04 30 21 Vol. 42 No. 36

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 42, NO. 36 | APRIL 30, 2021

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

High school students — from left, Ella Hoffman, Church of the Ascension, Overland Park; Ann Cole, Curé of Ars, Leawood; Olivia White, St. Michael the Archangel, Leawood; Liz Mark, Good Shepherd, Shawnee; Isabella Earp, Sacred Heart, Shawnee; and Elizabeth Morrisey, Holy Spirit, Overland Park — pack purses full of self-care products that will be distributed to women in need as part of Purses to Persevere KC, a nonprofit founded by Earp in 2020.

A year in, teen founder is ‘batting 500’

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

O

VERLAND PARK — It started with a simple desire: Isabella Earp wanted to help women who were struggling get back on their feet.

Now, a short year later, the St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Overland Park, junior has given more than 500 women a helping hand.

“It really just warms my heart to see that I’ve been able to create a difference in so many women’s lives,” said Earp. “The smiles on their faces make

all the hard work . . . feel like I’m actually helping people.”

The nonprofit she founded in 2020 is called Purses to Persevere KC. And its purpose is to provide women in need with a purse full of self-care products, like travel-sized toiletries, hairbrushes, lotion and makeup.

Earp got the idea from her Instagram feed, which featured a similar nonprofit in California.

She started out alone but now has around 30 general volunteers and a handful of board members. All are high school students.

Purses to Persevere relies entirely on donated purses and hygiene items.

Once enough are collected, volunteers meet with Earp to sanitize the purses and fill them with the items.

They often include a note of encouragement.

Volunteers like Ann Cole, a junior at Aquinas who started giving her time to the organization at the end of January, are moved by the experience.

“I often think about the women who will be receiving these purses,” she said, “and I pray that this organization can lead them in the direction to get back on their feet and start over.”

Earp said the women they help come

Back to Mass Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann announces that he will lift the dispensation from attending Mass the weekend of June 5-6.

For details, see his column.

Page 2

For more information

T

o learn more about Purses to Persevere, visit the website at: pursestoperseverekc. com.

If you’d like to donate a new or gently used purse or selfcare items, or if you’re interested in volunteering, send an email to Isabella Earp at: pursestoperseverekc@ gmail.com.

To make a financial donation, go online to: gofundme.com and search for “Purses to Persevere KC.”

>> See “VOLUNTEER” on page 4

Coming soon Mother’s Day: The perfect time to honor and celebrate the many ways we mother.

Page 8-9

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ARCHBISHOP

APRIL 30, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

It is a privilege, not a burden, to make Christ the center of our Sabbath

C

anon 1247 of the Code of Canon Law states: “On Sundays and other holy days of obligation, the faithful are bound to participate in the Mass; they are also to abstain from those labors and business concerns which impede the worship to be rendered to God, the joy which is proper to the Lord’s Day or the proper relaxation of mind and body.”

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states: “The Sunday Eucharist is the foundation and confirmation of all Christian practice. For this reason, the faithful are obliged to participate in the Eucharist on days of obligation, unless excused for a serious reason (for example, illness, the care of infants) or dispensed by their own pastor. Those who deliberately fail in this obligation commit a grave sin” (2181).

In March 2020, I dispensed the faithful of the archdiocese from the Sunday obligation in light of the serious public health concerns regarding the spread of the COVID-19 virus.

In light of the availability of effective COVID vaccines, the rising rate of immunity, and the dramatic reduction of hospitalizations and deaths related to the virus, I am ending the dispensation from the Sunday obligation,

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN effective the weekend of June 5-6, 2021, the solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ (Corpus Christi).

Many of the government health requirements for public gatherings, and especially for churches and houses of worship, have been relaxed in all the counties within the archdiocese. By the beginning of June, parishes should be able to accommodate our pre-COVID levels of Mass attendance.

In recent weeks, I have been encouraged by the growing numbers of parishioners participating in Mass throughout the archdiocese. I am announcing this now to allow parishes sufficient time to be well-prepared to accommodate all parishioners.

I continue to urge pastors to remain aware of public health recommendations for the counties served by their parish or parishes and

to continue to partner in the ongoing efforts to protect the health of our parishioners as well as the health of the entire community.

Even before the pandemic, infirmities resulting from age or serious health concerns were considered a “grave cause” that dispensed an individual from fulfilling the Sunday obligation.

Why does canon law explicitly state that Catholics are bound to participate in the Eucharist on Sunday or its vigil? In the beginning of the Eucharistic Prayer, the celebrant proclaims: “It is right and just, our duty and our salvation, always and everywhere to give you thanks, Lord, holy Father, almighty and eternal God, through Christ our Lord.”

Among the Ten Commandments, the core of the Mosaic covenant that God entered into with Israel, we find: “Observe the sabbath day to keep it holy, as the Lord God commanded you” (Dt 5:12; Ex 20:8).

The day of the

resurrection of Jesus, Sunday, is the Sabbath for the Christian.

When Jesus gave the Eucharist to his disciples, Our Lord instructed them: “Do this in remembrance of me.” For the Catholic, Sunday should be the center of our week, and the Eucharist the center of our Sunday.

God, who has given us our life, our health, our family, our friends, our educational and employment opportunities, our material blessings and a share in his own eternal life, asks us to worship him for one hour a week — not for his sake, but for ours.

We need to separate ourselves from our usual work activities to remind ourselves of the purpose of our lives. God does not need our worship and praise, but we need to reorient ourselves to what is truly important and necessary in our lives: to know, honor, serve and love God. The church is right in calling us to give God time in our weekly lives. It is unjust for us to ignore our debt to a loving God. At the same time, participating in the Eucharist is a privilege, not a burden.

What could possibly be more important and cherished than the opportunity to be nourished by the Creator of the cosmos, the Second Person of the Triune God, the Lord of lords and King

of kings?

Every year, I go to each of our high schools to lead the entire school in a eucharistic Holy Hour.

This year, I have been sharing with them the testimony of Blessed Carlo Acutis, who was beatified by Pope Francis in October 2020.

Carlo was born in 1991 and died in 2006 at the tender age of 15, only a few months after he had been diagnosed with an acute and an aggressive form of leukemia. Carlo, as a young child, had an instinctive love for the Eucharist. After receiving his first holy Communion, he desired to go to daily Mass and to pray daily in the presence of the Eucharist reserved in the tabernacle.

Carlo’s parents had not been very devout Catholics. At best, they might go to Mass a couple of times a year. Carlo’s profound love for the Eucharist inspired a conversion in the hearts of his parents and many others.

Carlo was fascinated by Eucharistic miracles. He developed both a website and a traveling exhibit about some of the more recent eucharistic miracles. The following are a few of the insights this modern saint articulated about his experience of eucharistic adoration: “If we go out in the sun, we get a suntan . . . but when we get

in front of Jesus in the Eucharist, we become saints.”

“We can find God, with his body, his soul and his divinity, present in all the tabernacles of the world! If we think about it, we are more fortunate than those who lived 2,000 years ago in contact with Jesus, because we have God really and substantially present with us always. It’s enough to visit the closest church! We have Jerusalem on our doorsteps.”

“I like to speak with Jesus about all that I am living and feeling.”

“To him (Jesus), I can always confide something, I can also complain, question him about his silence and tell him what I do not understand. And then, within me, I find a word that he sends me: a moment of the Gospel that fills me with conviction and certainty.”

May this past year, when many were deprived for a time from receiving holy Communion, serve to deepen our awe for the presence of Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament!

May this year’s celebration of Corpus Christi be a moment when our amazement at the miracle of the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist is deepened and renewed.

Blessed Carlo Acutis, pray for us!

THE SHEPHERD’S VOICE 8:30 a.m. Sundays on 92.9 FM and KEXS AM 1090 Encore Monday at 11:30 a.m.

LOCAL NEWS

APRIL 30, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

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JUSTICE FOR ALL

Faith communities organize for social justice concerns Register to participate “ JUSTICE IS PART OF OUR “

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Archdiocesan Catholics are joining with others of good will to act in the spirit of the Psalm that says: “Defend the lowly and fatherless; render justice to the afflicted and needy” (82:3).

Pastors and laypeople from parishes in Wyandotte and Johnson counties will participate in two “Rethinking Justice” workshops. The goal is for participants to becoming active in two faith-based advocacy organizations, yet unnamed, that were formed in January 2020 to address social justice issues.

The workshops, which are ecumenical and interfaith events, will be held via two Zoom video conferences: one from 6-7:45 p.m. on May 11, or an alternate 6-7:45 p.m. on May 13.

Representatives from at least 65 faith organizations — parishes, congregations and synagogues — are expected to participate. The workshops are free and open to whomever wishes to attend, but participants must register (see registration information in box at right).

The workshops will introduce the goals and methods of these organizations to lay leaders, so they can get involved and promote them in their own faith communities.

The events are being sponsored by the archdiocesan office of social justice, the Central States Synod for the Evangelical Lutheran Church of America, the Great Plains United Methodist Church Conference, the Kansas Episcopal Diocese and the Kansas City Jewish Community Relations Bureau.

The workshops have three objectives, said Ben MacConnell, event coordinator

FAITH. IT’S A BIBLICAL MANDATE. WE’RE CALLED TO MAKE THIS WORLD A BETTER PLACE. FATHER GREG HAMMES PASTOR OF PRINCE OF PEACE PARISH, OLATHE

and a member of Justice Matters, a faithbased advocacy organization in Lawrence. “[The first is] an exploration into the biblical call for justice,” said MacConnell. “The second, helping participants understand the difference between doing justice and providing mercy or charity . . . and the third, to demonstrate how congregations can successfully do justice when they come together.”

Most of the workshops will consist of presentations, but there will also be opportunities for participants to break out into small groups to discuss what they have heard, and then rejoin the larger group to report on their discussions.

Workshop presenters include Bishop Ruben Saenz of the Great Plains United Methodist Conference; Bishop Cathleen Bascom of the Kansas Episcopal Diocese; Father Greg Hammes, pastor of Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe; and Doctor Jason Thompson, pastor of the First AME Church in Kansas City, Kansas.

“This an opportunity for pastors, who have been meeting in Johnson and Wyandotte counties, to build an organization

like Justice Matters in their communities,” said MacConnell. “This is an opportunity for [pastors] to include their lay leaders as an introduction to justice ministry.”

Like JUMP (Justice Unity and Ministry Project) in Topeka and Justice Matters in Lawrence, the new organizations in Wyandotte and Johnson counties will be affiliated with the DART (Direct Action Research Training) Center, a national network of faith-based community advocacy organizations with affiliates in nine states.

The effort to establish organizations in Wyandotte and Johnson counties began the United Methodist Great Plains Conference, said Bishop Saenz.

“In 2019, our Justice and Mercy group brought forth the need for community- based organizing assistance. And at that time, we met with WORC (Western Organization of Resource Councils) and DART,” said Bishop Saenz. “Both directors met with our annual conference.

And they laid out a proposal where we could start community-based organizations in our urban areas.”

The United Methodist Conference decided to join with other faith communities in Wyandotte and Johnson counties to create DART-affiliated organizations.

Father Greg Hammes was involved with JUMP as pastor of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka. Like the program there, the organizations in Wyandotte and Johnson counties will organize people of faith through their communities to first identify local issues, research solutions and advocate for solutions. The goal is to make communities more just.

“Usually [the organization advocates] for one issue a year,” said Father Hammes.

President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) Published weekly September through May, excepting the Friday the week after Thanksgiving, and the Friday after Christmas; biweekly June through August. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; fax: (913) 7215276; or email at: sub@theleaven.org. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $21/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

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The Rethinking Justice workshop is free, but you must register to participate: • May 11, 6-7:45 p.m.; go online to: bit.ly/rethinkingjustice • May 13, 6-7:45 p.m. (alternate session); go online to: bit.ly/rethinking justiceworkshop

The solution to the identified problem, he said, is often discovered in the way some other community has already addressed it and it has proven to work.

“And then we have to work with local government and other stakeholders to make it happen [here],” he said.

This fall, the workshop participants will lead members of their faith communities in a series of house meetings where community issues will be raised.

In November, the representatives of the faith communities in Wyandotte and Johnson counties will hold assemblies, where they will decide on the names of their organizations and their priority issues. The organization staff, clergy and lay leaders will then conduct intensive research into those issues and develop solutions.

Father Hammes said Catholics should get involved.

“Justice is part of our faith,” he said.

“It’s a biblical mandate. We’re called to make this world a better place and to love our neighbor. And we can love our neighbor who is hurting by doing mercy ministries by alleviating that pain in the moment, and by making the world a better place so they don’t hurt in the first place, by changing the way things work — our systems.”

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

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

4

LOCAL NEWS

APRIL 30, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Join our seminarians for a night of virtual fun — and trivia!

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Riddle me this: What has trivia but is absolutely not trivial?

That would be the annual Seminarian Trivia Night, a fundraising effort to support our seminarians, which will take place from 6:30-9 p.m. on May 26.

The theme this year is: “An Ordination Celebration.” It’s sponsored by the archdiocesan vocation office.

Since the annual event’s revival in 2019, the Seminarian Trivia Night has featured fun, prizes and opportunities to meet the young men who could be at your parish’s altar someday.

This year’s event features the same — but with a twist.

The trivia night is going virtual, thanks to ongoing efforts to deal with the COVID pandemic.

Actually, this is a good thing, explained Father Dan Morris, archdiocesan vocation director.

“In previous years, we’ve been limited in space and by capacity — the number of tables we could fit in the parish hall at St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood,” he said. “That was about 30 tables.”

Because the event is virtual, not only can there be more teams, but there can also be teams from all over the archdiocese.

“Last year, we had to max out at 30 teams,” said Father Morris. “This year, we hope to have each parish have no less than one team represented. . . . We’d like to get up to 75 or 100 teams participating.”

“At the end of the day,” he added, “to

The Seminarian Trivia Night is going virtual from 6:30-9 p.m. on May 26, allowing teams from all over the archdiocese to take part in the event. celebrate the ordination of men to the priesthood for the archdiocese is really a celebration that the whole church should embrace.”

Beth Bracken, director of Christian formation at St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, has been an enthusiastic participant in past trivia nights.

“We enjoy getting together,” said Bracken. “It’s just a lot of fun. Best of all, we support the seminarians and get to know them as well — to know who we’re praying for. So, the next time you pass by a vocation poster, you can say, ‘That’s the guy who was at our table.’ It helps us remember them, and them to remember us.”

This year, the teams will gather as small groups at their preferred location — a home, a parish or somewhere else — and be linked via Zoom to the “main

station” and master of ceremonies Jerry Wonderlich, a member of St. Michael the Archangel. He and his scoring team will run the event. The experience will be sort of like a TV game show.

Parishioners are urged to sign up early via the trivia night website so they can purchase tickets, participate in the 50-50 raffle, bid on the silent auction items and — in a change from previous years — bid on a seminarian for the night.

During previous trivia nights, the seminarians would circulate during the seven rounds to visit each table. This year, the teams with the highest bids get the privilege of hosting a seminarian at their team gathering.

About 18 seminarians are participating in the auction. One of them is George Rhodes, now attending Kenrick-

Glennon Seminary in St. Louis.

Why should participants bid on him?

“Because I’m the most fun guy there is to hang out with,” he said modestly.

Actually, all the seminarians are fun guys, and they’re all very grateful for the financial and moral support archdiocesan Catholics give them as they study and go through formation, he added.

Of course, all the questions for trivia night will be brilliant, witty, entertaining, profound and catechetical — written by Father Morris and Msgr. Michael Mullen, co-director of seminarians.

“Each round will contain one question that opens up a conversation about something [participants] may not know about our archdiocese, vocations, discernment or the priesthood,” said Father Morris.

Which means it would be worth a high bid to make sure you get a seminarian on your team!

Each round will feature cash prizes consisting of $25 gift cards — one for those 18 years and younger, and one for those 19 years old and older. There will also be a grand prize awarded that night.

To participate, contact your pastor to form teams or sign up as an individual.

When you sign up on the website, you can also purchase tickets ($25 per individual), bid for a seminarian, participate in the 50-50 raffle and bid in the private auction.

The website is: one.bidpal.net/ seminarians/welcome.

“This is a great opportunity to come together as church and support this really great ministry,” said Bracken. “By taking part in the trivia night, we’re supporting our seminarians through financial gifts and letting them know we’re behind them, cheering them on and praying for them.”

Volunteer finds Earp’s commitment ‘truly inspiring’ “ THE EXPERIENCE THAT I HAVE

from a variety of circumstances.

She finds them by reaching out to women’s shelters around Kansas City.

Most often, the shelters welcome the donations with open arms, and usually Earp gets to deliver them herself.

“Some of the shelters I go to, like battered women’s shelters, want to keep their residents confidential for privacy reasons,” she said.

“For almost every other shelter, I get to meet and interact with the women,” she continued. “They get to personally pick out the purses that they like, and I’ll talk to them while they’re picking out their purses and afterwards.”

It’s been eye-opening for Earp to hear their stories.

“Sometimes, [they’ve faced] the issue of getting involved in the wrong

Marilyn (Gibson) and Tom Sell, members of Church of the Ascension Parish, Overland Park, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on May 6. The couple was married in 1961 at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Pittsburg. Their children are: Becky Mize, Overland Park; Steve Sell, Dallas; and David Sell, Leawood. They also have six grandchildren and three great-grandchildren.

“

>> Continued from page 1

HAD IS VERY MOVING AND GRATIFYING. IT OPENS YOUR EYES UP TO SEE WHAT GOES ON IN OUR WORLD. AMY LONG PURSES TO PERSEVERE KC VOLUNTEER relationships,” she said. “Or it’s an unfortunate turn of events, like losing a job, and then they lose everything after that job’s lost.”

Earp always prays for the women on her way to meet them.

Donna (Seufert) and Randall “Randy” Rohner will celebrate their 50th we d d i n g a n n ive r sary on May 1 with a family celebration hosted by their children. Their children are: Craig Rohner, Corey Rohner, Curt Rohner and Kayla Peek. The couple was married at St. Patrick Church, Kansas City, Kansas, on May 1, 1971, by Father Vincent Kongs.

“I thank God for everything that he’s given me to be able to help these people,” she said. “And that he’s put this vocation and this drive in my life to go out and serve these people.”

Aquinas junior and volunteer Amy Long is also thankful for the opportunity to help women in this way.

During the Christmas season, she brings presents filled with food and hygiene items to homeless shelters in Kansas City. When she heard about Purses to Persevere during a purse drive at Aquinas, it seemed like the perfect fit.

“The experience that I have had is very moving and gratifying,” said Long.

“It opens your eyes up to see what goes on in our world.

“It’s crazy to think how many people are in need, and seeing the people’s faces when receiving the items is so moving. It

Sue

and Andrew Dubill, members of Curé of Ars Parish, Leawood, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on May 1. The couple was married on May 1, 1971, at St. Raphael Church, Bay Village, Ohio. Their children are: Erika Dubill Hile, David Dubill and Daniel Dubill. They also have eight grandchildren. Family members will attend Mass and enjoy a special family dinner with them on their anniversary.

makes your heart extremely happy.”

For Cole, the experience has been “unlike any other.”

“It made me realize how often I take things for granted — simple things like personal hygiene — and it definitely has impacted my life in a positive way,” she said.

Seeing the impact Earp has had on the community in such a short time is “truly inspiring,” added Cole.

“Her care for these women is very motivating and makes me want to be a better person,” she said. “I cannot give her enough credit for all the work that she has put into this.”

Earp is grateful for the support of her peers and hopes her efforts inspire other young people to go after their goals.

“You can make a difference at any age,” she said.

(McDonald)

ANNIVERSARY submissions POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas DEADLINE: 10 days before the desired publication date.

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES: • Emailed photos need to be 200 dpi or 200 KB in size.

WHERE TO SUBMIT: Email: todd.habiger@theleaven.org.

LOCAL NEWS

APRIL 30, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Deacon Michael Hill, right, of the first cohort of deacons in the archdiocese, said the last 10 years have brought a “deeper, richer” prayer life and a deeper understanding of the complexities of the lives of others.

5

Deacon Jim Lavin, left, who serves at Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park and as chaplain at Catholic Community Hospice, said the past 10 years as a deacon have been “challenging, rewarding and humbling.”

First cohort looks back on first 10 years as deacons

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

K

LEAVEN PHOTOS BY JAY SOLDNER

Deacon Tom Mulvenon receives Communion from Father Greg Hammes, associate director of the archdiocesan permanent diaconate office. Deacon Mulvenon said his ministry has made him “a better deacon, a better husband and a better guy all around.”

“

“

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — The ordination of the first cohort of permanent deacons in the history of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas was kind of like America’s early space program.

It hadn’t been done here before. The stakes were high, and failure would have been catastrophic for the program.

Did these pioneering men have “the right stuff”?

“Because we never had permanent deacons in the archdiocese before cohort one was ordained,” said Leon Suprenant, co-director of the archdiocesan office of the permanent diaconate, “people didn’t know that much about them.

“A lot of people hadn’t experienced permanent deacons on a regular basis and didn’t know what they were supposed to do.”

The historic first cohort (group) of Msgr. Gary Apple17 permanent deagate was instrucons was ordained mental in getting the program start- on April 9, 2011, by ed in the archdio- Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann at St. Micese. chael the Archangel Parish in Leawood.

Ten years later, the answer is obvious: Yes, they did.

“Because we were buoyed by their success, witness and example, they’ve been instructive in helping us create a vision for our diaconate program, and they had a huge impact in the formation of subsequent cohorts,” said Suprenant.

Ten year later, 15 members of that first group are still in active ministry.

On April 10, they gathered with their families at Savior Pastoral Center in Kansas City, Kansas, for a special blessing and 10th anniversary Mass celebrated by Archbishop Naumann.

Fittingly, the candidates of the fourth cohort, who were undergoing a study weekend, assisted during the liturgy as readers and acolytes. Since participation was limited due to COVID-19 restrictions, the liturgy was livestreamed for those who could not attend.

Also fittingly, they remembered and honored the man who designed and implemented the program for the first cohort, Msgr. Gary Applegate. Now living at Villa St. Francis in Olathe, he could not attend due to health considerations.

“Everyone in the permanent diaconate program, particularly the men in cohort one, owe a great deal to Msgr.

Applegate in getting the program started here,” said Suprenant. “Not only was he the instrumental, pivotal player in the formation of cohort one, he also set up things so when I came in and began working with cohort two, there was

IT HAS HELPED ME GROW WITHIN THE FAITH, IT’S HELPED ME GROW WITHIN THE CHURCH, IT’S HELPED ME GROW IN THE MINISTRY OF WHAT CHRIST SET FORTH WHEN HE SENT THE APOSTLES OUT . . . IN SERVICE TO THE PEOPLE OF GOD. DEACON GEORGE KARNAZE

something of a template in place.

“When he began cohort one, he was working from scratch. We had nothing.

And he had many other responsibilities at the time, too. In spite of that, he was able to get started and we have some remarkable deacons who received their formation under his watchful eye. The archdiocese will always be grateful for his service.”

Today, the office of the permanent diaconate is headed by co-directors Suprenant and Father Gary Pennings, and by associate director Father Gregory Hammes.

Deacon George Karnaze, a member of the first cohort, said it has been “10 years of growth, knowledge, discernment and humility.”

“It’s been more than what I expected,”

said Deacon Karnaze, who serves at Immaculate Conception Parish in Louisburg.

“It has helped me grow within the faith, it’s helped me grow within the church, it’s helped me grow in the ministry of what Christ set forth when he sent the apostles out . . . in service to the people of God. I look forward to the next few years and working with my fellow deacons.”

Deacon Michael Hill, also of the first cohort, said the last 10 years have brought a “deeper, richer” prayer life and a deeper understanding of the complexities of the lives of others. It has become a part of his identity.

“You’re a deacon 24 hours a day, seven days a week, 365 days a year,” said Deacon Hill, who serves at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas. “It’s one of my favorite things I tell people who are seeking aspirancy.

You’re always going to be a deacon. It leaves an indelible mark on you.

“That seems to, over the past 10 years, have animated my life. It allows me to be a guidepost along the way — what should I as a deacon do? So, in that way, it animates my character, preaching the word by the way I live.”

Since being ordained 10 years ago, his ministry has made him “a better deacon, a better husband and a better guy all around,” said Deacon Tom Mulvenon, a member of the first cohort.

Since he retired, he’s been serving in full-time ministry at St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee.

“I think with ordination my character became more aligned with Christ the servant,” said Deacon Mulvenon.

“The more a man exercises the office of deacon, the more he strengthens the character that is already there. It reinforces who you are at the get-go.”

Deacon Jim Lavin, who serves at Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park and as chaplain at Catholic Community Hospice, said the past 10 years have been “challenging, rewarding and humbling,” but he couldn’t imagine doing anything else.

“I’ve learned to appreciate life’s little humiliations to keep my pride and ego in check,” said Deacon Lavin. “You get that as a deacon and I think it’s good, because it’s not about who we are but the ministry we do.”

“We are ordained to serve, not to be served,” he continued. “I’m always deferring to the pastor, the archbishop and the needs of the parishioners. If there’s one thing I would tell people in formation now, it’s awesome to be a deacon, but it’s not about you — and if you forget that, you will be shown that with little humiliations that you will learn to appreciate.”

The archdiocese now has more than 60 permanent deacons and, this fall, will begin the formation of the fifth cohort.

“With each new cohort, I get 20 new friends who are remarkable, generous, apostolic, Catholic men from a variety of backgrounds,” said Suprenant. “We have this growing community of men who do so much for the church, love the church and are willing to back up that love by committing their lives to this ministry.”

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FAMILY LIFE

APRIL 30, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Feel the fire of a first communicant again

By Deacon Tony Zimmerman Special to The Leaven

I

n my home parish, this is the time of year that we celebrate the reception of first holy Communion by our young children.

It was a joyful moment to see the children nicely dressed and waiting to reTOOLS FOR ceive the body FAMILIES and blood of Growing as Our Lord from Disciples of the priest. After Jesus the quiet time following Communion, our pastor addressed the children one more time to remind them that this was an incredibly special day in their lives.

As if on cue, the sun broke through the clouds filling the church with bright sunlight. The pastor remarked to the children how this bright sunlight was another affirmation of this great day in their lives. How did he arrange that special effect?!

One of the effects of keeping safe during the pandemic has been Mass without people or Mass with a restricted crowd size. For many, it has become a way of life to “watch” the Mass via livestream.

While we pray for spiritual communion with the Lord, our hearts should be “burning” as were the hearts of those who encountered Our Lord on the way to Emmaus in the breaking of the bread. It is in the Eucharist that we receive at Mass that Jesus becomes truly present in our hearts and souls.

So, how will we recover that urgency, those hearts burning with desire for Jesus, which floods our lives with light in the same way those first communicants experienced it that Sunday morning?

Start at the beginning: • As parents and grandparents, share with your children and grandchildren your memories of your first holy Communion. How did you feel getting dressed up for your special day?

• How did you feel waiting to receive Our Lord from the priest?

• How did you feel kneeling with your family or classmates after receiving Communion?

• How did your family celebrate that day?

Reflecting on your life since that time: • Have you ever experienced a burning in your heart to receive Our Lord in Communion?

• Have you ever experienced the kind of moment that the apostles felt when they encountered Jesus on the seashore after his resurrection, which made you exclaim as did St. John, “It is the Lord!”

• Do you desire to have that urgency that St. Peter experienced as he jumped out of the boat to approach Jesus?

Try meditating on the Gospel individually and as a family prior to Sunday Mass. Ask the Holy Spirit to set ablaze in your heart an eagerness to encounter Jesus in holy Communion.

ACROSS 1 Hoopla 4 Buck 8 University (abbr.)

12 Fall mo.

13 Aura 14 Punctuation mark 16 Corns (2 wds.)

18 Five __ and three fishes 20 Flub 21 Saul, later 23 Time period 24 Transgression 25 Cot 26 Smooth 27 Place for the wicked 29 British traveling bag 32 Poem 33 Mists 34 Spring flowers 38 Biblical disease 40 One of Jesus’ 12 41 Tempt 42 Genghis __ 43 Rowing tool 44 Famous falls 46 Green Gables dweller 47 __, frankincense and myrrh 50 Official 51 Vane direction COPYRIGHT © BY CLIFF LEITCH, THE CHRISTIAN BIBLE REFERENCE SITE, WWW.CHRISTIANBIBLEREFERENCE.ORG. USED BY PERMISSION

52 To be in debt 53 Thy word is a __ unto my feet 55 Rover 58 Nap raiser 60 Survivor of fiery furnace 63 Had by Joseph, Joseph and magi 64 One of the Gospels 65 Snooze 66 Dozes 67 Ripe 68 Test DOWN 1 Stake 2 Entryway 3 Broken alarm result 4 Trimmed off the wool 5 Sticky black substance 6 Brew 7 First 4 books of NT 8 Organization concerned with civil liberties (abbr.)

9 Awesome!

10 Wing 11 State capital 15 A Roman emperor 17 Dirty 19 __ Francisco 22 Count 25 Evil spirit

26 Evils 27 Sock’s wound 28 Eve’s garden 29 Book after Daniel 30 I am the __ and the Omega 31 Daniel was thrown into the

__s’ den 33 Central points 35 Reconciliation 36 Family group 37 Withered 39 Peel 40 Retired persons association (abbr.)

42 Uganda capital 45 Chicle 46 Soon 47 Received 48 Payable 49 Memorize 51 Concluded 53 Bounce 54 Charity 56 Seaweed substance 57 Foolish 59 Ocean 61 Irritate 62 Stretch to make do Solution on page 15

LOCAL NEWS

APRIL 30, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

7 Assignment Father John A. Riley, chancellor, announces the following appointment made by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann: Deacon John Williams, from diaconal ministry at St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, to diaconal ministry at Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, effective May 1.

Statement

W PHOTO BY FAITH THOMAS

Matt Thomas, assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 6067 in Lenexa and a parishioner of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, accepts the Bronze Pelican adult leader award for his contributions to Catholic Scout development over the last year. Thomas created the online Ad Altare Dei program for the archdiocese, focusing on making the award more accessible to Catholic girls and boys in non-Catholic BSA chartered troops.

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Scouts celebrate a year of firsts at Scouting religious awards Mass

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — For Catholic Scouting in the archdiocese, 2021 marked a year of celebration and innovation. Even though troops took precautions, limited their activities and kept social distancing due to COVID-19, their leaders got creative in bringing respective Catholic enrichment programs to their youth.

At the annual Scouting Awards Mass held at the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas, on April 18, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and concelebrant Father Shawn Tunink celebrated the Eucharist and the accomplishments of Scouts in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

This Mass was the culmination of a year of firsts for both the American Heritage Girls (AHG) program and Scouts BSA (formerly known as the Boy Scouts of America).

In 2020, two new Catholic-focused awards were launched in the AHG program: Ten girls earned the Deus et Civita Mea (God and My Community) award at the Pioneer level; and four girls earned the Femina Integritatis (Woman of Integrity) award at the Patriot level.

“I am so proud that despite COVID19, we were able to launch the very first year of the new American Heritage Girls Catholic faith awards,” said Tonya Gast, AHG KS0138 leadership mentor and chair pro tempore of the Catholic Committee of Scouting for the archdiocese. “These programs have never been taught before, so it was a real accomplishment to not only teach them for the first time, but to do it creatively through Zoom classes. There were challenges, of course, but the benefit was that we brought

Coming up American Heritage Girls: Registration for the Catholic Faith awards will be held in August, with an in-person kickoff night in September.

Boy Scouts of America: Scouts should check with their troop to see if they will be conducting AAD sessions. They may also contact the Catholic Committee on Scouting to help find them a class.

They will also hold online classes once again for Catholic Scouts in non-Catholic units. Sign-up will start in August and conclude with the Holy Smokes family campout on Sept 10-12.

For more information about Catholic Scouting in the archdiocese, visit the website at: www. archkck.org/scouts.

together girls from various geographic areas so they could complete the classes with girls their age.”

At the adult level, five leaders earned the St. Elizabeth Ann Seton award for their service in bringing Catholic ideals to the girls in the program.

In 2020, the Catholic Committee on Scouting launched an online program for the Ad Altare Dei (To the Altar of God) award through the homegrown efforts of volunteers in the archdiocese, and the newly launched online AAD manual by the National Catholic Committee on Scouting.

Typically, AAD classes are held in person over an eight-week period.

However, due to the pandemic, most troops paused in-person classes. In the end, 29 Scouts earned their AAD award (27 online; two in person).

Even more special is that this event marked the first-time since girls were welcomed into the Scouts BSA program in 2019, that seven girls in the archdiocese have earned their AAD. “This year was pretty special, and I send my congratulations to all of the Scouts who took a leap of faith and joined the online AAD program, especially the seven trailblazing girls who are new to the Scouts BSA program,” said Matt Thomas, creator of the online AAD program and assistant Scoutmaster of Troop 6067 in Lenexa. “Creating the online program as an outreach to Catholic Scouts in non-Catholic troops was a big win for Catholic Scouting in our region.”

Additional recognitions included one Scout who was recognized with the Pillars of Faith award for earning all Catholic religious emblems offered in the Cub Scout and Scout BSA programs. A Cub Pack and Scout Troop were also recognized for earning the Pope Paul VI Catholic Unit of Excellence award.

At the adult level, three leaders earned the Bronze Pelican award for service to Catholic Scouting, and one leader earned the St. George award, which recognizes adults for their continued commitment to the Catholic Scouting program.

“I am so thankful that we took the leap of faith and brought these kids together for the AHG and BSA faith awards,” said Gast. “Planning the retreat was a little nerve-wracking at times, but Prairie Star Ranch . . . came through for us and helped us hold a beautiful retreat. Looking out at the cathedral full of Scouting youth and their parents was an awesome sight.”

ith deep sorrow for the suffering of victims and survivors of abuse, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas (“archdiocese”) announces that Rev. John Fiala, a priest of the Archdiocese of Omaha who died in 2017, has recently been the subject of a substantiated allegation of sexual abuse of a minor while he was serving at St. Dominic Parish, Holton, Kansas.

In making this announcement, the archdiocese reaffirms its commitment to all who have been harmed by an agent of the Church, to atone for the harm and to accompany survivors using restorative processes as they work toward healing and peace.

The archdiocese first received an allegation about Father Fiala in 2010, stemming from abuse alleged to have occurred outside the archdiocese.

Father Fiala’s priestly faculties were already suspended by that time. Father Fiala previously served in the archdiocese at St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, Kansas, from August 2001 to January 2002, and St. Dominic Parish, Holton, Kansas, from January 2002 to April 2002. In 2019, The archdiocese published a comprehensive list of priests who had credible allegations of abuse which included Father Fiala.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann urges anyone harmed by Father Fiala to contact both civil authorities and the archdiocese. To report allegations of abuse, contact the Kansas Protection Report Center at (800) 922-5330.

If there is immediate danger or someone is injured, call local law enforcement as well. If the suspected abuse or misconduct involves an archdiocesan cleric, employee or volunteer, please also contact the Confidential Report Line at (913) 647-3051 or www.archkck. org/reportabuse.

Continuing education program offered

K

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas is providing a Catholic-centered Continuing Education (CE) program for those in the fields of law, accounting, financial planning and insurance on June 4 via a Zoom webinar. Cost is $75. For more information and to register, visit the website at: https://www.cfnek.org/events/ sttomasmorecontinuingeducationprogram.

The program begins with Mass celebrated by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann at 8 a.m. and concludes at 1:30 p.m.

There are numerous CE credits being offered for both Kansas and Missouri. Specific topics and much more detailed information can be found at the website listed above.

MOTHERHOOD TA

The pandemic gave my family a new narrative — one o

By Shemaiah Gonzalez Catholic News Service

I

s it just me or does every mother feel as if we are just winging it?

Motherhood is the ultimate “on the job training.” We read all the books, ask advice from more “seasoned” mothers than us, but nothing could have prepared us for mothering this year. There isn’t an issue of “What to Expect When Parenting Through a Pandemic.”

As COVID-19 engulfed our country, our lives and our faith, I felt myself submerged by fear — fear for myself, for my family and specifically for my children.

I tried not to let that fear crack through my facade, but I saw it reflected in the faces of my two sons as they looked to me for reassurance. I knew then that I could not let fear overtake me.

We needed to create a new narrative in our family story: one of resilience.

Even in families like mine, where husbands share the load of household commitments, I knew I needed to set a tone for our home before we fell into despair.

I knew my sons were looking to my husband and me for security and to remind them that they were safe.

Frankly, at the beginning of the pandemic, I didn’t know if they were safe.

But I knew that only God could provide us comfort if we were not. I knew we needed fortification.

Without Mass or our parish activities or Catholic school services, it was up to me to establish that rhythm of liturgy in our home. We began to read, pray and reflect as a family in a way that we never had before.

We began each day with a Scripture reading, a story of a saint, prayer and a song. Through this rhythm I taught my sons not to be fearful. I thought of fear as another communicable disease. Just as a mother inoculates her children against diseases which infect their bodies, I worked to protect their hearts, souls and minds.

I taught my children not to be fearful.

I taught them that fear is not from God. We only fear God himself. We remembered how each time an angel appears he said, “Fear not!” And we memorized grounding passages like, “There is no fear in love, but perfect love drives out fear” (1 Jn 4:18) or “For God did not give us a spirit of cowardice but rather of power and love and self-control” (2 Tm 1:7). We called upon these passages to calm us when fear came to engulf us.

We also read stories of saints who had gone through trials. These ordinary people stood firm in their faith and had the courage to answer God’s call. This made them extraordinary. It made them saints. We read about others like Anne Frank, Corrie ten Boom and Dietrich Bonhoeffer, who faced adversity with grace and strength. These stories revealed to us how easy we had it.

It is not as if I did not have my struggles, but as a leader in my house, I knew I could not fall into despair. Children are sensitive to their parents’ emotional life.

And in my home, they are especially sensitive to mine.

I knew sometimes it was OK to let them see me struggle, because they too were struggling. But sometimes, I needed to guard them and find space to express these emotions away from my children. I learned this from one of Corrie ten Boom’s stories.

s Melanie Gagnon hugs her mom Barbara Schmalenberger of Hilliard, Ohio, after she received the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine March 2 at the OSU Wexner Medical Center in Columbus, Ohio. u A mom in Los Angeles carries her son and groceries May 9, 2020, amid the coronavirus pandemic. Nothing could have prepared women for what mothering during a pandemic would be like.

Ten Boom was a Christian who hid Jews during World War II. This eventually led to her own imprisonment in a concentration camp. Never did she lose her faith or her joy. So much of her joyful outlook on life and faith can be credited to her father.

Once on a train ride as a child, she asked her father a very grown-up question. Instead of answering it, her father asked her to carry their luggage. The luggage was large and heavy. She told her father she could not. It was too heavy.

Her father told her that he wouldn’t be a good father if he asked a little girl to carry such a load and that it was the same thing with knowledge.

“Some knowledge is too heavy for children,” he said. “When you are older and stronger, you can bear it. For now, you must trust me to carry it for you.”

I use this story when my children ask questions about the world . . . pandemic or no pandemic. Sometimes, I answer the question, but sometimes I say, “It’s too much information for a little person to carry. You must trust me to carry it for you.”

This story has been a helpful tool. After hearing the story, they know what I am referring to. They trust me to reveal an appropriate amount of information. When they press me for more information, I say,

“Ask me again in a (month, six months, year), and I’ll see if your mind and heart are strong enough for more information.”

It has been an interesting year but not a bad one. Changing our family narrative

AKES MANY FORMS

of resilience

CNS PHOTO/COURTESY ANNE-MARIE MINNIS

Anne-Marie Minnis is the coordinator of events and communication for the office of vocations in the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia. If physical motherhood is giving physical birth, spiritual motherhood is nurturing the soul of the person, as well as mothering those to whom you did not give birth.

My love-hate relationship with spiritual motherhood

By Anne-Marie Minnis Catholic News Service

CNS PHOTO/GAELEN MORSE, REUTERS

CNS PHOTO/PATRICK T. FALLON, REUTERS

has been the key.

Gonzalez is a freelance writer. Her website is: www.shemaiahgonzalez.com.

“S

tand up,” my husband nudged me.

I gritted my teeth and stood in my pew. It was Mother’s Day, the annual “blessing of all the mothers” at the end of Mass, and it made me nauseous.

“We bless all of you who are mothers, grandmothers, godmothers, aunts, teachers, spiritual mothers,” continued the priest. He might as well throw in truck drivers, I muttered.

In our world where every child gets a participation award, spiritual motherhood often feels like a consolation prize. As might be apparent, I have a love-hate relationship with the concept.

On the one hand, it conjures up the beauty of caring for souls. If physical motherhood is giving physical birth, spiritual motherhood — which can be exercised by women whether they physically give birth or not — is nurturing the soul of the person, as well as mothering those to whom you did not give birth.

Having worked in ministry for many years before marriage, I certainly have nurtured souls. And having nine younger brothers and sisters and 37 nieces and nephews, including six godchildren, you would think that spiritual motherhood would be something easy and natural for me.

But hearing on Mother’s Day, “You’re a spiritual mother to so many!” doesn’t cure the emptiness

(that never seems to go away) of not having children of your own.

“But you get to travel!” is an even worse consolation. How could the most luxurious vacation or exotic adventure possibly compare with the privilege of giving life to and raising another human being?

I continually tell myself (and beg God to remind me) that, if he thinks I can be fulfilled as a woman without my own children, why do I keep insisting I need them? Like everything else in the spiritual life, spiritual motherhood makes no sense unless viewed from God’s perspective.

The word that comes to mind when I think of spiritual motherhood is “intentionality”: We have to choose it. The kids aren’t melting down at my feet clamoring to be held or whining that they’re hungry as I rush to get dinner on the table.

For a spiritual mother, the “child” could be a niece 1,200 miles away struggling to adapt to high school; or a carless student at the grad school where I worked calling early on Sunday morning for a ride to urgent care; or a woman in the Bible study I run who needs a hug and a reminder that God loves her —­so she’s better equipped to go home and love her family.

If I let him, God expands my heart to love and pray for not only the souls of my immediate family, but any he puts before me. Not having the daily tasks of child rearing, I have more time to pray, to run a women’s group at my parish and serve at our vocation camps in the summer. My husband and I can be available to counsel friends or

family members who simply need some advice or support.

And if I let him, God can fulfill me in these roles as well.

My work in the vocations office probably provides the most tangible examples of this. I get to organize our “Quo Vadis” and “FIAT” events for high school kids, providing opportunities for them to grow closer to God and think about their future vocation.

At our “FIAT” summer camp, I serve alongside religious Sisters as they exercise their spiritual motherhood, and then can give dating advice to the college-aged staffer who admits she’s been “discerning a vocation” for years because she’s not sure how to talk to boys.

Most beautifully, I get to walk with our seminarians, trying to put them at ease before their first meeting with the vocations director, encouraging and praying for them through their application process and seminary years, then being elated at their ordination.

What a beautiful day that always is! One year, as the newly ordained processed out of the cathedral, a co-worker noticed my moist eyes and said, “You’re a proud mama.”

Thank you, Lord, yes, that’s what I am.

Minnis is the coordinator of events and communication for the office of vocations in the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia, where she lives with her husband of 10 years, Jim. They work hard to keep up with their extensive family, including 37 nieces and nephews.

10

NATION

APRIL 30, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

In-person Mass feels more ‘grace-filled,’ says Oregon parishioner

By Ed Langlois Catholic News Service

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CNS PHOTO/ED LANGLOIS, CATHOLIC SENTINEL

Father John Henderson distributes Communion at St. Anthony Church in Tigard, Oregon, March 28 amid the coronavirus pandemic.

“

ORTLAND, Ore. (CNS) — It took courage for Leilani Arellano to return to Mass, but she is glad to be back.

Over the summer, Arellano had COVID-19 and she still cannot breathe quite right. The prospect of worshiping in a room full of people, even properly distanced and masked, made her uneasy.

But Father John Henderson and the rest of the staff at St. Anthony Parish in Tigard remained so consistent and open-hearted in their outreach during the pandemic and so fastidious and firm on the rules for returning to Mass that Arellano felt both wanted and safe.

During each Mass at St. Anthony, in a suburb outside of Portland and one of the largest parishes in the state, Father Henderson and other priests thoroughly explain safety procedures and the safest technique for receiving Communion.

“It was hard for me to come into Mass,” Arellano said. “But they have done a really good job for those who are panicked and scared as I was. It feels good to be in person, honestly. It feels a lot more grace-filled than sitting in front of a computer.”

Father Henderson opted to accept the pandemic as an opportunity for conversion. He started with himself, asking how he could grow closer to the Lord during a time of fear and isolation. Then he prayed about the entire 3,600-family parish and its three big language groups: English, Spanish and Vietnamese.

“I feel we have to come out of this with a kind of newness, a freshness,” he said. “It’s not just about sitting back and saying, ‘Where is everybody?’ My goal is to really evangelize, to really bring the Lord to people.”

To bring the whole parish together and build new zeal for worship, he changed the Mass schedule so that different language communities brush against each other more. A Sunday evening Mass will include multiple languages. He is working to build intercultural relationships that foster both prayer and discipleship.

“Coming back to church is not just a day but it’s a longer path,” he told the Catholic Sentinel, archdiocesan newspaper of Portland.

While parishioners were quarantined, he began to think of the yearround homebound and their needs.

Livestreamed liturgy will continue with a permanent multi-camera system.

But Father Henderson makes it clear

“ I FEEL WE HAVE TO COME OUT OF THIS WITH A KIND OF NEWNESS, A FRESHNESS. IT’S NOT JUST ABOUT SITTING BACK AND SAYING, ‘WHERE IS EVERYBODY?’ MY GOAL IS TO REALLY EVANGELIZE. FATHER JOHN HENDERSON PASTOR, ST. ANTHONY PARISH, TIGARD, OREGON that the healthy ought to attend Mass in person as soon as they can.

“We Catholics have the power of the Eucharist,” he said. “We need the body and blood of Christ to give us that strength and nourishment. It’s not just about being entertained or watching some television show. It’s about your involvement, your engagement, your connecting. Eucharist is a community effort.”

Father Henderson explained that nothing like Mass in person can reveal the reality that parishioners need each

other and must serve one another and the wider community. The parish recently hired a coordinator of social justice, and early in the pandemic, it offered rent assistance to parishioners in $500 increments.

St. Anthony will retain the Zoom option to make faith formation sessions more accessible, especially to those who work all day and would struggle to get to the parish for an evening class. Father Henderson calls Zoom “a new tool to help people come to know the Lord.”

Parishioners appreciate the innovation and say it increases the sense of belonging.

“There’s been a lot of staying in touch, a lot of programs that were presented online, and I found that really wonderful,” said parishioner Losia Radominski. “There were a lot of Zoom series with films and then with discussions. In fact, I grew closer to some people because of the discussions we had.”

For her part, Radominski is working on a few friends who say they are getting accustomed to the convenience of viewing liturgy from home. “I told them, ‘You know, you do have to go out to people. That is part of our Christianity.’”

Father Scott Baier, parochial vicar,

who serves the large Hispanic community, said the pandemic has “underscored for us that when we are isolated and we don’t have communication with one another, we really suffer.”

He thinks some parishioners may not return to Mass because they are accustomed to doing other things on Sundays.

He was the celebrant at a funeral Mass recently where 60 or 70 people could attend safely. The liturgy showed him the power of in-person worship.

“I could just tell after the Mass that they had connected with God,” he said.

“All of their anxiety was kind of gone.”

Miriam Marston, director of faith formation at the parish, said a practical key to keeping parishioners engaged during the pandemic has been fostering small faith communities that can meet and pray online.

“Home” is Marston’s theme as she helps parishioners return to full-time and in-person participation. She asks children to call to mind the tabernacle in church with its candle always aglow.

That light, they know, is a sign that Jesus is present.

“He is home here,” she tells them.

“And this is your home, too. We want to be where he is. This is home for us.”

Several Catholic colleges will require COVID-19 vaccinations in fall

W

ASHINGTON (CNS) — As Catholic colleges grapple with how to reopen in the fall, many are already saying they will require their students to be vaccinated for COVID19 and some schools are also mandating that staff members be vaccinated.

“Our goal is simple and twofold: to provide a COVID-safe environment in which our students, faculty and staff can pursue our mission; and to help protect the health and safety of our off-campus neighbors,” said Jesuit Father Joseph McShane, president of Fordham University, in an April 16 letter to the college community explaining that all stu-

dents need to be vaccinated — “with some considerations for medical and religious exemptions” — by the start of the fall semester.

He noted that the pandemic year has been difficult for the campus community and its families and that the threat of COVID-19 still continues as more contagious strains are spreading.

“However, we see a path to the end of the pandemic. That path is vaccination,” he wrote. He also said the university would be providing vaccinations on campus this spring and for international students when they arrive if they were not able to be vaccinated in their home countries.

The number of private colleges

requiring COVID-19 vaccinations continues to grow, numbering about 75 on April 27 on a list updated by the Chronicle of Higher Education.

Only a handful of public universities initially said they would mandate the vaccine, but by late April, this started to change as several big universities followed the decision of University of California and California State University to require students to be vaccinated for the fall semester.

Other Catholic universities with fall COVID-19 vaccine requirements include Georgetown University in Washington, Assumption University and Holy Cross College in Worcester, Massachusetts, Boston College, Chicago’s

DePaul University and Loyola University Chicago, Seattle University, St. Mary’s University in Notre Dame, Indiana, as well as the University of Notre Dame, Trinity Washington University, the University of San Diego and Le Moyne College in Syracuse, New York.

St. Edward’s University in Austin, Texas, was one of the first colleges to announce in late March that it was requiring students and faculty to be vaccinated for COVID-19.

On its website, it says the school’s policy is “aligned with federal, state and local laws and committed to ensuring the health and safety of all students, faculty, staff, campus guests and the greater Central Texas community.”

APRIL 30, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

WORLD

11

Nuncio reassures besieged Mexican town

By David Agren Catholic News Service

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M

EXICO CITY (CNS) — Archbishop Franco Coppola, papal ambassador to Mexico, recently traveled to a town besieged by warring drug cartels to reiterate the church’s commitment to serving populations suffering violence.

The ambassador, or nuncio, also wanted to raise awareness of the situation in Aguililla, a town in western Michoacan state, where drug cartels have battled each other and blocked highways, leaving residents unable to travel freely and causing shortages of everything from food to fuel.

“We in the church cannot get involved in war, but we can tend to the wounded, to the people. My visit is to make people feel the church is close, that they’re not alone and will not be abandoned,” the nuncio said in Aguililla, where he led a procession and celebrated Mass April 23 for the people. “The church must be at the side of the people, not fleeing.”

The nuncio’s visit to Aguililla offered a brief respite from the violence gripping the region, which is being disputed by rival criminal organizations: United Cartels and the Jalisco New Generation Cartel.

The situation became so severe in Aguililla that eight bodies were found decapitated earlier in April and one cartel used a drone to drop explosives on the police. The nuncio said he shared news of the beheadings on social media and had his account temporarily suspended.

The visit also cast attention on the shocking violence of Mexico’s seemingly intractable problems with organized crime and the government’s preference to downplay what’s occurring.

Gunmen wound bishop-elect before his installation

CNS PHOTO/ALAN ORTEGA, REUTERS

Archbishop Franco Coppola, the apostolic nuncio to Mexico, gives a rosary to a child during a visit to Aguililla April 23. Drug cartels have battled each other and blocked highways in the besieged town, leaving residents unable to travel freely and causing shortages of everything from food to fuel.

Archbishop Coppola said functionaries in the Foreign Relations Secretariat asked, “Please don’t speak so much about violence in Mexico, it damages tourism.”

A spokesman for the Foreign Relations Secretariat said the request would have occurred in the administration of former President Enrique Peña Nieto, who left office Nov. 30, 2018.

Current President Andrés Manuel López Obrador, the nuncio said, has sent letters to the pope asking for assistance with “the struggle against crime and violence in Mexico. . . .

He’s asked me on various occasions for this, and the church is responding.”

The visit also highlighted the absence of the government in many conflictive corners of the country, which creates space for criminal groups to operate.

“It’s very important that what’s

happening here is known. The bad guys take advantage of silence,” Archbishop Coppola continued. “In Italy, we know the mafia flourishes where the state isn’t [present].

That’s where private interests try to take over.”

The nuncio traveled to Aguililla with Bishop Cristóbal Ascencio García of Apatzingán, taking a highway through communities hit hard by violence. Townspeople lined the route to see the churchmen travel through in a white pickup with Vatican flags and to receive blessings.

Mexican media reported state police operated five checkpoints on the highway, which had been either blocked or ripped up by criminal groups. The road closed again after the nuncio’s visit.

The situation has become so dire in Aguililla that Mexican media report more than 1,500 people have fled the region.

ATICAN CITY (CNS) — Unidentified gunmen broke into the home of the bishop-designate of Rumbek, South Sudan, shot him in both legs and fled, according to church news reports.

In stable condition after emergency surgery at a local hospital, Italian-born Bishop-designate Christian Carlassare, 43, was to be transferred to a hospital in Nairobi, Kenya, for a transfusion and further medical care, according to Fides, the news agency of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples.

“Do not pray for me but for the people of Rumbek who are suffering more than me,” said the bishop-elect, who is a Comboni missionary, in a statement reported by the Comboni mission website, Nigrizia.it.

The attack occurred shortly after midnight April 26 when two gunmen entered his residence, shot at the door of his room, and then fired at least three bullets into his legs, according to Fides. He had arrived in Rumbek April 16 after serving as vicar general of the Diocese of Malakal since 2020.

Archbishop Protase Rugambwa, secretary of the Congregation for the Evangelization of Peoples, said in a message sent to the apostolic nunciature in South Sudan that members of the dicastery felt “great sorrow” upon hearing about the attack and wished to assure the bishop-elect of their “closeness in this moment of trial and the continuous support in prayer for a speedy recovery.”

Born near Vicenza, in northern Italy, in 1977, Bishop-elect Carlassare studied in Florence and Rome and began working in what is now South Sudan in 2005, learning the Nuer language and serving in a variety of capacities, including vice provincial of the Comboni Missionaries in South Sudan.

‘Patients are . . . dying in front of my eyes,’ says India hospital director

By Anto Akkara Catholic News Service

T

HRISSUR, India (CNS) — Catholic hospital directors in India told Catholic News Service they did not have enough facilities to treat patients as India set records for the number of COVID-19 deaths — numbers many people believe were underreported.

“The situation is very bad. No beds available anywhere in the hospital. Patients are on the corridors and many are dying because no beds, no oxygen,” Father P.A. George, director of the Holy Family Hospital in New Delhi, told CNS. “I have no place even in emergency [area] to give oxygen. Patients are just dying in front of my eyes. Feeling so distressed and frustrated and helpless.

It is horrible and the disaster is beyond the imagination. Please pray to God [to] give us strength to save some lives,” said the priest, who heads the largest Catholic hospital in New Delhi.

Though the hospital has a limit of 340 beds, it is accommodating nearly 400 patients, he added.

In Gujarat state, Syro-Malabar Father Thomas Nadackalan, director of Christ

CNS PHOTO/ADNAN ABIDI, REUTERS

A man runs past flames during a mass cremation of COVID-19 victims at a crematorium in New Delhi April 26.

Hospital in Rajkot, told Catholic News Service April 26, “We have to turn away around 600 cases daily.”

“We are struggling to get oxygen in time to save the lives of those admitted,” he said. Of the 70 beds in the hospital, he added, 40 are set apart for

those needing oxygen treatment.

The inadequate care and treatment in government hospitals in Ahmedabad, commercial capital of Gujarat, drew national attention as even the widespread deaths were underreported by the state government.

The National English daily The Hindu carried an investigative story exposing the hollowness of the government claim of only 78 deaths April 16, citing cremation of 689 bodies in seven cities alone under COVID-19 protocol in the state.

“We have lost a dozen members of our community here,” P.T. Chacko, president of Gujarat Syro-Malabar Catholic Association, told CNS April 26. He, his wife and daughter were recovering from COVID-19.

Cardinal Oswald Gracias, president of the Catholic Bishops’ Conference of India, offered the church’s full support in “the war against the dreadful COVID19 situation in the country.”

“There was lack of planning and lack of foresight. Otherwise, we would not have been in the awful situation we are in now,” Cardinal Gracias, archbishop of Mumbai, told Catholic New Service April 25.

COVID-19 infections had peaked at 93,000 cases in mid-September in India, with 1.38 billion people. The infections declined steadily to 11,000 cases by February with daily death toll below 100. However, the fresh infections soon started rising with daily counts reaching 52,000 on April 1.

CLASSIFIEDS

12 EMPLOYMENT Campus minister - A full-time position of leadership within our Good Company campus ministry charged with overseeing the success of our Good Company campus ministry; management of the lead and team positions; student leadership development; assisting in the effective implementation of the St. Lawrence playbook; and responsibility for making sure any Good Company initiatives fall in line with our core values; daring to stand out; forming fullness in each person; living the art of relationship; and building a culture of home. This individual will provide leadership, coordination and talents in the area of leadership within Good Company with the goal of creating a culture of home at St. Lawrence and equipping student leaders with the tools necessary for evangelization. Specific responsibilities include overseeing the Good Company mission and vision; creatively implementing Good Company outreach events; writing content and leading an effective structure of all Good Company team meetings; creating a seeker-oriented retreat; mentoring and discipling students; and is a strong relational presence in and outside of the St. Lawrence Center. Qualifications for the campus minister are a strong desire and natural ability to evangelize on a secular university campus; an ability to relate to different types of people; and at least two years’ ministry experience. The Good Company campus minister at St. Lawrence must work well on a team and must be comfortable having courageous conversations that contribute to staff unity and team development. She/he must be a strong witness of the Catholic faith and committed to discipleship in their own life. Email inquires and resumes to Stacy Cretors at: scretors@kucatholic.org.

Social media and digital communications manager The Benedictine Sisters of Mount St. Scholastica are looking for a creative, energetic individual to be responsible for the planning, creation and execution of Mount St. Scholastica’s digital communications. This position is responsible for updating, maintaining and creating content for our organization’s website. This role will work to ensure that messages and brand are consistent across all online and social platforms while building and measuring engagement with our audience on social media.

This position will work closely with the communications team to produce fresh and engaging content, including video, that tells Mount St. Scholastica’s story within the scope of an integrated communications strategy. The ideal candidate will have a bachelor’s degree in marketing, communications or related business area; 3+ years of experience in social media/digital communications, using industry standard software products for web design, word processing and video editing. Interested individuals should submit a cover letter and resume to Sister Helen Mueting at: hmueting@mountosb.org.

Catholic Community Hospice - Come work for Catholic Community Hospice. We are a loving, compassionate and not-for-profit hospice agency. Visit us at: https:// catholiccharitiesks.org/careers/.

Career positions at Ryan Lawn - Full-time career positions at Ryan Lawn & Tree for people who have a passion for plants, working outdoors and customer service. Put your degree to work in the outdoors. We are faith-based and 100% employee-owned. We offer careers in forestry (both plant healthy and pruning), turf, pest and landscaping. With 350 associates in five branches, we have growth careers for the right people. We expect a lot. We can teach you our industry if you want to learn and are willing to work hard. If you or someone you know is interested, apply online at: RyanLawn.com.

Lead preschool teacher - St. Ann Young Child Center is currently seeking a lead teacher for a full-time threeyears-old classroom. The lead teacher is responsible for creating lesson plans and teaching a classroom of 12 students with an aide, M - F. The lead preschool teacher is also responsible for maintaining proper qualifications for licensure through the Kansas Department of Health and Environment and for maintaining the principles of Catholic education. If you are interested, please contact Cara Schwarz, preschool director, at (913) 362-4660 and/or send resume and cover letter to: cschwarz@stannpv.org.

Language arts teacher - St. Michael the Archangel School is seeking a faith-filled, eighth-grade language arts teacher willing to also sponsor student council and/ or yearbook. Interested applicants should complete the teacher application process at: archkckcs. Please contact the principal, Dr. Lorenzo Rizzi, at: lorenzo.rizzi@ stmichaelcp.org for more information.

Associate director, catechesis and faith formation The Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph is seeking to fill the associate director, catechesis and faith formation job opening. This position provides catechetical and discipleship leader training and mentoring services that equip parishes to evangelize/form parishioners and increase ministerial leadership capacity. This is a full-time, benefits-eligible position. The diocese offers a comprehensive benefits program, including medical, dental and vision plans, STD/LTD fully paid by the employer, retirement plans including a 403(b) plan and a defined benefit pension plan. Paid time off includes generous paid holidays, vacation and sick leaves. Note: All diocesan employees are required to consent to a background check and sign and acknowledge the ethics and integrity in ministry code of conduct prior to hire. Completion of Protecting God’s Children training is required within 30 days of hire. Go online to: www.kcsjcatholic.org and click on “Get Started” and scroll down to “Job Openings” for more information and to apply.

Director of marketing/advertisement - Donnelly College is looking for a creative, flexible and organized director of marketing and communications to increase awareness of the Donnelly College brand with a particular focus on advancing enrollment and philanthropy. As a position that is both strategic and tactical, and housed within the advancement division, the director of marketing and communications is a critical driver of developing and implementing strategy to help the college achieve its mission and vision by reaching key target audiences such as prospective students and families, alumni, institutional partners, media investors and the public. The candidate should have the following qualifications: a bachelor’s degree required, preference given to persons with degrees in marketing, communications or journalism or to persons with a related master’s degree; working knowledge of social media platforms required; working knowledge of web design platforms required; preference given to those with bilingual skills and those with experience at an academic institution working with people of diverse backgrounds; committed to diversity and serving a diverse population.

Please email your cover letter, resume and transcripts to: hr@donnelly.edu with “Director of Marketing Advertising” in the subject line.

Accountant - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has a full-time, benefits-eligible position open for an accountant. This position performs professional accounting activities, including analysis and reconciliation of general ledger and subsidiary accounts, revenue and expenditure accounts, and the preparation and distribution of monthly reports to departments. The incumbent maintains the deposit and loan system records; prepares monthly statements for account holders; and prepares financial reports, budgets and year-end audit schedules. This position requires a bachelor’s degree in accounting with at least two years’ relevant accounting work including: experience maintaining accurate financial records; preparing reports; preparing financial or auditor statements; schedules and reports. Qualified individuals must submit a cover letter, resume and application. Please visit: www.archkck.org/ jobs to apply. Deadline is May 17.

Social mission and outreach coordinator - St. Michael the Archangel Parish is seeking a proactive, organized and approachable professional to serve as the social mission and outreach coordinator. This role is responsible for coordinating activities of various parish ministries, committees, volunteers and projects while assuring a high degree of outreach to the local community.

The position is approximately 25 hours per week with occasional evening and weekend responsibilities. Go online to: stmichaelcp.org/employment-opportunities for a full job description. Submit cover letter and resume to: Denise.Greene@stmichaelcp.org.

Financial coach – Living paycheck to paycheck? Little or no savings? If you’re struggling with your finances and feeling overwhelmed but don’t know where to turn, I would love to help guide you out of financial stress and into a life of abundance. Free consultation. Call or text Julie at (913) 617-5409 or email: juliekolichbarron@ gmail.com. Dave Ramsey-certified.

High School principal - Cristo Rey Kansas City High School, Kansas City, Missouri, is seeking a school principal effective on/around July 1, 2021. CRKC provides a Catholic, college and career prep education enhanced by an innovative corporate work study program to culturally diverse, ambitious students with economic need. Founded in 2006 by the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth, CRKC serves approximately 300 students in grades 9 - 12, drawing students of diverse backgrounds from 64 unique feeder schools across the Greater KC metropolitan area. This position is a 12-month position and is benefits eligible. The complete job description and application process are available at: www.cristoreykc. org/cms/One, click on “About,” then scroll down and click on “Job Opportunities.”

Administrative assistant for evangelization, formation and outreach - This position provides front office administrative support to two department directors as well as other staff, including, but not limited to, RE, youth sacrament preparation, adult education, youth ministry, VBS and CGS. This is a year-round, part-time position that normally works Monday through Friday with occasional, infrequent evening and weekend duties. For additional details, a comprehensive job description or to apply, please visit the website at: stmichaelcp.org/ employment-opportunities or contact Denise Greene at: denise.greene@stmichaelcp.org or (913) 402-3984.

Food service - St. Joseph School in Shawnee has a job opening in food service for the 2021-22 school year. The hours are Monday - Friday from 8:30 a.m. - 1:45 p.m. when lunch is offered. Perfect job for a mom. Call Kathy Hirt at (913) 631-7730.

Office manager - St. Lawrence, the Catholic Church at the University of Kansas, seeks a part-time office manager for 20 hours a week. The manager must be personable, faithful and must be excellent at working with volunteers, church business and routine office tasks. Full information can be found at: kucatholic.org/jobs.

Full-time elementary teacher - Sacred Heart School in Ottawa is seeking a full-time elementary teacher for the 2021-22 school year. Candidates must hold a current Kansas teaching license and be certified to teach K - 5. Interested applicants should complete the teacher application process at: www.archkckcs.org. For more information, please contact Lisa Blaes at: lblaes@sacred heartottawa.eduk12.net.

School cafeteria director - Nativity Parish is seeking a director of food service for the 2021-22 school year.

The director must be knowledgeable in all aspects of running a school lunch program: planning menus within the guidelines of KSDE, ordering food and other supplies, processing accounts payable, filing reports with the KSDE/Wellness programs, and supervising employees and volunteers. Competitive salary and benefits. Interested applicants should send a letter of application and resume to the attention of David Kearney at: david. kearney@kcnativity.org or Nativity Parish School, 3700 W. 119th St., Leawood, KS 66209.

Direct support professional - Goodlife Innovations in Lawrence and in Johnson County is urgently hiring direct support professionals to help provide care, teach skills and hang out with adults with disabilities. Full- and parttime shifts available. Average pay of $12 - $15.17 per hour. Apply today at: https://mygoodlife.org/careers/.

Community live-in assistants - L’Arche Heartland of Overland Park serves adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities in day program support services and in residential services. We are seeking assistants who are looking for a unique opportunity in a faith-based organization. We are in immediate need of live-in assistants and potential live-out assistants to work in our day program serving 30 adults. We have a recycling program and community activities. Our core members participate in distributing for Meals on Wheels and Rise Against Hunger. They also attend community events such as the library, movies, bowling and going to parks. We also have a need for live-in and live-out assistants in our five residential homes. If interested, contact Jamie Henderson, community leader, by email at: jamie@larcheks.org.

Part-time servers - Santa Marta is recognized as a premier senior living community in Olathe. You will make a positive difference when you join the Santa Marta team as a server. Responsibilities include: serve meals to residents in a professional and hospitable manner in either independent living or health care neighborhoods; respectful interaction and communication with residents and co-workers as required; work with a team in a professional manner within dining and other departments; use proper food handling and cleaning techniques; setup and clean the dining rooms after each dining session.

Part-time servers are normally scheduled 3 - 5 shifts per week (evenings 4 - 8 p.m. and weekend breakfast, lunch and dinner shifts). $10 - $11 hourly rate, depending on relevant experience. Part-time associates earn paid time off for hours worked. To apply, go online to: santamarta retirement.com, then go to “More,” then scroll down and click on “Careers.” Then scroll down to the bottom of that page and download the application form.

Small equipment technician - Do you enjoy tinkering and working with your hands? Then this is the job for you!

We are a small, family-owned local company looking for someone who is handy with small equipment and enjoys traveling every now and then. We need team members with a positive attitude who are flexible, dependable, self-motivated, mechanically inclined, customer-service oriented and have great time management skills. Mostly on the job training. Electrical knowledge is a plus. Please send your resume to: Yourcareer101@gmail.com.

Career opportunity - Due to the growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are looking for professional men who are interested in helping fellow Catholics with their faith, family and finances. This is a full-time career opportunity that will allow you to be your own boss and a respected professional member of the community. If you or someone you know is self-motivated, good with time management and has a desire to succeed, this might be the opening you’ve been looking for. Benefits include unlimited professional income potential, flexibility, quality training program and incentive award trips such as Rome, Hawaii and Ireland. There are openings in northeast Kansas and western Missouri. If you want to serve your community, strengthen the church and change the world, call John Mahon at our regional office at (785) 408-8800 or toll free at (855) 356-4849.

Drivers and aides - Assisted Transportation is now hiring safe drivers and aides to transport students with special needs in Johnson, Wyandotte and Clay County, Missouri, in company vans. Drivers earn $14 - $16 per hour. Aides earn $12 per hour. Part-time and full-time schedules available. CDL not required. Retirees encouraged to apply.

Make a difference in your community by helping those in need. Call (913) 521-4955 for more information. EEO Assistants - Assistants needed to provide support for developmentally disabled adults in a day program setting. Hours are 9 a.m. - 3 p.m. five days a week. Health, dental and vision premiums paid in full after two months of employment. Join us for meaningful, fulfilling relationships with our community. Larcheks.org.

Membership director - St. Lawrence, the church at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, seeks a membership director who invites new students, parents, alumni and friends to become members and supporters. Bachelor’s degree required. Experience in communication, event coordination and fundraising preferred. The director must be a strong and engaging communicator. For more information, go online to: kucatholic.org/jobs.

Doll dresses - First Communion dresses for American Girl dolls or any 18” dolls. To include dress, veil, shoes, tights, and cross necklace for $35. Call (913) 345-9498 or send an email to: wwelch4@kc.rr.com to order. The dress is on display at Trinity House, 6731 W. 119th St., Overland Park.

APRIL 30, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG Communications director - Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish in Overland Park is creating the position of communications director. The successful candidate will work directly with Father Bill Bruning and the parishioner chairs of the communications committee, the evangelization committee and will coordinate the volunteers who will be responsible for our livestreaming and online presence. The job will also require marketing skills in the form of branding and marketing communications. Interested persons are invited to review the job description and send their resume to: qhradmin@qhr-opks.org.

Full-time assistant teachers - With multiple locations in Johnson County, Special Beginnings Early Learning Center provides high quality child care in a safe, loving Christian environment. With a balanced curriculum of pre-academics and the right environment, we believe we are providing the children the foundation to e successful in life. We are looking for full-time assistant teachers for all ages who have an excellent work ethic, a heart for children and a willingness to learn more about early childhood education. Experience and/or education is a plus, but we will train the right candidate. Duties include supervising and ensuring the safely and well-being of the children at all times; following predetermined curriculum and daily schedule; decorating the class and keeping classrooms clean and orderly; creating and filling out daily reports for each child; communicating with parent; meeting children’s basic needs (diapers, bottles, etc.). Must be patient and able to respond to difficult situations calmly; have good interpersonal skills with coworkers, parents and children; and be able to lift 25 pounds on a regular basis. There are opportunities for career advancement. For more information or to apply, call Carolyn Andruss at (913) 894-0131, option 3.

Teacher opening - Bishop Miege High School has a teacher opening for family and consumer science for the 2021-22 school year. Send letter of interest and resume to Mariann Jaksa at: mjaksa@bishopmiege.com.

Part-time office assistant - Looking for a job where you can make a difference and you’re not just a nameless face?

Come join our family-owned small company that’s been established locally in the medical instruments field for almost 40 years. We are looking for a full-time candidate who is detail-oriented, organized, self-motivated, dependable, customer-service oriented, friendly and has excellent communication skills. Job tasks include invoicing, vendor relations, product ordering and receiving/shipping. Computer skills are a must and QuickBooks a plus! Please send your resume to: Yourcareer101@gmail.com.

Bookkeeping position - Christ the King Church in Kansas City, Kansas, is searching for a candidate to serve the parish and school in accounting. This part-time position will require 20-25 hours per week, with compensation reflecting the candidate’s level of competence and education. The ideal candidate will be competent in Quick Books and Microsoft Office, have the ability to oversee the administration of employee benefits and have the bearing of a servant leader in dealing with parish employees, parishioners and school families. Interested applicants should contact the pastor of Christ the King, Father Blaha, at: revnb@pm.me for application information, or view the job description at: ctkkcks.org.

Instructor, faculty faith formation - Holy Family School of Faith is looking for a tenacious, innovative and courageous missionary heart to help run our school faculty formation sessions. Expectations include leading faculty formation sessions, regular team meetings, curriculum design and planning, collaboration with our team and a commitment to live the movement of friendship, good conversation and the rosary. The ideal candidate will be in good standing with the church, have teaching experience and be well formed in the faith. If you are interested, contact Chris Hillyer at: Chris@ SchoolOfFaith.com.

Elementary and middle school teachers - Christ the King School in Kansas City, Kansas, is seeking elementary and middle school teachers for the 2021-22 school year. Partnering with parents in their role as primary educators, Christ the King School extends the mission of the church in forming true disciples of Jesus Christ.

Through a Catholic classic liberal arts education centered on Christ, we provide an integrated approach, fostering a love for truth, beauty and goodness. We seek to instill a natural desire for wisdom and virtue in all students. We seek candidates who will provide engaging and active instruction and also exhibit a love of lifelong learning. The ideal teacher at Christ the King has not only developed a level of mastery in the discipline/ grade level that they teach, but also understands how that discipline belongs within the context of a strong liberal arts education. The candidate should understand how a Catholic worldview permeates the curriculum and the instruction, understand the role of poetic imagination in education and be a disciple of Christ committed to providing a Gospel witness. Qualifications: bachelor’s degree, master’s degree preferred and reflected in compensation; mastery of subject matters to be taught as demonstrated by references and education; two years of teaching experience preferred, with exceptions granted for outstanding candidates who demonstrate a record of effective leadership in a relevant field of work. The applicant must also possess a love of teaching, a passion for mentoring and a desire to continue in their own learning.

Interested applicants should send a cover letter, resume and CV to Cathy Fithian, principal, at: cfithian@ctkkck. org or by mail to Christ the King School, Cathy Fithian, Principal, 3027 N. 54th St., Kansas City, KS 66104. >> Classifieds continue on page 13

APRIL 30, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

DISABILITY RESOURCE SERIES FOR PARENTS, GUARDIANS AND SELF-ADVOCATES Via Zoom May 6 and May 20 at 8:30 p.m.

Sessions include: “Elderly/Persons with Disability Eligibility” (by Russell Nittler) and “Working Healthy” (by Shannon Beat, benefits specialist). Register online at: www. archkck.org/special-needs. The Zoom link will be sent the day before each session.

Contact Tom Racunas at: tracunas@archkck. org or Jill Reffett at: jillreffett@embraceks. org with questions.

PROJECT CHRYSALIS Via Zoom or Church of the Ascension (St. Luke’s Room) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park April 27 at 7 p.m.

Project Chrysalis is a ministry offering hope through sacred Scripture and community to parents and grandparents who have lost a child or grandchild. Our mission is to offer support and hope through Scripture in a time of transformation. For more information, including the Zoom invitation link, contact Deacon Ken Billinger at (913) 634-4210 or send an email to: kbillinger@archkck.org. This group is open to parents or grandparents who have lost children.

FOSTER APPRECIATION MASS WITH ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN Holy Trinity Parish 13615 W. 92nd St., Lenexa May 2 at 9:30 a.m.

May is Foster Care Awareness Month.

To pray and show our gratitude for foster families and raise awareness for the need for more foster homes, join us for a Foster Appreciation Mass with Archbishop Naumann. Foster families and those who serve the foster community are especially invited to attend. The livestream link can be found

>> Continued from page 12

SERVICES Handyman - I wanted to let you all know that we do basement finishes, deck building, bathroom and kitchen remodeling. This includes tile work, cabinet refinishing, and any sheetrock work. We also do all things flooring, siding, windows, doors, covered porches, sheds and much more. I really appreciate all your support. Please call Joshua Doherty at (913) 709-7230.

CALENDAR/CLASSIFIEDS on the Holy Trinity Parish YouTube channel or by visiting: htlenexa.org.

SUDS & SCHOLARSHIPS Boulevard Brewing Company 2501 Southwest Blvd., Kansas City, Missouri May 3 from 6:30 - 9:30 p.m.

Join us for this annual benefit for Holy Name School’s student scholarship fund.

Help support the vibrant and faith-filled community at Holy Name, where 86% of students rely on scholarship to attend.

There will be musical entertainment by The Hamptones and food from Jack Stack Barbecue. You are also to welcome to come in-person. A limited number of tickets are available for purchase. Limited capacity with safety precautions in place.

Learn more online at: one.bidpal.net/holy name21/welcome.

ST. ISIDORE DAY RETREAT Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton May 15 from 10:30 a.m. - 4:30 p.m.

Join us for a special Mass in honor of St. Isidore, the patron saint of farmers, on his feast day. The day will begin with Mass followed by a procession to the St. Isidore Shrine. Bring seeds and soil in a small decorated basket to be placed at the altar for blessing. After lunch and a time of fellowship, there will be a spiritual conference on Pope St. John Paul II’s encyclical, “On Human Work” (“Laborem Exercens”), eucharistic adoration and evening prayer. A freewill offering will be taken up during the retreat. For more information, send an email to: info@ christspeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.

A SPIRITUALITY OF THE HEART ONLINE OPEN HOUSE Via Zoom May 23 from 7 - 8 p.m.

Have you been longing in your heart for a closer relationship with God or been

Win disability benefits - Disabled and no longer able to work? Get help winning Social Security disability benefits. Free consultation. Eight years’ experience. No fee unless you win. Call (785) 331-6452 or send an email to: montemace2000@yahoo.com or visit http://www. montemacedisability.org.

Memory quilts - Preserve your memories in a keepsake quality quilt, pillows, etc. Custom designed from your Tshirt collection, baby clothes, sports memorabilia, neckties . . . Quilted Memories. (913) 649-2704.

Senior Care Authority - Navigating senior care options can be overwhelming. We’ll 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.

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.

ACT Prep - Founded by a Bishop Miege graduate, Pathway Prep has helped over 250 students during the last four years improve their scores. In-person or virtual sessions available. For more information, visit: pathway prepkc.com and contact Alex Pint at (913) 991-8217 or: alex@pathwayprepkc.com.

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)

Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@kc.rr. com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlaw.com.

Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress.

FREE LIFE INSURANCE QUOTE IN LESS THAN A MINUTE - For your free, no obligation life insurance or final expense quote from a dozen highly rated carriers, visit: www.mcevoyins.com or call (913) 481-2896. Sean McEvoy, Donnelly College graduate, and Bill McEvoy, Ascension parishioner.

Mike Hammer local moving - A full-service mover.

Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com.

Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided.

Call (913) 209-9234.

FOR SALE

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: smokey cabin@hotmail.com. Member of Holy Trinity, Lenexa.

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

searching for means to deepen your prayer life? The Daughters of St. Francis de Sales offer a practical means of living a life devoted to God in everyday life with a family of spiritual friends, united in a bond of love and support. We invite you to join our upcoming virtual open house to learn more about this gentle saint, his spirituality of the heart and our association. For meeting details, email: haydee@sfdsassociation.org or visit our website at: www.sfdsassociation.org and look for a link in our “Welcome” box to register.

WAR HORSES FOR VETERANS D-DAY RIDE 5600 W. 183rd St., Stillwell June 6 at 8 a.m.

This motorcycle ride is being hosted by the Father Donnelly Division of the Ancient Order of Hibernians. WHFV is a nonprofit organization that provides equestrian therapy for veterans and first responders. The 103-mile ride will begin at WHFV with stops at American Legion and VFW posts. It will end at Rawhide Harley Davidson, Olathe.

Absolutely no alcohol during the ride. The cost is: $25 per rider; $10 per passenger.

For registration and details go online to: horsesforveterans.com.

SPECIAL-NEEDS FAMILY CAMP Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg June 18 - 20

Enjoy a weekend of fun and family at Camp Tekakwitha. Register online at: www. archkck.org/special-needs.

ST. JOSEPH RETREAT: ‘WITH A FATHER’S HEART’ Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton June 25 - 27

The retreat will begin on June 25 at 6 p.m. with supper. In this year dedicated to St. Joseph, enter into the movement and

13 develop a deeper relationship with our spiritual father as we learn about consecration to St. Joseph. For more information, send an email to: info@christspeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.

CATHOLIC HEART WORKCAMP Kansas City area July 12 - 15

If you know of anyone needing minor home repairs, painting or yard cleanup, contact the managers by email at: chwc.kc@ gmail.com or call (402) 306-9043. You will need to leave a message if you call. Safety guidelines are in place to meet the current CDC guidelines regarding COVID.

TOTUS TUUS FOR PEOPLE WITH SPECIAL NEEDS Prince of Peace Parish 16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe July 19 - 23

Come join others and learn about Totus Tuus. Register online at: www.archkck.org/ special-needs.

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

There will be a variety of camps for students entering grades K - 8. Registration and further information are available online at: www.stasaints.net/summercamps. For more information, call (913) 319-2416 or email: btriggs@stasaints.net.

CALENDAR submissions DEADLINE: Noon, Thursday, 10 days before the desired publication date.

INCLUDE: time and date of event; street address; description of event.

SEND SUBMISSIONS TO: beth. blankenship@theleaven.org.

DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time.

Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did.

Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com

Wanted to buy - Old cars or hot rods. Uncompleted project cars in any condition, with or without titles. Cash buyer. Call (913) 980-3559.

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14

COLUMNISTS

Teach the children well

DAILY READINGS FIFTH WEEK OF EASTER May 2 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 May 3 PHILIP AND JAMES, APOSTLES 1 Cor 15: 1-8 Ps 19: 2-5 Jn 14: 6-14 May 4 Tuesday Acts 14: 19-28 Ps 145: 10-13b, 21 Jn 14: 27-31a May 5 Wednesday Acts 15: 1-6 Ps 122: 1-5 Jn 15: 1-8 May 6 Thursday Acts 15: 7-21 Ps 96: 1-3, 10 Jn 15: 9-11 May 7 Friday Acts 15: 22-31 Ps 57: 8-10, 12 Jn 15: 12-17 May 8 Saturday Acts 16: 1-10 Ps 100: 1b-2, 3, 5 Jn 15: 18-21

Apostles Philip & James the Less first century Philip and James the Less, son of Alphaeus, are listed among the Twelve Apostles commissioned by Jesus.

Philip brought Nathaniel to Christ, had a part in feeding the 5,000, and at the Last Supper, when asked to be shown the Father, was told by Christ: “Have I been with you for so long a time and you still do not know me, Philip?” He may have evangelized in Turkey. Not much is known about James, but “the less” may refer to his height. One tradition puts him in Syria, while another has him martyred in the same Jerusalem persecution as James the Righteous.

“I

n the struggle between man and nature, nature always wins.”

It’s amazing what your mind retains.

The above quote was the theme of a story from my high school freshman English class at Savior of the World Seminary.

The teacher was Father Al Rockers. It’s become a standard greeting whenever we see one another these many years later. One of us will proclaim: “In the struggle between man and nature . . .” and the other will reply with the rest of the quote.

Great teachers are like that: They make an impression on you that lasts far beyond the classroom. That fact is borne out in the following study conducted by Johns Hopkins University in Baltimore: Some graduate students were given the assignment to go into the slums and interview 200 boys between the ages of 12 and 16.

The grad students were to delve into the

E

APRIL 30, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

MARK MY WORDS

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

boys’ background and environment and then predict their chances for the future.

After consulting social statistics, talking to the boys and compiling loads of other data, the grad students concluded that 90% of the boys would spend some time in jail.

Twenty-five years later, another group of graduate students were given the job of testing the prediction by going back to the same area.

Some of the boys — by

now, men — were still there, a few had died or moved away. Even so, they were able to contact 180 of the original 200. Only four of that group had ever been sent to jail.

Why did these men, who had grown up in a breeding place of crime, have such a data-defying good record? Again and again, the researchers were told: “Well, there was this teacher . . .”

Investigating further, the grad students discovered that in 75% of the cases, it was the same woman. The researchers went to interview the teacher, now living in a home for retired educators. How had she exerted such a

remarkable influence?

Could she explain why these boys should have remembered her?

“No,” answered the teacher, “no, I really couldn’t.” And then, thinking back over the years, she said, more to herself than the questioners, “I sure loved those boys.” (Story adapted from Meir Liraz’s “Top 100 Motivational Stories.”)

Love. That’s the consistent quality that every inspirational teacher conveyed to me: a love of their subject matter, a love of constant learning and, most importantly, a love of their students. From the School Sisters of St. Francis of Christ the King who taught me in grade school all the way to the Jesuits and other professors from graduate school in Rome, I’ve been the recipient of a treasure that no amount of money can equal nor can anyone take it away.

Teaching is a challenging profession, made more so in these past 12 months by the pandemic. An unexpected benefit of

COVID-19 is that many people came to recognize and appreciate all that educators do. Here are a couple of the more humorous observations: • One meme noted: “If the schools are closed for too long, parents are gonna find a vaccine before the scientists . . .”

• A woman named Shonda tweeted: “Been homeschooling a 6-year-old and an 8-year-old for one hour and 11 minutes. Teachers deserve to make a billion dollars a year. Or a week.”

Although deserved, we can’t hope to give teachers the astronomical salaries Shonda proposes. However, we can celebrate and acknowledge them on National Teacher Day, observed on May 4 this year. Let’s shower them with the love they’ve shown to us or our children or grandchildren.

I’m hoping to treat Father Rockers to lunch soon, but only if he can complete this sentence: “In the struggle between man and nature . . .”

We are called to be fruitful branches of the Vine

ileen, my mother-in-law, is gifted with the proverbial green thumb.

I have watched in amazement as she transforms, with careful pruning and watering, a wilting plant into thriving foliage. Her garden is alive with all kinds of colorful flowers, tropical shrubs and heirloom plants.

The fruit of the time she spends in her garden is seen in the beautiful flowers and plants that decorate her home.

In the Gospel, Jesus says to his disciples, “I am the true vine, and my Father is the vine grower.” And carrying the image further, Jesus speaks of his relationship with his disciples when he says, “I am the

,

JEM SULLIVAN Sullivan is a professor at The Catholic University of America.

vine, you are branches.

Whoever remains in me and I in him will bear much fruit.” Jesus draws on a familiar, everyday agricultural image to teach a profound lesson about the meaning of discipleship and the power of God’s

word in our lives.

What does it mean to remain in God’s word? In Sunday’s first reading, the newly converted Paul preaches boldly in the name of the risen Lord, inviting the gentiles to faith.

Through the preaching of Paul, the Holy Spirit worked powerfully as Christianity spread from small communities to the religion of the Roman Empire.

The first Christians remained in God’s word by hearing and accepting in faith the

love of God. Jesus invites us to do the same as we remain in the word of God by our acts of faith, hope and love.

How do we know that Jesus remains close to us? Sunday’s second reading offers an answer: “And his commandment is this: We should believe in the name of his Son, Jesus Christ, and love one another just as he commanded us. Those who keep his commandments remain in him, and he in them, and the way we know that he remains in us is from the Spirit he gave us.”

If we remain close to God’s word, the Holy Spirit gently trims and prunes our words and actions so we better bear the good fruit of

God’s love in our love for one another. The word of God is a kind of pruning in our daily lives.

God’s word challenges us where we are comfortable and encourages us when we are anxious, discouraged or restless.

And as we remain close to God’s word, God comes to dwell in us, as he did with Mary, to whom the month of May is dedicated.

As we translate God’s word into action by living the command to love God and love neighbor, we bear the good fruit of love, joy and peace. We become fruitful branches of Jesus, the vine, making this world a place of his truth, goodness and beauty, as we pray: “Speak to me, Lord.”

Pope renews call for debt forgiveness to poor countries VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Pope Francis renewed his appeal to the international community to forgive the debt of poor countries whose financial burdens have worsened due to the coronavirus pandemic.

In a message sent April 21 to participants at the IberoAmerican Summit, the pope said debt forgiveness “is a gesture that

will help people to develop and to have access to vaccines, health, education and employment. Such a gesture must be accompanied by the implementation of sound economic policies and good governance that reaches the poorest,” he said.

In his message, the pope remembered the victims of the pandemic, which “has struck people

of every culture, creed, social and economic level.” The pope said vaccinations “should be considered a ‘universal common good,’” and he encouraged efforts to ensure “an equitable distribution of vaccines — not based on purely economic criteria, but taking into account the needs of all, especially the most vulnerable and needy.”

LOCAL NEWS

APRIL 30, 2021 | THELEAVEN.ORG

15

Our job is simple: Receive the gift that Jesus offers us

B

elieve it or not, the Year of St. Joseph can teach us something about the sacred liturgy.

Now, everything we really know about St. Joseph comes from the handful of verses about him in the Gospels of Matthew and Luke.

But from these, we really know all we need to know: that when the time came for him to make decisions, he was obedient to God: “And when he awoke, he did as the angel had instructed him” (Mt 1:24).

Would that we would be like St. Joseph! Especially when it comes to the sacred liturgy, without which, as Pope Francis has taught, the church is absent of Christ.

AS THE CHURCH PRAYS

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

You see, St. Joseph was very adept at receiving and observing what was instructed him. This obedience to divine instruction can be set apart from everything else he may have

accomplished. He knew how to receive.

So, how does this relate to the sacred liturgy?

Pope Benedict XVI once noted that, ultimately, the sacred liturgy is something we “receive” rather than create.

I think Joseph would, as the patron saint of the Universal Church, agree wholeheartedly.

St. Joseph’s life in the presence of Jesus and Mary was something to be received, and his principal contribution thereupon was to simply protect and provide for them.

To have humbly done as he did was the fulfillment of God’s will, and it enabled him to dwell with them in perfect harmony.

Think about this.

Whenever we try to “create” an experience of God, our efforts typically end up wanting. But when we are willing to receive the experience of God, simply as given us, it all goes much better.

What greater experience of God have we than the celebration of the mysteries of our salvation as offered to us in the course of

the church’s liturgical prayer?

The church provides everything needed for the liturgy, for the church herself has received from the Holy Spirit all that is necessary, and is the liturgy’s custodian, just as St. Joseph was the custodian of the Holy Family.

I’m sure this will sound a bit naive to some, especially coming from a “professional” liturgist.

But to be honest, the more I have lived with the church’s liturgical tradition these past 30 years of service, the more I have come to recognize that the truly good liturgist is the one who firstly receives, and then merely curates and prepares what has been received,

so that the people of God may enter into the sacred mysteries unencumbered by distraction.

The mysteries themselves are what matter.

“And when he awoke, he did as the angel had instructed him.” We are presently engaged in returning to the full celebration of the sacred liturgy after over a year of pandemic and subsequent restrictions.

May we follow the example of St. Joseph, guardian of the church, and simply receive, once again and always thereafter, what Christ himself, through the sacraments, has lovingly offered us.

Nothing else will really work, I am convinced.

August retreat invites teens to see the difference three days can make

“A

lot can happen in three days!”

I saw that quote on a T-shirt at Soul Provider in Seneca a couple weeks before the Easter Triduum.

Yes, I bought one, and that quote stuck with me throughout the rest of Lent and even now, this Fifth Week of Easter.

That quote — and Easter — got me thinking about the Teens Encounter Christ weekend we are hosting at Prairie Star Ranch in August. TEC is a three-day event, and a lot can happen in these three days.

Think about your best friend. Before

DO WHATEVER HE TELLS YOU

RICK CHEEK Rick Cheek is the associate consultant for the office of evangelization and Catholic formation of youth.

they became your BFF, you had to spend time together — time to build trust — because it’s pretty hard to trust

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someone if you don’t know them first, right?

So, you and your best friend probably spent time talking and laughing, sharing fun times and some of the really hard and confusing stuff, too. Through all of that, you got to know each other and build your friendship!

THE SHEPHERD’S VOICE 8:30 a.m. Sundays on 92.9 FM and KEXS AM 1090 Encore Monday at 11:30 a.m.

Well, guess what?

Your friendship with Jesus is built the exact same way. It requires time and sharing yourself to build the trust of a good relationship.

The Teens Encounter Christ weekend is an in-depth meditation of the Triduum, the paschal mystery of Jesus Christ. Each day illuminates a distinct grace to be gained from pondering our Lord’s passion.

Saturday is “die day”: dying to ourselves, relinquishing those things that keep us from our focus on God. These days there are a lot of distractions. In dying to ourselves, we allow

God to lead us through our daily struggles and keep our focus on him who created us.

Each of the talks allow us to reflect, pray and share with a group on how you can accomplish this.

Sunday is “rise day.”

Rising to new life, we focus on the joy of the resurrection of Our Lord. Each of the talks this day present how we can better live our life with Jesus at the center. Life lived with Christ changes who we are.

Monday is “go day.”

These talks focus on going forth and living the Gospel, impacting the world you live in.

Throughout the weekend, you will

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learn more about your Catholic faith, have the opportunity to encounter Christ and spend time growing your relationship with the Lord.

TEC provides a fresh atmosphere away from home, school and work — a Catholic community that extends across the archdiocese — and sacraments through which to encounter God’s mercy and Jesus himself in the Eucharist.

We pray you join us this Aug. 14-16 at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg.

Go online to: www. archkckyouth.org/tec to register. No one is turned away because of cost; scholarships are available.

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FEATURE

APRIL 30, 2O21 | THELEAVEN.ORG

The grace to bloom where we’re planted

ast month, Major League Baseball announced that it would honor Lou Gehrig, the famous New York Yankees first baseman, on June 2.

The date has a double meaning in Gehrig’s life: In 1925, it marked his first game starting at first base; 16 years later, on June 2, 1941, Gehrig would pass away from amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, a fast-moving neurodegenerative disease for which there remains no cure.

Lou Gehrig Day will be a special one for two groups of people: baseball fans who still marvel at the Iron Horse’s then-records for grand slams and consecutive games played, and those whose lives have been touched by ALS, who know Lou Gehrig more for the disease that bears his name than the number of baseballs he sent into bleachers.

Should I have the good fortune of being in a ballpark on June 2, I will be among both groups of people: a lover of America’s national pastime and someone with a family member battling ALS. Since the announcement, I’ve been contemplating what lesson he might offer our culture. Though he lived nearly a century ago and only for 38 years, his life and legacy remain profound.

I think the lesson is this: In a time in which people increasingly and rigidly self-segment to take shelter with likeminded people — from

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

the news we read, to the neighborhoods we live in, to the parishes we attend — Gehrig’s life is an instruction in the value of investing in communities we wouldn’t normally choose for ourselves.

In other words, we should try to live well wherever we’re “drafted,” either by life’s circumstances or God’s providence.

Despite our best efforts to design our own safe, comfortable networks, life still deals us relationships that are not of our own choosing: adoptive families, in-laws, students, colleagues, bosses, parishioners and pastors, to name a few.

Despite the mastery we have over a great deal of our lives, we still don’t get into the colleges of our dreams or get hired for the positions we want. Many experience unrequited love, while others endure rejection from religious communities.

We land in places we don’t want to be alongside people we don’t always like.

Baseball great Lou Gehrig’s life is an instruction in the value of investing in communities we wouldn’t normally choose for ourselves. The notoriously shy Gehrig found, through baseball, a supportive community that helped him open up to life’s pleasures.

As biographer Jonathan Eig details in “Luckiest Man: The Life and Death of Lou Gehrig,” Gehrig’s entire life was a practice in that saying to “bloom where you are planted.”

He started with the Yankees in 1923, just as the team was beginning to establish itself as the dominant force in baseball. The roster was littered with big personalities, chief among them George “Babe” Ruth.

Gehrig, a shy young man of German descent with little interest in partying, gambling or women, found himself in the dugout and on the road with a raucous cohort who thought he was odd.

Years went by in which he spent evenings on the road

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alone, wishing for the comfort of his mother’s home-cooked meals and the security of his parents’ apartment.

Yet over time, Gehrig

developed meaningful, life-changing friendships with teammates, despite only having baseball in common with them. For a time, Babe Ruth became endeared to Gehrig’s mother (and her cooking), which eventually strengthened his friendship with her son.

While their friendship fueled their neckand-neck home-run rallies, it also helped to loosen Gehrig up and expose him to some of life’s less serious but no less delightful offerings.

Another teammate and his wife helped Gehrig to see that his overprotective mother was sabotaging his romantic relationships; these friends gave him the courage to court and marry his wife Eleanor Twitchell, despite his fear of losing his mother’s love.

And of course, as Gehrig noted in his famous farewell speech after receiving his diagnosis, everyone from the managers

and owners who took a bet on him to the groundskeepers at the stadium all played a part in helping him to feel like “the luckiest man on the face of the earth.”

His life was enriched by a community that chose him, not the other way around.

It took an investment of time — well more than a decade — to reap the benefits.

On June 2, I’ll be happy to be standing alongside fellow baseball fans, eager to be in a ballpark after more than a year away.

But I’ll also be glad to be standing shoulder to shoulder with members of a community that no one would choose. They have been some of the most compassionate people I’ve ever been privileged to meet.

We’d all feel a bit luckier — nay, blessed — if we opened ourselves up to the goodness found in people we’d rather not encounter.