05 17 24 Vol. 45 No. 38

SUMMER SCHEDULE

New assignments announced

Father John A. Riley, vicar general – chancellor, announces the following appointments made by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, effective July 1, unless otherwise noted.

Retirements

Father Daniel Gardner, from pastor of St. Ann Parish in Hiawatha and St. Leo Parish, Horton, to retirement from parish administration.

Father Craig Maxim, from pastor of St. Ann Parish, Prairie Village, to retirement from parish administration.

Pastors

Father Edward Ahn, from parochial vicar for St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, to pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in St. Marys, St. Stanislaus Parish in Rossville and pastoral oversight of Sacred Heart Oratory, Delia.

Father Justin Hamilton, from pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish in St. Marys, St. Stanislaus Parish in Rossville and pastoral oversight of Sacred Heart Oratory, Delia, to pastor of Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park.

Father Michael Kantanka (Archdiocese of Kumasi, Ghana), from parochial vicar for Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, to pastor of St. Ann Parish in Hiawatha and St. Leo Parish, Horton.

Father John Kolencherry, OFM, Cap., from parochial vicar for St. John the Evangelist Parish, Lawrence, to pastor of St. Theresa Parish in Perry and St. Aloysius Parish, Meriden, effective July 8.

Father Jomon Palatty, MSFS, from parochial administrator of Annunciation Parish in Baldwin City and St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Lapeer, to pastor of Annunciation Parish in Baldwin City and St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Lapeer.

Father Joseph Sellas (Diocese of Cuddapah, India), from parochial administrator of Holy Trinity Parish, Paola, to pastor of Holy Trinity Parish, Paola.

Father Luke Turner, OSB, from director of spiritual formation for the propaedeutic year, Holy Trinity Seminary, Irving, Texas, to pastor of St. Benedict Parish, Atchison.

Father Mitchel Zimmerman, from chaplain/director of St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center, Lawrence, to pastor of St. Ann Parish, Prairie Village.

Parochial administrators

Father Roopesh Govindu (Diocese of Cuddapah, India), from parochial vicar for Curé of Ars Parish, Leawood, to parochial administrator of St. Ann Parish in Effingham, St. Louis Parish in Good Intent and St. Mary Parish, Purcell.

Chaplains

Father Luke Doyle, from parochial vicar for St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood, to chaplain/director of St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center, Lawrence, and remaining as associate director for vocations.

Parochial vicars

Father Rómulo Real-Linares (Diocese of Zipaquirá, Colombia), from parochial vicar for Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Topeka, to parochial vicar for Our Lady of Unity Parish, Kansas City, Kansas.

Deacon Aaron Waldeck from completion of seminary formation and ordination to the priesthood of Jesus Christ, to parochial vicar for St. Michael the Archangel Parish, Leawood.

Father Andrew Strobl, from pastor of Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, to senior parochial vicar for Curé of Ars Parish, Leawood.

Other:

Father Barnabas Eichor, OFM, Cap., from pastor of St. Theresa Parish in Perry and St. Aloysius Parish, Meriden, to assignment by his religious community to priestly ministry outside of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, effective July 8.

Father Jeremy Heppler, OSB, from pastor of St. Benedict Parish, Atchison, to St. Benedict’s Abbey, Atchison, for assignment.

Father Hughes Sundeme (Archdiocese of Tamale, Ghana), from parochial administrator of St. Ann Parish in Effingham, St. Louis Parish in Good Intent and St. Mary Parish, Purcell, to returning to priestly ministry in his home diocese.

The Leaven will now begin its summer schedule. The summer publication dates are: May 31, June 14, June 28, July 12, July 26, Aug. 9, Aug. 23 and Sept. 6. Weeklies will begin again on Sept. 13.

Father Edward Ahn Father Luke Doyle

Father Barnabas Eichor, OFM, Cap.

Father Daniel Gardner

Father Justin Hamilton

Father Michael Kantanka

Father John Kolencherry, OFM, Cap.

Father Craig Maxim Father Jomon Palatty, MSFS

Father Rómulo Real-Linares

Father Joseph Sellas

Father Andrew Strobl

Father Hughes Sundeme Deacon Aaron Waldeck

Father Mitchel Zimmerman

Father Roopesh Govindu

Father Jeremy Heppler, OSB

Father Luke Turner, OSB

Turn the curse of living in ‘interesting times’ into a blessing!

The late President John F. Kennedy, in his January 1961 inaugural address (I am old enough to recall watching it on a black-and-white television screen), noted that he and his fellow Americans lived in “interesting times.” He observed that an ancient Chinese curse was to wish for someone to live in “interesting times.” You and I are recipients of this curse. We are living in even more “interesting times” than in the 1960s.

We live in an age of great scientific and technological advancement. Thanks to modern technology, through our laptop computers or our cellphones, we have an incredible library at our fingertips. We can easily travel the world in a way that was unimaginable only 75 years ago when I was born. We have the ability to communicate easily with people on the other side of the world. The variety and quality of food choices that we enjoy are vastly superior to what was available to royalty in previous centuries. Similarly, we can access hundreds of entertainment options anytime and anywhere.

At the same time, we are living in a time of great cultural confusion. We live in what some have termed a “post-truth era.” Sadly, many of our young people have been taught that there is no such thing as objective and eternal truth. In the post-truth era, we can all have our own truths, even if they contradict each other.

We know that embryos in their mothers’ wombs possess a unique DNA, different from that of their biological mothers and fathers. Through advanced ultrasound technology, we can observe unborn children doing somersaults in the womb. In one hospital operating room, doctors perform life-saving surgeries on preborn children, while in another wing, unwanted babies are being aborted. We know more about life in the womb now than at any time in history, yet abortion advocates claim not to

LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS

ARCHBISHOP

JOSEPH F. NAUMANN

know when human life begins.

Equally troubling, we have redefined something as fundamental to society as marriage. Even more disturbing, we deny that gender is something given to us and assert that we can defy biology by an act of the will, claiming to be a different gender or even a different species.

People experiencing gender dysphoria deserve not only our compassion but also our respect because they are created in the image of God and are of such worth that Jesus gave his life on Calvary. However, it is neither respectful nor compassionate to affirm them in delusions that will result in a lifetime on expensive, hormonal drug regimens and eventually subject them to mutilating surgeries.

Recently, public health officials have sounded alarms about epidemics afflicting young people. They are not speaking about a recurrence of COVID, but rather epidemics of loneliness, anxiety, depression and even despair. If money and the comforts that wealth can buy are the key to happiness, we should be the happiest society in human history.

During this era of remarkable scientific and technological advancement, we have experienced a time of spiritual and moral recession. Many in our culture identify themselves as spiritual, but not religious. A significant number identify as agnostics. They are completely indifferent to God’s existence. Many even identify as atheists, denying the very existence of God. These are not human advancements. In

authority, no buildings, no books, no political influence, no money, no programs, no PowerPoint presentations, transform the world? Yet, in their lifetime, they spread the Gospel to the east as far as India and to the west as far as Spain.

many ways, we are returning to a pagan past. Many do not believe in a God of revelation. The spiritual who are nonreligious place their faith in gods that are no greater than what their minds and imaginations can conceive.

“God” is only what they determine “God” to be. When we fashion “God” in our image rather than understand ourselves to be created in the divine image, we have become our own miserable gods. Our value and the value of other human beings is no longer innate, but depends on our productivity. When, as a result of disability, illness or age, we are no longer able to be productive, then our life and the lives of others are considered burdens. When we push God out of our universe, the world becomes very dark and bleak.

What a gift is our Catholic faith! The Creator of the cosmos has revealed himself to us. God’s ultimate revelation is his Word, the Logos — Jesus Christ. Our Lord revealed on Calvary the infinite value that God has placed on human life. We are of such worth that God allowed himself to be subjected to a painful and humiliating death so that we would know the depth of his love. Jesus endured death in order to defeat death so that we could share in his divine and eternal life.

This Sunday, we celebrate the great solemnity of Pentecost, commemorating the first outpouring of the Holy Spirit upon the tiny band of Our Lord’s first disciples. Pentecost was the birth of the church. This Sunday is our birthday!

Jesus gave the apostles an impossible mission — to make disciples of all nations. How could this tiny band of disciples, who had no earthly power, no

May 17

If each one of us reconstructed our spiritual family tree, our spiritual genealogy, we would all ultimately wind up in the same place — the upper room of Pentecost. We are all spiritual descendants of that tiny band of disciples.

What those first disciples did have was their witness of their own experience of Jesus Christ — their witness to his life, ministry, teaching, passion, death and resurrection. Those first disciples constructed the foundation for a movement that eventually resulted in the transformation of the pagan Roman empire into a profoundly Christian culture.

You and I have been given the same mission to make disciples — to help others know this God who desires communion with them and wants them to share in his everlasting life. Like the first disciples, we have been called to be agents of change. To become disciple-makers we do not need theology degrees or PowerPoint presentations. All we need is what the apostles possessed. We need only to be able to share the difference that friendship with Jesus makes in our lives.

The early Christians transformed the world by the witness of their love for each other. The pagan culture marveled at how the early Christians loved one another. The pagan world was drawn to the beauty and joy of Christian marriage and the Christian family.

A nonbelieving world was stunned by the courage of the early Christians, who would die rather than deny Jesus and the truth of his resurrection. The Christian culture that emerged from the heroism of martyrs went on to create universities, schools and great centers of learning. This same Christian culture generated the most beautiful works of art, architecture, painting,

ARCHBISHOP NAUMANN’S CALENDAR

Holy Hour and rehearsal dinner for the transitional diaconate — cathedral

May 18

Transitional diaconate ordination — cathedral

May 19

Adult confirmation Mass — cathedral

Baptism of third or more child — cathedral

May 20

Archdiocesan Finance Council board meeting — chancery

Confirmation — Our Lady of Unity, Kansas City, Kansas

May 21

Envisioning Team meeting — chancery

Administrative Team meeting — chancery

Holy Hour and dinner with those to be ordained and formation — residence

May 22

Donnelly graduation — Lansing Correctional Facility

Confirmation — St. Catherine, Emporia

May 23

Confirmation for Blessed Sacrament, Kansas City, Kansas (Spanish) and Christ the King (English) — Blessed Sacrament, Kansas City, Kansas

May 24

Holy Hour and rehearsal dinner — cathedral

May 25

Priesthood ordination — cathedral

Closing Mass of thanksgiving — Christ the King, Kansas City, Kansas

May 26

Mass — Prince of Peace, Olathe

May 28

Mass and dinner for family week — Benedictine College, Atchison

May 29

Confirmation — St. Mary-St. Anthony, Kansas City, Kansas

May 30

Confirmation — Our Lady of Guadalupe, Topeka

music and literature. It was the Catholic Church that gave birth to hospitals, orphanages and other amazing ministries of mercy and compassion.

You and I are called to help transform culture during these interesting times. We have a mission to bring the love of Jesus to others. Our faith assures us that we are never alone. The same Holy Spirit that was poured out upon those first disciples has also been given to us through our baptism and confirmation.

The Holy Spirit desires to empower us to use our gifts and talents to glorify God

and to serve others. We are called to infect the world with the joy and hope that comes from knowing the truth that we are God’s beloved!

Embrace your call to make disciples. Be not afraid! We are called to turn the curse of living during interesting times into a blessing. Our culture is starving spiritually and craving for the truth and the joy of the Gospel of Jesus. Come Holy Spirit, come. Enkindle the fire of your love in our hearts, so that we can set the world ablaze with the love of God revealed in Jesus Christ!

St. Paul in Olathe breaks ground on new church NEW BEGINNINGS

By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org

OLATHE — There was a reason St. Paul Parish here exchanged its usual Mass venue in its temporary worship space last Sunday for a grassy field adjoining the east side of the school.

The evening Mass for the solemnity of the Ascension on May 11 was also the historic groundbreaking for the construction of the fourth church in the 164-year history of the parish — the first and thus oldest parish in Johnson County.

The outdoor altar was situated approximately where the new church’s altar will be located.

The mood of the more than 2,300 present on that warm, sunny evening was “excited.”

That’s what Jose and Maria Ramirez said, with translation assistance from their daughter Juseth Cruz.

The Ramirezes have been parishioners for 27 years and were part of the procession on Dec. 29, 2018, from the former church at 900 S. Honeysuckle Dr., where the parish worshiped since 1962, to the current St. Paul School at 21650 W. 115th Terr.

“We’re pretty excited for the church and very happy,” said Jose.

“Very happy for the new church,” said Maria. “We’ve all been collectively working together for this new church that we’ll all be able to celebrate in in a bigger way.”

As for Cruz, she was excited, too.

“I’m very excited for this new church,” she said, “and getting to see all the new people who will join and experience this beautiful building being built.”

The groundbreaking was but another step in a master plan set in motion when Father Michael Hermes became pastor on July 1, 2014. Parishioners have long been eager to exchange their temporary space for a real, beautiful church.

“This is a day we’ve been waiting for for a long, long time,” said parishioner Terry Punswick, who was handing out buttons and programs, “and there are many parishioners who’ve been waiting longer than I have. For this day to finally happen just fills us with joy and anticipation. I wish we could start building right away.”

That won’t happen. Instead, parishioners will continue to use the temporary worship space — a multipurpose room inside St. Paul School — for a bit longer.

Plans have been drawn up by JNKA Architects of Chicago and cost estimators have produced their figures. Requests for bids by general contractors will go out in mid-June, said Father Hermes. No exact dates have been set for the start or completion of construction.

The main celebrant of the Mass was Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, and the homilist was Father Hermes. He

tied the building of the new church to the duty of all Christians to evangelize.

“This task belongs to all members of the church. It is not only for bishops and priests,” he said in Spanish and English.

“Every baptized person must think of himself or herself as permanently sent, as a ‘missionary disciple,’ so that in the midst of family life and in the midst of our work, we may always be carrying the joy of the Gospel of Jesus Christ to others by the testimony of our lives.”

In his remarks, Archbishop Naumann praised the work of Father Hermes, associate pastor Father Agustin Martinez, the parish building and planning committees, and parishioners.

“I want to congratulate Father Hermes and the building team for all they’ve done,” he said, “and to congratulate you for responding so generously.

“It’s expensive to build a new church and a new campus. Thank you all for your support. It’s not over yet, I hope, and I look forward to being able to be here when the new church will be dedicated to celebrate that glorious day.”

The reason for a new church was alluded to by Archbishop Naumann and Olathe mayor John Bacon. Bacon said Olathe has doubled in size in the past 30 years, and now boasts approximately 153,000 residents.

St. Paul is the largest parish in the archdiocese, recently surpassing the

Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, said the archbishop. It has at least 3,325 registered families, according to Father Hermes. The growth shows no sign of stopping.

The design of the new church will have both traditional and contemporary elements. It will have a Romanesque cruciform layout with some pews in the front in a fan-shaped configuration.

The outside façade will be Spanish Colonial. The upper level of the building will be the church, and the lower level will be the social hall/church offices with a kitchen. The hall can be divided with accordion-style movable partitions. Each level will be 19,540 square feet.

To manage costs, the master plan calls for construction in stages. At first, only the upper level church and eucharistic adoration chapel will be finished. The lower level will be unfinished for a while. Later stages will include a courtyard and school gymnasium. The estimated cost of the first stage of church construction is $20 million.

The new church will be built northeast of St. Paul School. The entire campus consists of 20 acres donated by the Leonard and Ellen McKinzie Family.

Dignitaries for the groundbreaking included Archbishop Naumann, Father Hermes, Father Martinez, Bacon, Carol Kulhmann representing the McKinzie Family, David Kulhman of JNKA Architects, parish council representative Hoan Kim Pham, finance council representative Scott Anderson and building committee representative Dennis Wilbert.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

A grassy field adjoining the east side of St. Paul School in Olathe was the setting for the groundbreaking Mass for the fourth church in the 164year history of St. Paul Parish in Olathe. Father Michael Hermes, pastor of St. Paul, was the homilist for the event.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Father Agustin Martinez, associate pastor of St. Paul, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann and Father Michael Hermes, pastor of St. Paul, stand in front of a rendering of the new St. Paul Church in Olathe. The parish broke ground on the church on May 11.

Young pro-lifers learn they are not alone

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

OVERLAND PARK — Passersby near St. Thomas Aquinas High School here on April 28 witnessed more than 250 people of all ages walking for life.

“We hope that they will wonder why we walk,” said Barb Loughman. “As they read our shirts, we hope they will consider their thoughts and beliefs about abortion and maybe search for the truth.

“Some honk in support, and others yell at us not nice things, but we can stand strong together and say a prayer for them to find the truth.”

It was the 34th annual Rosemary Maher Saints Walk for Life.

This year, Bishop Miege High School in Roeland Park and St. James Academy in Lenexa joined Aquinas for the pro-life event.

It was created by Maher, a former Aquinas parent, social studies

teacher and tennis coach.

She established the school’s Teens for Life club in 1989, and the next year organized the first Saints Walk for Life, which was renamed after her in 2013.

Its purpose is threefold, said Loughman, a theology teacher at Aquinas who organized the walk with math teacher Jennifer Jones.

First, proceeds go to multiple prolife groups, including Advice & Aid, Birthright, Kansans for Life, Kansas City Pregnancy Clinic, Nativity House, the Olathe and Wyandotte Pregnancy clinics and more.

“Second, we want to bring awareness to our students and the community of abortion in our midst,” said Loughman.

“Third, we have the students walk to a pregnancy help facility,” she continued, “so they know where they or a friend can get help if the need ever arises in their lives.”

The day began with a rally at the Aquinas gym, which included talks

by students and leaders of the Olathe and Wyandotte Pregnancy clinics.

This year, Cathryn Hund Radiel, Aquinas math teacher, was honored for 36 years of educating students and her leadership in Teens for Life.

“Rosemary Maher was able to share with us how Teens for Life club has blossomed under Cathryn’s leadership,” said Loughman.

Participants then walked to the Olathe Pregnancy Clinic, where they received a tour, had a picnic and were taken back to Aquinas by bus.

Some 70 volunteers made the event possible.

Organizers hope students learned there is help if they ever need it, that they are not alone in their support for life and that they are not afraid to stand up for their beliefs.

“This was the brainchild of Rosemary Maher, the founder of this walk, 34 years ago,” said Loughman. “What a champion for life!”

Catholic Charities offers kids summer lunches

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — This summer, Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas (CCNEK) will once again be offering free meals to any child up to 18 years of age in the 21 counties of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. All children are welcome, regardless of income or need. No registration is required.

All meals meet the nutrition guidelines of the U.S. Department of Agriculture (USDA). CCNEK offers this program in partnership with the USDA and the Kansas Department of Education. Meals are served at libraries and other locations within the local communities. Last summer over 38,000 meals were served throughout the archdiocese.

To learn more about the program, find a food site in your community and the dates and places for the lunch. Or to volunteer, visit the website at: catholic charitiesks.org/kids-summer-food.

For information about how you can support the program, send an email to: foodandnutrition@catholiccharitiesks. org.

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Users will discover daily Mass readings and meditations based on the those readings, the complete order of the Mass, digital articles and exclusives and other Catholic resources.

Discerning Hearts

Listen to the latest podcasts on the Discerning Hearts app, or check out a variety of prayers, including the daily examen, daily lectio divina, novenas and more.

By Moira Cullings

—

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

High school students and other participants in the 34th annual Rosemary Maher Saints Walk for Life walk from St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park to the Olathe Pregnancy Clinic.

Newlyweds enthusiastic about new formation program

By Jill Ragar Esfeld jill.esfeld@theleaven.org

LEAWOOD — “I think this is one of the best things happening at our parish,” said Father Brian Schieber, pastor of St. Michael the Archangel here. “And I want to encourage my brother priests and surrounding pastors to find out what Deacon John and Zena [Weist] are doing.”

In an effort to respond to one of the super priorities for the archdiocese — strengthening marriage and family — St. Michael parishioners Deacon John and Zena Weist have developed a 12-week formation program for newlyweds called Marriage Mystagogy.

Many Catholics may be familiar with the term “mystagogy” because it is applied to a period from Easter to Pentecost when newly initiated Catholics grow their faith through prayer, learning and practicing with other believers.

“We have excellent marriage prep programs,” said Deacon Weist, “but just as we do for the sacraments of initiation, we thought we should offer this for the sacrament of marriage.

“So our couples, now that they’re married, have the lived experience. How is this sacrament affecting day-today life? And how are we seeing these graces received in the sacrament helping us in our marriage?”

Called to go deeper

The idea for Marriage Mystagogy started in 2019 when the Weists were invited to join Father Schieber at a marriage conference in Italy called “Mistero Grande.”

“Following that conference,” said Deacon Weist, “the Holy Spirit was working in us and we just felt that we were being called to go deeper into marriage enrichment.

“We landed on this realization that we wanted to do it with newlyweds.”

The group meets once a week, for two hours, over the course of three months.

Through the use of Scripture and the book “Signs of Love” by Renzo Bonetti, the group explores the deeper meaning of the sacrament of marriage.

There are larger discussions and then breakouts into small groups to consider specific topics.

“We spend a lot of time talking about the domestic church — just another term for the family, and the universal church,” said Deacon Weist. “In the universal church, when we go to Mass, we have prayer, forgiveness, the presence

Deacon John Weist presents a topic for discussion during a session of Marriage Mystagogy, a 12-week

of Jesus, we have fellowship.

“Well, all those same things should be happening in the domestic church. So, we draw those parallels.”

Each week, a couple will present their personal salvation story — how they did or didn’t grow up in the faith, how they met and what the faith looks like now for them as a couple.

“It’s a way for us to get to know each other a little more deeply,” said Deacon Weist.

The Weists are assisted by mentor couples who have been through the program or are mentors in the Witness for Love premarriage program.

“We’ve been married 25 years,” said Annette Berglund who is a mentor along with her husband Michael. “Really, marriage and our love for each other is the closest representation on earth to God’s love.

“So, welcoming people into our home, loving people in our home, showing forgiveness and mercy to people in our home is a reflection to the world of who God is.

“When you realize how important your marriage is from that aspect, you look at it differently.”

The program wraps up with couples attending Sunday evening Mass together and then sharing a meal in the parish hall.

Connecting couples to parish life

A secondary goal of Marriage Mystagogy is to help couples walk with other newlyweds and form relationships that help them connect to parish life.

“We have a break for them to socialize,” said Zena. “The first week, it is a very quiet break, but after that, John and I have to reel them in because they are so chatty — which is what we want.”

“They’re all in the same boat trying to figure out how to live Christian marriage,” added Father Schieber. “This formation is amazing and the response we are getting among young couples shows a hunger for it.”

This is the third cohort of Marriage Mystagogy and those completing the program have increased from 10 couples initially to 25 currently.

The success of the program is reflect-

Catholic cemeteries to host Memorial Day Masses on May 27

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas has planned a full schedule of Memorial Day Masses on May 27, across various locations in Johnson, Shawnee and Wyandotte counties. Catholic Cemeteries is a ministry of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas.

Memorial Day Masses will be offered at the following cemeteries or churches:

• Mt. 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; commemorating persons buried at this cemetery and at Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Lansing; celebrated by Father Anthony Ouellette.

• Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 38th and State Ave., Kansas City, Kansas, 9 a.m.; celebrated by Father Mark Goldasich.

• Resurrection Cemetery, 83rd and Quivira Rd., Lenexa, at 9 a.m.; celebrated by Father Jerry Volz; liturgical

music by Tom Jacobs.

• St. Joseph Cemetery, 61st Terr. and Quivira Rd., Shawnee, 9 a.m.

• Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 801 S.W. Westchester Rd., Topeka, 10 a.m.; celebrated by Father Tim Haberkorn; liturgical music by Spirit & Fire.

In case of rain, Masses will be in mausoleum chapels or nearby churches. For more information, call (913) 371-4040 (Kansas City area); (785) 272-0820 (Topeka area); or (913) 727-1698 (Lansing/Leavenworth area); or send an email to: information@ cathcemks.org; or visit the website at: www.cathcemks.org.

ed in comments made by participants.

“It’s made us more intentional about praying together every night and really daily,” said Connor Bowen.

“It’s really helped me think about life as a domestic liturgy,” said Katie Ohlhaut. “So, inside of our family, every single thing we do is part of a liturgy within the broader church’s liturgy as well.”

The ultimate goal is to spread this program throughout the archdiocese.

“These first three cohorts have kind of been our pilot,” said Zena. “We’ve grown with each one, and we’re trying to get to a point where we can get a curriculum and train others at other parishes.”

That’s Father Schieber’s goal as well.

“A lot of the questions of marriage, or any vocation, don’t surface until you really start living it,” he said. “And so, this is providing formation to young couples to help them live out the Catholic vision of marriage.”

“Every parish doesn’t need to have this,” he continued. “But we could make this one of the hubs for Johnson County to invite other couples from other parishes to participate.”

“I’d like to spread this.”

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JILL RAGAR ESFELD

formation program for newlyweds.

When you are a parent, you clock many hours in the back of churches.

Pacing with fussy babies. Corralling rambunctious toddlers. Calming down restless children.

But the hidden beauty found at the back of church?

You get close to the ones Jesus loves.

Jesus loves all of us, of course. Make no mistake about the wild love which God lavishes upon every human being — each unrepeatable sacred soul, each “imago dei” that bears the imprint of our Creator, each beloved child loved by the Father.

But when you read the Gospels, you can’t help but realize how Jesus has a particular affinity for those left on the sidelines, the margins and the back of the crowd. Sinners, lepers, prostitutes, tax collectors, widows, orphans, children, the poor, the sick, the disabled, the suffering — he draws each outsider close and draws them out of themselves, embracing them into the abundant love and mercy of God.

Little wonder that I sometimes feel closer to the kingdom of God at the back of church than in the front pew. Parishes often have a practice of bringing the Eucharist first to

The ones in the back of church

those who cannot come forward to receive.

This simple act makes manifest Christ’s words that “the last will be first and the first will be last” (Mt 20:16). Surely, the Good Shepherd who leaves behind the 99 to seek out the one lost sheep would not hesitate to walk to the back of church and welcome anyone who felt uncertain if they belonged. Dioceses around the country have long-standing traditions of televising Masses for those who are homebound. Many parishes continue their pandemic-era practice of streaming Mass online. A small but growing number of dioceses are now offering sensory-friendly liturgies with softer lights, quieter music,

shorter homilies and the freedom to participate in the Mass free from judgment about noise or movement — simple accommodations that can make it possible for families, caregivers and all members of the body of Christ to be included in the Mass.

Once, I attended a workout class where the teacher would welcome latecomers with a smile, far from the sneers often sideeyed toward the tardy. “I always figure the last people here are the ones who need it most,” she’d remind

us as she’d make room for each person who showed up — especially first-timers or late arrivals.

Couldn’t our churches strive to do the same, since we are the hands and feet of Christ here on earth?

As my children have grown, I have been blessed with a few remarkable friends who have taught me what it means to welcome the ones in the back. They cheer for the teammate who needs extra encouragement, invite the classmate who gets overlooked for birthday party invitations,

and strike up conversations with new faces at church or school. In ordinary ways, they model Christ’s inclusive love, seeking out the sidelined first. In his Letter to the Romans, St. Paul reminds us of the essential welcome — even inverting the world’s expectations — that is demanded of Christians: “We who are strong ought to put up with the failings of the weak and not to please ourselves; let each of us please our neighbor for their good, for building up. . . . May the God of endurance

and encouragement grant you to think in harmony with one another, in keeping with Christ Jesus, that with one accord you may with one voice glorify the God and Father of our Lord Jesus Christ. Welcome one another, then, as Christ welcomed you, for the glory of God” (15:1-2, 5-7).

Whenever we get the chance to welcome another in the name of Jesus, we widen our embrace of the people Jesus loves. Even and especially the ones in the back.

LAURA KELLY FANUCCI

Laura Kelly Fanucci is an author, speaker and founder of Mothering Spirit, an online gathering place on parenting and spirituality.

Jesus has a particular affinity for those left on the sidelines, the margins and the back of the crowd. You can find the hidden beauty of the faith, oftentimes, in the back of the church.

Revealed at Pentecost, the Spirit is integral to our faith

By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven

Think of the Holy Spirit as a deep breath of fresh air. As a flame that ignites. As a wind that weaves gently yet powerfully through salvation history. As an abiding presence of faith, hope and love. As forward movement. As an energizing force. As grace and gift.

In spite of — or perhaps because — of these images and symbols, the Holy Spirit, whose importance and impact we celebrate on Pentecost, may be the most challenging Person of the Holy Trinity for us to grasp and understand. The word “Spirit” conjures up something ethereal or fleeting.

However, Scripture and Catholic theology richly profess the Holy Spirit as integral to our belief in the triune God. We learn that Father, Son and Spirit have been in loving relationship with one another for eternity, have interacted throughout history on behalf of our salvation and remain with us forever.

Source of inspiration

Long before the experience of Pentecost, the Spirit’s presence was felt. The Catechism of the Catholic Church teaches that “the Holy Spirit is at work with the Father and the Son from the beginning to the completion of the plan for our salvation.” In the story of creation, the Spirit Breath of God is at the origin of the being and life of every creature.

The Spirit’s influence pervades the covenant promise to Abraham, God’s appearances recorded in the Old Testament and the words of the prophets that lead to the expectation of a messiah upon whom the Spirit will rest and endow with spiritual gifts. “The U.S. Catholic Catechism for Adults” concludes that in the Old Testament, the Spirit is hidden but at work and is experienced and understood as a source of inspiration, life and movement within God’s people.

Redemptive mission shared

The Spirit is more fully revealed in the New Testament. In his 1986 encyclical “On the Holy Spirit in the Life of the Church and World,” St. John Paul II observes that the action of the Spirit was “fully confirmed by the sending of the Son of Man (Jesus) as the messiah, who came in the power of the Holy Spirit.”

The catechism instructs that with the annunciation and in and through Mary, God the Father has found a place where the Son and the Spirit can dwell among humankind. St. John Paul calls the conception and birth of Jesus the greatest work accomplished by the Holy Spirit in the history of creation and salvation. He writes: “Creation is thus completed by the Incarnation and since that moment is permeated by the powers of the Redemption, powers which fill humanity and all creation.”

Jesus’ entire life and ministry are redemptive and Spirit-filled. In Matthew’s Gospel, John the Baptist proclaims, “I am baptizing you with water, for repentance, but the one coming after me . . . will baptize you with the holy Spirit and fire” (3:11). At his own baptism, Jesus experiences the Spirit of God descending upon him and a voice from the heavens affirming, “This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased” (Mt 3:16-17).

The Spirit accompanies Jesus into the desert and braces him against the temptations of the devil as he prepares for his public ministry. The power of the Spirit undergirds the healing and teaching of Jesus. Son and Spirit share in the mission of our salvation.

As Jesus prepares the apostles for

his death and departure from earthly existence, he reveals that the “Spirit of truth” will come and guide them and be with them — and us — forever (Jn 16:13).

Crucified, risen and glorified, the Son returns to the Father. St. John Paul writes: “The Holy Spirit comes after him (Christ) and because of him, in order to continue in the world, through the church, the work of the Good News of salvation.” The Father sends the Spirit in Jesus’ name.

Pentecost event pivotal

With the descent of the Holy Spirit upon the apostles and Mary, the mystery of the Holy Trinity, three unique Persons in one God, is fully revealed. This event that we commemorate as Pentecost is pivotal in the history of our faith.

The church is born as the apostles and other disciples are fortified by the Spirit to leave the upper room and go forth to spread the good news of Jesus’ life, death and resurrection. God gifts us with the sacrament of reconciliation to grant forgiveness of our sins. We inherit the opportunity to love as God has loved us, to be on fire with the gifts of the Holy Spirit and to bear fruit

through our words and actions. God’s salvific work continues in and through the Spirit, the church and us.

Spirit remains vibrant

Sealed with the chrism of baptism and confirmation, we have received the grace of the Spirit. Everything we know in faith is revealed to us by and through the Spirit. As a dynamic, unseen undercurrent, the Spirit prepares us to bring Christ to others; opens our minds and hearts to understand Christ’s death and resurrection; makes present for us the mystery of Christ, especially in the Eucharist; and brings us to communion with God that we may bear much fruit.

The Spirit continues to guide the Catholic Church — in good times and through challenges — to the fullness of truth. The Spirit furnishes and directs the church and us with various gifts. St. Paul writes: “To each individual manifestation of the Spirit is given for some benefit” (1 Cor 12:7).

May we pray daily to the Spirit for guidance and inspiration, for wisdom to use the gifts we’ve received and for the courage of our convictions as Catholic Christians.

The Holy Spirit, whose importance and impact we celebrate on Pentecost, may be the most challenging Person of the Holy Trinity for us to grasp and understand.

RETREAT INVITES EIGHTH GRADERS TO TAKE THE NEXT STEP

Photos by Kathryn White

Eighth graders associated with ReachKCK in Kansas City, Kansas, traveled from the urban core to the vast openness of Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg April 19-21 for a Luke 18 retreat.

Luke 18 is a weekend retreat for eighth graders, designed to invite them into a larger Catholic faith community just before high school. The weekend consisted of talks, games, small group time, prayer and music.

The weekend was led by high schoolers who gave their unique perspective on the next step of the eighth graders’ faith lives as they prepare to enter high school.

Omar Tovar of St. Mary

Melanie Gomez of Blessed of St. Patrick Parish in after listening to a talk.

Jairo Conchas, a member of Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, and an adult volunteer at the retreat, and Father Timothy Skoch prepare the fire for a letter burning moment that will occur later during the retreat.

From left, Gabriel Rojas, Emilio Rodriguez, Kade Rodriguez, Ronal Mayorquin and Giovanni Rodriguez listen carefully to a presentation.

Cayleigh and Joe Heron, members of Church of the Ascension in Overland Park, lead praise and worship for the Luke 18 participants. The couple originally met at a Luke 18 retreat.

A Luke 18 retreat at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg brought eighth graders together for a special weekend full of faith Suri Serna, Alma Sauza, Omar Tovar, Angel Pinto and April Gildo.

From left, Alexa Grijalva of St. Mary - St. Anthony Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, and Angelina Valenzuela of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, enjoy a walk around the picturesque grounds of Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg.

Mary - St. Anthony Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, is all smiles during small group discussions.

Kendall Nick of St. Patrick Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, prays over Jacky Santiago of Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, as she prepares to give a witness on her childhood.

Blessed Sacrament Parish in Kansas City, Kansas, and Breanna Robles in Kansas City, Kansas, journal about their relationship with Jesus talk.

and fun. From left are: Luis Perez, Tirso Torres, Joel Galindo, Melany Gomez, Lyla Zamora, Daira Gomez, Giselle Ramirez,

Students offer a symbolic representation of their struggles and challenges to the Lord by burning them in fire.

Pastoral and Retreat Center in Kansas City, Kansas, will host its first-ever gala on

Savior to host first-ever gala on June 1

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

KANSAS CITY, Kan.

— More than 60,000 people come through the doors of Savior Pastoral and Retreat Center (SPARC) here each year, said Greg Mies, director of facilities and operations.

“Savior is a vibrant and active center for religious learning, catechetical instruction, spiritual growth and community involvement,” he said.

The center is used for deacon training, Engaged Encounters, Kairos retreats, marriage enrichment, spiritual mentorship and many more programs and events.

The grounds host cross-country meets, swim practices, and CYO basketball and volleyball practices and games, said Mies, “while at the same time, our facility hosts the chancery offices, serving the archbishop and all the archdiocesan ministry and administrative offices.”

“The impact of Savior Pastoral Center is widespread and multifaceted,” he added.

To help the center continue to flourish for the people it serves, the inaugural “SPARC the Night Gala” will be held on June 1.

Dubbed “Gilded in Green: A Night of Elegance,” the fundraiser will be held at Savior, located at 12601 Parallel Pkwy.

The event chairs are Craig and Karen Gaffney; Toby Cook will serve as emcee. Business attire is requested.

Doors will open at 4:30 p.m., and Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann will celebrate Mass at 5 p.m. Hors d’oeuvres and drinks will follow at 6 p.m., followed by a program, dinner, dessert and a final blessing by the archbishop.

Funds raised will firstly cover unexpected investments in Savior’s systems that keep the facility running, said Mies.

They will also go toward an American with Disabilities Act (ADA) accessibility project, he explained, that would allow access from the chancery building and Keleher Conference Center to Savior’s chapel, and access from the chapel to the center’s dining room.

“We are at an inflection point

Director of Accounting

The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking to hire a director of accounting, who will be responsible for professional accounting activities including analyzing and verifying fiscal records and reports ensuring compliance with regulations; preparing financial statements; and providing consultative services to ministries and parishes regarding accounting practices and procedures. Please visit “Employment Opportunities” on the archdiocesan website — archkck.org — for more information or to apply.

Mike and Sharon Martin, members of St. Paul Parish, Olathe, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with a family gathering over Memorial Day weekend. The couple was married on May 29, 1974, at St. Mary Church, Garden City. Their children are: Holli Horyna, Liberal; Carrie Baeza, Hugoton; and Eric Martin, Hutchinson. They also have seven grandchildren and two great-grandchildren.

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.

INCLUDE THE FOLLOWING:

• The couple’s names

• their parish

• the date they were married

• church and city where they were married

with the funding and framing of Savior Pastoral and Retreat Center,” said Mies. “Funding is limited and, as more programs compete for funding, Savior needed to take this action. Additionally, as our vision to be the spiritual home of the archdiocese comes to fruition, we need to expand our reach, our programs and our revenue.

“Traditional funding sources have shifted from SPARC to other archdiocesan programs, impacting our operating budget. Investments that were not expected or budgeted to key operating systems — mechanical, HVAC, electrical, etc. — have been required and completed, negatively impacting our operating budget.”

Mies said community support at the gala would mean everything.

“If we come together and support this facility and this cause now,” he said, “we can continue to positively impact over 60,000 individuals annually — and more.”

Advance tickets are required for attendance. To purchase tickets or sponsor a table, visit the website at: archkck.org/gala.

• what they are doing to celebrate

• date of the celebration

• names of children (no spouses)

• number of grandchildren and great-grandchildren;

SUBMISSION GUIDELINES:

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

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

Retrouvaille weekend set for June 21-23

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — Registration for Retrouvaille’s next Kansas City weekend, June 21-23, is now open.

Retrouvaille is a marriage program that helps couples restore their marriage and rebuild a loving relationship. It is a Christian marriage program, Catholic in origin, where couples of all faiths or no faith background are encouraged to attend.

To register, scan the QR code.

LEAVEN FILE PHOTO

Savior

June 1. Dubbed “Gilded in Green: A Night of Elegance,” it will help keep Savior — which hosts a wide variety of retreats and events throughout the year — financially sound.

EMPLOYMENT

Teacher openings - Holy Trinity School in Lenexa has the following openings for the 2024-25 school year: second grade; fifth grade science and social studies; and art (first through eighth grade). Interested applicants should complete the teacher application process online at: www.archkckcs.org, click on “Apply,” then “Teachers” and then click on the link that says “Access here” and then email a resume to principal Scott Merfen at: smerfen@htslenexa.org.

Part-time director of music - Divine Mercy Parish in Gardner (Johnson County) is seeking a part-time director of music. This position includes playing organ/piano for up to three weekend liturgies, scheduling music for all liturgies, scheduling cantors, and playing for funerals and weddings as needed. The ideal candidate will have experience playing both organ and piano; cantor skills desired but optional. Email Maria Lopeman for more information at: parish@divinemercyks.org or call (913) 856-7781.

Parish accountant - Holy Trinity Parish in Lenexa is seeking an accountant. The parish accountant maintains accounting systems that adhere to generally accepted accounting principles and ensures adequate internal controls for the parish. Responsible for financial statements preparation, maintaining parishioner tithing records, accounts payable, budgeting, payroll processing and benefits administration. A bachelor’s degree in accounting and a working knowledge of QuickBooks or a similar accounting system are required. Proficiency in Microsoft Excel and experience in general ledger accounting, payroll and budgeting are preferred. Position is full time and qualifies for archdiocesan benefits including health, dental, vision and life insurance as well as a 401(k) match. A full position description can be found at: htlenexa.org/job-openings. Interested applicants should submit cover letter and resume to: lweber@htlenexa.org.

Receptionist/secretary - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking to hire a part-time receptionist/ secretary. Responsibilities include operating the main switchboard; receiving all calls and visitors to the chancery; sorting mail and other clerical duties as assigned. For more information and to apply, go online to: archkck.org/jobs, scroll down to “Current job openings” and scroll down to “Openings in our archdiocese” then scroll down and click on “Receptionist/Secretary.”

Music/band teacher - Manhattan Catholic Schools is looking for a K - 4 music teacher and a 5 - 8 band teacher or to split into two part-time positions for the 202425 school year. Applicants can apply online through the MCS website at: www.manhattancatholicschools. org or contact principal Mike Hubka at: mhubka@ manhattancatholicschools.org or call (785) 565-5050.

Teachers - Prince of Peace School, Olathe, a faith-filled school of excellence, is hiring for the following positions for the 2024-25 school year: fourth grade teacher and a Spanish teacher for grades 3 - 8. Qualified applicants seeking to help children learn and grow closer to Christ should apply online at: archkckcs.org and scroll down and click on “Apply” then click on “Teachers” and then click on the link that says “Access here” and then email a resume to: Jane Shriver, principal, at: jshriver@ popolathe.org.

Office help - KC Lift & Elevator is looking for an individual to perform clerical duties, five to six hours per week. Individual must possess attention to detail to accurately input service tickets into our sales force CRM. Additional possible opportunities to help with designing and executing mailings. Friendly, casual environment with flexible hours. No remote work option; attendance required two times per week. $13 - $15 per hour. Please send resume or inquiry to Maria at: mkoch@kclift.com.

Behaviorist position - Ascension and St. Michael the Archangel schools are looking for a full-time behaviorist to be shared between the two locations. Responsibilities include: implementing behavioral interventions; writing student behavior plans, supporting classroom teachers; providing teacher training; and collecting and analyzing behavioral data. Experience working with children is necessary and BCBA credentials are preferred. Applicants should send a cover letter and resume to Becky Wright at: bwright@acseagles.org and/ or Diana Tate at: diana.tate@stmichaelcp.org.

Scientific equipment technician - Would you like to make a difference in a small growing company? Seeking individuals looking for flexible part-time work maintaining and preparing small equipment for our family company which has been in the local area for over 40 years. Service is completed at customers’ locations locally and within a four-state area. Dependable transportation is a must. Positive attitude, dependability, time-management and self-motivation skills, as well as being quality- and customer-oriented are required. Mostly on-the-job training. Electrical knowledge a plus. Please send resume to: Yourcareer101@gmail.com.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Principal - Holy Cross School in Overland Park is seeking a dynamic, faith-filled principal for the2024-25 school year. This individual will lead a team to serve 2000 students in preschool through eighth grade. Students come from 39 zip codes. The student body is diverse, with 27 countries and 4 languages represented. For more information, contact Martha Beisser, secretary, at: mbeisser@holycrosscatholicschool.com. To complete an online application, go online to: archkckcs.org/apply.

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

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

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

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

SERVICES

Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor, at (913) 909-2002.

KC creative photography - Quinceañera, weddings, family and videography. We offer great results and can build a package for your budget. Contact: www. kc-creativephotography.com. Spanish - (816) 2251330, ask for Yeny; English - (816) 509-6024, ask for Sebastian. Text or call.

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

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

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

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

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT

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

EL SOL Y LA TIERRA

*COMMERCIAL & RESIDENTIAL

*LAWN RENOVATION *MOWING

*CLEANUP AND HAULING

*DIRT GRADING/INSTALLATION

*LANDSCAPE DESIGN* FREE ESTIMATES

HABLAMOS Y ESCRIBIMOS INGLES!! CALL LUPE AT (816) 252-1391

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

REAL ESTATE

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

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

WANTED TO BUY

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

Wanted to buy

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

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

Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee.

Wanted to buy - I buy coin collections, military items, pocket watches, jewelry, class rings, old toys, holiday items and more. Cash in hand. Call Kirk at (913) 2139843.

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

CAREGIVING

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

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

Companion and respite care - Retired RN seeking part-time day work caring for your loved ones. Willing to do companion and/or respite care. Light duty nursing, no lifting. Prefer Overland Park , Leawood area. Call Mary at (913) 710-5412.

Caregiving - We provide personal assistance, companionship, care management and transportation for seniors in their home, assisted living or nursing facilities. We also provide respite care for main caregivers needing some personal time. Call Daughters & Company at (913) 341-2500 and speak with Laurie, Pat or Gary.

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

PILGRIMAGE

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

SPAGHETTI DINNER AND BINGO

St. Patrick Parish (center)

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

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

DAUGHTERS OF ST. FRANCIS DE SALES ASSOCIATION

Church of the Nativity

3800 W. 119th St., Leawood May 18 from 9 - 11 a.m.

The Daughters of St. Francis de Sales have been inviting women to practice virtues and holiness in everyday life for over 150 years. Come reflect with us as we share meditations on the Acts of the Apostles in the tradition of Salesian spirituality after Mass. All materials are provided, and coffee and light refreshments will be served. To attend, contact Ruth Owens by email at: rowens4853@gmail.com or Barbara McClung by email at: willabird1960@ gmail.com or call (816) 535-4531. For additional information, visit the website at: www.sfdsassociation.org.

BEREAVEMENT MEETING

Curé of Ars Parish (Father Burak Room) 9405 Mission Rd., Leawood May 18 after the 8 a.m. Mass

The bereavement ministry will have a grief support meeting in the Father Burak Room after Mass. The topic will be “Grief and Secondary Losses.” For more information, call (913) 649-2026.

PENTECOSTAL HEALING OF BODY AND SOUL

Sts. Peter and Paul Parish 411 Pioneer, Seneca May 19 at 3 p.m.

Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, with reflection by Father Joel Haug followed by individual anointing and prayer for physical and emotional needs by priests and the Encounter ministry team. There will also be a personal encounter with Jesus in the monstrance followed by Benediction.

WIDOWED WOMEN OF FAITH

Perkins Restaurant (back room) 1720 S.W. Wanamaker Rd., Topeka May 21 from 11 a.m. - 1 p.m.

Join other “widowed women of faith” for lunch and companionship. No RSVP needed, just come. Please invite other widowed women of faith. We meet every month on the third Tuesday. Questions? WidowedWomenofFaith@gmail.com or call (913) 558-0191.

CHRIST THE KING FAMILY REUNION

Christ the King Parish and School 3027 N. 54th St., Kansas City, Kansas May 25 at 4 p.m.

Join us as we give glory to God for the decades of faithful service to the body of Christ in the work of education and formation. As our school concludes its final year, alumni, families, teachers past and present, and all other friends of Christ the King School are welcome to join us for Mass followed by our final Sloppy Joe’s feast — picnic style. Bring your own drinks and a side to share. Please purchase dinner tickets in advance: $5 per person or $15 per family. Register online at: ctkkcks.org or call (913) 287-8823.

MANDALAS

Keeler Women’s Center

759 Vermont Ave., Suite 100-B

May 28 from 1:30 - 3 p.m.

Make and personalize a mandala that shows your characteristics and helps define who you are and what is important

to you. The decorations, keepsakes, mementos, jewelry and trinkets we keep are important because we’ve chosen them and they tell about us. Bring a few of these items and you will draw a mandala using them as ideas. The items will not be used in the mandala, just used to generate ideas. Come and be creative!

PROJECT RACHEL RETREAT

Location given after registration

June 1 from 8:30 a.m. - 4 p.m.

Weighed down by a past abortion? Struggling to forgive yourself? Beating yourself up for the choice you made or someone made for you? Guilt and shame do not have to be a life sentence. Treat yourself to a confidential Saturday retreat with Project Rachel in a judgment-free environment where it is safe to talk. Continental breakfast, lunch and materials are provided. To register, go online to: project rachelkc@archkck.org or call/text (913) 6212199.

CITY ON A HILL SERVICE DAY

St. Pius X Parish

5500 Woodson, Mission

June 1 from 8:30 a.m. - noon

Join City on a Hill as we put on our first-ever service day. We will share a catered breakfast together, then have a “networking session” to interact with a variety of nonprofits from around the community: from pregnancy centers to food and clothing providers to youth outreach organizations. After a teaching on Christian volunteerism, we will go out in groups to spend time accomplishing tasks for these organizations at their locations. RSVP online at: bit.ly/2024-service-day.

WILLS AND TRUSTS:

CREATING YOUR LEGACY

Church of the Ascension (St. Mark Room)

9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park

June 5 at 5:30 p.m.

What is the difference between a will and a trust? How can I avoid probate, and what exactly is probate? How can I leave money or assets to my church, school, archdiocese or a favorite charitable organization? The presenter will be Casey Connealy. There will be a light snack/social gathering from 5:30 - 6 p.m. The presentation will begin at 6 p.m.

ESTATE PLANNING 101 WORKSHOP

Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall) 5973 S.W. 25th St., Topeka

June 6 from 7 - 8 p.m.

Attorney Vincent Cox, of Cavanaugh, Briggs & Lemon, P.A., will give a presentation on Estate Planning 101. Register online at: www.cfnek.org/events/estate-planning-101 or call Mitch Nolan at (913) 647-3070.

PRAYER VIGIL

St. Joseph Parish 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee

June 6 at 7 p.m.

There will be a prayer vigil for the solemnity of the Sacred Heart. The vigil will include vespers, the act of reparation, the Litany of the Sacred Heart and the chaplet of the Sacred Heart.

HEART OF THE REDEEMER

SILENT RETREAT

Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meager Rd., Easton

June 7 at 5:30 p.m. – June 9 at 4:30 p.m.

Devotion to the Sacred Heart is a response to the tremendous love of Christ as symbolized by his human heart pierced on Calvary. Join us as we delve into the beauty of Timothy O’Donnell’s book “Heart of the Redeemer” which sheds penetrating light on this key practice. There are conferences, spiritual direction, eucharistic adoration, Mass, confession, and time for private prayer, reflection and walking. Cabins/courtyard rooms are $170 single/$250 couple or

single guest rooms: $100 (meals included).

To attend, fill out the individual retreat form online at: ChristsPeace.com or call (913) 7738255.

BREAKFAST WITH THE KNIGHTS

Divine Mercy Parish

555 W. Main St., Gardner

June 9 from 8:30 - 10 a.m.

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

PARISH PICNIC

St. Joseph Parish (Kinzler Hall)

306 Broadway, Leavenworth

June 9 from 11:30 a.m. - 2:30 p.m.

There will be hamburgers, hot dogs, salads and ice cream. The cost is $10 for adults and $5 for kids ages 12 and under. There will also be a raffle for a quilt and a raffle for cash prizes.

SUMMER THEATER AND CHOIR

CAMPS

Bishop Ward High School

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

June 10 - 14 (theater grades 3-5)

June 17 - 21 (theater grades 6-8)

June 24 - 28 (choir grades 6-8)

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

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

SUMMER FUNDRAISER

St. Mary - St. Anthony Parish

(Bishop Forst Parish Hall)

615 N. 7th St., Kansas City, Kansas June 15 at 4 p.m. for Mass

The summer fundraiser will begin after Mass. “The Ethnic Festival” will feature food celebrating our diverse cultural heritages: Irish, German, Latino and American items. There will also be a general raffle; a 50/50 pot; games and the “salami, beer & povitica wheel”; a silent auction; DJ; a bingo/loteria game; and a bounce house for kids. Event sponsorships and items for our silent auction (value of $50 or more) are welcome. Please join us for a fun-filled evening to support St. Mary - St. Anthony Parish.

SOCCER CAMPS

Chieftain Park, Tonganoxie

June 17-21

St. Joseph School, Shawnee

June 24-28

These camps will be coached primarily by Benedictine College players and coaches. They are for ages 3-12. Time for ages 3-6 are 8:15 - 9:15 a.m. and cost $80. Times for ages 7-12 are 9:30 a.m. - noon and cost $130. For more information, call (913) 3600394. Sign up online at: ggsoccer.futi.no.

SPANISH FAMILY CAMP

Prairie Star Ranch

1124 California Rd., Williamsburg

June 28-30

The archdiocesan evangelization office again is offering Summer Camp Number III for Hispanic families. Camp Tekakwitha provides this camp for the 12 parishes that have Hispanic communities. The cost is per person and is $155. The deadline to register is May 14. Register online at: arch kck.org/camp-tekakwitha/family-camps.

ST. THOMAS AQUINAS SUMMER CAMPS

St. Thomas Aquinas High School 11411 Pflumm Rd., Overland Park

May - August

Our summer camps give students entering grades K - 8 the chance to discover their potential in both sports and other activities: STEM camp, art, baking, cheer and more! Camps fill up fast, so register today online at: www.stasaints.net/athletics/summer-camps. For questions call the student life office at (913) 319-2416 or send an email to: btriggs@stasaints.net.

DAILY READINGS

SEVENTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME

May 19

PENTECOST SUNDAY

Acts 2: 1-11

Ps 104: 1ab, 24ac, 29bc-30, 31, 34

1 Cor 12: 3b-7, 12-13

Jn 20: 19-23

May 20

The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church

Gn 3: 9-15, 20

Ps 87: 1b-3, 5-7

Jn 19: 25-34

May 21

Christopher Magallanes, priest, and companions, martyrs

Jas 4: 1-10

Ps 55: 7-11, 23

Mk 9: 30-37

May 22

Rita of Cascia, religious

Jas 4: 13-17

Ps 49: 2-3, 6-11

Mk 9: 38-40

May 23

Thursday

Jas 5: 1-6

Ps 49: 14-20

Mk 9: 41-50

May 24

Friday

Jas 5: 9-12

Ps 103: 1-4, 8-9, 11-12

Mk 10: 1-12

May 25

Bede the Venerable, priest, doctor of the church; Gregory VII, pope; Mary Magdalene de’Pazzi, virgin

Jas 5: 13-20

Ps 114: 1-3, 8

Mk 10: 13-16

EIGHTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME

May 26

THE MOST HOLY TRINITY

Dt 4: 32-34, 39-40

Ps 33: 4-6, 9, 18-20, 22

Rom 8: 14-17

Mt 28: 16-20

May 27

Augustine of Canterbury, bishop

1 Pt 1: 3-9

Ps 111: 1-2, 5-6, 9, 10c

Mk 10: 17-27

May 28

Tuesday

1 Pt 1: 10-16

Ps 98: 1-4

Mk 10: 28-31

May 29

Paul VI, pope

1 Pt 1: 18-25

Ps 147: 12-15, 19-20

Mk 10: 32-45

May 30

Thursday

1 Pt 2: 2-5, 9-12

Ps 100: 2-5

Mk 10: 46-52

May 31

THE VISITATION OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY

Zep 3: 14-18a (Ps) Is 12: 2-3, 4bcd, 5-6

Lk 1: 39-56

June 1

Justin, martyr

Jude 17, 20b-25

Ps 63: 2-6

Mk 11: 27-33

With the completion of this issue of The Leaven, it’s time for the staff here to breathe a sigh of relief. We now enter “summer mode” when the paper will come out every two weeks for the next few months.

Each year, The Leaven comes into your homes 41 times. That translates into 656 pages. Those 16 pages each issue come together by magic — the magic of managing editor Anita McSorley who diligently plans and assigns the stories; of production manager Todd Habiger who creatively designs each issue and lays out the pages; of intrepid reporters/photographers Joe Bollig, Moira Cullings (also our social media editor), and our dependable and flexible bevy of freelancers; and of Beth Blankenship who handles the often thankless job of keeping track of the bills, ads and calendar items.

My job is to proofread the pages each

Please, just gimme a break

MARK MY WORDS

FATHER MARK GOLDASICH

week, quibble about punctuation and capitalization, and generally get in the way of everyone else’s work! Oh, and this column is the last to be finished each week, sliding in just under the deadline. Over those 41 issues each year, you’re asked to “mark” over 24,600 of “my words.”

I’m always reminded at this time of year of the little girl who was asked, “What are you going to be when

Wyou grow up?” Her reply? “Tired!” I know it’s not just the Leaven staff that’s tired. These past few weeks have been filled for so many with first Communions, graduations, weddings, sporting events, school activities and Mother’s Day gatherings. Echoing that old commercial, we beg, “Calgon, take me away!” Summertime can provide that relief, but only if we choose to make it so. Sadly, these next few months can be just as busy, if not busier, than the rest of the year. If you want to break that cycle, it’s as simple as rediscovering the practice of the “Sabbath.”

This story illustrates the idea well: Many years ago, a boy was given a priceless possession: his deceased grandfather’s gold pocket watch. One day, though, while playing at his dad’s ice plant, he lost the watch amid all the ice and sawdust.

Frantically, he searched and scratched, but came up empty. Suddenly, he realized what he had to do. He stopped scurrying around and became very still. In the silence, he heard the ticking of the watch and was able to recover his treasure.

How easy for us to lose our joy in the scurrying around in life. But it’s always there . . . if we take the time to pause and listen. (Story adapted from “The Watch Ticks On,” found in “Illustrations Unlimited,” edited by James S. Hewett.)

Is “Sabbath,” a time to pause and listen, on your summer planning list? To truly become human beings again — and not just human doings — stepping

away from the rat race of our normal schedule is essential.

Some ways to do that are:

• Pop into an empty church or eucharistic adoration chapel during the week and sit quietly with the Lord for at least 15 minutes.

• Invite a friend or two to a leisurely lunch or dinner, outside if possible.

• Browse through an art museum or bookstore.

• Spend time in nature.

• Set up a weekly family reading time, picnic or board game night.

• When on vacation, resist the temptation to check email and Facebook.

I keep a “fun adventure list” on my phone that I regularly add to as ideas pop into my head. You might consider doing the same. This summer, I’m looking forward to whittling down my list. Hmmmm, which of the 84 items there will I choose? Gee, I think I need more summer!

Pentecost leaves us with the strength to ‘be not afraid’

hen St. John Paul II was elected to the papacy in 1978, among his first words to the world, spoken during his inaugural homily, were, “Be not afraid! Open wide the doors for Christ.”

As a youth, a seminarian, a young priest and bishop, the pope had experienced firsthand the intense fear that gripped his native land of Poland as the Nazis ruthlessly occupied his country during World War II. Having lived through both the Nazi invasion of Poland and the Communist regime after the war, the pope

Sullivan is a professor at The Catholic University of America.

understood that fear was a powerful weapon used by totalitarian regimes to control and intimidate people. He knew also, in faith, that Jesus conquered fear

and sin in the saving mystery of the cross. This was the deep Christian conviction that shaped his saintly life and his papacy.

In Sunday’s Gospel, the disciples are in the grip of fear after Jesus’ death on the cross. They stayed behind locked doors for fear of being found by the religious authorities. They were expecting the same fate as their Lord and Master. It is at this moment of deep fear and isolation that Jesus comes to the disciples. And his first words to them are, “Peace be with you.” Then the risen Jesus showed them the nail marks in his hands and the wounds in his side, the signs of his self-giving love revealed

on the cross.

When Jesus showed his wounded hands and side, the disciples’ fear turns to hopeful rejoicing in the presence of the risen Lord. And when Jesus breathes on them, he bestows the gift of the Holy Spirit.

Now they are empowered by the divine life flowing in them to abandon the chains of fear and become bold witnesses to faith in Jesus’ resurrection.

For as St. Paul notes, “No one can say, ‘Jesus is Lord,’ except by the Holy Spirit.”

The Holy Spirit is the third person of the Trinity, the love of the Father and the Son whose presence

sanctifies and enlivens the church in every age. At Pentecost, the church receives the Holy Spirit that Jesus first promised to his disciples. Today, the same gift of the Holy Spirit is offered to every disciple of Jesus to empower all to face and overcome the fears, anxieties and worries of life.

In the power of the Holy Spirit, we are strengthened to replace fear with faith and exchange the anxieties and worries of daily life with trust in God.

On this Pentecost Sunday, we are given the gift of the Holy Spirit who gives strength to leave fear behind.

Without Christian hope, a virtuous life seems futile, pope says

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — The world is in great need of hope and patience, Pope Francis said at his weekly general audience.

Those who are patient “are weavers of goodness. They stubbornly desire peace, and even if others are hasty and would like everything straight away, patience is capable of waiting,” he said.

“Even when many

around us have succumbed to disillusionment, those who are inspired by hope and are patient are able to get through the darkest of nights,” he said in St. Peter’s Square May 8, the feast of Our Lady of Luján, patroness of Argentina.

The pope continued his series of audience talks about vices and virtues by reflecting on the “theological” or New Testament virtue of hope.

“If hope is missing, all the other

virtues risk crumbling and ending up as ashes. If no reliable tomorrow, no bright horizon, were to exist, one would only have to conclude that virtue is a futile effort,” the pope said. Christian hope “is not an obstinacy we want to convince ourselves of, but it is a gift that comes directly from God,” he said. It is a belief in the future “because Christ died and rose again and gave us his spirit.”

JEM SULLIVAN

Kids’ Kids’

CHRONICLE CHRONICLE

By Jennifer Ficcaglia Catholic Courier

A rich man won’t give up his wealth to follow Jesus Bible accent

ne day, as Jesus was getting ready to set out on a journey, a man came up to him.

“Good teacher, what must I do to inherit eternal life?” the man asked as he knelt before Jesus.

“You know the commandments: ‘You shall not kill; you shall not commit adultery; you shall not steal; you shall not bear false witness; you shall not defraud; honor your father and your mother,’” Jesus answered.

O I“Teacher,” the man said, “all of these I have observed from my youth.”

Jesus looked at the man with love.

“You are lacking in one thing,” he told the man. “Go, sell what you have, and give to the poor and you will have treasure in heaven; then come, follow me.”

When Jesus finished speaking, the man’s excitement quickly turned to sadness. He slowly rose from his knees and walked away from Jesus in silence. He was a very wealthy man, and he was not interested in following Jesus if he had to give up all of his money and possessions.

Jesus watched the man walk away. He turned to the apostles, who had been listening to the conversation.

“How hard it is for those who have wealth to enter the kingdom of God!” Jesus exclaimed. “It is easier for a camel to pass through the eye of a needle than for one who is rich to enter the kingdom of God.”

Jesus’ friends were astonished.

“Then who can be saved?” they wondered.

Jesus looked at them.

“For men, it is impossible, but not for God. All things are possible for God,” he told his friends.

“We have given up everything and followed you,” Peter said.

Jesus looked at Peter.

“Amen, I say to you, there is no one who has given up house or brothers or sisters or mother or father or children or lands for my sake and for the sake of the Gospel who will not receive a hundred times more now in this present age: houses and brothers and sisters and mothers and children and lands, with persecutions, and eternal life in the age to come,” Jesus said. “But many that are first will be last, and [the] last will be first.”

1. What question did the rich man ask Jesus?

Why did the rich man leave Jesus?

Jesus told the parable of a wealthy man who ate delicious food every day and dressed in fancy clothes made from expensive cloth.

And every day, a poor man named Lazarus lay outside the wealthy man’s door. Lazarus, who was covered with sores, would have loved to eat the scraps of food that fell from the rich man’s table, but the rich man simply ignored him.

One day, both the rich man and Lazarus died.

Angels carried Lazarus to Abraham in heaven, while the rich man was sent to the netherworld to be tormented for eternity.

The rich man saw Abraham and Lazarus standing next to each other in the distance, and he begged Abraham for pity.

Abraham reminded the rich man that he had enjoyed a good life while Lazarus had suffered, which is why Lazarus received comfort in eternal life while the rich man was tormented.

This parable — along with the story of the rich man and Jesus in Mark 10 — warns us that loving wealth and possessions more than God and our neighbors is wrong and can have negative consequences.

St. Lutgardis was born in Belgium in 1182. At age 12, she went to live with Benedictine nuns after her father lost her dowry.

After Christ appeared to her and showed her his wounds, she renounced the world to become a nun. She later left the Benedictines for a stricter life with Cistercians at Aywieres.

Lutgardis lost her eyesight in 1235 but considered it as another way of being detached from the world.

She became known as a great spiritual counselor and healer, and she is now considered among the great medieval women mystics.

Lutgardis died in 1246, and we remember her on June 16.

n Luke 16:19-31, Jesus talked about another rich man to teach his followers a lesson.