04 26 24 Vol. 45 No. 35

TURNSTYLES TURNS 20

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

MISSION —

The first Catholic Charities TurnStyles Thrift Store opened its doors on Valentine’s Day 2014.

Twenty years later, there are three thriving TurnStyles — two in Overland Park and the most recent addition in Mission.

“It has been truly amazing to see how this ministry has grown over the last 20 years,” said Carol Cowdrey, vice president of marketing and communications for Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas. “To think it evolved from a small group of donors who wanted to contribute to those in need.”

TurnStyles administrative assistant Shirley Holland has been around from that start.

“It originated from our Catholic Charities location in Wyandotte County on Central (Avenue), in our assembly room,” she said.

As the room filled with donations, someone suggested the idea of opening a thrift store

“And it kind of took off,” said Cowdrey. “It was very volunteer-driven, and it still is.”

Mission store manager Anthony Avis has been with TurnStyles for nine years, renovating the 87th St. store and opening the Mission store; he’s impressed with the growth he’s seen.

“It’s changed in a good way,” he said. “It was a mom-and-pop store. But now, we’re definitely ramping it up — the growth has been fantastic.”

Volunteers are the force behind TurnStyles’ success.

“Our volunteers are amazing,” said Avis. “It’s such a blessing that they give of their time, and all

TurnStyles, Mission,

customers and helping volunteers.

Shop at TurnStyles

For store locations, hours and discount incentives, go online to: catholiccharitiesks.org/ turnstyles.

of them do it for different reasons — some of them want to give back. Some find friends here.

“We have a few around who have been here from the beginning of TurnStyles.”

Volunteer efforts are reflected in shoppers’ experience of a clean, neat, boutique-style shop. Gently used items are meticulously inspected before they’re placed on the sales floor.

“I think people are amazed to see the selection we have,” said Cowdrey. “We have a lot of designer brands. You can get vintage things and new items.”

Recently, TurnStyles has developed a partnership with Walmart.

>> See “STORES” on page 5

The best donations

• Home decor and artwork, especially from places like World Market or Pier One

• Anything new that has a tag

• Vintage clothing

• Anything Chiefs

• Anything specific to Kansas City

• Jewelry

• Gently used electronics

• Flat screen TVs

• Toys in good condition, especially Legos

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

store manager Anthony Avis likes to spend time on the sales floor welcoming

As disciples of Christ, we must recognize the dignity of each person

On April 18, 2024, the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith officially promulgated a document approved by Pope Francis on the “Infinite Dignity” of human beings. From the Christian perspective, human dignity is a consequence of the truth that every human being is created in the divine image and is of such worth that Jesus gave his life on Calvary for each one of us.

The document notes that the dignity of every human being was recognized 75 years ago by the United Nations in its Universal Declaration of Human Rights. It is impossible to advocate for fundamental human rights absent the assumption of the dignity of every human being. Thus, human rights are not granted by any national or international body, but they flow organically from the affirmation of the innate dignity of every human being. Divine revelation is not necessary to understand human dignity. This truth is accessible to everyone through reason.

At the same time, Christian faith helps individuals to understand and embrace the dignity of every human life, no matter our intellectual, physical, social or economic limitations. The truth that the Second Person of the Triune God entered into our humanity by becoming

ARCHBISHOP

JOSEPH F. NAUMANN

an embryo in the womb of Mary, being born in the impoverished and austere circumstances of Bethlehem, growing up in the small, humble village of Nazareth, spending most of his adult life as a laborer, curing many from their physical illnesses during his earthly ministry, allowing himself to be executed unjustly for our sake, and telling his disciples that whenever they cared for the hungry, poor, sick or imprisoned, they were actually ministering to him reveals the great dignity of each and every human being.

The fact that Jesus died on the cross for each of us and offered us a share in his divine and everlasting life — giving us an eternal destiny to live with him and the saints forever — reinforces and amplifies what is accessible to us through reason alone — the innate dignity of every human being. Revelation also encourages and summons us

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

to have compassion for the poor, the stranger, the sick, and those with physical and intellectual disabilities. The corporal and spiritual works of mercy are not optional, but required for the Christian.

Being a disciple of Jesus means following him along the path of compassionate and heroic love for others. Moreover, Christians have a responsibility to attempt to alleviate the inhumane living conditions that many of the poor endure.

The document rejects efforts to limit the application of human rights only to those capable of human reasoning. To do so is a purposeful attempt to strip unborn children, the mentally disabled and the elderly with dementia from fundamental human rights.

Communism, fascism and other forms of statism believe the government has the authority to grant or deny fundamental human rights. Individuals are to serve the purposes of the state. This is a false and twisted understanding of human dignity. At

the same time, the idealization of unfettered free markets can also have disastrous consequences upon the poor. Our understanding of the innate dignity of human beings compels us to reform unjust structures that keep the poor, poor.

On this matter, the document quotes Pope Francis: “Some people are born into economically stable families, receive a fine education, grow up well nourished or naturally possess great talent. They will certainly not need a proactive state; they need only [to] claim their freedom. Yet, the same rule clearly does not apply to a disabled person, to someone born into dire poverty, to those lacking a good education and with little access to adequate health care. If a society is governed primarily by the criteria of market freedom and efficiency, there is no place for such persons, and fraternity will remain just another vague ideal.”

The document goes on to identify several serious threats to human dignity, for example, war, the plight of migrants, the travesty of human trafficking, sexual abuse, violence against women, abortion, surrogacy, euthanasia and assisted suicide, marginalization of those with disabilities, gender theory, sex change and digital violence. I encourage you to read the sections on each of these contemporary threats to human dignity. However, since gender theory is so prominent in the public discourse, I will quote a portion of this section. Regarding gender theory, the document quotes Pope Francis’ concern about the departure from the Universal Declaration of Human Rights combined with an effort to add new pseudo rights:

“Regrettably, in recent decades, attempts have been made to introduce new rights that are neither fully consistent with those originally defined nor always acceptable. They have led to instances of ideological colonization, in which gender theory plays an essential role; the latter is extremely dangerous since it cancels differences in its

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR

April 26

Day of Atonement Mass for sexual abuse victims — Savior Pastoral Center

April 28

St. Patrick 150th anniversary Mass — St. Patrick Church, Kansas City, Kansas

April 29

Catholic Charities Golf Classic — Canyon Farms Golf Club

Confirmation — Mater Dei, Topeka

April 30

Catholic Benefits Association finance committee meeting

Atchison Deanery meeting

Confirmation — St. John Paul II Parish, Olathe

May 1

Donnelly College board meeting

Confirmation — Prince of Peace, Olathe

May 2

Religious Alliance Against Pornography board meeting

Recently ordained priests vespers and dinner — residence

claim to make everyone equal.”

The document continues by acknowledging that the arguments for gender theory are contested by many doctors and scientists and then states: “the Church recalls that human life in all its dimensions, both physical and spiritual, is a gift from God. This gift is to be accepted with gratitude and placed at the service of the good. Desiring a personal self-determination, as gender theory prescribes, apart from this fundamental truth that human life is a gift, amounts to a concession to the ageold temptation to make oneself God, entering into competition with the true God of love revealed in the Gospel.”

The Catholic Church had an important role in the development of the entire notion of fundamental human rights. This new document has been five years in the making. It

carefully articulates our God-given human dignity. I encourage you to take the time to read the entire document. To conclude, I quote the document’s final paragraph: “Even today, in the face of so many violations of human dignity that seriously threaten the future of the human family, the Church encourages the promotion of the dignity of every human person, regardless of their physical, mental, cultural, social and religious characteristics. The Church does this with hope, confident of the power that flows from the risen Christ, who has fully revealed the integral dignity of every man and woman. This certainty becomes an appeal in Pope Francis’ words directed to each one of us: ‘I appeal to everyone throughout the world not to forget this dignity which is ours. No one has the right to take it from us.’”

Correction

The timeline in the Behold Kansas City infographic in the April 12 issue of The Leaven incorrectly stated that the Holy Family School of Faith would help lead the rosary at the May 4 event. The rosary will be led by religious communities in the archdiocese. The Leaven regrets the error.

Villa upgrades allow residents to ‘feel like they’re truly at home’

By J.D. Benning

Special

to The Leaven

OLATHE — Villa St. Francis

here has been providing superior health care service to seniors in Kansas City for nearly 80 years.

Now, on April 18, the organization cut the ribbon on a newly renovated physical rehabilitation-to-home wing at the facility.

This critical update at Villa St. Francis will provide person-centered physical rehabilitation space, enabling seniors to improve their quality of life and return to their daily lives.

Preparing to cut the ribbon, Catholic Community Health CEO Brad Heidrick was excited for what this new chapter brings to Villa St. Francis and the CCH continuum of care.

“This is a much-needed improvement to our facility, and I am extremely excited about the future of Villa,” he said. “Not only will this improve the quality of care, but the upgrades to the resident rooms will allow those in our care to feel like they’re truly at home while they’re with us.”

“One thing I’m happy to say that doesn’t require an upgrade is our clinical excellence,” Heidrick continued. “We’re blessed to have 235 team members who are doing their best each day for our residents, their families and our community. They provide top quality care and recognize the dignity in each person that we serve, and ensure that all of their needs are met — mind, body and soul.”

The wing will feature 15 private suites, as well as a private dining area where residents are able to order their meals off a menu, ensuring that their dietary needs are met and provide them with a personalized experience.

In addition to physical therapy, Villa St. Francis — with support from Summit Care — will offer occupational therapy, speech therapy, IV therapy, wound care and a variety of other services, many of which are covered by traditional Medicare benefits or insurance.

Each rehabilitation room features state-of-the-art technologies that will enable the Summit Care team to expediently serve each person, allowing them to get on their feet as quickly as they are able.

“It’s really about person-centered

enjoyable than it is demanding.”

WE DON’T WANT TO PROVIDE A ONE-SIZE-FITSALL PROGRAM, BUT RATHER ONE THAT ADDRESSES THE SPECIFIC NEEDS AND DESIRES OF THE INDIVIDUAL.

KRISTI BROSS CHIEF OPERATING OFFICER OF SUMMIT CARE

care,” said Kristi Bross, chief operating officer of Summit Care. “We don’t want to provide a one-size-fits-all program, but rather one that addresses the specific needs and desires of the individual, allowing them to return to their daily routine. We also have ultrasound and a variety of other technologies that make the process one that is more

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann led the ceremony with a prayer and blessed the wing and rooms that will serve seniors for years to come. He also expressed his gratitude for everything that happens at Villa St. Francis.

“We’re very proud of the ministry at Villa St. Francis, particularly to their care for each person who is made in the image and likeness of God,” he said. “What we celebrate today is the coming together of a lot of sacrifices that individuals and donors have made because they wanted to invest in this building, but more importantly, invest in the residents that are here and in this staff, made up of dedicated laypeople, religious Sisters and our full-time chaplain, Father Karl [Good], that does the healing work that Jesus called upon his disciples to do.”

While the residential wing at Villa St. Francis is a new development, the facility had already been providing quality physical rehabilitation. Families

have marveled at the quality of the care their loved ones have received.

“My mom was here for rehab,” explained a family member of one former patient. “There are so many people around. It is very well-staffed and the fact that she could go to [Mass] every morning was very comforting to us and her.”

The rehabilitation-to-home wing is now officially open and Villa St. Francis is excited to start serving seniors in need. To learn more about this program, go to the CCH website at: catholic communityhealth.org.

In addition to short-term physical rehabilitation, Villa St. Francis also offers daily Mass, access to the sacraments, daily activities and much more.

Villa St. Francis is part of Catholic Community Health, the archdiocesan ministry dedicated to serving seniors in need throughout the Kansas City metropolitan area in both Kansas and Missouri.

CCH also provides home care and is Kansas City’s only Catholic hospice.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY J.D. BENNING

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann blesses the rehabilitation-to-home wing of Villa St. Francis in Olathe with the assistance of master of ceremonies Father Anthony Saiki.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY J.D. BENNING

Archbishop Naumann and Catholic Community Health CEO Brad Heidrick cut the ribbon on Villa St. Francis’ new rehabilitation-to-home wing on April 18.

Seventy years a priest and still serving the people of God

By Jeanne Gorman Special to The Leaven

LEAWOOD — Travelers on Mission Road here regularly stop for an elderly man donned in black slowly, yet confidently, crossing the street between the Curé of Ars rectory and the church.

Father Anthony Lickteig, or Father Tony, as he is known, has served the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas for nearly 70 of his 96 years. He has the distinction of being the oldest priest of the archdiocese and the longest serving in active ministry.

The young Lickteig and his nine siblings were born on the family farm in Greeley, which members of the family still own and operate today. Father Lickteig began thinking of becoming a priest at a young age and continued contemplating his vocation as he pursued his education.

Upon graduation from St. Benedict’s College in Atchison, he returned to Greeley and taught school for a year. After he decided to enter the seminary, Bishop George Donnelly sent him to the Pontifical North American College and the Gregorian University in Rome for his priestly studies.

Despite his mother asking whether there was any place closer he could go, Father Lickteig boarded a ship for a 10-day trip across the ocean to Rome — this was before commercial air travel was common. Because of the lengthy travel time between Rome and Greeley, he remained in Europe throughout his seminary studies.

During the summers, he and a friend traveled by bicycle across all parts of Europe, and he was even able to visit the farm in Germany where his grandfather lived until he immigrated to the United States. After his ordination in Rome on Dec. 8, 1954, Father Lickteig returned home and was assigned as associate pastor at Holy Name Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, where he served until he was made pastor at St. Dominic in Holton, where he also served the people at Our Lady of Snows on the Pottawatomi reservation.

Thereafter, he pastored a number of parishes and left a large footprint in the archdiocese in the form of the many buildings constructed during his tenures as pastor. After his formal retirement, Father Lickteig became a senior associate pastor at Holy Spirit in Overland Park.

His most notable contribution to the people he’s served, however, might be in this current chapter, said Father Richard Storey, pastor of Curé. When Father Lickteig was pastor at Queen of the Holy Rosary in Wea, he encouraged Storey in the discernment of his own vocation and completed the paperwork required for Storey to enter the seminary.

In 2009, they reunited when nowFather Storey was assigned as pastor at

FATHER LICKTEIG LEADS A HIGHLY ORGANIZED AND DISCIPLINED LIFE AND STICKS TO HIS DAILY ROUTINES — RISING EARLY, RIDING HIS STATIONARY BIKE AT FOUR OR FIVE IN THE MORNING AND SAYING HIS PRAYERS — ALL BEFORE 6:30 A.M. MASS.

Holy Spirit in Overland Park and Father Lickteig resided there as senior associate pastor. What could have proved challenging with an experienced former pastor serving with a younger, newer pastor, proved to be a blessing for both men.

Father Storey quickly appreciated the older priest’s wisdom and sound advice and would ask him for guidance on various matters. Likewise, Father Lickteig appreciated the opportunity to continue serving with his protégé.

When Father Storey became pastor at Curé of Ars, Father Lickteig moved with him. Despite his advanced years and soft voice, Father Lickteig continues to serve the Curé faithful and others. He celebrates Mass at St. Joseph’s Place in Overland Park once a week, anoints the sick, hears confessions on Saturdays

and says several early weekday Masses, as well as a Sunday Mass at Curé, where he is appreciated not only by parishioners, but his fellow resident priests and parish staff.

Bob Kolich served as parish manager at Curé for a number of years and worked with Father Lickteig for about 10 of those — first at Holy Spirit and then at Curé. Kolich found it easy to work with him. At finance council meetings, Father Lickteig would only speak when asked, but when he did, he had a lot of financial experience to draw on.

Kolich also enjoyed chatting with Father Lickteig, whom he considered to be a living history book, particularly knowledgeable about church history.

Looking back, Father Lickteig believes the Second Vatican Council was the most significant event in the life of the Catholic Church during his priestly tenure. He thought the decision to say the Mass in the vernacular and turning the altar around so the priest faced the congregation during Mass were positive changes, which were well accepted by the people because they were made with a good explanation for why they were being done.

Although Kolich thought Father Lickteig was a bit intimidating as pastor of Holy Cross when the younger man was a parishioner there, that wasn’t the case at Curé. Kolich found it easy to work with Father Lickteig, who had a lively sense of humor.

Barbara McGrath, a longtime Curé parishioner, noted Father Lickteig’s discipline and how he keeps up with

the family farm by reading grain futures and weather reports. From time to time, he drives to Greeley to check on the farm, where his youngest brother still lives. He spent this past Easter with about 50 of his relatives there, including about 20 young grandnieces and nephews, who enjoyed a spirited Easter egg hunt.

Father Lickteig leads a highly organized and disciplined life and sticks to his daily routines — rising early, riding his stationary bike at four or five in the morning and saying his prayers — all before 6:30 a.m. Mass.

And he truly enjoys being around his parishioners. Otherwise, he says, his life would have been a lonely one. He believes you need to be happy wherever you are.

He recommends that people keep up their prayer life wherever they may be, and the Lord will be their friend, accompanying them through life.

Father Lickteig’s life of service has been a blessing to the many people he has shepherded over the years and an inspiration to his fellow priests — young and old.

Father Storey sums up his admiration for Father Lickteig this way.

“For 70 years, Father Tony has given his blood, sweat and tears to the church,” he said. “He has lived his life with faith, hope and joy.

“He truly lives the Gospel as he came to serve and not be served. He brought and continues to bring joy and peace to all blessed to know him.”

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Father Anthony Lickteig, senior associate pastor in residence at Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood, prays over a participant at the 2023 healing Mass at Curé. Despite being 96, Father Tony still is active in ministry.

Stores raise money to fund other Catholic Charities programs

>> Continued from page 1

“They’ve been sending over brand-new products that they have an excess supply of,” Cowdrey explained. “We never know what we’re going to get — sometimes it’s cookware, sometimes it’s toys. It may be brand-new socks or shoes.”

Beyond finding a good bargain or a vintage treasure, shoppers who want to be good stewards of the environment know thrifting is a great way to reduce their environmental footprint.

And those who want to be good stewards of their community appreciate that all proceeds from their purchases support the 30 programs of Catholic Charities, impacting 21 counties in northeast Kansas.

“I share with my staff and volunteers that we don’t say ‘making money,’” said Avis. “We say ‘raising money.’”

The stores also benefit those in

Where to drop off donations

In addition to the stores accepting donations, TurnStyles has donation bins that collect clothing, coats and small accessories at the following parishes:

• Sacred Heart, Shawnee

• Good Shepherd, Shawnee

• Holy Trinity, Lenexa

• Holy Spirit, Overland Park

• Holy Cross, Overland Park

• Curé of Ars, Leawood

• Prince of Peace, Olathe

• St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood

• St. Ann, Prairie Village

• St. Agnes, Roeland Park

• Church of the Ascension, Overland Park

Volunteer

Volunteers make up the majority of the workforce at TurnStyles stores. For more information on volunteering, go to the website at: catholiccharitiesks.org/ turnstyles/turnstyles-volunteer or send an email to the volunteer team at: ccnekvolunteers@ catholiccharitiesks.org.

need through the emergency assistance program.

“Families can receive vouchers from us and they can come through the store and shop,” said Avis. “We try to keep this store not looking like a thrift store to provide a dignified shopping experience for them as well.”

Last December, all the stores implemented a “roundup” at the cash register to fight poverty. The “roundup” money goes specifically to supply food to families in need.

As the stores continue to thrive, volunteers are needed more than ever.

“We rely on volunteers so much,” said Cowdrey. “It can be an individual volunteer opportunity for someone. Or if there’s a group that would like to volunteer together, the need is always there.”

The volunteer experience is gratifying, as people form bonds of friendship sorting through donations, stocking shelves and working the sales floor, or by helping out on the truck picking up donations.

“I rarely refer to any of our volunteers as volunteers,” said Holland. “They’re just family. It is so familyoriented.

“Many people call and ask if they have to be Catholic to volunteer with

Karen and Karl Osman, members of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on May 4. The couple was married on May 4, 1974, at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Chattanooga, Tennessee. The couple celebrated with a trip to the Holy Land in 2023. Their children are: Matt Osman and Ethan Osman. They also have four grandchildren.

Bonnalee (Blackman) and William Hocraffer, members of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Shawnee, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on May 4 with their children — Travis Hocraffer and Tricia Goone — and four grandchildren. The couple was married on May 4, 1974, at St. John Church in Clarion, Iowa, by Father Dennis Colter and Father Albert Hoffman.

Paul and Mary Becker, members of St. Mary Parish, Purcell, will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on May 5. The couple was married on May 5, 1954, at St. Joseph Church, Atchison. Their children are: Kenny Becker, Bill Becker, Linda Henry, Carol Brown, Margaret Blevins, Larry Becker, Teresa Heimann and Jim Becker. They also have 27 grandchildren and 43 great-grandchildren. Cards and wishes can be sent to: 1181 Willow Rd., Lancaster, KS 66041.

us,” she continued. “That answer is no. Catholics aren’t all we serve either.

“It’s for everyone.”

Many students and youth groups volunteer for service hours.

“They not only get service hours,” said Cowdrey. “They also get some retail experience that’s helpful when they apply for their first job.”

There are many benefits to volunteering but they are all overshadowed by the opportunity to be a small part of a huge effort to improve the world.

“All of those who help us here at Catholic Charities put love into action,” said Avis. “Everyone who works for TurnStyles has a real heart for the mission of wanting to see change and help the community.

“And it’s a sustainable change. We change lives.”

Jim and Mary Brenneman, residents of Santa Marta, Olathe, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on June 22 with 28 family members at Brio Restaurant. The couple was married on Feb. 7, 1959, at St. Joseph Church in Fort Madison, Iowa. Their children are: Gerry, Lisa, Jon and Joe. They also have 11 grandchildren and four great-grandchildren.

Eunice and Ron Collins, members of St. Paul Parish, Olathe, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on April 21 with family and friends at the Olathe Community Center. The couple was married on April 27, 1974, at St. Phillip Neri Church, Osawatomie, by Father Joseph Staudinger. Their children are: John Collins, Matthew Collins and Christopher Collins. They also have three grandchildren.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

Volunteer Levi Capes inspects donated clothing and gets it ready for the sales floor.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

Volunteer Sharon Bower chats with a customer as she works the cash register at the TurnStyles in Mission.

AThe Easter season challenges us to rejoice in our faith

t Easter morning brunch, one of my daughters brought me a beautiful bouquet of tulips.

They were so welcome, and so extraordinary, that I took extra good care of them. I changed their water, recut their stems and used the little packet of powder the florist sent. I placed them where I could see them at dinner time, and at the place where I pray in the morning.

And they began to open. One morning, I peered inside a bright yellow and orange tulip and saw the stamen reaching out toward me. At least, I think it was the stamen; not being much of a horticulturist, I had to look up what the reproductive parts of flowers are called.

The inner works of my tulip seemed to be bursting forth from the slowly opening flower. In the morning light, with the tulip nearly translucent, I suddenly saw in my tulip a tomb being opened, a little symbol of resurrection.

The tomb was empty, and the stamen and pistil seemed to be radiating out from the empty tomb as if to proclaim that the risen One, who had been held there so recently, had gone before us into Galilee.

It was a lovely,

graced moment, a little gift.

But here’s the thing. Easter Sunday is many days ago now, and tulips don’t last forever. Mine began to open too broadly and fray a bit at the edges. They bent over and lost their lovely shape. Like our own lives on this earth, they were finite and passing. But they had done what they had come to do: proclaim a daughter’s love and provide beauty and a moment of inspiration. Would that we can say the same about our own passing lives. The time between Easter Sunday and Pentecost is so special, but sometimes I fear we leave the Easter season behind us too quickly. Lent gave us something to “do.” We gave something up, we tried to go to morning

I THINK THE TIME BETWEEN EASTER AND PENTECOST, THE ACTUAL EASTER SEASON, IS WHEN THE REAL CHRISTIAN IN US IS CHALLENGED. RATHER THAN “DO” SOMETHING, BE SILENT.

Mass, we experienced the incredible beauty of Holy Thursday and Good Friday services, something most parishes do well. Even our secular culture reminded us of Easter, with the jellybeans and bunnies popping up as soon as Valentine’s Day was over. But on Easter Monday, stores

immediately put the basket paraphernalia on sale. You want a discounted bunny headband? Go for it. I think the time between Easter and Pentecost, the actual Easter season, is when the real Christian in us is challenged. Rather than “do” something, be silent. Reread all the amaz-

ing readings from the Gospels of John and Luke. Walk into the garden with Mary and be amazed when the person you thought was the gardener calls you by name. Take a long walk, and imagine you, too, are heading for a getaway in Emmaus. Talk with that man who walks beside you. Put your fingers, like Thomas, into the scars left on the body of Jesus. Rejoice in this incredibly tactile, bodily faith we live. There won’t be any advertisements for Pentecost baskets or Pentecost wrapping paper. You won’t be hurrying to get your Pentecost letters out to

all your friends. But Pentecost comes, with its fire and wind, to inspire us with the Holy Spirit.

Imagine those in that room on Pentecost morning, some of them men who had fled during the Crucifixion. Imagine Peter, who denied three times knowing Jesus, and then wept bitterly, becoming a man willing to be crucified himself. Pentecost comes 50 days after Easter — Sunday, May 19, this year. The days, like all our passing days, will fly. Let us use them to experience the hope and glory of the Resurrection.

EFFIE CALDAROLA

Effie Caldarola is a wife, mom and grandmother who received her master’s degree in pastoral studies from Seattle University.

OSV NEWS PHOTO/OCTAVIO DURAN

A painting on the ceiling of St. Catherine Church in Spring Lake, New Jersey, depicts the Holy Spirit descending upon the apostles.

Ethical directives on Catholic health services decreed

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Catholic medical professionals want to know where they can they go for reliable guidance for the moral and ethical questions they encounter, said Matt Kemnitz.

They just don’t always know where to look.

Kemnitz, chief mission officer at Catholic Community Health in Olathe and member of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas Ethics Council, knows where to look.

He consults a publication called “Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services,” produced by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

“When I give end-of-Mass talks [to Catholic medical professionals] about Catholic medical care, I hold up this booklet and ask, ‘How many of you know that this document exists?’” he said. “Nobody does. It’s something every Catholic should know, but not every Catholic does know it exists.”

Unless they’ve been part of the Catholic Medical Association, for example, they may have never heard of the Ethical and Religious Directives — ERDs.

“They come up to me and say, ‘Where do I get a copy of that? I’ve never heard of it,’” said Kemnitz.

The ERDs will become better known in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas thanks to a decree by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann making the ERDs particular law in the archdiocese. The archbishop announced the decree on March 1.

Particular law is a law for a specific place or group of people in a specific diocese, province or nation.

The Ethical and Religious Directives are nothing new, said professor John Rziha, a member of the Benedictine College, Atchison, department of theology and also an archdiocesan ethics council member. The current sixth edition of the ERDs was published in 2018.

During a meeting with the U.S. bishops,

members of the National Catholic Bioethics Center urged them to take the ERDs, which are advisory, and make them official law in their dioceses.

In the decree, Archbishop Naumann said that “as the diocesan bishop, it is my responsibility to safeguard and promote the unity of the truths of the faith, moral principles and ecclesiastical discipline in the works of the apostolate pertaining to health care in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.”

Why are bishops making the ERDs particular law in their dioceses?

“As medical ethics issues are increasingly in the church’s face, if you will, and on the front page of our culture, I think it’s an opportunity for the church to take the Gospel to the peripheries,” said Father Luke Doyle, associate pastor at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood and member of the ethics council.

The ERDs are relevant not only for Catholic doctors, nurses and other medical professionals, but also all Catholics.

“This is the bishops of the United States’ guiding document that illustrates what Catholic health care delivered anywhere in the [country] ought to look like,” said Father Doyle.

“It should be seen as binding for Catholic institutions,” he continued, “but it certainly should also be seen as relevant information for any Catholic or person of good will who works in a health care institution.”

Catholic medical professionals have a moral responsibility to be wellformed in delivering health care in a manner that is consistent with the teachings of the Catholic Church, and this is the document that illustrates what that looks like, he said.

(For a PDF of the “Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care: Sixth Edition,” go online to: usccb. org. In the search box on the homepage, type in “Ethical and Religious Directives” and it will take you to “Ethical and Religious Directives of Healthcare Services, resources, 27 July 2020.”

Decree Designating

The Ethical and Religious Directive for Catholic Health Care Services as Particular Law in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas

Whereas, the diocesan bishop it is my responsibility to safeguard and promote the unity of the truths of the faith, moral principles, and ecclesiastical discipline in the works of the apostolate pertaining to health care inn the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (c.f. canons 392, 394, 678 and 747),

I, the Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann, by the grace of God and the Apostolic See, Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas, do here by DECREE

The Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services, promulgated by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, to be particular law in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. This applies to the current edition, as well as subsequent ones, so long as they are duly promulgated by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops.

The current edition of the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services is to be promulgated in accord with canon 8, §2 by publication of the text on the archdiocesan website and by delivering an copy of this decree to all Catholic health care institutions located in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. The provisions of the bylaws of the Sixth Edition of the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services take effect on 31 March 2024 and will thus be binding within the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

Given in the Chancery in Kansas City, KS on this first day of March, in the year of Our Lord, 2024.

The Most reverend Joseph F. Naumann, D.D. Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas

Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann, D.D. Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas

Rev. John Riley, V.G. Chancellor

COACH GETS THE DIAMONDS BUT IT’S DEBATERS WHO SHINE

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

ROELAND PARK — Last spring, Bishop Miege High School debate and forensics coach Melissa Reynolds received a 7th Diamond Award, one of the highest honors a coach can achieve as part of the National Speech and Debate Association (NSDA).

Out of more than 4,000 active coaches today, only two have received a 7th Diamond, and in the 98-year history of the NSDA, only 42 coaches have been awarded the honor.

It’s a big deal.

In light of this accomplishment, it’s hard to believe Reynolds was once a timid eighth grader who bombed her first speech class.

“I was very shy and overly self-conscious,” said Reynolds. “I took a speech class and got all the negative things I already thought about myself kind of confirmed.

“So when it came to high school, I refused to sign up for speech and debate.”

The debate coach at Reynolds’ high school also happened to be the youth director at her church, and he pressured her mercilessly to take his class.

“My sophomore year, I ended up taking it out of spite,” she said, “to get him to shut up and leave me alone, because he would realize how bad I really was.

“But instead of getting my revenge on him, I learned a lot about myself and about communication.”

Reynolds continued to improve her speech skills, with the intention of studying engineering in college. But when she was completing her ACT packet, the career-goal question stopped her cold.

“For some reason I couldn’t fill that out,” she said. “I just felt stuck.”

After a long discussion with her youth director/coach, Reynolds went home and

did what anyone facing a life decision should do.

“Before I went to bed, I prayed for guidance,” she said. “I woke up the next morning, picked up the ACT packet and wrote down ‘secondary speech and theater education.’

“I’m not one of those people who feels like God talks to me directly, but this was a billboard-in-my-face kind of feeling.”

Reynolds knew she had a calling to pass on the skills she had learned.

“I felt like a missionary,” she said, “because I knew there were lots of people like me, and I wanted to bring the good news to those people.”

After more than 35 years at Bishop Miege, she has fulfilled that mission.

Diamond awards are based not only on longevity, but student performance — the number of points acquired by the coach’s debate and forensic teams.

Bishop Miege’s squad is not that large, but it is just that good.

Debate teacher wanted

Reynolds’ road to Bishop Miege began with another God moment.

She and her husband were moving from Texas to Kansas so that he could attend law school.

“My aunt lived in Olathe,” recalled Reynolds. “She cut out a want ad in The Kansas City Star and mailed it to me.

“All it said was ‘Debate teacher wanted, Bishop Miege High School’ and a phone number. She wrote next to it ‘I’ve heard really good things about this school.’”

Reynolds called the phone number and drove from Texas for an interview.

“She was the first person I hired back in 1987 when I came to Miege,” said former president Dr. Joe Passantino, who is now the foundation president for

Bishop Miege.

“Obviously, she stood out in terms of her background and her character,” he said. “She took over and the record of success is just amazing. It speaks for itself.”

The stats are impressive; Bishop Miege is no stranger to state championships. But the true success of Reynolds is measured in the success of her students.

“They go in about a million different directions,” she said. “Lots of attorneys, lots of doctors, a couple of geologists, lots of engineers, an editor for Gentleman’s Quarterly. Many of them have their Ph.D.s and are professors.

“That same work ethic that helps them be successful in debate, helps them in college and in their careers. They’re pretty much dynamos.”

Passantino’s son graduated from Bishop Miege in ’94, a product of Reynolds’ program.

“She so effectively models hard work, respect, humility, teamwork, on and on,” he said. “Real life skills that she passes on to her students.”

Those skills have enabled his son, an engineer, to work successfully with clients.

“There’s no doubt in my mind that everything he did in debate helped him get to that point,” Passantino continued. “I always tell Melissa he’s an engineer, but he’s one that can communicate.”

Nieky Allen understands that quip. A software architect with a bachelor’s and master’s in software engineering, he calls Reynolds’ program “easily the most

transformative class I’ve ever taken.”

And he calls Reynolds his second mom.

“My mom knows that, and she’s OK with it,” he said. “She knows how much Reynolds means to me, and how much she’s done for me.”

Allen remembers Reynolds’ coaching style as being a perfect balance of “compassion and not cutting people slack.”

“I don’t think very many coaches or teachers strike that balance the way she does,” he said. “It’s definitely something I always aim to mimic with my engineering teams today.”

Allen credits Reynolds’ high standards for giving him excellent speaking skills and the ability to think on his feet. But most importantly, he knows how to research and validate facts.

“Reynolds was, like, ‘I don’t care what you bring me,’” he recalled. “‘If it’s not from someone who knows what they’re talking about, you may as well light it on fire.’”

2016 Miege graduate Victoria Gomerdinger has always had the heart of a scientist, and so, in high school she was more studious than outgoing.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

After a mock presentation in class, coach Melissa Reynolds critiques student performance.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD Above, debate and forensics coach Melissa Reynolds encourages students to sign up for future tournaments.

Right, freshman Justin Pullen gets advice on fine-tuning a speech he’s preparing for a forensic competition.

Reynolds understood.

“Ms. Reynolds’ support helped me overcome a lot of the fear of expressing myself, “ she said, “which I am incredibly

grateful for.

“She did an amazing job realizing the different talents of each student and would nurture our strengths, as well as

Massachusetts Institute of Technology. As a scientist, she values Reynolds’ lessons in breaking down complicated information to the level of your audience.

“Being a successful communicator is not about how elaborate the verbiage is,” she said, “but rather, if you can break down your thoughts and express them in a way that enables your audience to understand and appreciate your point.

“For me, personally, this has proven to be an invaluable lesson.”

First impressions

Both former students agreed that, though at the time they thought Reynolds was over-the-top with her dress and behavior expectations at tournaments, they now appreciate what she taught them about first impressions.

“Oh my, if you walked in with a clip-on tie!” said Allen. “I kind of knew how to tie a tie. But now, I can tie like three different knots blindfolded — because I had to do it in the pitch black in some tiny bus in the middle of nowhere.

“It’s the kind of thing that sticks with you.”

Gomerdinger agreed that Reynolds’ expectations were high — but worth it.

“We were to always look presentable for debate and forensics tournaments — suits and dresses/skirts — with pantyhose! And we should always be respectful to our opponents.

“It was an important life lesson in how to carry yourself professionally and show that the event at hand does matter.”

Reynolds still has those high standards.

“It’s everything,” she said. “The first impression, how you look, your posture, how you’re dressed. Ethics and fair play. The way you present yourself.

“If you want someone to take you seriously, you’ve got to look like you’re taking it seriously.”

Though tournament success is important, Reynolds’ true priority is instructing students to use the gift of speech in light of their Christian values.

“The voice has a lot of power,” she said. “What can you do with that knowledge, that logic — with that ability to express your thoughts?

“Use it effectively, but use it cautiously to do good, for the rest of your lives.”

No regrets

As talented squads leave Bishop Miege to make their way in the world, Reynolds doesn’t spend much time with regret.

“As soon as one group leaves, another group comes along to get you ignited again,” she said. “Some kids are so sharp and so articulate you think, ‘Wow, what can we do with that?’

“And then there’s the quiet one over in the corner and you think, ‘OK, we’re going to fix that, we’re going to get past it.’”

And what does Reynolds think of being a 7th Diamond coach?

support us to improve our weaknesses.”

Gomerdinger has since attended Yale University and is currently finishing her Ph.D. in chemical engineering at the

“It’s icing on the cake,” she said. “I’ve never been concerned about the accolades I get. I just love seeing them succeed and seeing them grow, and seeing what they end up doing with their lives.”

Come and volunteer at a Lansing prison retreat

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

LANSING — As he prepares for the upcoming Kolbe Prison Ministries retreat at the Lansing Correctional Facility here, a poignant saying comes to Deacon Marcos Navarro’s mind.

“I’m retired military,” he said. “And one of the phrases we had is: ‘There aren’t any atheists in the foxhole.’”

The same might be said for those in prison, said Deacon Navarro of Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee, who served as the facility’s chaplain for four years and continues to minister as a volunteer.

Volunteer

To fill out a volunteer application form, scan the QR code or send an email to: FisherOMen36@ gmail.com.

“Once people are incarcerated, the sense of loneliness sets in,” he said.

“They have a difficult time relating to others. There are dangerous people in the environment. There’s a lot of fears.

“So, the only thing they can [do] is dig deep in their own faith.”

To help men at the Lansing Correctional Facility deepen their knowledge of the Catholic faith in a supportive environment, a Kolbe Prison Ministries retreat will be held there from June 14-16.

Endorsed by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, it will be the first one held in Kansas, and local volunteers are needed.

Messengers of hope

Twenty men from Kolbe Prison Ministries, based out of Texas, will host the retreat, and Deacon Navarro will serve as spiritual director.

Organizers are seeking women for an “outside team,” which will help prepare, warm and transport food from the kitchen of St. Francis de Sales Church in Lansing to the prison.

Priests are needed to hear confessions at the prison on the Saturday afternoon of the retreat, celebrate Mass afterward and celebrate Mass again on

LSunday morning.

The group is also in need of around 25-30 men for an “inside team,” which will help facilitate the retreat.

“To ease the minds of people who may be in doubt about going into a prison, the residents treat you like royalty,” said retreat coordinator John Errante.

“They’ve got your back, to use their terminology,” he continued, “because they are grateful that this was a priority for you to just be present and look them in the eye and dignify them.”

Volunteers will attend a handful of scheduled Zoom meetings beginning on April 27 and leading up to the retreat. (Those who miss the first meeting are not eliminated from the opportunity.)

Organizers hope 60 to 70 prison residents will attend, and that there will be two to three volunteers at each table to serve as table leaders.

Each table will pick a patron saint, whose life they will read about and share with the wider group.

Throughout the retreat, attendees will have the opportunity to pray the

rosary, Divine Mercy chaplet and Stations of the Cross; spend time in eucharistic adoration; receive the sacrament of reconciliation; and attend Mass.

Volunteers are there to share their own faith, serve as mentors and answer questions about Catholicism. A few deacons will also be there to answer the more complicated questions.

“A person doesn’t even need to say anything,” said Errante. “Just come in and, with [your] presence, dignify the people who still want to be Catholic independent of what some of their past behaviors may have been.”

A three-day retreat can be life-changing for the residents, added Errante.

“What makes it powerful is in a prison environment, you really can’t be vulnerable,” he said, “because the predators recognize that and take quick advantage.

“So, to get these men to feel enough trust to share their stories and know they’ll be confidential and people aren’t going to take them back out to the yard — that’s a really positive step forward.”

Deacon Navarro said volunteers

Sister Sue Retherford, SCL, died on March 19

EAVENWORTH — Sister Suzanne “Sue” Retherford, 83, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth for 63 years, died on March 19. She entered religious life on Aug. 30, 1960, and took the name Sister Jean Stephen when she received her habit. She later returned to her baptismal name.

She was born in Booneville, Missouri. Her family moved to Kansas City, Missouri, when she was 6 months old. She enjoyed attending daily Mass during Lent with her father. She also had a special devotion in her school years to the Miraculous Medal

novena. These practices shaped her faith life.

She attended Redemptorist and St. Peter’s for grade school and Bishop Hogan High School, all in Kansas City, Missouri. The two further shaped her faith. She was impressed with the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, who taught her at Bishop Hogan and Saint Mary College in Leavenworth. Inspired by their holiness and commitment to doing the Lord’s work, she entered the novitiate after her second year at Saint Mary College.

Originally expecting to work at

an orphanage, Sister Sue instead became a teacher, especially enjoying math, religion and music. She eventually found her way into administration, both at the school and diocesan level. She taught in Missouri, Montana and Kansas. She served in the Kansas City-St. Joseph diocesan school office, in staff development and teacher training. She was also a founding faculty member of Cristo Rey Kansas City High School in Missouri.

Sister Sue enjoyed sports, playing softball and volleyball during her grade school and high school years. She loved watching football and was an avid Kansas City Chiefs fan.

tend to get as much, if not more, out of ministering to the incarcerated than they do.

“[They receive] an awareness that God’s love is unlimited,” he said. “In spite of the walls and the barbed wire and the clanging doors, God’s presence is there.”

Organizers say this retreat will be a steppingstone to build up the prison’s Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) program and support its Catholic community through weekly Bible studies and other events.

They also hope Kolbe Prison Ministries retreats will eventually be offered at prisons throughout Kansas.

Errante believes that despite their current state in life, there is hope for those who are incarcerated to develop a strong faith — with a little help.

“[For] people who have a culture of being deprived and marginalized, it’s hard to sometimes have faith,” he said, “because you don’t see the hope.

“And so, for these men to recognize that folks are giving up two-and-a-half days of their life to come in and share the faith with them is really powerful.”

SOLUTION

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Deacon Marcos Navarro talks with a group of men at the Lansing Correctional Facility during a 2023 visit in which Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann celebrated the sacraments of baptism, confirmation and first Communion. Deacon Navarro will be the spiritual director of a Kolbe Prison Ministries retreat at the facility from June 14-16. Volunteers are needed.

USS Arizona survivor is recalled for strong faith

By Kurt Jensen OSV News

GRASS VALLEY, Calif. (OSV News) — By any measure, Louis Anthony “Lou” Conter, a Catholic hero of World War II who died April 1 at his home here at age 102, led a celebrated life.

Born in Ojibwa, Wisconsin, on Sept. 13, 1921, Conter graduated from high school in Colorado. He escaped a hardscrabble life — at age 7, he hunted rabbits in Kansas, where his family was living, in order to provide dinner — and a job in a Hormel meatpacking plant by enlisting in the Navy in 1939.

He served for 28 years, retiring at the rank of lieutenant commander, the highest rank possible for someone with a high school diploma.

As a quartermaster on the battleship USS Arizona in Pearl Harbor, Hawaii, Conter was one of only 335 crewmen and officers aboard to survive the assault by Japanese fighter pilots, bombers and torpedo planes that sank it on Dec. 7, 1941, launching the United States into World War II.

The sailors and Marines killed aboard numbered 1,177. The Arizona casualties amounted to nearly half of the 2,403 U.S. personnel, including 68 civilians, who died that day.

Conter was at his station at the stern when he first heard the Japanese fighter planes at around 8 a.m.

In 2023, he became the Arizona’s last survivor. For many years, he was a welcome figure at military ceremonies commemorating the attack.

“When I walk aboard the USS Arizona Memorial and see those 1,177 names up there, I have to make the sign of the cross and say a prayer for them,” he told a Knights of Columbus interviewer in 2022. “And I thank God my name is on the plaque outside with the survivors.”

Selected for flight training, Conter flew some 200 combat missions as a dive bomber in the Pacific during the war and was shot down twice. The first time, in 1943, when he and his crew were treading water seven miles off the coast of New Guinea, he advised them that if a shark approached, “just punch it in the nose.” A couple did. Conter and his crew were rescued after another plane dropped a life raft.

He was an intelligence officer during the Korean War, served in special operations and notably helped establish the

in Honolulu on Dec. 6, 2011. Conter, 102, a Catholic member of the Knights of Columbus and the last survivor of the USS Arizona destroyed in the Japanese Dec. 7, 1941, attack on Pearl Harbor, passed away April 1.

Navy’s SERE (Survival, Evasion, Resistance and Escape) program, training Navy pilots and crew how to survive if they were shot down in the jungle and captured as prisoners of war.

After leaving the Navy in 1967, he settled in California and became a successful real estate developer, and some of his happiest memories involved playing golf as an amateur in the Bob Hope Desert Classic in Indian Wells, where he played seven times.

The stress of his military career, Conter conceded, took a toll on his first two marriages, which ended in divorce, but he found stability with his third wife, Valerie. She died in 2016 after 47 years of marriage. He was the father of six children.

He met Presidents Dwight Eisenhower, Lyndon Johnson and John Kennedy, and his passing earned a statement from President Joe Biden:

“The women and men who serve in the U.S. Armed Forces are patriots in the highest sense. Like Lou, they risk their own safety for the safety of their fellow Americans. Like Lou, they bravely undertake dangerous missions to defend our nation’s freedom and future. Like Lou, they believe deeply in their duty to their country and their fellow service members and will go to the ends of the earth to fulfill that duty.”

Despite his reputation for unremitting

self-discipline and toughness considered typical by men of his generation, parishioners of St. Patrick in Grass Valley remember a gentle man.

Before the COVID pandemic disrupted communal worship for a time, he was a familiar figure at the 9 a.m. Mass, always in the same pew, always sitting on the right side, wearing a Hawaiian shirt when it was warm, a flannel one when it was cold.

His family recalled him praying the rosary at his bedside each night.

Conter’s faith, like Conter himself, was humble, said Ray Saturnino, the past Grand Knight of Father Nicholas Phelan Council 1875 of the Knights of Columbus.

“He had genuine respect for his country and the general commitment he gave to his country,” Saturnino told OSV News.

Conter usually kept his war stories, which he was inevitably asked for, on the light side.

Saturnino said one memory was “he couldn’t get bourbon in the South Pacific, so he switched to Scotch.”

But he also was unafraid to get salty when asked about his classified military activities. Saturnino said he once snapped at an admiral who asked about a classified Cold War mission, “I am not telling you! I made a commitment to my oath!”

Murdered Polish missionary begins ‘path to sainthood’

KRAKOW, Poland (OSV News) — Poland’s church is seeking the beatification of a young lay missionary, who was stabbed to death in a bungled robbery shortly after starting work with Catholic nuns at a children’s home in Bolivia in 2017.

“In five years as a volunteer, she discovered her calling to spread the Gospel — and it gave her a sense of happiness and fulfillment, of being in God’s hands,” explained Father Pawel Wróbel, postulator in the missionary’s sainthood cause.

“Her life and example can show young people it’s possible to find your place in the church, despite what’s said today, sharing your God-given talents and convictions,” he said. “It isn’t necessary to withdraw from the world.”

The priest spoke amid preparations for the May 10 start of beatification proceedings in Kraków for Helena Kmiec (19912017), who was killed, at age 25, by an overnight intruder at Cochabamba in central Bolivia. Father Wróbel told OSV News that the beatification process, launched by the Polish bishops’ conference with Vatican approval, had been “met with joy” by Kmiec’s many friends and supporters, who were already submitting testimonies and recollections about her heroic virtues.

In a mission application, now preserved, Kmiec said, “The greatest gift is that I know God and can’t keep this to myself but have to spread it. If I can help someone, make someone smile, make someone happier, teach someone something — then I want to do it!”

Burbidge: ‘Christian nationalism’ is opposed to Catholic teaching

ARLINGTON, Va. (OSV News) — The concept of Christian nationalism is not compatible with Catholic teaching, Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of Arlington, Virginia, said in an April 15 episode of his “Walk Humbly” podcast.

The term “Christian nationalism” has been the subject of recent controversy, as some understand the term to mean an ideology that the United States should be a specifically Christian nation, enforced by the power of the federal government, while others contend the term is used loosely by some to exclude Christians from the public square.

Bishop Burbidge explained Catholic teaching distinguishes “between patriotism and nationalism.” He explained

patriotism involves “a proper, healthy love for our nation” but nationalism is “a view of one’s nation only in competition with others.”

He explained Christian nationalism “can confuse two things that should be distinct: devotion to the nation and devotion to the church.” He explained that a Catholic is a “follower of Christ,” and as a Christian, “never identifies oneself entirely with a particular nation.” He added, “A Christian loves his nation, but within the broader and larger love for God and neighbor.”

He said the diocese’s patron saint, the English martyr St. Thomas More, was a good example for Catholics: “As he famously put it, he was ‘the King’s good servant, but God’s first,’ and that’s who we should be.”

OSV NEWS PHOTO/HUGH GENTRY, REUTERS

USS Arizona survivor Lou Conter gestures to a fellow survivor during the wreath laying presentation for the 70th anniversary of the attack on Pearl Harbor at the World War II Valor in the Pacific National Monument

Helena Kmiec

EMPLOYMENT

Administrative assistant - St. Joseph Early Education Center in Shawnee is seeking a full-time administrative assistant. Interested individuals should email cover letter and resume to Kristan Mora at: KMora@stjoeshawnee. org. For more information, call (913) 631-0004.

Kitchen manager - St. Joseph School in Shawnee is seeking a full-time kitchen manager. This position prepares menus, meals, orders necessities and manages kitchen staff for the grade school. State guidelines and regulations are to be followed. To learn more about this position or to apply, please send cover letter and resume to Kelcy McCauley at: kmccauley@stjoeshawnee.org or call (913) 631-7730.

Case management specialist - Do you have experience in a social service-related field? Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is seeking a case manager with HUD programming and/or HMIS experience. Opening in Olathe Family Support Center. Interested applicants should apply online at: catholiccharitiesks.org/careers, scroll down to “View All Opportunities,” click on “View All,” scroll down to and click on “Case manager, Family Support Center.”

Health care executive - Catholic Care Campus Inc., dba Santa Marta, is seeking a proven health care executive to join and lead our management team as the chief executive officer. Santa Marta is a continuing care retirement community owned by the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. Reporting to the board of directors, the chief executive officer (CEO) provides strategic leadership for the organization by working with the executive leadership team to establish and execute both short- and long-range goals, strategies, plans and policies. The CEO will ensure the provision of health care services in keeping with Catholic social teaching. The CEO will guide operations decision-making processes necessary for the successful attainment of goals and objectives, in addition to maintaining awareness of changes in health care and both internal and external environmental matters. The CEO is the primary face and voice of the organization to a wide variety of stakeholders. For more information and to apply, please visit: recruiting.paylocity.com/recruiting/jobs/All/59148e038b7d-4687-9610-80971840b8e0/Santa-Marta-Retirement.

Accounting assistant - Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, is seeking an accounting assistant. This person will assist the parish accountant with maintaining the financial, tithing, payroll, and employee benefits records and systems for the parish, including the school and early education center. An associates or bachelor’s degree in accounting is preferred. The position requires a working knowledge of QuickBooks (or similar general ledger accounting system), Excel, accounts payable processing, journal entry recording and bank reconciliations. Experience in payroll processing and budgeting would be a plus. Position is 20 hours per week. A full position description can be found at: https://htlenexa. org/job-openings. Interested applicants should submit cover letter and resume to: skutney@htlenexa.org.

Maintenance staff member - Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa is seeking a maintenance staff member. This staff member will have primary responsibility for daily cleaning and light maintenance of the church building. This person will assist with other maintenance responsibilities on the Holy Trinity campus as needed. This position is approximately 35 hours per week and qualifies for archdiocesan benefits. A full position description and application can be found at: htlenexa. org/job-openings. Interested applicants should return a completed application to: dleikam@htlexexa.org or 9150 Pflumm Road, Lenexa, KS 66215.

Early childhood educators - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child care in a safe, loving, Christian environment. Our classrooms are full and we are looking to add to our amazing team. We are looking for both full-time and part-time teachers for all ages of children. If you have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education, we would love to meet you. For more information or to apply, call Anne at (913) 8940131, ext. 102.

Retreat and spirituality center director - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth are currently seeking a director for the Marillac Retreat and Spirituality Center. The director is responsible for leading the center, drawing on our mission and charism to serve the critical spiritual needs of God’s people today by providing an environment of prayer, peace, hope and transformation. As St. Vincent, St. Louise and Mother Xavier taught us, the Marillac Center is a place of encounter for the poor and marginalized and all those who serve them. The ideal candidate will possess a master’s degree in theology, spirituality or related field; knowledge of or willingness to embrace the mission and values of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth and the Vincentian charism; and previous experience working in a space focused on hospitality, rest or spirituality. To view the full job announcement, please visit our website at: www.scls.org. If you possess the desired qualifications and would like to work for a truly wonderful and outstanding religious community, please email a cover letter with salary requirements and your resume to: recruiting@scls.org.

Middle school math teacher - Nativity Parish School in Leawood is seeking a middle school math teacher for the 2024-25 school year. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs.org and click on “Apply” then click on “Teachers.” Also, email principal Luke Jennison at: luke.jennison@ kcnativity.org.

Communication coordinator – St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee is seeking a full-time communications coordinator. The communications coordinator will coordinate and support the St. Joseph Campus with communication projects. This position will work closely with the school principal, EEC director and parish office to develop and implement communications strategies, media relations, social and digital media, article writing, video production, advertising/marketing initiatives and other communication support as needed. A successful candidate should be Catholic, with strong relationship skills and the ability to work in a collaborative setting. The overall goal for this position is to promote St. Joseph Catholic Campus as the go-to source for relevant, reliable, evidenced-based information. Interested applicants should email resumes and cover letter to Father Scott Wallisch: frscott@stjoeshawnee.org or call (913) 631-5983 for more information.

Nonmedical caregivers - Saint Rita Home Care is hiring nonmedical caregivers for seniors. Seeking compassionate individuals to fill all shifts. We serve people in Johnson, Douglas, Miami, Franklin and Leavenworth counties. Kansas state licensed, nonmedical home care agency. Call or text Renee Margush at (913) 229-4267, or rmargush@saintritahc. com. Member of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe.

Victim care advocate - The office of protection and care is seeking to hire one full-time victim care advocate, who would be responsible for providing support and resources to victims and their families. For more information and to apply, go online to: archkck.org/jobs, scroll down to “Current Job Openings” and scroll down to “Openings in our archdiocese” then scroll down and click on “Victim Care Advocate.”

First grade teacher - Nativity Parish School in Leawood is seeking a first grade teacher for the 2024-25 school year. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs.org and email principal Luke Jennison at: luke.jennision@kcnativity.org, click on “Discover Careers” and scroll down to “Quick Links” then click on “Job Openings” then fill out the information requested on “Archkck Catholic Schools Job Board.”

School leader - Holy Cross School in Overland Park is seeking a dynamic, faith-filled school leader for the 2024-25 school year. This individual will lead a team to serve 190 students in preschool through eighth grade. Students come from 38 zip codes. The student body is diverse, with 22 countries and 5 languages represented. For more information, contact Martha Beisser, secretary, at: mbeisser@holycrosscatholicschool.com. To complete an online application, go online to: arch kckcs.org/apply.

After-school care lead teacher - Nativity School in Leawood is seeking an after-school care lead teacher for our day school and K - 5th grades. Applicants should be at least 18 and have a previous teaching or assistant teaching position in a licensed early childhood program. Must be Virtus-trained and CPR/first- aid certified. Hours are Monday - Friday from 3 - 6 p.m. with one Tuesday per month from 1:45 - 6 p.m. Please contact: Katie.King@kcnativity.org.

Hand-bell choir director - Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa is seeking a part-time, hourly, hand-bell choir director. Average 16 hours per month or 4 hours per week. The director will conduct the parish hand-bell choir at weekly rehearsals on Mondays from 7 - 9 p.m. and an average of one Mass per month, mid-August to midJune. Conduction proficiency, knowledge of liturgical worship and the Christian year required. Compensation commensurate with qualifications and experience. Job description available at: www.htlenexa.org/holytrinitymusic. Application, including three references, may be emailed to Dr. Chole Stodt, director of music, at: cstodt@htlenexa.org. Position open until filled.

Full-time youth minister - Church of the Nativity, Leawood, is seeking a full-time youth minister to join the Christian formation team. This position will oversee ministry to middle school and high school parishioners, as well as young adults. Qualified applicants should have at least two years’ experience in youth ministry or qualifying degree and have or be willing to receive Virtus training and a background check. Send a resume and cover letter to: jobapplication@kcnativity.org.

Youth and young adult minister - St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee is seeking a full-time youth and young adult minister. The candidate would be responsible for nurturing and guiding teens and young adults, have an evangelism strategy that provides vision, skills and community. The successful candidate will have excellent organizational and communication skills. Interested applicants should email resume and cover letter to Veronica Quinn at: vquinn@stjoeshawnee.org or call (913) 244-3909 for more information.

Bookkeeper/accountant - Queen of the Holy Rosary, Wea is seeking a full-time bookkeeper/accountant. Three years’ experience with QuickBooks and advanced experience with Excel as well as hands-on experience with payroll and benefit software systems desired. Please contact: mpetz@qhrwea.org for complete job description and application. Compensation commensurate with experience.

Faculty and adjunct faculty job openings - Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served, is a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served. Faculty job openings - no current openings. Adjunct faculty job openings - adjunct instructor for Nursing. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.

Now hiring - drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students in Johnson and Wyandotte counties, in company vans. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees are encouraged to apply. Make a difference in your community by helping those in need! Call (913) 2625190 or visit www.assistedtransportation.com for more information. EEO.

Caregivers needed - Daughter & Company is looking for compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide sitter services, light housekeeping and light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match up hours desired. Contact Gary or Laurie at (913) 341-2500 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team.

Middle school science teacher - Nativity School in Leawood is seeking a middle school science teacher for the 2024-25 school year. Applicants should apply online through the archdiocesan website at: archkckcs. org and email principal Luke Jennison at: luke.jennison @kcnativity.org.

Make a meaningful impact today -Join L’Arche Heartland as a Direct Support Professional in our residential homes. Contribute to the empowerment and enrichment of adults with developmental disabilities as they engage in meaningful lifestyles. We have immediate full-time positions available. We offer a comprehensive benefits package that includes 100% coverage for medical, dental and vision expenses. Conveniently situated in downtown Overland Park. Training provided. Apply now by visiting our website at: www.larcheks.org/join-out-team or by emailing: james@larcheks.org.

Maintenance technician - Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood is looking for a full-time, 40 hours per week, maintenance technician with a strong work ethic. We prefer a candidate with knowledge in landscape maintenance. This individual will also have general maintenance skills, including basic electrical and plumbing. This position also includes setting up for events. A maintenance technician is a thorough professional with attention to detail. The ideal candidate will be able to work autonomously and responsibly. The candidate needs to be able to lift 50 pounds and work off a ladder or lift. All employees are required to be Virtus-trained and background-checked. This position may include some weekend and evenings as needed. Competitive pay, including benefits, vacation/sick time and 401(k) with match. Interested candidates should send a resume to the facilities director at: matt.rocca@cureofars. com.

Catholic school elementary principal for Resurrection School - Are you a passionate and visionary leader looking to make a difference in the lives of young learners? Do you thrive in diverse, culturally rich environments? Resurrection Catholic School in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking a joyfully Catholic school leader with demonstrated skill in the academic and spiritual formation of students. With a board of trustees, the principal will lead a team to advance the school’s academic licensure in educational leadership. Ideal candidates will be fluent in English and Spanish, but Spanish-speaking not required. Apply online at: archkckcs.org/apply and scroll down and click on “Principals.” For more information, contact Dr. Vince Cascone, superintendent, at: vcascone@archkckcs.org.

Staff job openings - Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, a Catholic college offering higher education for those who may not otherwise be served, has the following staff job openings available: front desk receptionist, director of development, part-time front desk receptionist and admissions counselor. Find job descriptions and details at: www.donnelly.edu/careers.

Community and family ministry leader - St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee is seeking a part-time community and family ministry (CFM) leader. This leader would be responsible for nurturing and guiding a ministry and evangelism strategy that provides vision, skills and community for single, engaged and married people. The leader will lead a ministry task force responsible for executing this initiative to invite and move church and community through outreach and ongoing engagements into Growth Journeys where relationship skills content is delivered/transformed. The leader will also serve as St. Joseph’s chief liaison with our Communio church strategist. Interested applicants should email resumes to Veronica Quinn at: vquinn@stjoeshawnee. org or call (913) 244-3909.

SERVICES

Catholic counseling - Sam Meier, MA, LCPC - (913) 952-2267 and David Walter, MA, LCPC - (402) 9130463. Book an appointment online at: StillWatersKC. com, in person or telehealth.

Tutor - Piano, guitar, voice, and music theory lessons available. Instructor has 18 years experience. For more info. Please call/text Kathleen: 913-206-2151 or email: Klmamuric@yahoo.com.

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.

MIKE HAMMER MOVING - A full-service mover. Local and long-distance moving. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload. In-home moving and office moves. No job too small. Serving the KC metro since 1987. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, parishioner. Call the office at (913) 927-4347 or email: mike@mikehammermoving.com.

Double A’s Lawn Service Lawn mowing, Mulching, Gutters, Leaf Removal Brush Removal & Hedge Trimming Free Estimates & Insured Alex Spoerre (913) 488-5195

Quality work - Quality painting, remodeling and minor electrical repairs. Call Rob at (913) 206-4524.

Free estimates - We are offering free estimates to all those thinking about painting this year. At Stone Painting, we put the customer first. We provide interior, exterior house painting along with deck staining, fence painting, etc. Stone Painting ensures a professional, clean and fair-priced job. Call today for your free estimate. (913) 963-6465.

Concrete construction - Tear out and replace stamped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footing, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371, or email: dandeeconst@aol.com.

Popcorn ceiling texture removal Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Interior painting specialist. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

Ros painting - Transforming your home one paint coat at a time. Over 20 years of residential and commercial interior and exterior painting. Reliable, professional and affordable. Insured. Call or text Ramiro today for a free estimate. (913) 579-5016.

Garage door repair expert

New Garage Doors

Garage Floor Coatings

A Total Door Inc., Since ’83. Leaven discount joe@atotaldoor.com; (913) 236-6440

Doll dresses - First Communion dresses for American Girl dolls or any 18”dolls. To include dress, veil, shoes, tights, and cross necklace for $35. Call (913) 345-9498 or send an email to: wwelch4@kc.rr.com to order.

Custom countertops - Laminates installed within 5 days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee.

HOME IMPROVEMENT

STA (Sure Thing Always) Home Repair - Basement finish, bathrooms and kitchens; interior & exterior repairs: painting, roofing, siding, wood replacement and window glazing. Free estimates. Call (913) 579-1835. Email: smokeycabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

Popcorn ceiling texture removal Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Interior painting specialist. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

Local handyman - Painting, int. and ext., wood rot, mason repair, gutter cleaning (gutter covers), dryer vent cleaning, sump pump (replace, add new), windows, doors (interior and exterior), honey-do list, window cleaning and more! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118.

REAL ESTATE

We are local people who can buy your house - Big companies from all over the nation come here buying houses, but that’s not us. We are parishioners of Holy Trinity Parish and we enjoy giving you personalized service. We can offer you a fair price and are flexible to your needs. If I can help, call me, Mark Edmondson, at (913) 980-4905.

We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family-owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house has never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000.

WANTED TO BUY

Cash paid - for old tools, old jewelry, old furniture, military items, fishing lures, hunting items, old crocks, arrowheads and old signs. I buy all kinds of older things — house or barn contents, an estate or just one item. Call Patricia any time at (913) 515-2950. Parishioner at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa.

Wanted to buy

Do you have a car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME! I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.

Wanted to buy - Antique & Collectibles: jewelry, military items, railroad, sterling, OLD holiday/toys and more. Renee Maderak (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee.

>> Classifieds continue on page 13

CALLED TO LOVE AGAIN

DIVORCE SUPPORT

St. Pius X Parish

5500 Woodson St., Mission

April 27 at 6 p.m.

Do you feel as if you will never heal? Wondering if you’re ready for a relationship? Join us once a month for fellowship and formation. For more information, send an email to: Katie@thecall2love. com.

ROSARY RALLY

Church of the Ascension

9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park

April 28 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.

We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary followed by Benediction and the opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scapular. For driving instructions or future dates for the Kansas City monthly rosary rallies, visit the website at: www.rosaryrallieskc.org.

SUDS & SCHOLARSHIPS 2024

Boulevard Brewing Company

2501 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri

April 29 from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Suds & Scholarships benefits the students of Holy Name of Jesus School, the smallest Catholic school in Wyandotte County, where 95% of students rely on scholarships to attend. Your support will provide life-changing scholarships for students in need. Learn more and purchase tickets online at: https:// one.bidpal.net/holyname24/welcome.

‘ARTMAKING AND CONTEMPLATIVE PRACTICE: CELEBRATING WORLD LABYRINTH DAY’

Precious Blood Renewal Center

2120 Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri

May 4 from 11 a.m. - 3 p.m.

Join us in practicing mindfulness and contemplation through breath, mindful eating and art-making, as we walk the labyrinth together with participants from around the world for global peace. No art, sewing or mindfulness experience is required. To register, go online to: pbrenewalcenter.org, scroll down to “ArtMaking and Contemplative Practice” then scroll down to “Register Now.”

CATHOLIC ADVISORS NETWORK

KANSAS CITY

Church of the Nativity

3800 W. 119th St., Leawood

May 8 from 11:30 a.m. - 12:30 p.m.

Calling all attorneys, accountants, tax professionals, financial planners, wealth managers and insurance advisers! Looking to network with fellow Catholic professionals and obtain continuing education credits? Join us for a free lunch and a presentation by Steve Bahr of Polsinelli. Share with

a colleague, coworker or friend who could benefit from this networking and learning opportunity. Continuing education hours are offered. Register online at: www.cfnek.org/ events/catholic-advisors-network-kansas-city.

‘PRAYING WITH

MARY:

SACRED BEADS’

Sophia Spirituality Center

751 S. 8th St., Atchison

May 7 from 9:30 a.m. - 3:30 p.m.

We will explore the history of prayer beads and the rosary, make a rosary and then pray a rosary together. The fee is $80 and includes lunch and materials.

SPIRITUALITY AND MENTAL HEALTH

Corpus Christi Parish

6001 Billing Parkway, Lawrence

May 9 from 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Liturgy of the Hours is the daily prayer of the church. It is an ancient meditative dialogue, rooted in the psalms, that can be a source of spiritual nourishment. As we strengthen our spirituality with greater consistent prayer, we will also strengthen and support our mind, body and soul. Join us to learn more.

ANNUAL GOLF TOURNAMENT

Tomahawk Hills Golf Course

17501 Midland Dr., Shawnee

May 10 at 8 a.m.

All are welcome to the Church of the Holy Cross Knights of Columbus annual golf tournament. The cost is $125 per player; $500 for a foursome. Price includes coffee, donuts, beverages, the award reception and a luncheon. Questions? Contact Rick Guinn by email at: rgksmolaw.com or call (913) 424-9084.

BREAKFAST WITH THE KNIGHTS

Divine Mercy Parish

555 W. Main St., Gardner

May 12 from 8:30 - 10 a.m.

The breakfast will include eggs, sausage and gravy, pancakes and drinks. Join us for great fellowship. The cost is $6 for those over the age of 13 and free for ages 12 and under. Proceeds are used for charitable works, such as scholarships and other giving throughout the year.

ROSARY RALLY

Holy Spirit Parish

11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park

May 12 from 3 - 4:15 p.m.

Join us to honor Our Blessed Mother and Our Lady of Fatima. We will pray the joyful, sorrowful and glorious mysteries of the rosary followed by Benediction and the opportunity for attendees to enroll in the brown scapular. For driving instructions or future dates for the Kansas City monthly rosary rallies, visit the website at: www.rosaryrallieskc.org.

ST. ISIDORE FEAST DAY: MASS AND BLESSING OF SEEDS AND SOIL

Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton May 15 at 10 a.m.

Join us for a day in honor of St. Isidore, the patron saint of farmers, on his feast day. The day will begin with Mass, followed by a rosary procession to the St. Isidore Shrine. Bring seeds and soil in a small, decorated basket to be placed at the altar for blessing. The day will end with lunch and a time of fellowship. A freewill offering will be taken up to support the center. To attend, send an email to: info@ christspeace.com or call (913) 773-8255 to let us know how many will be attending.

SPAGHETTI DINNER AND BINGO

St. Patrick Parish (center)

1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas May 18 at 6 p.m.

Dinner will include spaghetti with a meatball and Italian sausage, bread-stick, salad, dressing, and tea or lemonade. The cost is $12 for adults and $7 for kids. Bingo will be $12 for 10 games. The average prize is $75 per game and average blackout (last game of the night) is $250. For more information, call Fritz at (913) 515-0621.

WILLS AND TRUSTS: CREATING YOUR LEGACY

Church of the Ascension (St. Mark Room)

9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park

June 6 at 5:30 p.m.

What is the difference between a will and a trust? How can I avoid probate, and what exactly is probate? How can I leave money or assets to my church, school, archdiocese or a favorite charitable organization? The presenter will be Casey Connealy. There will be a light snack/social gathering from 5:306 p.m. The presentation will begin at 6 p.m.

SUMMER THEATER AND CHOIR CAMPS

Bishop Ward High School

708 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kansas

June 10 - 14 (theater grades 3-5)

June 17 - 21 (theater grades 6-8)

June 24 - 28 (choir grades 6-8)

From 7:45 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Come join Bishop Ward’s summer theater and choir camps. For our theater camps, students going into grades 3 - 5 can join us June 10 - 14 and students going into grades 6 - 8 can join us June 17 - 21. Students will play theater games and learn a one-act play. For our choir camp, grades 6 - 8 can also join us June 24 - 28 from 7:45 a.m. - 1 p.m. Cost is $150 and includes a T-shirt, breakfast and lunch daily, and a free ticket to Bishop Ward’s fall musical. To register and for more information, go online to: www.wardhigh.org/page/youth-summercamps.

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 - I buy coin collections, military items, pocket watches, jewelry, class rings, old toys, holiday items and more. Cash in hand. Call Kirk at (913) 213-9843.

FOR SALE

>> Continued from page 12 “We

Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC).

For sale - Two plots at Mount Calvary Cemetery in Kansas City, Kansas. Located in section 3 Old, lot 126, plots 6 and 10. Flat markers only. Contact Ann at (913) 620-5687.

For sale - One plot for sale at Calvary Cemetery, 6901 Troost Ave., Kansas City, Mo. Single or double deep. Asking $2300. Call Gary at (913) 220-1335.

CAREGIVING

Family member with dementia or need help at home? - We specialize in helping seniors live SAFELY at home, where they want to live! We also offer free dementia training and resources for families and caregivers. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www. Benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.

CNA - Can provide home care for those needing assistance. Available Monday - Friday, days or nights. Serving Shawnee, Lenexa and Overland Park. 20 years experience. Call Serena at (913) 526-0797.

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.

Home-care - Available Monday - Friday days or nights. Serving Shawnee Mission, Gladstone and Overland Park. Background check and references available. Call (913) 999-4340.

Senior Care Authority - Navigating senior care options can be overwhelming. We will help you sort through and understand all your care and living options and point you to vetted resources. Placement assistance is FREE. We do a thorough assessment, do all the research and walk with you as you make these big decisions for you or your loved one. Call (913) 359-8580.

PILGRIMAGE

Pilgrimages - May 14-22, 2024; June 16-28, 2024 (Poland and Medjugorje); Aug. 9-17, 2024; and Dec. 27 - Jan. 4, 2025. Are you being called? Hosted by visionary Mirjana Soldo. Call Grace Legaspi for details at (913) 449-1806.

Classified Advertising

The Leaven reaches approximately 50,000 subscribers. Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter. To purchase a Leaven classified ad, email: beth. blankenship@theleaven.org

DAILY READINGS

FIFTH WEEK OF EASTER

April 28

FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER

Acts 9: 26-31

Ps 22: 26-27, 28, 30, 31-32

1 Jn 3: 18-24

Jn 15: 1-8

April 29

Catherine of Siena, virgin, doctor of the church

Acts 14: 5-18

Ps 115: 1-4, 15-16

Jn 14: 21-26

April 30

Pius V, pope

Acts 14: 19-28

Ps 145: 10-13ab, 21

Jn 14: 27-31a

May 1

Joseph the Worker Acts 15: 1-6

Ps 122: 1-5

Jn 15: 1-8

May 2

Athanasius, bishop, doctor of the church

Acts 15: 7-21

Ps 96: 1-3, 10

Jn 15: 9-11

May 3

PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES

1 Cor 15: 1-8

Ps 19: 2-5

Jn 14: 6-14

May 4

Saturday

Acts 16: 1-10

Ps 100: 1b-2, 3, 5

Jn 15: 18-21

“TPeople, like kites, are meant to be lifted up

ell it!” It’s hard to believe that these two simple words influenced me so profoundly. While the finer details have become fuzzy over the past 40 years, the general impact has not. At the time of this story. I’d been a priest about two or three years and was the associate pastor at Assumption Parish in Topeka. I was celebrating the funeral Mass of a wonderful Black parishioner. Because this woman’s goodness spread way beyond the parish boundaries, a good number of people in the congregation that day were non-Catholics.

I’d just finished telling a story to open my homily when I thought I heard a sound coming from the pews. I could have sworn it was, “Tell it!” After hesitating for a second, I went on, certain that my ears were playing tricks on me.

A few sentences later, I definitely heard

MADELEINE

SOPHIE BARAT

1779-1865

Born to a cooper and winemaker in Burgundy, France, Madeleine was educated by her older brother Louis, who was studying for the priesthood. He strove to repress her emotions and instruct her as if she were a seminarian. Her extensive formation, unusual for the time, paid off, as Madeleine was prepared for the rebirth of French Catholicism after its persecution during the French Revolution. In 1800, she and three companions began the Society of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. Madeleine was appointed superior at 23, and over the next 63 years she oversaw the establishment of more than 100 houses and schools in 12 countries. Her order was approved by Rome in 1826, and she was canonized in 1925.

FATHER MARK GOLDASICH

Father Mark is the pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie. He has been editor of The Leaven since 1989.

the words, “Tell it!”

This time, it was a bit louder. As I wound my way through the homily, there were more and more comments coming from the congregation. In addition to “Tell it!” I heard an “Oh, yaaasss!”

And then, a flurry of “Amens,” “Um-hums” and “Alleluias.”

The next time I heard the “Tell it!” woman — who spoke bolder and louder — it felt like I was on fire

The readings for this Fifth Sunday of Easter introduce us to someone we don’t hear about very much. But he has a lot to say to us, especially now.

I’m talking about St. Barnabas.

The reading from Acts describes how he took Paul under his wing — in part to protect him from frightened and suspicious Christians, but also to act as his mentor and guide.

So let’s step back a moment. Just who was Barnabas? And why should we care about him? History tells us he was born into a wealthy Jewish family. At some point, he sold his estate and became a follower of Jesus.

MARK MY WORDS

with the Holy Spirit. I “told it” — the good news of our Christian faith — like I’d never told it before!

The vocal encouragement of that faithfilled congregation at that funeral has forever lifted my spirit, faith and enthusiasm. I cherish that word “encouragement,” which derives from Old French and means “to hearten, to inspire with courage, spirit or hope.” Couldn’t our lives and our world use a good dose of that?

Now, while I really like the name Mark, I wouldn’t have minded if my parents had named me Barnabas instead. Why Barnabas? Well, that name means “son

of encouragement,” and I certainly had two incredible parents who never failed to encourage and love me.

We read about Barnabas in the Acts of the Apostles. In one passage (11:21-26), he’s sent to Antioch to witness the conversion of a “great number” of Gentiles who believed and “turned to the Lord.” After he arrives and sees these new converts, “he rejoiced and encouraged them all.” In fact, it was “in Antioch that the disciples were first called Christians.”

It’s miraculous what a profound impact encouragement can have on others. Sadly, we’re quick to discourage or criticize others and often reluctant to encourage and praise. These next few weeks, though, can give us plenty of opportunities to turn the tide.

First Communions, confirmations and graduations give us an ideal chance to acknowledge the faith and achievements of young people, to focus on all

We live in a world hungry for peacemakers

DEACON GREG KANDRA

Deacon Greg Kandra is an award-winning author and journalist, and creator of the blog “The Deacon’s Bench.” He serves in the Diocese of Brooklyn, New York.

Later, after Paul arrived on the scene, it was Barnabas who introduced him to Peter. For several years,

Barnabas and Paul worked together as missionaries. Barnabas was reportedly a prolific evangelizer, and some scholars believe he is the writer behind the Letter to the Hebrews, the only epistle not attributed to a particular author.

Paul and Barnabas eventually had a falling out over Barnabas’ cousin Mark — the same Mark who wrote the Gospel bearing his name — because Paul had doubts about Mark’s dedication to the faith.

But by one account, when Barnabas was finally martyred, around the year 61, it was Paul who helped to bury him.

In the passage from John’s Gospel, Jesus exhorts us to remain in him, like branches of a

vine, and to bear good fruit.

And this Sunday’s second reading, also from John, makes the message even more explicit: “Love one another, just as he commanded us.”

In too many places today, that command is forgotten, or abandoned, or even mocked. Our world is scarred by lands that are now synonymous with conflict and bloodshed. Places like Ukraine, Gaza, Haiti, Ethiopia.

Survey the landscape and you realize that we live in a world hungry for peacemakers. But they are far too few.

We need “sons and daughters of encouragement.” We need to pray for more Barnabases to rise up and remind us

that is good and holy with them. A heartfelt card or gift might be all that it takes to spark a deeper faith and lift the confidence of the younger generation.

Maybe in the month of May, we can strive to be a Barnabas for many others. Look for ways to encourage: a kind word to a cashier, waiter or waitress; a compliment to a stranger; a thank-you to teachers or first responders; an acknowledgement of someone’s talent; a helping hand to someone struggling; career guidance for graduates; or kudos on a job well done by parish volunteers, musicians, office personnel or maintenance staff. While encouragement is best done in person, a card, call, text or email would be just as much appreciated.

Ralph Waldo Emerson once said: “Our chief want is someone who will inspire us to be what we know we could be.”

I swear I can hear Barnabas saying, “Tell it!”

what too many have forgotten, our fundamental call as Christians: We are a faith founded on love.

Christ is the vine. We are his branches. We are fed by the fruits of his redeeming love, love that was poured out on Calvary and which we celebrate now, during this Easter season, because it is a love that conquered death, a love that conquered hate. Let this be our prayer: that in the hopeful glow of Easter, we can live out the promise of the Resurrection and become witnesses to the risen Christ by being in every way instruments of peace, encouragers of hope.

More than ever, each of us needs to be a Barnabas in the world.

Seek contact with nature to change polluting lifestyles, pope says

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Humanity must have more direct contact with nature to counter the modern lifestyles that are destroying the planet, Pope Francis said. Respecting and loving the earth as well as seeking direct contact with nature

“are values that we need so much today

as we discover ourselves increasingly powerless before the consequences of irresponsible and shortsighted exploitation of the planet,” he told members of the Italian Catholic Movement of Adult Scouts.

Meeting with the members, dressed in their scouting uniforms, at the Vatican April 13, the pope said people in modern society are

“prisoners of lifestyles and behaviors that are as selfishly deaf to every appeal of common sense as they are tragically self-destructive; insensitive to the cry of a wounded earth, as well as to the voice of so many brothers and sisters unjustly marginalized and excluded from an equitable distribution of goods.”

By Mariele Courtois Special to The Leaven

In the Gospel of Luke, Elizabeth interpreted and announced her fetal child’s joy in the presence of his even-more-miniscule cousin. John the Baptist offered his first prophetic witness from within the womb of his mother.

Beginning from conception, each new human retells the story of biological development experienced by Christ himself. A pregnant woman receives the profound grace to contemplate the Savior’s humility.

But before he leapt within her womb, Elizabeth was merely hoping for John. In the stillness before his presence, she yearned for a child during years of infertility. Many hopeful parents will meet her in this pain but will never experience the long-awaited miracle.

Last month, the Alabama Supreme Court decided that the state’s Wrongful Death of a Minor Act could apply to embryos outside the womb, in response to families who sought restitution for the accidental destruction of their frozen embryos at an in vitro fertilization (IVF) clinic. Though the state of Alabama later passed legislation protecting IVF services, the court decision still incited heated discussion because it acknowledged that embryos are due similar legal protection as other children. Amid these conversations, it

The morality of in vitro fertilization

is important to reflect on why IVF is morally fraught.

IVF involves securing sperm and eggs from hopeful parents and combining them in a laboratory dish to create embryos. Often, technicians create several embryos in this manner to offer patients multiple chances for a successful pregnancy.

The possible fates for each embryo are several: If genetic screening determines that an embryo is healthy and likely to lead to a successful pregnancy, it may be transferred into a woman’s womb along with several others. Selective abortion at a later stage may reduce pregnancy risks for the mother if more than one of the transferred embryos successfully implants and continues to develop.

Embryos that exhibit undesirable results from genetic screening may be destroyed to avoid bearing children with congenital disabilities, and leftover embryos may be stored in freezers indefinitely or simply discarded. Millions of IVF embryos will never leap within a womb.

Though IVF is often sought in response to the immense suffering of infertile couples and single individuals who desire to raise children, the procedure nonetheless reduces the human embryonic person to a mere commercial good, a product to be created and managed. Since it occurs outside the context of a marital sexual act, IVF misconstrues the vocation of parenthood as something conferred by one’s own will. IVF forgets the spiritual nature of

the person and promises that the symptoms and suffering of infertility can be surmounted solely through technology.

Despite their good intentions, not all couples understand how the IVF procedure treats children as property. These criticisms in no way detract from the precious, inviolable dignity of persons created through IVF. In fact, our love for these individuals all the more highlights the sacredness of human existence that cannot be made to order.

To be a person means you are made in the image of God and eternally destined to offer love through a gift of self. The embryo has this eternal destiny — that is, she is a person — even before she can breathe or move or speak up. The development of human life has been

sanctified by Christ, and therefore it is unjust for the gift of a person’s existence to be controlled by another human.

As in all pro-life endeavors, the embryo’s personhood takes precedence over the wishes of her parents. To refrain from utilizing IVF and other technologies that separate the creation of life from the marital act is, in fact, a sacrificial act of love for human life. Even if a person never has biological children, a person who declines IVF lovingly exemplifies that life should never be reduced to the object of a desire.

An important chapter of the gospel of life is lived by infertile couples, single persons and those who grieve children lost. May their stories of discipleship continually honor the gift of life and witness to love, even over tender desires for parenthood.

These members of the church teach a lesson for all about the sanctity of life that is displayed in like manner by no one else.

At the beckoning of St. John the Baptist, may we honor the joy of Christ hidden in each embryo. May we seek to be as sensitive and reverent to these little lives as St. Elizabeth. And may all our decisions to love the Giver of Life — even in the absence of the gifts and miracles we desire — reveal a steadfast faith.

Mariele Courtois, Ph.D., is assistant professor of moral theology at Benedictine College in Atchison.

In vitro fertilization involves securing sperm and eggs from hopeful parents and combining them in a laboratory dish to create embryos. Often, technicians create several embryos in this manner to offer patients multiple chances for a successful pregnancy.

DANCE THE NIGHT AWAY

Church of the Ascension in Overland Park sponsored a dinner/dance on April 6 for special-needs adults. The event was part of the parish’s program “Fearfully and Wonderfully Made,” that seeks to provide Catholic social and faith-based functions for adult individuals 18 and over with special needs ranging from autism to intellectual disabilities. Rosati’s Pizza and The Golden Scoop served the food. After dinner, the adults danced, enjoyed karaoke and played bingo. Organizers felt the night was highly successful.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Mary Brazeal (facing camera) and Hannah McConville, both from Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park, enjoy some time on the dance floor at Church of the Ascension’s dinner/ dance held April 6 for special-needs adults.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Lee Giesler, a member of Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park, enjoys the bubbles as they come floating onto the dance floor.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Bridget Dorr, a member of the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas, helps Rosemary Dorr and James Johnson, a member of Queen of the Holy Rosary in Overland Park, play bingo.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Kathryn Embry, right, belts out a song during karaoke, while her friend Hannah Vohs of Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, joins in.