05 17 19 Vol. 40 No. 38 by The Leaven

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 40, NO. 38 | MAY 17, 2019

LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE

From left, fifth-graders Jacob Staples and Oliver Parsons work on a structural engineering project as part of the third annual Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, Mathematics (STREAM) Night at Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe.

IF YOU BUILD IT . . .

Prince of Peace STREAM event draws next-generation scientists By Susan Fotovich McCabe Special to The Leaven

LATHE — Not even storms and a steady rain could keep scores of families from attending the third annual Science, Technology, Religion, Engineering, Art, Mathematics (STREAM) Night at Prince of Peace Parish here. It’s just that popular. Inside the school, both students and their parents shuttled between classrooms staffed by Prince of Peace teachers, Catholic high school students and employees from area technology companies to engage their hands and minds with future career opportunities. Kasie Broeckelman, a first-grade teacher at Prince of Peace, is one of the founding organizers of STREAM Night, and even she was amazed by how popular it has become. “The goal is to reach the kids who are struggling to find where they fit sometimes, who love science or math or the technology of video games,”

Broeckelman said. “Now we can show them how they’re made and get them excited about their future. “It’s a night to showcase what options there are in the world and where we’re moving. While it would be exciting to be the next superstar athlete, it could be equally as exciting to be the next coder or scientist that finds a solution or cure to a global issue.” “It’s to help the children see that they can soar with the gifts that God has given them,” she concluded. One of those future scientists may be Monica Straub, 10, a fourth-grader at Prince of Peace School. Monica wants to be an engineer, like her father Phil, who works at Garmin. Her favorite subject is math and she’s getting an A in the class. “I like to build stuff, like with Legos,” she said. “I have other girlfriends who like to build with Legos, too.” In fact, Garmin is one of the local technology companies that return each year to participate in the STREAM event. Garmin’s Austin

Morgan, a parishioner at St. Paul Church in Olathe, said the company regularly participates in STEM-related events. It’s part of Garmin’s culture to cultivate new talent in its own backyard. “From a corporate perspective, Garmin gives us the ability to help youth. The company gives us time off to participate in the events because Garmin needs skilled workers,” Morgan said. “People who grew up in the area know how nice the area is. We foster that love of science that we’ll need in the future.” Garmin’s activity for the evening was to build a maze out of Legos. Each student was given an avatar to navigate through the maze using coding instructions. A second activity involved making paper airplanes and catapults to demonstrate aerodynamics. Garmin began in the aviation industry, Morgan said, so that particular project was a nice throwback to its roots. >> See “CATHOLIC” on page 15

LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE

First-grader Kayla Storey builds a penny boat at the STREAM event. The point of the experiment is to build a boat out of foil that will hold the greatest number of pennies without sinking.

MAY 17, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ARCHBISHOP

Pope mandates universal norms similar to those in U.S.

ope Francis issued on May 7 an apostolic letter entitled “You are the light of the world.” This apostolic letter is the much anticipated concrete fruit of the gathering this past February of the presidents of episcopal conferences throughout the world convened by the Holy Father to address the issue of sexual abuse by members of the clergy (bishops, priests and deacons) as well religious priests, Brothers and Sisters. The apostolic letter includes decrees by Pope Francis mandating universal procedures to be implemented throughout the world. Pope Francis identifies these universal norms as the concrete and effective actions necessary both to respond to instances of sexual abuse by members of the clergy and, as much as possible, to prevent these crimes in the future. In large part, the Holy Father is requesting that the church throughout the world develop policies and protocols similar to the “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People” that was adopted by the bishops of the United States in 2002. Significantly, the apostolic letter clarifies that these same policies apply equally to cardinals, archbishops and bishops and makes clear those responsible to investigate and judge such allegations. Pope Francis also stipulates that qualified individuals, including members of the lay faithful, be identified and called upon to assist with investigations. The Holy Father

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN has also expanded the application of these norms to include sexual misconduct that involves coercion of adults by violence, threat or abuse of power. These procedures also apply to misconduct with vulnerable persons, defined as anyone “in a state of infirmity, physical or mental deficiency, or deprivation of personal liberty which, in fact, even occasionally, limits their ability to

Baptisms for children of larger families To show his personal support for those couples open to raising larger families, Archbishop Naumann has offered to celebrate the baptism of the third or greater child of any family interested. Please contact your parish office for more information. Additional information is also available from the archdiocesan office for liturgy and sacramental life at (913) 647-0330 or by email at: liturgy@ archkck.org.

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understand or to want or to otherwise resist the offence.” Pope Francis also decrees the assumption of innocence of the accused while, at the same time, mandating that those making the accusation be treated with the utmost dignity and respect. The apostolic letter also makes clear that all allegations must be taken seriously and investigated carefully and thoroughly. The Holy Father also insists victims should be offered spiritual assistance and medical assistance that includes appropriate psychological counseling. Pope Francis also emphasizes the responsibility of bishops — not only for integrity in our own personal conduct, but also to be conscientious in the protection of all those entrusted to our pastoral care. During our June meeting, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops will take the necessary steps to expand what we are already doing under the “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People” to address those additional areas specified in the pope’s apostolic letter. We will also adopt the necessary procedures as how the mandated accountability of bishops will be implemented in

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the United States. Recently, the archdiocese hired Jenifer Valenti as the director of our office of child and youth protection. Father John Riley, the chancellor for the archdiocese, formerly served in that capacity. Father Riley has done an outstanding job in leading our efforts to implement carefully and faithfully the “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People” in our archdiocese. Father Riley has many other significant responsibilities as chancellor of the archdiocese. He also currently serves as the administrator for St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas. We have been searching for some time for a qualified individual whose full-time responsibility would be the leadership of the office of child and youth protection. Jenifer Valenti’s experience as a former prosecuting attorney and the ombudsman for the Diocese of Kansas-St. Joseph uniquely equips her for this position. It is imperative for the church to do our very best in our efforts to protect children, youth and vulnerable adults from the spiritual, emotional and psychological trauma caused by abuse. Moreover, to fail in this responsibility jeopardizes and compromises all of our other ministries. The church also has an obligation to respond to victims of abuse with compassion and practical assistance. I am confident that with Jenifer Valenti’s leadership, we can improve and strengthen our efforts. Please pray for the healing of all victims of sexual abuse, especially

Archbishop Naumann May 17 Holy Hour for those to be ordained and social hour — Holy Spirit, Overland Park May 18 Diaconate ordination — Holy Spirit, Overland Park Medical school Mass and Hippocratic Oath — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas May 19 Pastoral visit to St. Benedict, Atchison Baptism of third or more child — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas May 20 Finance Council meeting Confirmation — St. Paul, Olathe May 21 Envisioning Team meeting Priests Personnel meeting Administrative Team meeting Holy Hour for those to be ordained and formation team

those harmed by representatives of the church. Please also pray for the success of our efforts to prevent future abuse of children, youth and vulnerable adults. I am determined that our churches as well as our schools and other ministries will be abuse-free and truly safe havens for every-

May 22 Confirmation for Blessed Sacrament and St. Mary-St. Anthony — Blessed Sacrament Church, Kansas City, Kansas May 23 CFNEK meeting Spiritual Mentorship Mass, vespers and graduation ceremony May 24 Holy Hour for those to be ordained, social and dinner — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park May 25 Priesthood ordination — Ascension May 26 Mass and cemetery building blessing — Annunciation, Baldwin City 25th anniversary Mass for Father Arul Carasala — Sts. Peter & Paul, Seneca May 28 Quarterly retired priests meeting

Archbishop Keleher May 25 Priesthood ordination — Ascension

one — and especially for all children, youth and vulnerable adults. I am also committed to making certain our response to allegations of misconduct is always serious and thorough and providing the highest quality care for victims of past abuse. We cannot be satisfied with anything less.

MAY 17, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

VATICAN

NEW RULES FOCUS ON BISHOPS Revised norms standardize handling of allegations across universal church

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Pope Francis has issued new, churchwide norms regulating the reporting of bishops and religious order superiors who are accused of committing sexual abuse against minors and other vulnerable persons. The document, issued “motu proprio” (on his own initiative) by the pope on May 9, is called “Vos estis lux mundi” (“You are the light of the world”). This new document was issued as an outcome of a meeting in Rome with the leaders of all the world’s bishops’ conferences and the pope last February. The new regulations take effect on June 1. It joins a prior Vatican law promulgated March 29 that prescribes jail time for any public official who fails to report abuse in Vatican City State. “Pope Francis ordered a worldwide response to the evil of sexual abuse,” said Cardinal Daniel N. DiNardo, archbishop of Galveston-Houston and president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. “[The document] calls for the establishment of easily accessible reporting systems, clear standards for the pastoral support of victims and their families, timeliness and thoroughness of investigations, whistleblower protection for those making allegations and the active involvement of the laity. It also leaves latitude for national bishops’ conferences . . . to specify still more to account for their local circumstances.” Further, Cardinal DiNardo called the pope’s document “a blessing that will empower the church” to bring predators to justice, regardless of their rank in the church. It holds bishops accountable for acts of sexual abuse against minors or vulnerable persons, abuses of authority and cover-ups of such crimes, he said. “Vos estis lux mundi” is being issued 17 years after the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops met in Dallas and issued its “Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People” and “A Statement of Episcopal Commitment” in 2002. One criticism of these norms was that they held no provisions for the reporting and handling of cases of sexual abuse committed by bishops, cardinals, patriarchs or supe-

At a glance

What is a metropolitan archbishop and what is his new key role?

A. A metropolitan is an

archbishop that heads up the chief diocese of an ecclesiastical province. (Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann is the metropolitan of the Ecclesiastical Province of Kansas City, which includes the archdiocese and the dioceses of Dodge City, Salina and Wichita.) Per the new norms, when an allegation is made against a bishop, his metropolitan will initiate an investigation.

What happened to “zero tolerance”?

A. “Zero tolerance” has

been the policy in the United States since 2002, and the new norms do not undo this policy.

Does this new church law hinder civil laws or investigations?

A. No. The new norms

establish procedures to be followed under church law, but the obligation to also comply with civil law still applies.

What does the new law do for transparency, as well as the rights of all parties involved?

A. The new norms in-

PHOTO BY STEFANO SPAZIANI

Pope Francis’ new document, “Vos estis lux mundi” (“You are the light of the world”), was issued “motu proprio” (on his own initiative) at the Vatican May 9. The document, which goes into effect June 1, establishes and clarifies norms and procedures for holding bishops and religious superiors accountable in protecting minors as well as in protecting members of religious orders and seminarians from abuse. riors of religious orders. The new, universal norms are needed because there are still countries where the church does not provide a clear and permanent place or way to report abuse or structures for disclosure, said Archbishop Charles Scicluna of Malta, adjunct secretary of the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith, speaking at a press conference on May 9 in Rome.

President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)

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

Archbishop Scicluna has been the pope’s point man in dealing with the clergy sexual abuse crisis. “Vos estis lux mundi” requires that all clerics and superiors of religious orders report sexual abuse of minors and vulnerable adults to church authorities. They’re already mandated to do this, but now accusations made against church leaders must also be reported.

“If a priest uses force with an adult, it’s the bishop who takes that case,” said Archbishop Scicluna. But, “when a person in leadership is guilty of misconduct, the jurisdiction pertains to the Holy See.” The document consists of an introduction and 19 articles. Some things mandated by the papal document include:

crease transparency by establishing clear procedures and affirming the obligation to report to civil authorities. They provide for lay involvement, protect against conflicts of interest and protect from retaliation. They also ensure confidentiality, the presumption of innocence and the seal of the confessional.

We’ve already had church policies and procedures to address clergy sexual abuse since 2002. Why do we need the new norms?

A. The new norms build

on the existing policies and procedures by adding the new classification of

>> See “AT” on page 11

>> See “NEW NORMS” on page 11

Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org

Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

Reporter Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org

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

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

MAY 17, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Joe and Anne Steinbock, members of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, Topeka, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on May 9. Their children are: Jeffrey Steinbock (deceased); Jay Steinbock, Overland Park; and Joely Murray, Clayton, North Carolina. They also have nine grandchildren. Frances and Rob Handke, members of St. Benedict Parish, Atchison, will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on May 26 from 2-4 p.m. at St. Patrick School hall, Atchison. They request no gifts. The couple was married at St. Patrick Church, Atchison, on June 6, 1949. They have seven children, 21 grandchildren and 32 great-grandchildren. LEAVEN PHOTO BY MARC ANDERSON

Father Carter Zielinski, associate pastor of Christ the King Parish in Topeka, puts up a shot over the Serra All-Stars at the annual Runnin’ Revs game in Topeka.

Revs roll to victory in fun-filled game

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

OPEKA — There will be six men ordained to the priesthood for the archdiocese this month. And that still won’t be enough to field a basketball team of the size of the Runnin’ Revs’ perennial opponent, the Serra All-Stars. That’s because the All-Stars, composed of eighth-grade and high school players from Catholic schools in Topeka, outnumber the Revs — composed of priests of the archdiocese — nearly four to one. But numbers didn’t count for everything at the game played at Hayden High School in Topeka on April 29. The event was one of two annual games held to raise funds for the archdiocese’s 31 seminarians. The Revs also played at Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park on March 4. Together, the two games raised $3,153.03 — all of which will help the seminarians pay for books and supplies during their years of study and preparation for

the priesthood. Prior to the game, Father Dan Morris, the archdiocesan vocations director, noted that while he played basketball at Seaman High School in north Topeka, he typically didn’t get to play on what is now known as the Ben Meseke Court located in Hayden’s Ken Bueltel Activities Complex. “I was never good enough to actually play on this court back in the day,” said Father Morris, but joked how he appreciated the Hayden High School community readying the court for his return. He also explained how the game had only two rules. The first, he said, is that the young men on the All-Stars team who make the first two baskets have a special mission. “Those men have been named by God to enter the seminary,” he said, drawing more laughter from the crowd. The second rule, said Father Morris, is that a player could not foul a Catholic priest as it constitutes a mortal sin. If they did, however, not to fear.

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Monsignor Mike Mullen, who served as the Runnin’ Revs coach, was available for confessions on the bench. Again, his comments drew much laughter from the crowd. After an opening prayer led by Father Morris, the tipoff landed the ball with the Runnin’ Revs, who failed to score on their opening possession. In fact, without a shot clock, between two and three minutes elapsed before the priests scored their first basket. And for much of the first half, despite several fouls, the All-Stars, coached by Hayden president James Sandstrom and Louis Funk, led against the Runnin’ Revs. By halftime, the score was 26-22 in favor of the All-Stars. But the priests bounced back in the second half. When the final buzzer sounded, the Revs won the game by a margin of 12 points, with a score of 61-49. The event concluded with both teams and visitors enjoying pizza and fellowship in the school cafeteria.

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Catholic cemeteries to host Memorial Day Masses Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas has planned an extensive schedule of Memorial Day Masses on May 27 across various locations in Johnson, Leavenworth, Shawnee and Wyandotte counties. The full schedule of Memorial Day Masses includes: • Mount Calvary Cemetery, 15825 S. 169 Highway, Olathe, 8 a.m.; celebrated by Father Michael Hermes • St. John Cemetery, Lenexa, 8:15 a.m. at Holy Trinity Church, 89th and Pflumm Rd., Lenexa • Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 126th and Parallel, Kansas City, Kansas, 9 a.m., Holy Redeemer Chapel; celebrated by Father Joseph Arsenault, SSA • Mount Calvary Cemetery, 38th and State Ave., Kansas City, Kansas, 9 a.m.; celebrated by Father Anthony Lickteig • Resurrection Cemetery, 83rd and Quivira, Lenexa, 9 a.m.; celebrated by Father James Ludwikoski • Mount Calvary Cemetery, 1011 N. Desoto Rd., Lansing, 9 a.m.; celebrated by Father William McEvoy • St. Joseph Cemetery, 61st Terr. and Quivira, Shawnee, 9 a.m.; celebrated by Msgr. Michael Mullen • Mount Calvary Cemetery, 801 S.W. Westchester Rd., Topeka, 10 a.m.; celebrated by Father Tim Haberkorn. For more information, call (913) 3714040 (Kansas City area); (785) 272-0820 (Topeka area); or (913) 727-1698 (Leavenworth area); or go online to: www.cathcem ks.org.

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MAY 17, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

FUN RUN

Rural hospitality reigns at 10th annual Running with the Cows 5K/half-marathon STORY BY TODD HABIGER | PHOTOS BY LORI WOOD HABIGER

UCYRUS — I never thought I would be “Running with the Cows,” yet here I was, making my way through the beautiful landscape of Bucyrus on a wet May 11 morning, competing in my first 5K run. Running with the Cows is a major fundraiser for Queen of the Holy Rosary School, Wea, and has a reputation as one of the best and most enjoyable 5K/half-marathon races in the area. This is the tenth year of Running with the Cows. It’s gone from 800 runners its first year to more than 2,300 this year. And it is a well-oiled machine. A cast of 400 volunteers help make it so. I couldn’t have chosen a better race to start with. Although Running with the Cows has become a huge event, it still holds its rural charms. “That’s intentional,” said Gwen Schreiner, one of the race directors. “We wanted to be sure we stood out from all the other races. That isn’t a stretch for us because that’s who the Holy Rosary community is.” “The biggest focus we’ve always had has been on customer service. We just want to make people happy and spread God’s joy — always with a smile on our face,” she continued. “Always with love. We try to do everything with love and to glorify God.” The race for me was a challenge to myself. I’m not a runner. Never have been. I had never run more than a mile since high school. Yet at age 49, I decided this was something I wanted to do. I approached an old friend, Sara Moxley, about running with me. Sara is a veteran of 5Ks and someone I felt I could lean on for advice and encouragement. And she was great in that mentoring role. Sara had mentioned in the past how fun Running with the Cows was. To my mind, the fact that it helped support the parish school made it the

From left, Leaven production manager Todd Habiger, 9-year-old Joni Herrmann and veteran runner Sara Moxley make their way to the finish line at the 10th annual Running with the Cows 5K/half-marathon.

The rural setting for Running with the Cows adds to the charm and small-town feel of the race. With a force of 400 volunteers, the Running with the Cows host team works hard to bring rural hospitality to what has become one the top races in the Kansas City area.

“

“THE BIGGEST FOCUS WE’VE ALWAYS HAD HAS BEEN ON CUSTOMER SERVICE. WE JUST WANT TO MAKE PEOPLE HAPPY AND SPREAD GOD’S JOY — ALWAYS WITH A SMILE ON OUR FACE.”

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann offers a prayer and blessing before the start of Running with the Cows. More than 2,300 runners signed up for the event, which is a major fundraiser for Queen of the Holy Rosary School, Wea. perfect race for me. Schreiner said that although Running with the Cows started out as a fundraiser, it has evolved into something more. “It turned into an opportunity to tell the world who the

Wea community is and give them a little slice of what it’s like to be a part of our community,” she said. “The whole community is vested in the success of this event. We really want to make a good

impression on everybody.” As I approached the finish line, a sense of pride and accomplishment spread throughout my body. I had done it. Me — a man approaching 50 who had never run a distance race in his life had just completed a 5K run in 33 minutes and 30 seconds. I immediately gave a big hug to Sara who ran with me every step of the way. I then found my wife Lori and my children — Paige and Connor — who came out in the early morning hours to support

their old man. Having them there meant the world to me. “We hope everyone leaves happy,” Schreiner said. “We hope their last impression is positive.” For me, that was definitely the case. This was the culmination of months of hard work and sacrifice but also, at the end, extreme satisfaction. Running with the Cows left such a positive mark on me I can’t wait to do it again. In the words of Arnold Schwarzenegger: “I’ll be back!”

MAY 17, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

FAMILY LIFE

he women were the ones who stayed. I regret to say that I missed this for most of my life. I don’t just mean that I missed this in Scripture, although it took me decades to realize that women stayed at the foot of the cross when almost all the men fled — or that women were the first to discover the Resurrection in every Gospel. I mean that I missed it everywhere. The truth that women’s work and witness are too often overlooked and unseen. I’m embarrassed to admit that I didn’t grasp this reality until I became a mother. Until the hard but holy work of parenting made me realize how much faithful love and service from women had made my life possible. How my mom sacrificed late nights and early mornings to care for her five children. How my aunts gave countless hours to tend to my grandparents at the end of their lives.

The world spins on, but the women stay

LAURA KELLY FANUCCI Fanucci is a mother, writer and director of a project on vocation at the Collegeville Institute in Collegeville, Minnesota. She is the author of several books, and blogs at: www.motheringspirit.com.

How my teachers, coaches, doctors, professors and employers — women who helped to shape me into the woman I am — have done their work with the same faithful commitment. The women stayed at the foot of the cross. They did not desert Jesus. They cared for his beaten, bloody body. They went in the dark to

“The Deposition of the Cross” in the painting by Abraham Janssen van Nuyssen depicts how the women of the Bible stayed with Jesus until his death. anoint him at the tomb with oil and spices. They stayed faithful to the daily, loving work of caring for others in body and soul. During this Easter season, the women have settled into my heart and refused to leave. Mary Magdalene and Mary his mother: bearer of good news and bearer of God. Joanna, Salome, Mary the mother of James, and all the unnamed women: the ones who stayed by the cross

and the ones who went to the tomb. The women of the Resurrection have led me to ask how I can stay faithful — to my family, to my work and to all the places I have been called. Throughout human history, women have often been in the shadows, not the spotlight. They showed up on the margins but didn’t get to write the stories. Yet every Gospel tells of their faithfulness at

the end. How did I miss this? Because, quite frankly, I missed how the women stayed in my life, too. Now, I’m trying to notice them everywhere. The women who stay after dinner and do the dishes. The women who stay after Mass and set the hymnals straight. The women who stay after class with the student who’s struggling. The women who stay up late with the teenager who

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needs to talk. The women who stay at the bedside after everyone else has left the hospital room. They are Mary and Joanna and Mary Magdalene and Salome. They are every unnamed woman in the Gospels, every friend of Our Lord whose story was never told. They are the saints we know and love. They are the reason many of us have faith in the first place — because our mother or grandmother or godmother or aunt or teacher or Sister taught us first. The world spins on, but the women stay. Imagine how different the story might have been if the women had not gone to the tomb while others slept, had not discovered the body gone, had not listened to the angels or had not run to tell the stunning news of Christ’s resurrection that changed everything. From birth to death, women are called to stay faithful — then and now. We would not be here without them.

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MAY 17, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

LATE EASTER MAKES FOR BUSY EASTER SEASON

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

s KICKOFF

Board members, staff and patrons of the Catholic Education Foundation join Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann at the Brass Onion in Olathe to celebrate and kick off the planning of Gaudeamus 2019. Proceeds from the annual event fund scholarships for children in need to attend Catholic schools. Gaudeamus, CEF’s largest annual fundraiser, will be held Oct. 26. Tickets are available now. For more information, visit the website at: www. cefks.org or call (913) 721-1574.

LIFE MATTERS

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann takes part in a pro-life prayer event on Divine Mercy Sunday at St. James Academy, Lenexa, to honor the unborn who lost their lives to abortion and to bring healing to those affected by an abortion. The event included 12 pro-life organizations carrying baby caskets and placing them alongside the aisle with a candle on top. The event also included eucharistic adoration, praise and worship, and a skit performed by the kids of ReachKCK.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

LET US PRAY

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann leads the students of Bishop Ward High School in eucharistic adoration on April 30. Heavy rains forced the event to move from the Cathedral of St. Peter in Kansas City, Kansas, to the gymnasium of Bishop Ward.

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Father John Torrez, pastor of St. Matthew Parish in Topeka, calls attention to the banners created by parishioner Noelle St. Clair and other Catholic women from nearly all of the city’s six Catholic parishes. Seen on each side of the altar at St. Matthew, the banners measure 19 feet in length and 30 inches in width. They are made from two layers of a synthetic material known as Tyvek paper. The banners were designed via a computer program, then enlarged and printed on the paper. Throughout the course of a day, the women cut the pattern out using scissors and X-Acto knives.

s Layla Norris, a third-grader at Resurrection School, loo she and her opponent compete. The third-graders at Re their class.

On May 9, over 30 students from Wyandotte County Catholic schools gathered in the library of Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas, to flex their mental muscles in a tournament of chess prowess.

IT’S YOUR MOVE Bishop Ward hosts Wyandotte Catholic schools’ chess tournament

By Olivia Martin olivia.martin@theleaven.org

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — What is black and white, checkered all over — and 1,500 years old? The game of chess. Considered by many to be “the soccer of board games,” chess is not only one of the oldest, but also one of the most popular games in the world, played from India to Finland to Kansas City. In fact, on May 9, over 30 students from Wyandotte County Catholic schools gathered in the library of Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas, to flex their mental muscles in a tournament of chess prowess. Third- through eighth-grade students from Resurrection, St. Patrick and Our Lady of Unity School participated in the tournament. “Chess is a game of competition,” said Judy McGarry, chess club moderator at Our Lady of Unity and tournament coordinator. In addition to building confidence, teaching strategic planning skills and developing good judgment, McGarry believes that teaching students to play chess helps form respectful human beings. “It teaches you how to put your best foot forward, how to be Christ-like and show that you can have Catholic virtues while you are playing the game,” she said. “And whether you win or lose, it [teaches students] to be a gracious winner and a good loser. It teaches manners.” During the tournament, students are self-refereed, meaning they must rely on communicating clearly and respectfully to resolve any disputes that may arise.

Other than these rare moments of conversation, the games are accompanied by a silence perfect for mind-racking concentration. And there was concentration aplenty. When the results were in, Resurrection took home first place in overall points with 47, followed by St. Patrick, which scored 32 points. Our Lady of Unity won third place with 31 points. (A school receives two points for a winning game, one point for a draw and zero points for a loss.) By class, the first-place honors went to Resurrection’s eighth, seventh, fourth and third grades; St. Patrick’s sixth grade; and Our Lady of Unity’s fifth grade. For Maya Duran, a sixth-grader from Our Lady of Unity, learning new strategies and connecting with others were some of her favorite parts of the tournament — and chess in general. “I think it’s cool . . . because you get to know people with chess and you can learn from their strategies,” said Maya. Sixth-grader Austin Morrow from St. Patrick School agreed. “It’s cool that people in other countries play chess because you don’t have to know the language to play them, just chess,” he said. “We can learn a lot from others.” For Mike Sosa and Mauricio Ramirez, both eighth-graders at Resurrection School, coming to the tournament was a chance to let the chess skills they’d been practicing online shine. “I was a bit nervous [for today],” said Mike. “I have to be careful when I make my moves.” Mauricio agreed, adding he likes playing chess competitively but not as much as playing for fun. And if the tournament teaches students anything, it’s precisely that: to

have fun with chess. “The aim of the tournament is to get the students exposed to other students so they can realize they’re not in their own fish bowl, that they can have camaraderie and fun,” said McGarry. “I think teaching chess to children, especially in the inner city,” she added, “gives them an opportunity to assess their own strengths and gives them the potential to move forward.” Pablo Oropeza, a sophomore at Bishop Ward, remembers his time on the chess team at Our Lady of Unity as one of the best of his life. “It allowed me to play against many people and see everyone’s different strengths and skills and where I needed to improve,” he said. “It was much more than a club or a team; we were a family.” Oropeza continues to play chess competitively and also helps out as a chess coach at Our Lady of Unity. “It’s awesome to teach kids what I have learned,” said Oropeza. “It has taught me a bit of patience because not every kid is the same — everyone has their own way of learning. “Coaching has taught me how to be patient and hone my skills and how to correctly extend my knowledge of chess to these children.” And unlike many sports, which can require elite equipment and traveling long distances, in chess the external intimidation factor is low. “It’s a level playing field,” said McGarry. “In chess, all of the pieces look the same. It’s just your mind versus somebody else’s mind.” Better yet, students’ time playing chess isn’t limited to their youth, said McGarry. “This is a game they can have for life,” she said.

s Our Lady of Unity sixth-graders Itzel Arevalo and Jesus

s From left, Connor Herbst, a fifth-grader at St. Patrick School, Gisel Leal, a third-grader at Our Lady of Unity School, and Kamila Valeria and Julian Garcia, both fourth-graders at Resurrection, check out the trophies as the tournament nears its end.

s Ramirez Jr. battle for chess supremacy.

s Brian McClenahan, a third-grader at Resurrection School in Kansas City, Kansas, congratulates his opponent on a game well played. Resurrection captured first place in the chess tournament at Bishop Ward.

s Danny Sledd, a sixth-grader at St. Patrick School in Kansas City, Kansas, stoically makes his move. Danny helped the St. Patrick sixth-graders take first place in their class. Our Lady of Unity third-grader Gisel Leal watches as she loses her king â&#x20AC;&#x201D;and the match.

oks on with great concern as esurrection took first place in

t Jose Gonzales, a sixth-grader at Resurrection School, studies the pieces on the board as he contemplates his next move.

Photos by Lori Wood Habiger

MAY 17, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NATION

SURVIVOR’S STORY

First-person account demonstrates deep impact of abuse

rom a distance, it sounds like it started out with what is now called grooming. Only later did it grow into something else entirely. But at the start, Matthew F. had no way of knowing that Father R’s interest in him was not what it seemed. It was the 1980s, and Matthew was a college student. He had a longtime and serious girlfriend, but he also felt a deep and recurring call to the priesthood — one he had felt ever since he was a small child. Raised in a traditional and conservative Catholic household, he says he was “a sensitive, bookish Editor’s note: We boy” growing will never know up. Even as a how many people child, he had have been harmed by abusive priests what he calls in the past; victims a “serious too seldom tell their relationship stories. But at this with God.” important juncture “I rememin the church’s efber my thirdforts to address this issue (see “New rules grade teacher focus on bishops,” asking the page 3), it seemed class one essential that The time, ‘When Leaven finish out your mind the series of articles w a n d e rs, it started last year what do you called “Safeguarding the Faithful” with a think about? first-person account “My refrom a victim, so sponse was, that readers might ‘I think about better understand God.’” how abuse affects As a colvictims throughout lege student, their lives. Names have been changed he was torn to protect identities. — and, as was common at the time, not a little ridden with Catholic guilt. He worried whether by pursuing a relationship with his girlfriend, in whom he thought he’d found his soulmate, he was rejecting God’s plans for him. After a date with his girlfriend, he’d happily be envisioning a future with her. They had been dating since high school and, although not physically intimate, it was the closest relationship Matthew had ever known. But then, after an evening at the college vocations club, he would again feel torn. His call to the priesthood seemed real as well. Neither, it seemed, would let him go, and the indecision eventually sent him into a tailspin. His depression grew so severe that even getting out of bed in the morning was a struggle. Finally, Matthew decided to seek guidance from his parish priest. “There was a new pastor at the church,” said Matthew, “and he was very kind and sympathetic and listened to my struggle — which ultimately was between God and the girl. “He assured me that there was nothing sinful about what I was feeling in my struggle — which I appreciated — and suggested that we continue to meet for spiritual direction.” Matthew agreed. And what followed he is still trying to figure out.

‘Unwavering trust’ This was more than 30 years ago, Matthew said, and he was in his late teens.

“

“I WAS RAISED WITH AN UNWAVERING TRUST. THE CHURCH WAS THE PLACE WHERE EVERYTHING WAS HOLY AND SACRED.” He had no context for understanding the coded language Father R used in spiritual direction, like “how you need someone to strip you down and be willing to see you as you are, naked,” or the extra-long hugs that would end their sessions. Even the “scholarship” that Father R gave him for helping out at the parish during the summer — for an amount more than the work he was asked to do warranted — both elated and confused him. Looking back, Matthew can see how he was particularly vulnerable to an approach like this — both because of his sheltered upbringing and his utter faith in the church. “I was raised with an unwavering trust,” he said. “The church was the place where everything was holy and sacred.” Eventually, the things they discussed in spiritual direction began to take an even stranger turn. “He became very disinterested in my priestly vocation,” recalls Matthew, “and he became more and more critical of my dating relationship. “He began to say that ‘I don’t think this relationship is very good for you,’ and I couldn’t quite figure out why — he never really explained why. And so, I wasn’t sure where the spiritual direction was going.” He challenged Matthew as well on the ways in which he practiced his faith.

“He also became very negative against any kind of traditional — my kind of more traditional — practice of the faith. Which I really didn’t see as traditional — I just thought of it as the way I practiced the faith. “In fact, in Lent of 1987, he made me box up all my sacramentals and I was to give those up for Lent. He would tell me many times, ‘You can never go back to that black-and-white world — that black-and-white world of Catholicism doesn’t exist.’” It would take months more before Father R made an unmistakable physical overture to Matthew — and was summarily rejected. And that should have been the end of it.

Gone, but not forgotten Matthew, however, was not the only one Father R had been counseling. Over Matthew’s time at college, Father R had treated both him and his girlfriend to the occasional meal and behaved in a friendly manner to them in public. He had even gone so far as to suggest they receive counseling together, but that had only happened once. Apparently, however, Father R had met with Matthew’s girlfriend on several occasions. And convinced her that Matthew was unstable. Matthew first learned of this when his girlfriend showed up midsemester in a car he had never seen before. Father R had bought it for her, she told Matthew. And, before long, she was leaving — and not only college. She was leaving town. “You’re never going to see me again,” she said. Matthew was shocked. “Father R had convinced her to convince me,” said Matthew, “to check into a psychiatric unit. And then, the narra-

tive about me became that I had been abusive to her for all these years and that he had rescued her. “The last time I met with him . . . I begged him [to explain]. I said, ‘You’ve got to help me. I don’t know what she’s talking about!’” To no avail. “In the end,” said Matthew, “I lost the vocation — and I lost the girl.”

‘Never stopped mourning’ “In some ways, I’ve never stopped mourning the loss of that relationship,” said Matthew. “It’s like somebody died.” In all these years, he has never spoken to his former girlfriend, nor has any idea where she is. Father R remained for some time at the parish, but then left rather suddenly. “I need more help than [the nearby mental health facility] can provide,” Father R reportedly said at the time of his leaving. Meanwhile, Matthew was unmoored. “To be honest,” he said, “I went and found the first nice girl off the rack that, you know, I could find. “In spite of my misgivings, I tried to convince myself that she was the answer.” They married a year after his graduation. Matthew’s faith in God remained unshaken. But the same could not be said for his faith in the Catholic Church. “My parents were very angry when I left the church and they condemned me,” he said. “I lost their relationship for the better part of the year.” But he could not bring himself to share with them what had happened. “What was I going to do? Destroy their faith?” The marriage was fruitful, but never really successful, he said. It ended 20 years after it began. >> See “DESPITE” on page 11

MAY 17, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

NATION

Despite trauma, victim never lost faith in ‘mother church’ >> Continued from page 10

Hindsight Matthew did not leave the Catholic Church for long. He has since worked almost his entire adult life in ministry, if not the priesthood. “To be honest, I never really wanted to do anything outside of serving the church.” But as it has been for so many, the events of the past year have been eye-opening. He has been in therapy for two-anda-half years now for trust issues. Although he has remarried, he struggles to trust, even in his closest relationships. “I would not be shocked to be thrown overboard, you know — for whatever reason.” Though the Pennsylvania grand jury report and Cardinal McCarrick scandal of recent months helped shed some light on that, he said. “It wasn’t until this summer,” he said, “that I really came to the understanding that grooming and the consequences of that are a real form of abuse as well. “For years, I didn’t see what I suffered as part of this crisis. “I was ashamed; I thought that I had contributed to it [somehow]. “I considered — and still do consider — myself very fortunate, compared to the horrors many victims faced, even on a recurring basis. “I’ve always felt that if I had done something differently . . . .” But there have been insights along the way as well. “One of the gifts that this whole experience has given me is a greater sense of compassion for the brokenness of people,” he said. “I don’t believe God causes these things, of course, but once we receive them, they are opportunities to grow in his likeness,” he added. But Matthew is sometimes left regretting what might have been his. “It’s been very hard to live without the ability to minister [as a priest],” he

said. “I’ve always longed to be able to serve people. “And I have become more profoundly aware that one of the best places in which to serve people is in the priesthood. “We cannot deny how essential the priesthood is to the church, because it is an unparalleled opportunity to serve in the way Jesus served.”

The way ahead Matthew admits he is in the minority, but he was actually relieved when the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops was asked by Pope Francis not to take any definitive action on clerical sex abuse at its conference last November. “I appreciate the bishops who want to do something about it. . . . I think very well of my bishop and his own integrity on this issue. “But I think this has to be a church answer. This can’t be just an American answer or a Western answer. “This has to be a universal answer.” And he recognizes that the church — and society at large — deals with sex abuse much differently than it did 30 years ago. There are mechanisms in place to encourage reporting that were unheard of when he was in school, and people in general are just much more aware of what types of behavior to be watching for. But when he’s asked what hope he would hold out to other survivors about today’s church, it is not protocols or summits that come first to his mind. Matthew still thinks, he says, of the church as his mother. And he would tell his fellow victims a simple truth. “It is not my mother who has hurt so many people. “It is not the Lord — or the Gospel. “It is people failing all of those.” “So don’t, don’t give up,” Matthew implores them. “Don’t give up on our mother, the church.”

New norms of clergy abuse to go into effect June 1 >> Continued from page 3 • All dioceses must establish “public, stable and easily accessible” reporting systems within a year. • Acts of “prejudice, retaliation or discrimination” as a consequence of making a report is prohibited. • The “good name and privacy” of individuals involved are protected. • The accused person under investigation is presumed innocent. • The “obligation to keep silent” may not be imposed on any person with regard to reporting. • In instances involving a bishop of the Latin rite (the majority of Catholics in the United States), a report is made to the Holy See and the metropolitan of the province where the report is made. A metropolitan is an archbishop who heads up the chief diocese of an ecclesiastical province. (Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann is the metropolitan of the Ecclesiastical Province of Kansas City which includes the archdiocese and the dioceses of Dodge City, Salina and Wichita.) • If the metropolitan responsible for the investigation of an accusation of abuse considers himself to have a conflict of interest or unable to maintain impartiality, he is obliged to recuse himself. • The metropolitan may take necessary measures to preserve documents if there are “well-founded motives” that there is a risk they might be destroyed. • The accused persons may defend themselves and be assisted by an attorney.

At a glance >> Continued from page 3 “vulnerable persons,” address the use of violence and abuse of power, deal with cover-ups of abuse, include reporting of church leaders (cardinals, bishops, other clerics, religious superiors and others), oblige mandatory internal reporting and safeguard against retaliation against “whistleblowers.”

When do the new norms take effect?

A. They take effect on June

1 of this year. Each diocese is to have reporting mechanisms in place by June 1, 2020. The norms will be reviewed by the Holy See every three years and be adjusted as needed.

• The investigating metropolitan may choose qualified individuals to help investigate, including laypersons. • If required, the metropolitan shall propose precautionary measures regarding individuals under investigation. • The new norms “apply without prejudice” to reporting obligations to the civil authorities. Cardinal DiNardo said that the committees of the USCCB have begun preparing implementation measures for deliberation at the bishops’ plenary assembly this coming June.

MAY 17, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CLASSIFIEDS

EMPLOYMENT Special education teacher - Bishop Miege High School is seeking a full-time special education teacher for the 2019-20 school year. The ideal candidate would have Kansas licensure and three years’ experience in a SPED program and be able to work in collaboration with a team to increase services provided to students on support plans. Send a letter of interest and resume to: mjaksa@bishopmiege.com. Teachers - Hiring part-time and substitute teachers for our 2019-20 school year at Our Lady’s Montessori School. Send an email to: jwallace@olmskc.org. School nurse - St. Ann School in Prairie Village is seeking a full-time nurse for the 2018-19 school year. Applicants need to be a registered nurse with basic life-support training and hold a current Kansas license. Interested applicants should email a resume and cover letter to assistant principal Jessica Husted at: jhusted@stannpv.org. Spanish teacher - St. Ann School in Prairie Village is seeking a full-time kindergarten - eighth-grade Spanish teacher for the 2019-20 school year. Interested applicants should complete the teacher application process online at: www.archkckcs.org and email a resume to assistant principal Jessica Husted at: jhusted@stannpv.org. English/language arts teacher - St. Thomas Aquinas High School is seeking to fill a full-time teaching position in the English/language arts for the 2019-20 school year. Interested candidates must be able to secure a Kansas teacher license. To apply, forward a letter of application and resume to Dr. Bill Ford., President, St. Thomas Aquinas High School, 11411 Pflumm Rd., Overland Park, KS 66215, or email to: wpford@stasaints.net. Director of Christian formation and evangelization St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood is seeking a director for our Christian formation and evangelization department. This director will collaborate with the pastor, DRE and youth ministers to formulate and execute a comprehensive plan of evangelization. This will include pre-evangelization, outreach, invitation, RCIA and faith formation with a goal of making intentional disciples. The preferred candidate will be a prayerful, practicing Catholic with experience in management. Vital to this position are excellent administration, organization and communication skills, plus the interpersonal skills and personality necessary to motivate staff and a team of volunteers. The candidate must be articulate and confident in matters of faith with an obvious passion for evangelization. A master’s degree in religious education, religious studies or theology is preferred but we will accept a candidate with a bachelor’s degree who has management or leadership skills. 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Applicants for this position must have very strong computer skills, including extensive experience with Microsoft Word and Excel; working knowledge of database management software; and have an aptitude for working with office equipment such as multiline phone systems, copiers, etc. The successful applicant will be very detail oriented and self-directed; will possess strong organizational, communication and interpersonal skills; and be a willing team player. This is a permanent, full-time position and includes the archdiocesan benefits package. Salary will be commensurate with experience. For additional details and a complete job description, go to: www.stmichaelcp.org, click on “Our Parish,” and scroll down and click on the tab “Employment Opportunities.” Mini-storage facility manager - Shawnee/Lenexa area. 30 - 35 hrs/week. Job tasks include helping customers with storage needs; following up on sales prospects; collecting payments; monthly billings; collecting delinquencies; keeping the site in good shape; and frequent property walks. Manager must have a pleasant disposition, good telephone skills and be comfortable using a computer. Other responsibilities include light maintenance which includes cleaning units; sweeping; mopping; changing light bulbs; and cleaning the office. Great opportunity for retired person or couple. Send inquiries to PO Box 860049, Shawnee, KS 66286. Members, St. Joseph Parish.

Caregivers - Daughters & Company is looking for several compassionate caregivers to provide assistance to ambulatory seniors in their home, assisted living or in a skilled nursing facility. We provide light housekeeping/ light meal preparation, organizational assistance, care management and occasional transportation services for our clients. We need caregivers with reliable transportation and a cellphone for communication. A CNA background is helpful, though not mandatory. We typically employ on a part-time basis, but will strive to match up hours desired. Contact Pat or Murray at (913) 341-2500, or contact Gary at (913) 787-4123 if you want to become part of an excellent caregiving team. Lawn care - Do you know someone with ambition who is looking for a CAREER working in the outdoors? We are looking for smart, energetic people with high integrity who are motivated to learn our business and help us grow. You must be excited to work outside and interested in learning about lawns, pruning, tree care, landscaping and irrigation. Prior experience is not required; a college degree is strongly preferred. We call it “putting your degree to work, outdoors”! We are an employee-owned, nonsmoking company. New hires quickly make great friends with our quality staff. As a faith-based company, we are confident you won’t be disappointed referring a friend to RYAN. Apply online at: RyanLawn.com. English teacher - Maur Hill-Mount Academy Prep High School is seeking to fill a full-time teaching position in English for the 2019-20 school year. Interested candidates must be able to secure a Kansas teacher’s license. To apply, forward a cover letter and resume to Monika King, Principal, Maur Hill-Mount Academy, 1000 Green St., Atchison, KS 66002, or email: mking@mh-ma.com. Chemistry/physics teacher - Maur Hill-Mount Academy Prep High School is seeking a full-time teaching position in chemistry/physics for the 2019-20 school year. Interested candidates must be able to secure a Kansas teacher’s license. To apply, forward a cover letter and resume to Monika King, Principal, Maur Hill-Mount Academy, 1000 Green St., Atchison, KS 66002, or email: mking@mh-ma.com. Liturgist - St. Francis Xavier Jesuit Parish, Kansas City, Mo., seeks a liturgist. Primary requirements of the position are assisting the pastor in leading the overall liturgical life of the parish by promoting and coordinating the active participation of the parish community in liturgical prayer and music. A moderately flexible schedule is required to accommodate holy days, weddings and funerals. The liturgist reports to the pastor; the position is full-time, 25 - 30 hours during the week, plus weekends; eligible for benefits. For the full job description and to apply, go online to: kcsjcatholic.org, click on “Get Started,” scroll down to “Job Openings,” then click on “Click here to view and apply for current openings.” Youth minister - St. Thomas More Church in south Kansas City, Mo., seeks a full-time director of youth ministry for its parish and school of 1,500 families. Applicants should have a bachelor’s degree or higher, preferably in youth ministry, religious education or a comparable area. More information and application can be found at: careers.hireology.com/thecatholicdioceseofkansas citystjoseph; click on “Director of Youth Ministry Saint Thomas More Church.”

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Decked Out in KC - www.WEFIXDECKS.com. We repair, power wash and seal concrete drives, walkways, pool decks and more. Call Brian at (913) 952-5965. HARCO Exteriors LLC Your Kansas City fencing specialists Family owned and operated (913) 815-4817 www.harcoexteriorsllc.com

WANTED TO BUY Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. Wanted to buy - Old cars or hot rods. Uncompleted project cars in any condition, with or without titles. Cash buyer. Call (913) 980-3559.

REAL ESTATE CASH FOR YOUR HOME (913) 980-4905 Any condition in the metro area Mark Edmondson - local parishioner http://www.buykcproperty.com We buy houses and whole estates - We are local and family-owned, and will make you a fair cash offer. We buy houses in any condition. No fees or commissions and can close on the date of your choice. Selling your house as is never felt so good. Jon & Stacy Bichelmeyer (913) 599-5000. Whole Estates Need to sell a home and everything in it? We buy it all at once in as-is condition. Call (816) 444-1950 or send an email to: www.wholeestates.com. WE SELL HOMES - Looking to sell? This is a seller’s market. Call for a free consultation detailing the steps to selling your home. Ask about our 39-day sales guarantee. Mention this ad for a special offer. Call Jim Blaufuss, Re/Max Realty Suburban, at (913) 226-7442. Jimblaufuss@remax.net. Roommate wanted - To share my three-bedroom, two-bathroom Lansing home. St. Frances de Sales Parish. No deposit. $550 per month rent; utilities included. Text or leave a message for Linda at (913) 240-0400.

CAREGIVING Just like family - Let me care for your loved ones in their homes. I have many years of experience. Looking for night-shift coverage, some days. Great price, great references. Experienced with hospice care. Call Ophelia at (913) 579-7276. Girl Friday - Nanny, house-sitting, pet-sitting; experienced; references. Been with the same family for five years. Parishioner of Church of the Nativity. Call Shari at (816) 678-5718. Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www. benefitsofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591. Caretaker for seniors - Have experience and enjoy helping seniors. Will also run errands, etc. Call Patty at (913) 499-1469. Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management, and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.

FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC) For sale - Two adjoining plots at Mount Olivet Cemetery in the Crucifixion area, close to the road. Original cost $1825 per lot. Will sell both lots for $2500 or separately for $1250 each. Call Lesley at (913) 908-2162. For sale - Two spaces at Resurrection Cemetery in Mausoleum, St. John Corridor. Reasonable rate. Call (913) 894-2448. For sale - One plot in Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens Cemetery. Lot number 46C, space 7 in the Garden of Everlasting Life. Asking $1000. If interested, call Judy at (913) 523-6993. For sale - Two side-by-side crypts; tier B, 13 and 15, located in the St. Joseph Chapel at Mount Calvary Cemetery, the only two left in the chapel. Call (913) 269-6176 for pricing.

MAY 17, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

CALENDAR ‘ALL THINGS UKRAINIAN’ Strawberry Hill Museum 720 N. 4th St., Kansas City, Kansas May, Saturdays and Sundays from noon - 5 p.m.

There will be an exhibit of “All Things Ukrainian” included in the museum’s guided tour. Ukrainian life will be displayed via photographs, woodwork, paintings, pottery and an assortment of crafts from the Ukraine. For more information, go online to the museum’s website at: Strawberryhillmuseum.org.

KNITTING AND CROCHETING GROUP Keeler Women’s Center 2220 Central Ave., Kansas City, Kansas Tuesdays from 6 - 7:30 p.m.

Come learn a new skill or work on current projects. All programs and services are free. Donations are welcome. Call (913) 906-8990 or register online at: www.keeler womenscenter.org.

MEMORIAL DAY MASS AND BLESSING SERVICE Divine Mercy Parish (St. Columbine Cemetery) 207th St. and Dille Rd., Edgerton May 27 at 9 a.m.

A Mass will be celebrated at St. Columbine Cemetery in remembrance of American soldiers who have died in military service. Following Mass, there will be a blessing at St. Columbia Cemetery, located at 159th and S. Moonlight Rd. in Gardner.

RETREAT ON MATTHEW’S GOSPEL Marillac Center 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth 66048 May 28 - June 4

“‘Come Follow Me’ - The Jesus Who Calls Us in the Matthean Gospel” will be the theme of the retreat. Retreat fee, room and board is $70 per day; $420 for the six-day retreat. A $50 deposit will reserve your space. Make checks payable to: Sisters of Charity and send to the above address and include a note referencing the retreat.

‘CREATION CARE: A CALL TO ACTION FOR PEOPLE OF FAITH’ Church of the Ascension (hall) 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park May 29 at 7 p.m. THE GABRIEL PROJECT Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish (bride room in the basement) 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park May 21 at 7 p.m.

The Gabriel Project is a ministry of the archdiocesan pro-life office providing help for pregnant women in need. Trained volunteers are assigned to a mother when she calls for help and are responsible for ongoing contact with her. The mother receives love, care and the spiritual, material and emotional support she needs. Come hear what being a volunteer entails. Contact Ann Marie Alvey online at: director@ gabrielprojeckc.com or call (913) 621-2199.

‘WE REMEMBER THEM: HOW REMEMBRANCE AND RITUAL HEAL OUR GRIEF’ Prince of Peace Parish (Sister Mary Thomas Parish Hall) 16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe May 23 at 7 p.m.

BENEFIT TRAIL RIDE Melvern Lake (Eisenhower Park) Osage City, Kansas May 31 - June 1

Registration is May 1, 6 - 9 p.m. or June 1 from 7 - 8:30 a.m. Horseback riding will be from 9 a.m. - 4 p.m. Non-riders are welcome to join us for dinner and music at 6 p.m. The cost for dinner is $10 for adults; $5 for kids ages 6 - 12; and free for kids under 5. Proceeds go the parish building fund for St. Patrick Parish in Scranton. For more information, call Lori Mock at (785) 640-7262 or Rhonda Stark at (785) 633-3046.

Join the office of deaf ministry for its annual Pints with a Priest event. Father Christopher Klusman will be presenting theology of the body, part two. Share an evening of fun, socializing and prayer.

DAUGHTERS OF ISABELLA LITTLE FLOWER CIRCLE Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall) 5973 S.W. 29th St., Topeka May 26 at 12:30 p.m.

There will be a mother-daughter banquet and Birthright baby shower. Bring a covered dish to share and a baby gift to donate to Mary’s Choice. A business meeting will follow the luncheon. If anyone knows of a member or family in need of the circle’s prayers, call Theresa Smith-Lawton at (785) 640-1403. If you are interested in or would like more information about Daughters of Isabella, call Cindy Keen at (785) 228-9863.

GARAGE SALE Holy Spirit Parish 11300 W. 103rd St., Overland Park May 31 from 8 a.m. - 6 p.m. June 1 from 8 a.m. - 1 p.m.

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

GERMANFEST Sacred Heart-St. Joseph Parish 312 N.E. Freeman, Topeka June 1 at 4 p.m. June 2 from 10 a.m. - 5 p.m.

The Germanfest begins on June 1 with an outdoor Mass at 4 p.m. followed by Germanfest activities until 11 p.m. There will be German food, a Biergarten, booths and auctions, carnival games for kids and The Chardon Polka Band.

hour/silent auction, 12:15 p.m. buffet, and 1:15 p.m. show. All proceeds benefit student scholarships. RSVP online by June 4 to Laura Caulfield (’69) at: lcaulfield@kc.rr.com or call (913) 491-1147.

The morning will begin with a rosary, followed by Mass at 8 a.m. After Mass, Deacon Bob Ellis from the national office of the World Apostolate of Fatima will speak on the apparitions at Fatima, including the devotion of the First Saturdays, the rosary and the triumph of the Immaculate Heart.

GARAGE SALE Holy Rosary, Wea 22705 Metcalf, Bucyrus June 8 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. June 9 from 8 a.m. - noon

This will be a 700-family garage sale. On June 9, all items that fit in a trash bag will be $4 per bag, except furniture and certain tables.

PANCAKE BREAKFAST Divine Mercy Parish (Christian Formation Center) 555 W. Main St., Gardner June 9 from 8 - 10 a.m.

Join the fun and fellowship and enjoy a hot and hardy breakfast. The cost for a breakfast of pancakes, sausage, eggs, biscuits and gravy is: $6 for adults; $3 for kids 6 - 12; and kids 5 and under eat for free.

Pope Francis challenged us all with one simple question in 2015; “What kind of world do you want to leave those who come after us, to children who are now growing up?” Approaching the fourth anniversary of the release of his encyclical, “Laudato Si’,” people of faith are called to evaluate our response to this question. Msgr. Stuart Swetland, president of Donnelly College, will lead a discussion about how we as Catholics are called to respond.

Join the members of the Prince of Peace bereavement ministry in this supportive group gathering. The evening will feature speaker Brent Doster, family support coordinator at Villa St. Francis, Olathe. He will lead a discussion on the importance of remembrance and ritual and how these acts of memorialization contribute to healthy grieving. For more information, call Doster at (913) 747-0276.

PINTS WITH A PRIEST Twister Grill and Bar 13100 Kansas Ave., Bonner Springs May 24 at 7 p.m.

APPARITIONS AT FATIMA St. Regis Parish 8941 James A Reed Rd., Kansas City, Missouri June 8 at 7:30 a.m.

CATECHESIS OF THE GOOD SHEPHERD Sts. Peter and Paul Parish 411 Pioneer, Seneca June 6 - 9 and 20 - 23

This is adult formation for level 2, part 1, summer intensive. For more information or to register, call Angie Hammes at (785) 2940442 or send an email to: angiemhammes@ gmail.com.

ART AND MUSIC SUMMER CAMP Our Lady’s Montessori School 3020 S. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas June 3 - 6

Our Lady’s Montessori School for young children will offer an art and music camp. For more information and to enroll, send an email to: jwallace@olmskc.org or call (913) 403-9550.

FAMILY SPECIAL-NEEDS SUMMER CAMP Prairie Star Ranch 1124 California Rd., Williamsburg June 28 - 30 CHICKEN DINNER Sacred Heart Parish 22298 Newbury Rd., Paxico June 9 from noon - 3 p.m.

Mass will be at 10:30 a.m. Chicken dinner will be served buffet-style following Mass. The cost for dinner will be: $10 for adults; $4 for kids 5 - 12; and kids 4 and under eat for free. There will also be games, bingo, raffles and a silent auction at the parish hall, 1.5 miles north of Paxico.

‘MASSIVE’ GARAGE SALE Church of the Ascension 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park June 12 from 3 - 7 p.m. (presale, $5 cover) June 13 from 8 a.m. - 4 p.m. June 14 from 8 a.m. - 2 p.m. June 15 from 8 a.m. - noon

The garage sale helps fund the ministries that serve the parish and many ministries beyond the parish. There will be lots of treasures from clothing to stuffed zebras! On June 14, many items will be half price. On June 15, it will be “everything you can put in a bag” sale day. The cost will be either $5 or $10 per bag.

18TH ANNUAL GERMANFEST St. Joseph Parish 306 N. Broadway, Leavenworth June 15 from 4:30 - 9 p.m.

There will be a traditional German dinner served. The cost for dinner is $10 for adults; $4 for kids. There will also be a beer garden, wine, a raffle with cash and German prizes, and a silent auction. Outdoor music will be provided by the Festhaus Musikanten polka band. Betty Jo Simmon, accordionist, will provide music in the dining hall. For more information, call the parish office at (913) 682-3953 or go online to: www.icsj.org.

‘BUDDY - THE BUDDY HOLLY STORY’ New Theatre & Restaurant 9229 Foster St., Overland Park June 22 at 11 a.m.

The University of Mary KC Alumni Council invites you to join them for an 11 a.m. social

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

BEGINNING EXPERIENCE - A WEEKEND AWAY FOR A LIFETIME OF CHANGE Precious Blood Renewal Center 2120 St. Gaspar Way, Liberty, Missouri June 28 - 30

This is a weekend for those who are suffering the loss of a love relationship and may feel left out by their church, uneasy around married friends and unsure of themselves. For more information, visit: www.beginningexperience kc.org; send an email to: register.bekc@gmail. com; or call Michelle at (913) 709-3779.

MENTAL HEALTH AWARENESS MONTH

May is Mental Health Awareness Month. As a faith community, we are called to support individuals and their families who have mental health concerns. If you would like more information about how to support people with mental illness and their families in your parish, call the special-needs ministry office of the archdiocese at (913) 647-3054 or send an email to: tracunas@archkck.org.

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

What’s next after divorce/annulment? Join us for a formation series on the gift of self, which helps us fulfill the call to love again. Various topics will be discussed. Visit our Facebook page at: www.facebook.com/giftofself143 or send an email to: calledtolove143@gmail.com.

CATHOLIC HEART WORKCAMP Kansas City area July 8 - 11

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

MAY 17, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

COMMENTARY

When are you at your best?

FIFTH WEEK OF EASTER May 19 FIFTH SUNDAY OF EASTER Acts 14: 21-27 Ps 145: 8-13 Rv 21: 1-5a Jn 13: 31-33a, 34-35 May 20 Bernardine of Siena, priest Acts 14: 5-8 Ps 115: 1-4, 15-16 Jn 14: 21-26 May 21 Christopher Magallanes, priest, and companions, martyrs Acts 14: 19-28 Ps 145: 10-13ab, 21 Jn 14: 27-31a May 22 Rita of Cascia, religious Acts 15: 1-6 Ps 122: 1-5 Jn 15: 1-8 May 23 Thursday Acts 15: 7-21 Ps 96: 1-3, 10 Jn 15: 9-11 May 24 Friday Acts 15: 22-31 Ps 57: 8-12 Jn 15: 12-17 May 25 Bede the Venerable, priest, doctor of the church, Gregory VII, pope; Mary Magdalene de’ Pazzi, virgin Acts 16: 1-10 Ps 100: 1b-3, 5 Jn 15: 18-21

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hat is hell like? English author C.S. Lewis had a unique take on the question. I was reminded of it in a Daily Bread reflection from Celebration Publications written by Jeanne Lischer. Lewis imagined hell in his book “The Great Divorce” as “a place where people are forever moving farther and farther away from one another.” In contrast to what we envision as the communion of saints in heaven, hell engenders isolation. And we know how destructive that is here on earth when, for example, a person is placed in solitary confinement. Having only oneself as company produces mental, physical, spiritual and emotional distress. Lischer sees evidence of that isolationism all around us in today’s world. And I agree with her. It’s not unusual now to see people out to dinner “together” and

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.

each one is absorbed in his or her cellphone. We’ve let virtual connections and communication replace actual, real-world interaction. What we’re losing in the process is conveyed beautifully in this story: As part of an assignment for a doctoral thesis, a college student spent a year with a group of Navajo Indians on a reservation in the Southwest. As he did his

research, he lived with one family, sleeping in their hut, eating their food, working with them and generally living the life of a 20th-century Native American. The old grandmother of the family spoke no English at all, yet a very close friendship formed between her and the student. They spent a great deal of time sharing a friendship that was meaningful to each, yet unexplainable to anyone else. Despite the language difference, they shared the common language of love and understood each other. Over the months, the student

learned a few phrases of Navajo, and the grandmother picked up a little of the English language. When it was time for his return to the campus to write his thesis, the tribe held a going-away celebration. It was marked by sadness since the young man had become close to the whole village and all would miss him. As he prepared to get into the pickup truck and leave, the old grandmother came to tell him goodbye. With tears streaming from her eyes, she placed her hands on either side of his face, looked directly into his eyes and said, “I like me best when I’m with you.” (Adapted from “Illustrations Unlimited,” edited by James S. Hewett.) What a beautiful sentiment: I like me best when I’m with you. That’s a glimpse of heaven on earth. We need one another to survive and thrive. That’s especially true with those we call our friends. Yet, in our overly

busy world, we take less and less time to meet in person. Our “interactions” are limited to a quick text every now and then or a post or comment on Facebook. While we promise to “do lunch soon,” we make scant effort to do so. And then we wonder why we drift further and further apart. Summer is a perfect time to reconnect — in real time, in person — with those who are most important to us. There’s no shortage of picnics, family reunions and other gatherings in these months. Make plans now to attend one of these. Or schedule that lunch with a neglected friend. Just be sure to leave your cellphone in the car. Sharing our time and our lives with those we cherish is worth any effort. Why? Because it helps us rediscover what the old grandmother knew so well: “I like me best when I’m with you.”

Stretching ourselves both takes,and gives, strength

hich comes first: the chicken or the

egg? Does a person gain strength through physical exercise and stretching the muscles, or is it the other way around? Doesn’t a person need some physical strength in the first place in order to perform those tasks? Sunday’s first reading, Acts 14:21-27, raises a similar question. Paul and Barnabas challenge the disciples: “It is necessary for us to undergo many hardships to enter the kingdom of God.” In this way, the reading tells us: “They exhorted them to persevere in the faith.” Certainly, Paul and Barnabas know all about hardships. Their

IN THE BEGINNING

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

wide travels took them through many difficulties. They underwent stoning: “They stoned Paul and dragged him out of the city, supposing

POPE FRANCIS

that he was dead” (Acts 14:19b). They endured beatings: “The crowd joined in the attack on them, and the magistrates had them stripped and ordered them to be beaten with rods” (Acts 16:22). They would face shipwreck: “They struck a sandbar and ran the ship aground. The bow was wedged in and could not be moved, but the stern

Arriving in Skopje, with its skyline dotted by minarets and domes, Pope Francis told civic leaders that the country’s ethnic and religious diversity is a “precious patrimony” to be appreciated and treasured. Gjorge Ivanov, ending his term as president, told the pope May 7, “You come at a time when the Macedonian society is deeply divided, and the Macedonian country is heavily wounded by broken promises, unfulfilled expectations and faltering trust in the international community.” NATO and the European Union, supporting the position of Greece, delayed talks to allow the former Yugoslav republic to join until after it agreed in

began to break up under the pounding [of the waves]” (Acts 27: 41). Paul and Barnabas’ faith enabled them to withstand those hardships. At the same time, those hardships toughened them up, and helped them to grow in their faith. Their willingness to undergo these physical difficulties gave them spiritual strength. Their experiences prepared them for the greatest challenge of all: to eventually face their death through martyrdom. Travel in ancient times took place under extremely hazardous conditions. Those who traveled on foot could encounter blazing heat on one hand or freezing cold on the other. They were exposed to the elements. In addition, bandits

roamed the countryside, ready to relieve travelers on foot of their goods, and possibly their lives. Similarly, ships at sea ran the risk of being attacked by pirates or being subjected to dangerous weather. No wonder that most people did not stray from home and lived their whole lives within a narrow radius. Paul and Barnabas undertook their journeys in order to spread the good news about Jesus Christ. They wanted to bring others to faith. At the same time, their constant endeavors and stretching themselves to their limits promoted their own growth in their faith. They provide a model for us to imitate as we journey through life.

February to change its name to North Macedonia. As the delay dragged on, Ivanov said, many people believed “the cross and crescent, the church and the mosque are being misused as borders and fortresses to mark and defend some kind of imaginary territories. It seems we forget that we are all people, regardless of our belief.” Orthodox Christians make up about 68% of the country’s population and Muslims account for about 30% of the citizens; Catholics are less than 1% of the population. North Macedonians chose Stevo Pendarovski as their next president May 5; Pendarovski, a pro-Western candidate, is expected to guide the nation into NATO in 2020 and into the European Union. — CNS

MAY 17, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

Catholic scientists of note featured at STREAM Night >> Continued from page 1 Morgan isn’t surprised by Monica’s early interest in engineering. In the many STEM events he’s attended, girls represent about 55 percent of the total attendees, on average. And, he said, “Girls ask the most questions.” Kolbe Meinhardt, 9, is in the third grade at Prince of Peace. He was interested in learning how to make printing plates — a key technology for producing U.S. currency. Kolbe, who enjoys playing video games, attended the event because he likes “art, drones and other stuff.” That “other stuff” included activities like Lego robotics. St. James Academy and St. Thomas Aquinas and Bishop Miege high schools all contributed fun activities to the evening. Honeywell also participated in the evening with an array of handson activities. This year, STREAM Night incorporated Catholic scientists who have made a difference. One of the classrooms featured a Fibonacci activity. Fibonacci art is a mathematical sequence that creates a spiral that is seen in God’s

creation, such as the ear, seashells, and more. St. James Academy principal Shane Rapp, Ph.D., underscored the importance of the STEM model in teaching all subjects and engaging all students. “STEM is more of a mindset,” he said. “It’s an approach or a way of teaching that is beneficial in whatever field you go into.” That’s a sentiment echoed by Prince of Peace middle school social studies teacher Will Reiter. “Anytime we can do hands-on activities to teach, which is what STREAM is, we have more engagement in education,” Reiter said. “A few years ago, we changed to the Common Core curriculum, spending more time on math and science and problem-solving. Students are used to looking up answers in a book. “But in real life, that’s not how it works.” Prince of Peace is dedicated to advancing its STREAM effort. It currently offers an after-school engineering club, Lego engineering (first grade), and STEM club for first, second and sixth grades. STREAM Night received financial support from the school’s PTO and local engineering firm, DLR Group.

Matthew’s Gospel is retreat focus

EAVENWORTH — “‘Come Follow Me’ — The Jesus Who Calls Us in the Matthean Gospel” will be the theme of the May 28 to June 4 retreat facilitated by Sister Wendy Cotter at Marillac Center here, the retreat and spirituality facility of the Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth. Sister Wendy is a Sister of St. Joseph from London, Ontario, Canada. Sister Wendy will focus on Matthew’s “speeches of Jesus,” created from collections of Jesus’ discipleship teachings in response to his followers. The goal of the retreat is to cultivate openness to God’s love and, in turn, to share that love by creating

community and helping persons in need. Recently retired as professor of Scripture at Loyola University, Chicago, Sister Wendy specializes in the Gospels of Matthew, Mark and Luke. She has authored two books. Retreat fee, room and board is $70 per day; $420 for the six-day retreat. A $50 deposit will reserve your space for this retreat. Make check payable to Sisters of Charity and send with a note regarding the retreat to Marillac Center, 4200 S. 4th St., Leavenworth, KS 66048-5054, or register online at: www.marillaccenter.org. Call (913) 680-2342 for more information.

From left, Seth Harriman, Nathan Berning and Adam Kopitke, members of Boy Scout Troop 194 and St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, have attained the rank of Eagle. Their Court of Honor was held on April 28 at St. Joseph. For his Eagle project, Harriman cleared away old vines and brush around a wrought iron fence on the Sisters, Servants of Mary convent property in Kansas City, Kansas. With the help of fellow Scouts, he brought in and placed garden weed mats and 14 tons of rock under the fence. Berning built and installed bluebird houses and hawk perches on the grounds at the Grinter Place State Historic Site in Kansas City, Kansas, for his Eagle project. And Kopitke landscaped a large area on the south side of the St. Joseph Parish service center for his Eagle project.

MAY 17, 2019 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS

When he asked for a sign, he got two By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

PERSONALLY SPEAKING

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — When he was at a major crossroads in his life, Deacon Daniel Edward Weger asked God to show him what he should do. God did, and the answer was a surprise: Go to the seminary. “It wasn’t something I had thought of before or wanted to do, so I ignored it,” said Deacon Weger. “I continued praying and asked God to be more OK with what I wanted than with me doing what he wanted. “But it never really changed. It was constant. All sorts of signs and people talking to me, prayer and Scripture, all leading to: ‘No, you need to go to [the] seminary.’ “So, I signed up for [the] seminary, not knowing how that worked or what to do.” After years of discernment and study, he will be ordained a priest for the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas this month. Deacon Weger, 28, is one of three children of Matthew and Joann Weger, members of Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa. His father is a master planner for Hallmark in Kansas City, Missouri. His mother is a physical therapist for Saint Luke’s Hospital in Kansas City, Missouri. Although he didn’t see it at the time, it was his parents who planted the seeds of his priestly vocation. “[My parents weren’t] ‘uber Catholics’ by any means, but they were always very loyal and consistent in the faith,” he said. “They were very consistent in bringing us to church and making sure we went to classes. We prayed before meals. “By no means was faith foreign to my life. I distinctly remember in high school waking up early to go to band practice beforehand, and my dad would be sitting in the front room reading Scripture by himself. There were little, subtle reinforcements that [the faith] was important for us.” Since he attended public grade school, he received his formal religious education on Wednesday nights at the parish. He went to Camp Tekakwitha during the summer and participated in the Holy Trinity youth group. “Once I got to the high school youth group, the youth ministers were extremely helpful,” said Deacon Weger. “They led me into a deeper relationship with Christ so I could be in a position where I’d be willing to accept what God wanted for me, rather than just what I wanted. They were hugely important for me [going to] college and retaining my faith while a lot of my classmates fell away.” After graduating from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in 2008, he went to Kansas State University in Manhattan to study electrical engineering. While there, he became involved with the St. Isidore’s Catholic Student Center. He met Father Jarett Konrade, who was not only the center’s chaplain and director, but also the vocations director for the Diocese of Salina. “He never pushed vocations to the priesthood on anyone, although he mentioned it,” said Deacon Weger. “The way he celebrated Mass was extremely reverent. It was obvious by the way he celebrated Mass that there was something special going on here . . . and that inspired me to deeply consider what

Daniel Weger shakes hands with Kansas State University band director Frank Tracz at halftime of the last Kansas State home football game Weger played in. Weger was a member of the university’s marching band for five years.

From left, Kevin Janczewski, Doyle Agnew and Daniel Weger prepare to play a game of Quidditch (made famous by the Harry Potter books) on the zipline at Camp Tekakwitha where Weger worked for four summers. exactly was happening with the Mass.” This reverence also led him to connect the Mass on Sundays to his life Mondays through Saturdays. While at K-State, he was dating a young woman who he thought he might marry. She suggested they pray the rosary together every day for a month for clarity about their vocations in life. “By the end of that month, I knew I wasn’t supposed to marry her,” said Deacon Weger. “So, I spent some time asking God, ‘If not her, then who?’ I had an amazing woman who I’d be blessed to marry, so I didn’t want to [end] that without strong assurances I wasn’t doing something stupid.” He asked God for an irrefutable sign. God gave him two. He realized, while buying a crucifix for a priest, that he was more willing to do something for the church than for a girlfriend. While he was paying for it, he noticed some Miraculous Medals commemorating

the Year for Priests: June 19, 2009 June 19, 2010. “It started and ended on June 19, my birthday,” he said. “I felt a very personal connection. . . . So, all right, fine. That’s a pretty straight-up sign. I’ll take it.” After graduating from KSU with a bachelor’s in electrical engineering in 2013, he entered St. Mary of the Lake, Mundelein Seminary. He was ordained a deacon by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann on May 19, 2018, at Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa. He will be ordained a priest by Archbishop Naumann on May 25 at the Church of the Ascension in Overland Park. Deacon Weger’s advice to men who think they might have a vocation to the priesthood is to “be open.” “Be open to God speaking to you,” he said. “If you think he might be, talk with your spiritual director or priest.”

Name: Deacon Daniel Edward Weger Age: 28 Born: Kansas City, Missouri Raised: Lenexa Parents: Matthew and Joann Weger Siblings: Hillary and Alyssa Home parish: Holy Trinity, Lenexa Education: • St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Overland Park, 2008 • Kansas State University, Manhattan, bachelor’s in electrical engineering, 2013 • The University of Mary of the Lake, Mundelein Seminary, master’s in philosophy and religion in 2015; Master of Divinity and a Sacred Theology Bachelor degree, 2019 Favorite TV, Netflix, YouTube or other show: House, M.D. Tech I can’t live without: My phone Favorite musical style/band/performer: Electronic swing My most notable encounter with the famous/infamous: Katy Perry pointed me out in a crowd during one of her early concerts. Most inspirational Christian(s) I’ve ever met: Bishop Robert Barron Favorite saint: St. Sebastian, because he healed quickly and didn’t let the opposition of others keep him from proclaiming the Gospel. Favorite devotion: The rosary, because Mary has been a huge part of my faith and vocation. Book to recommend: “Voyage to Alpha Centauri,” by Michael O’Brien Favorite food: Tacos Least favorite food: Seafood Favorite childhood toy: Beanie Babies Favorite place: Anywhere with friends Dream vacation: Backpacking through Europe Worst job I’ve ever had: Refereeing U16 soccer. They kept trying to hurt each other and the parents kept yelling. Best job I’ve ever had: Working Prayer and Action for the archdiocese Hobbies/things I like to do: Board games, movies, writing stories and chopping wood Guilty pleasure: Cringy YouTube videos My hidden talent/party trick: Can solve a Rubik’s Cube My final four saints: St. Joseph of Cupertino, St. Padre Pio, St. Sebastian, St. Pier Giorgio Frassati Best advice I’ve received seeking my vocation: Ask the Lord for what he wants for you, and then actually listen when he answers. What I’m looking forward to: Confecting the Eucharist and being back in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.