STATION — “Jesus Carries the Cross,” by McKin-
THIRD STATION — “Jesus Falls for the First Time,” by Thomas Ball, son of Daniel and Laura.
FOURTH STATION — “Jesus Meets His Mother,” by Layne
FIFTH STATION — “Simon Helps Jesus Carry His Cross,” by
SIXTH STATION — “Veronica Wipes the Face of Jesus,” by Katharine, Margaret, Michael and Nicholas Dimmer, children of Erik and Marion.
SEVENTH STATION
— “Jesus Falls a Second Time,” by Kendall, Camden and Abigail Lewis, children of Kyle and Allison.
EIGHTH STATION — “Jesus Speaks to the Women,” by Katharine,
NINTH STATION — “Jesus Falls the Third Time,” by Katalina, Gabriella and Avelina Uhl, children of Josh and Yolanda.
TENTH STATION — “Jesus Is Stripped of His Garments,” by
ELEVENTH STATION — “Jesus Is Nailed to the Cross,” by
TWELFTH STATION — “Jesus Dies on the Cross,” by Haven and Jack Lutz, children of Bret and Erin.
THIRTEENTH STATION — “Jesus Is Taken Down from the Cross,” by Evelyn and Thomas Ball, children of Daniel and Laura.
FOURTEENTH STATION — “Jesus Is Laid in the Tomb,”
and Will Korus, children of Les and Sara.
Landon, Gavin and Natalie Broxterman, children of Ben and Stephanie.
ley and Mason Chavez, children of Matt and Megan.
Isabella and Isaac Orton, children of Chad and Bobbi.
Margaret, Michael and Nicholas Dimmer, children of Erik and Marion.
Evan Vink, son of Scot and Jovanna.
by Lilly, Grace and Elliott Charvat, children of Matt and Sarah.