THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 41, NO. 39 | MAY 22, 2020
PRIEST ASSIGNMENTS Archbishop Naumann makes new parish appointments
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ather John A. Riley, chancellor, announces the following appointments made by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, effective July 1, unless otherwise noted:
Retirements
Father John Melnick, SSA, from vice president of spirituality and mission, Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas, to retirement, effective June 1. Father Michael Stubbs, from pastor of Holy Cross Parish, Overland Park, to retirement.
Pastors and parochial administrators Father Anthony Chendumalli, from parochial administrator to pastor of Annunciation Parish, Frankfort; St. Monica- St. Elizabeth Parish, Blue Rapids; and St. Columbkille Parish, Blaine. Father William Fisher, from pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, Ottawa, to pastor of St. John the Baptist Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, and Holy Family Parish, Kansas City, Kansas. Father Gregory Hammes, from pastor of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, Topeka, to pastor of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, and continuing as associate director of the permanent diaconate. Father Nathan Haverland, from pastor of St. Gregory the Great Parish, Marysville, and St. Malachy Parish, Beattie, to pastor of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish, Topeka. Father Peter Jaramillo, SSA, from pastor of Holy Family Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, and St. John the Baptist Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, to pastor of All Saints Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, and continuing as pastor of St. Mary-St. Anthony Parish, Kansas City, Kansas.
Father Bruce Ansems
Father Gerardo Arano-Ponce
Father Alessandro Borraccia
Father Anthony Chendumalli
Father Salvador Llamas Diaz, MNM,
Father William Fisher
Father Karl Good
Father Gregory Hammes
Father Joel Haug, AVI
Father Nathan Haverland
Father Vince Huber, AVI
Father Peter Jaramillo, SSA
Father Rómulo Real Linares
Father Agustin Martinez
Father David McEvoy, O.Carm.
Father Travis Mecum
Father John Melnick, SSA
Father Anthony Mersmann
Father Michael Mulvany
Father Anthony Ouellette
Father Anthony Saiki
Father John Samineni
Father Oswaldo Sandoval
Father Quentin Schmitz
Father Michael Stubbs
Father Gerald Volz
Father Anthony Williams
erald; St. Joseph Parish, Waverly; and St. Teresa Parish, Westphalia. Father Oswaldo Sandoval, from pastor of the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, and All Saints Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, to pastor of Holy Cross Parish, Overland Park. Father Quentin Schmitz, from pastor of St. Francis Xavier Parish, Burlington; St. Patrick Parish, Emerald; St. Joseph Parish, Waverly; and St. Teresa Parish, Westphalia, to pastor of St. Gregory the Great Parish, Marysville, and St. Malachy Parish, Beattie. Father Glenn Snow, O.Carm., from priestly ministry outside the archdiocese to pastor of Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph Parish, Leavenworth. Father Gerald Volz, from pastor of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, to pastor of Corpus Christi Parish, Lawrence. Father Anthony Williams, from director of mission integration and chaplain manager, St. Joseph Medical Center, Kansas City, Missouri, and St. Mary’s Medical Center, Blue Springs, Missouri, to parochial administrator of Sacred Heart Parish, Ottawa.
Sabbaticals Father Gerardo Arano-Ponce, from pastor of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Topeka, to priestly sabbatical. Father David McEvoy, O.Carm., from pastor of Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph Parish, Leavenworth, to sabbatical granted by Carmelite community. Father Michael Mulvany, from pastor of Corpus Christi Parish, Lawrence, to priestly sabbatical.
Parochial vicars and chaplains
Father Agustin Martinez, from parochial vicar of St. Paul Parish, Olathe, to parochial administrator of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Topeka.
Father Joel Haug, AVI, from parochial vicar for the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, to parochial vicar for St. Paul Parish, Olathe.
Father Anthony Saiki, from completing canon law studies to pastor of the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, and ecclesiastical judge for the metropolitan tribunal.
Father Vince Huber, AVI, to parochial vicar for Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park.
Father John Samineni, from parochial vicar for Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, to parochial administrator of St. Francis Xavier Parish, Burlington; St. Patrick Parish, Em-
Father Edward Ahn, AVI
Father Rómulo Real Linares, from priestly ministry outside the archdiocese, to parochial vicar for Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Topeka, effective immediately.
>> See “PRIESTS” on page 7
MAY 22, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
ARCHBISHOP
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Has the pandemic opened up a space in your heart for God?
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recent Pew Center poll revealed that 24% of all Americans expressed that their faith had been strengthened as a result of the COVID-19 pandemic, while only 2% felt their faith had been weakened. Similarly, a recent Gallup poll indicated that 19% of Americans thought their faith had been strengthened by the pandemic and only 3% considered their faith weakened. In the Pew poll, those who attend religious services weekly or even monthly were most likely to indicate that their faith had been strengthened, but 26% of even those who described themselves as attending religious services only a few times a year expressed their faith had been strengthened. Of those who described themselves as seldom or never attending religious services, 11% thought that their faith had increased. With many people deprived of the activities that they rely upon for amusement and comfort — such as sports, concerts, movies, success at work, dining at restaurants, etc. — space has been created to open our hearts to God. Gallup researchers found that in the 2008 economic downturn,
LIFE WILL BE VICTORIOUS ARCHBISHOP JOSEPH F. NAUMANN religious people appeared to be able to cope better with financial uncertainty. This data suggests that the current health and economic crisis presents an opportunity to help others discover the gift of our Catholic faith. Whether we are aware of it or not, those around us are observing how we are coping with the stress created by the pandemic, as well as the economic uncertainty that has resulted. Your family members, friends, neighbors and co-workers are watching and observing how you are weathering the current storm. Our ability to maintain genuine peace, to be sensitive to the needs of others, and to have a capacity for joy even in the midst of significant stress is helping to shape the opinion of others regarding the
positive difference faith makes in one’s life. The second reading from this past Sunday from the First Letter of St. Peter, the apostle, counsels the early Christians: “Sanctify Christ as Lord in your hearts. Always be ready to give an explanation to anyone who asks you for a reason for your hope.” Living in the environment of the health and economic consequence of a pandemic, it is easy to become dispirited. Many Americans have died of COVID-19. In light of the super-contagious characteristic of this virus, we are all living with the real possibility of infection. As a result of the shutdown of our economy, many small businesses have closed. Our nation is approaching record levels of unemployment. We are attempting to navigate this surreal world of social distancing. Many are experiencing acute loneliness because of social isolation. In this context, it is natural to ask the
question: What reasons do I have for hope? In addition to all that is going on in the world around us, we each carry our own personal burdens. Some of us have recently suffered the death of a loved one. Some of us are coping with debilitating and life-threatening illnesses. Many are trying to care for someone with a serious illness. Many have worries about their children and grandchildren. Many of us are coping with broken or wounded relationships with family members and friends. Why should we have hope? Our reason for hope is not in the world outside us. Christian hope does not reside in such things as material prosperity or physical health or whether we are thought well of in the court of human opinion. Our hope rests, rather, in the promise of Jesus: “I will not leave you orphans.” Our hope is anchored in the assurance of Our Lord to his disciples: “And behold, I am with you always, until the end of the age.” The foundation of our hope is the promise of Jesus that we are never alone, never separated from his love. We have the blessed assurance that just as the darkness of Good Friday was the doorway to the Easter victory, so our Calvaries — when embraced with faith and love — give us access to
a share in the triumph of the risen Lord. Our serenity and our joy, especially in the midst of suffering, are the very instruments that the Lord desires to use to draw others to himself. When people see our peace in the midst of all the storms of life, they want whatever it is that gives us a capacity for such joy. About a month ago, in light of the fewer hospitalizations and fewer deaths caused by COVID-19, New York Gov. Andrew Cuomo asserted: “The number is down because we brought the number down.” The governor added: “God did not do that. Faith did not do that. Destiny did not do that. A lot of pain and suffering did that.” It is true that a lot of people, especially in the health care profession, worked hard to combat COVID-19. Moreover, we absolutely should salute the doctors, nurses, and hospital staffs for their heroic efforts to care for their patients. Yet, we should also pause to acknowledge the source for their gifts and talents that equip them to provide this amazing service to their communities. Whether they realize it or not, ultimately God entrusted them with the gifts they are employing to help their fellow human beings. Think about the many people who contracted
THANK YOU
the virus, but had very few problems because of the built-in defense system within the human body. Who is the source of the immune system in our bodies that protects us from so many health threats? Acknowledging God’s role in healing and protecting lives does not diminish the tireless efforts of so many heroic individuals. St. Paul gives one of the most powerful descriptions of Christian hope in the Second Letter to the Corinthians. Paul writes: “We hold this treasure in earthen vessels, that the surpassing power may be of God and not from us. We are afflicted in every way, but not constrained; perplexed, but not driven to despair; persecuted, but not abandoned; struck down, but not destroyed; always carrying about in the body the dying of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may also be manifested in our body. For we who live are constantly being given up to death for the sake of Jesus, so that the life of Jesus may be manifested in our mortal flesh.” Our reason for hope is quite simple. It is Jesus Christ. It is in a God who immersed himself in our human condition so that we could share in his divine life. Let’s face it. The Christian is never without reason for hope.
TO THE CYCLONE
COMMUNITY!
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our overwhelming recent generosity for the Guardian Angel Fund, Spring Appeal, and Loretto Foundation Matching Challenge illuminate what we’ve always known: Bishop Ward High School has the BEST alumni and supporters. Because of you, our faith-filled students are graduating...and going to Heaven!
MAY 22, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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LEAVEN PHOTO BY JENNY FRAZEE
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JENNY FRAZEE
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JENNY FRAZEE
Deacon Thomas Maddock prepares the chalice during his ordination to the transitional diaconate May 16.
Deacon Luke Doyle receives the Book of the Gospels from Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann.
Deacon Keith Chadwick processes out of the Cathedral of St. Peter following his transitional diaconate ordination.
‘FOUND WORTHY’
Three men take next step toward the priesthood By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — The ordination of three men as transitional deacons on May 16 at the Cathedral of St. Peter here was historic for being the first to be held under pandemic conditions in at least a century. Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann ordained Deacons Keith Chadwick, Luke Doyle and Thomas Maddock in a largely empty cathedral and with a minimal number of people present. Paradoxically, the ordination of the transitional deacons was at once the most sparsely attended but also most widely viewed in archdiocesan history, thanks to livestreaming technology. “Our cathedral is sparsely populated today, but through the miracle of livestream, we have it at its maximum capacity and overflowing,” said Archbishop Naumann. “Many are joining it in this way, and we welcome you.” In the pews — and suitably masked — were the men’s parents: Robert and Sheryl Chadwick of Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee; Tom and Jeanne Doyle of Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish in Topeka; and Michael and Bernadette Maddock of Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park. Other family members were also present. The rite of election of the candidates took place between the proclamation of the word and the archbishop’s homily. Each man was called from the pews — one by one — and, after saying, “Present,” stood before the altar. Then, Father Dan Morris, archdiocesan vocations director, asked this of the archbishop: “Most Reverend Father, Holy Mother Church asks you to ordain these men, our brothers, to the responsibility of the diaconate.” “Father Morris, do you know them to be worthy?” responded Archbishop Naumann. “After inquiry among the Christian people and upon the recommendation of those responsible, I testify that they have been found worthy,” replied Father Morris. “Relying on the help of the Lord God and our savior Jesus Christ, we choose these our brothers for the order of the
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JENNY FRAZEE
From left, Deacons Thomas Maddock, Luke Doyle and Keith Chadwick stand with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann following their ordination to the transitional diaconate at the Cathedral of St. Peter on May 16. The three are set to be ordained to the priesthood next year. diaconate,” said the archbishop. All present answered, “Thanks be to God.” And from the pews came enthusiastic applause, at least for the numbers. “I’m sure there was a thunderous applause happening throughout the archdiocese through all of our livestream viewers today,” added Archbishop Naumann. One of the “blessings” of the pandemic was that he’d give the briefest ordination homily he had ever given, said the archbishop. Instead of his usual preaching, he would read a beautiful instruction from the ordination rite. “If only most of our priests were here to enjoy this,” he said. “However, we will [place] on the website . . . a longer message . . . for you and for all your families, friends and fans watching through livestream. You can choose to watch it or not.” After the homily came what Archbishop Naumann called their “final
President Most Rev. Joseph F. Naumann
Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799)
exam”: the promises of the elect. Standing, the three men said, “I do” after each question, adding to the last “with the help of God.” Next, each man knelt before the archbishop, placed his folded hands in his, and promised to respect and obey the archbishop and his successors. Then, the men prostrated themselves before the altar for the Litany of Supplication. Afterward, each returned to kneel before the archbishop and was ordained to the diaconate by the ancient rite of the laying on of hands. The new deacons were then vested and Archbishop Naumann presented each with the Book of the Gospels and the admonition to “believe what you read, teach what you believe and practice what you teach.” During their year in the first rank of clerics, the ministry of the three deacons is to preach, baptize, preside at funerals, witness marriages and serve others in the ministries of charity.
Editor Rev. Mark Goldasich, stl frmark.goldasich@theleaven.org
Production Manager Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org
Advertising Coordinator Beth Blankenship beth.blankenship@theleaven.org
Managing Editor Anita McSorley anita.mcsorley@theleaven.org
Senior Reporter Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
Social Media Editor/Reporter Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
Deacon Keith Chadwick was vested by Father Richard McDonald, pastor of Holy Angels Parish in Basehor; Deacon Luke Doyle, by Father Brian Schieber, pastor of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood; and Deacon Thomas Maddock, by Father Alessandro Borraccia, AVI, sacramental assistant at Holy Spirit Parish in Overland Park. After ordination, the three deacons joined the archbishop at the altar to assist at Mass. At the dismissal, the archbishop noted the three deacons demonstrated their solidarity and love for the Blessed Virgin Mary by wearing one identical item: Marian-themed socks. The three newly ordained men will minister in archdiocesan parishes during the summer and then expect to return to their seminaries to complete their studies this fall. Their ordination to the priesthood is tentatively scheduled for May 29, 2021.
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 22, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Musicians treat Villa residents to at-home concert By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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LATHE — Residents at assisted living and nursing home facilities across the country have been physically isolated from family and friends for weeks now due to COVID-19. Without visitors, many of these residents are feeling isolated and alone. So, when Mikey Needleman’s friend, who works for Kindred Hospice, invited him in March to perform for nursing home residents outside their windows, he thought it was a fantastic idea. There was just one problem. “As she was explaining it to me, it was clear that it would be impossible for me to play to all the windows at once,” said Needleman. To address this problem, the Kansas City musician invited his dad, Mike, to play on the opposite side of the building. “That first experience was a huge success,” said Needleman. “The residents and staff were so grateful. “And my dad and I were so thankful to be able to provide a little bit of light to the isolated and vulnerable.” The pair began playing at other facilities, but soon decided to invite other musicians to join them in order to cover more ground. On May 18, the Needlemans got their wish, as they were joined by six other musicians at Villa St. Francis, a Catholic care center in Olathe, where they each played in a different spot outside the facility, showering residents with music and joy. Caleb Blacksher, Bradley Eichenberg, Nick Marshall, Nick Nave, Jillian Riscoe and Jeff Zarcone sang a variety of songs, including “Lean on Me” by Bob Withers, “Drift Away” by Dobie Gray and “Hold us Together” by Matt Maher. Residents and staff members, who opened their windows or sat outside
LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
Mikey Needleman joined seven other musicians to perform a concert outside of Villa St. Francis in Olathe. The musicians surrounded the facility so that all the residents could see at least one of them from their windows. their doors to listen, cheered after each song. Viewers also tuned in online, as the performances were posted on Facebook Live under the calendar event “Lean on Me: 8 Musicians Bringing Music to the Isolated” discussion page. The senior Needleman, who plays at Villa St. Francis regularly, said he hopes the experience brought residents “great joy and comfort to know that there are many others beyond the walls of the facility who truly care about them, and that we recognize the difficulties they face — coronavirus or not.
“I know how much this type of entertainment is appreciated there by both the residents and staff alike. “This event gave me a chance to reconnect with the facility, and the opportunity to perform with my son,” he said. For Mikey, it’s important to let the residents know that they’re not forgotten. “Everyone is being affected by this pandemic in a unique and difficult way,” he said. “Loneliness and anxiety can be a very dangerous result of the lockdown mandates. “When the residents look out their
window and hear music being played for them, they gain a sense of connection with the outside world, and [that] can hopefully help them to feel less alone.” Mike hopes all who viewed the performance know “that although God created us all as being individually different, we are, in fact, connected by his great love for us. “It is this love we share that brought these performers together . . . so that others may become distracted from issues of the day and know that there is hope and good times ahead for us all.”
Help was only a phone call away for members of Topeka parish pray for. They also asked if there was anything else we could do for them.” Apel said that between Sister Ann, minister to the aging, the parish faculOPEKA — While many ty and about 30 parish volunteers, evchurches are planning to eryone for whom they had a working open for services in the phone number was contacted. next few days or weeks, “Sister Ann called all of those she one church found severor one of the minisal ways to keep in try volunteers would touch with its panormally be visiting, rishioners during and the school facthe “safer at home” ulty called all of the period: In addition to “WITH THE CURRENT families enrolled in streaming daily and the school,” Apel Sunday Masses, Most UNCERTAINTY IT IS A said. “The parish Pure Heart of Mary volunteers contacted Church here has been DIFFICULT TIME FOR the rest of the famicalling all of its memMANY, AND WE NEED lies.” bers to check on their According to well-being. TO BE IN TOUCH WITH Apel, calls began “The idea came from communication EACH OTHER AND TO LET April 8 and approximately 1200 houseto the parishes from holds were contactthe archdiocesan ofOUR PARISHIONERS ed by the end of the fices,” said Marie KNOW WE CARE.” Apel, parish coordimonth. nator. “Our purpose “Most of the reacwas to let all of the tions were quite posparish families know that they are being itive,” she said. “Families were excited thought about and prayed for. Many of to hear from their fellow parishioners our callers asked if they could pray with and appreciated being asked how they the person answering and asked if they >> See “PARISHIONERS” on page 11 had any prayer intentions that we could
By Carolyn Kaberline Special to The Leaven
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PHOTOS COURTESY OF THE TOPEKA CAPITAL-JOURNAL
Most Pure Heart of Mary volunteer Ellen Brentine reaches out to parishioners to check on their well-being during the coronavirus pandemic.
MAY 22, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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BACK IN BUSINESS
Churches reopen with an emphasis on safety Reopening video tutorial offered
By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Months after all public Masses in the archdiocese were canceled on March 17, Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann announced last week that parishes were opening up — slowly and carefully. In a video message posted on the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas website, Archbishop Naumann announced the resumption of public Masses beginning May 9. “After consultation with medical experts, government and community leaders, in accord with Governor Kelly’s most recent executive order, with the recommended social distancing and other health precautions, the celebration of public Mass in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas may resume on May 9,” said Archbishop Naumann. “Please note that I said, ‘may resume.’” Not all parishes will open on the same date or in the same way for various reasons, he said. First, the governor’s executive order permits counties to have more stringent requirements than the state. Second, each pastor must make a determination when and how his parish will be able to meet archdiocesan safety protocols. Third, each pastor must also take into account his own age and personal risk factors. If their pastors have not already informed them in another way, parishioners should consult their own parish website or social media platforms to see if and when their parish will resume public Masses. The pandemic is not over, said Archbishop Naumann. Therefore, the general dispensation that removed the Sunday Mass obligation continues indefinitely. He urged those in high risk categories because of their age, health, or who have a high level of anxiety, to not attend Mass. “I also make an urgent appeal to all Catholics [to] use extraordinary caution and good judgment in determining if you should attend Mass,” he said. “Please err on the side of caution. Be assured there is no sin committed if you and your family choose not to attend Mass.” Parishes should continue to livestream Masses for those who choose not to attend Mass. Those who do choose to attend should review the archdiocesan safety protocols
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LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Communion minister Deb Simon gently drops the Eucharist into the hand of a parishioner at Sacred Heart Church in Topeka. Communion ministers approached parishioners to distribute the Eucharist to help maintain social distancing.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Father Tim Haberkorn, pastor of Sacred Heart-St. Joseph Parish in Topeka, prepares to say Mass before an in-person congregation for the first time in weeks. Father Haberkorn and all Mass participants wore masks, per Archbishop Naumann’s instructions. Some decided to do so in style. for participation at Mass and reception of holy Communion before attending. These include protocols about social distancing, wearing masks, and other new, but expected, behaviors. The protocols can be found on parish websites and the archdiocesan website at: archkck.org. The protocols will be reviewed and adjusted as necessary. “These protocols must be observed without exception,” said the archbishop. “Please follow them to protect the safety of others and in order not to jeopardize the ability of your parish to offer public celebrations of the Eucharist. “Emerging from the public health crisis will be gradual, involving a series of steps before parish life and
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Parishioner Hailey Hobart uses hand sanitizer at the entrance of the church before Mass at Sacred Heart Parish in Topeka May 17. community life will return to normal. I am grateful with the necessary limitations and prudent precautions
we are able to begin to offer again public Masses and the opportunity to receive holy Communion.”
ecause it is crucial that Catholics know what to expect and what to do when they return to their parishes for Mass, Michael Podrebarac, the archdiocesan consultant for liturgy and sacramental life, posted a video tutorial that can be found on the website of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas: archkck. org. Go to the homepage and click on the photograph of Archbishop Naumann celebrating Mass. Scroll down to Podrebarac’s video and click on the photo to view the video. Here is a summary of the Mass protocols: 1. Prepare to attend Mass by using common sense and practicing basic hygiene such as washing hands frequently. Do not attend Mass if you or someone in your household are experiencing the symptoms of the COVID-19 virus, have been exposed to someone with the virus within the past two weeks, or are otherwise sick. 2. Attend Mass at your own parish to allow those registered at that parish to have access to the sacraments from their own pastor. Social distancing requirements may necessitate limited admittance at some parishes. 3. Arrive in plenty of time to observe the protocols. 4. Use a mask. Put it on before you enter the church. The mask must cover the nose and mouth. Once the mask is set, leave it in place until holy Communion. 5. Use hand sanitizer, if available, upon entering and leaving the church. 6. Follow the directions of ushers and other volunteers. Upon entering the church, go the farthest area up front and take a seat in a designated pew. Fill the church from the front to back. Members of households may sit together, but six feet of social distance must be maintained otherwise. 7. There will be no missals, missalettes or hymn books. These should have been removed. Consider downloading the free iBreviary app or bringing a Mass aid of your own. 8. There will be no singing, to reduce dispersion of respiratory droplets. 9. There will be no sign of peace through shaking hands or touching. There should be no hugging or touching at any time. 10. Do not leave children unattended. Accompany them to the restroom. 11. Remove your mask for Communion, then return it to its correct position after receiving the Eucharist. 12. Reception of the Eucharist on the tongue is not encouraged in these circumstances, but there are new protocols for each method of reception. Please view the video for further details. The precious blood will not be made available. 13. When Mass ends, people should exit by pews or rows starting with those in the last rows (those at the back). 14. Do not visit or touch other parishioners. Do not bunch or congregate in the vestibule or gathering space. Maintain social distance of six feet and go directly to your car after Mass.
MAY 22, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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‘YOU’RE NOT IN THIS ALONE’ Class of 2019 will miss out on this year’s ordinations, but offer advice and blessings to the ordinands
LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
Father Dan Weger, associate pastor of St. Michael the Archangel in Leawood, has found his first year as a priest both instructive and rewarding.
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By Joe Bollig joe.bollig@theleaven.org
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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Other than the men themselves, no one was looking forward more to the priestly ordinations of Deacon Travis Mecum and Deacon Anthony Mersmann on May 23 than the ordination class of 2019. In a normal year, these six men — ordained almost a year to the day — would be among the first to crowd the front steps of the Cathedral of St. Peter to offer their fraternal congratulations to the newly ordained. But not this year. The COVID-19 pandemic forced the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas to take many precautions, among those, limiting the number of persons at the liturgy. “I definitely was very saddened,” said Father Kenn Clem, associate pastor of Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe, ordained last year. “These are my brothers. I was so excited for them to share with us this beautiful joy and gift that is the priesthood, and to be there. “I was looking forward to when all the priests go through and lay their hands on their brothers. I was so very excited to be a part of it.” Father Dan Weger, associate pastor of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood, is also sorry to be missing it. “Considering everything else that has happened, it made complete sense and I have no issue with it,” said Father Weger, also ordained in 2019. “Of course, I’m saddened by the fact [I can’t attend], but I didn’t get my hopes up that we’d still have all the priests there,” he added. “It was never really an option once the COVID-19 pandemic started.” For this and other things disrupted, he went through a grieving process and then into a mode of acceptance. “My mindset was less heartbroken and more, ‘All right, I’ll just have to host a watch party and livestream it,’ so that’s what we’re going to do,” said Father Weger. “It’s sad,” he continued, “but they’ll be my brothers for the rest of our lives, so I’m not super-concerned I’m missing anything. This is an important day, but a day nevertheless . . . this too shall pass.” The new priests will find rewards and surprises in their first year, just as the class of 2019 did. “I didn’t think I’d enjoy hearing confessions as much as I do,” admitted Father Weger. “Getting down to brass
“IT’S SAD, BUT THEY’LL BE MY BROTHERS FOR THE REST OF OUR LIVES, SO I’M NOT SUPER-CONCERNED I’M MISSING ANYTHING. THIS IS AN IMPORTANT DAY, BUT A DAY NEVERTHELESS . . . THIS TOO SHALL PASS.”
LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
Father Kenn Clem, associate pastor of Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe, was looking forward to attending this year’s priestly ordinations and blessing the newly ordained, as he was blessed by first the archbishop and then many of the priests of the archdiocese last year. Because of COVID-19, he won’t get the chance, as attendance at the ceremony will be limited to family. tacks, forgiveness is amazing for both the confessor as well as the penitent. Being able to be a part of that has been a greater joy than expected.” Father Clem has also found it rewarding to be a confessor. “I found that I really do have a great heart for the sacrament of confession,” he said. “It’s always life-giving. Even on a day when there are a million other things to do, it’s one of the most life-giving things I can do as a priest, particularly with those who
have struggles.” Father Weger learned God can use him to speak to others. “When I step out of the situation and pray that God speak through me, I find that he does,” he said. “People hear God speaking to them in the words that I say. Half the time I don’t even know what I’m saying, but God speaks to them in those moments. “[I feel God] encouraging me to stop trying to assert what I think what’s best and let God minister to his people
through me. It has been extremely good and fruitful.” One of the biggest lessons learned by Father Clem and Father Weger is how to minister to different kinds of people. “In a parish as large as Prince of Peace, there are going to be [people] with different opinions and points of view,” said Father Clem. “There will be different personalities. “In all those differences, we still have to be united — we are still members of the body of Christ, especially during a pandemic that works to keep us apart. We can’t allow our personal differences to disrupt the unity in the body of Christ.” “[Pastor] Father Brian Schieber has taught me a lot about how to minister to people coming from all different angles, and that there are people on all sides of every issue, and you have to be a priest to all of them,” said Father Weger. Drawing from their own first year, Father Clem and Father Weger offer this advice to the two newly ordained men as they begin their first year of priestly ministry. “You’ve been formed well,” said Father Weger. “Rely on your formation and don’t feel like you have to reinvent the wheel. You’re not in this alone. Not only do you have other priests who are in this with you, but you also have priests for the past 2000 years who are with you.” “Remember what you are ordained to be and what it is that you do,” said Father Clem. “You are ordained to be the minister of Christ, not the minister of you. “You are called to bring Christ to his people, not bring you to his people. “Christ ministers to his people and our job is to step out of the way and let him do that.”
MAY 22, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Memorial Day Masses canceled; pre-need burial packages discounted
K LEAVEN PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
Eighth grader Dianne Haake walks down the red carpet at Holy Cross School in Overland Park to receive her diploma on May 18. Because of the current pandemic, students had to schedule their outdoor commencement one graduate at a time.
Holy Cross graduates get red carpet treatment By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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VERLAND PARK — Holy Cross School teachers and staff here rolled out the red carpet — literally — on May 18 for their graduating eighth-graders. But the ceremony took a bit longer than usual. In fact, students could schedule their commencement any time between 9 a.m. and 4 p.m.! “We realize during these unprecedented times that our families needed to know that we are not forgetting the 30-plus-year traditions that we have at our school and the sacrifices that many families make to send their children to a Catholic school,” said eighth grade teacher Paula Patterson. “The majority of our 21 eighth graders have been with us since kindergarten,” she continued. “We have watched them grow from wide-eyed kindergartners to confident young men and women ready to move onward to the next four years of high school,” she added.
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“THE MAJORITY OF OUR 21 EIGHTH-GRADERS HAVE BEEN WITH US SINCE KINDERGARTEN. WE HAVE WATCHED THEM GROW FROM WIDE-EYED KINDERGARTNERS TO CONFIDENT YOUNG MEN AND WOMEN” And they wanted to bid them farewell. To honor the students’ years of hard work, the graduates were invited to don a cap and gown and walk the red carpet, receive their diplomas and pose for a photo. The students signed up for time slots throughout the day to ensure social distancing but could then invite their family and friends to cheer them on from across the street.
Patterson hopes the students’ memories of the unique ceremony will ease the pain of not being able to enjoy the last couple months of school as a class. “What [has been] hardest for them,” she said, “is not being all together one last time inside their school building. “With the love and support of their parents, they understand that students across the world are missing out on graduations and other big life events.” So both they and their parents, noted Patterson, have said they are grateful for this opportunity. Fortunately, it promised to be a memorable one. “The students have said that they will remember this day,” added Patterson, “and what the Holy Cross staff and teachers did for them.” Along with the entire Holy Cross staff, Patterson wants the graduates to have a sense of accomplishment and pride in all they achieved throughout their time at the school. “Most importantly, I hope they know that they have left their footprints upon our hearts and will always be in our prayers,” she said.
Priests get new assignments >> Continued from page 1 Father Salvador Llamas Diaz, MNM, from parochial vicar for Holy Cross Parish, Overland Park, to parochial vicar for St. Mary-St. Anthony Parish, Kansas City, Kansas. Father Travis Mecum, from completing seminary studies and priestly ordination, to parochial vicar for Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa. Father Anthony Mersmann, from completing seminary studies and priestly ordination, to parochial vicar for Holy Cross Parish, Overland Park, and chaplain of Bishop Ward High School, Kansas City, Kansas. Father Dominic Pham, ICM, from priestly ministry outside the archdiocese, to chaplain of University of Kansas Health System,
Kansas City, Kansas, and sacramental assistance to the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, effective immediately.
Other Father Edward Ahn, AVI, from formation faculty at Kenrick-Glennon Seminary, St. Louis, to part-time campus ministry at Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas, and sacramental assistance to St. Agnes Parish, Roeland Park. Father Bruce Ansems, from sacramental assistance to St. Agnes Parish, Roeland Park, to sacramental assistance to St. Patrick Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, effective immediately, and continuing as adjutant judicial vicar and principal master of ceremonies. Father Alessandro Borraccia, from pa-
rochial vicar for Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, to priestly ministry in the Diocese of Rome, Italy, and withdrawal from the Apostles of the Interior Life. Father Karl Good, to clinical pastoral education program at the University of Kansas Health System, Kansas City, Kansas, and residency at the Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle Parish, Kansas City, Kansas. Father Anthony Ouellette, from chaplain of Bishop Ward High School, Kansas City, Kansas, to continuing as pastor of Holy Name Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, regional chaplain of St. Paul’s Outreach, and spiritual moderator of Catholic Charismatic Renewal.
ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Although Catholic Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas has canceled Memorial Day Masses at its different locations, family service advisers will be available as resources at three locations during the holiday weekend, May 23-25. “We encourage those who come to the cemeteries to decorate the graves of their loved ones to stop by our tents to receive free finger rosaries and prayer cards,” said Sharon Vallejo, president, Catholic Cemeteries. She explained that family service advisers will observe safe-distancing and other COVID-19 precautions. They will also have information about the special discounts, ranging from $250 to $2,000 off pre-need burial packages, currently being offered by Catholic Cemeteries. “Given the widespread and unexpected experiences of loss during the pandemic, we ask parishioners to consider the heightened importance of making pre-arrangements,” Vallejo said. Family service advisers will be on site at the following locations from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. from May 23-25: • Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 38th and State Ave., Kansas City, Kansas • Resurrection Cemetery, 83rd and Quivira Rd., Lenexa • Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 801 S.W. Westchester Rd., Topeka Due to COVID-19, Memorial Day Masses on May 25 are canceled at the following sites: • Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 15825 S. 169 Highway, Olathe • St. John Cemetery, Lenexa, at Holy Trinity Church, 89th and Pflumm Rd., Lenexa • Gate of Heaven Cemetery, 126th and Parallel, Kansas City, Kansas • Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Kansas City, Kansas • Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa • Mt. Calvary Cemetery, 1011 N. Desoto Rd., Lansing • St. Joseph Cemetery, 61st Terr. and Quivira Rd., Shawnee • Mt. Calvary Cemetery, Topeka Persons interested in pre-arrangement information and pricing can contact Catholic Cemeteries at (913) 371-4040 or by email at: information@cathcemks.org to be connected to a local family service adviser. As Catholic Cemeteries phases into reopening its offices for appointments, the ministry is installing plexiglass shield protectors and requiring staff to wear masks and observe other safety precautions.
Support local food drives
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ocal neighborhoods, parishes and communities are coming together to safely collect food for those in need during the COVID-19 crisis. The following parishes will be holding food drives: • St. Patrick Parish, 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas, in the parking lot, June 6 from noon to 3 p.m. In case of rain, the food drive will be on June 7 from noon to 3 p.m. For an updated list of food drives, go online to: catholiccharitiesks.org/upcoming-community-food-drives.
HOPE
For all of us this can be a fearful time as we are faced with the drastic circumstances caused by the Covid-19 pandemic: loss of employment, fear of the loss of good health or life; loss of the ability to be with family, to embrace friends and visit with neighbors, to be with Christ in the Eucharist. These tragic times were unforeseen and are uniquely difficult. What this has created, however, is an unmistakable opportunity to find new freedom and to experience hope in the midst of troubling circumstances. An opportunity to reach out, to make a difference.
Free to give hope...Hope that will not disappoint! (Romans 5:5)
TODAY
AT YOUR PARISH
You can help support your pastor and your parish by continuing your weekly offertory support. If you are in a position to be more generous at this moment, you can help balance the deficit for those who are unable to give at this time. Many parishes are seeing a significant reduction in offertory contributions. Get in touch with your parish to find out how you can give today.
We offer our grateful recognition of God as the origin of life, giver of freedom, and source of all things – especially our faith, our families and our lives.
THIS YEAR
ARCHBISHOP’S CALL TO SHARE You can remain committed to helping one another through your support of Catholic Charities, our Catholic schools and other ministries made possible through the annual Archbishop’s Call to Share appeal. Your gift directly impacts our ability to serve thousands in northeast Kansas each year. We still need your help. Ministries and services of the archdiocese depend on this support in the coming year.
A MESSAGE FROM THE ARCHBISHOP
FOR OUR FUTURE
HOW TO GIVE • Search your parish website to learn more about ways to support others through your parish.
ONE FAITH. ONE FAMILY. ONE FUTURE ... I N
It is a time no one would wish for, but it is a time to learn how God draws good from suffering.
• Gifts to the Archbishop’s Call to Share appeal may be made at calltoshare.org
C H R I S T
Our One Faith, One Family, One Future in Christ campaign is in its final phase. We have already received more than $40 million in commitments. With your continued support this will be the largest campaign in the history of our Archdiocese. More than $20 million in cash has already been collected, allowing us to move toward our vision. As an example, campaign funding supported our Enflame Our Hearts convocation. It was a blessing that we were able to gather together last fall. The tremendous work that led up to, and took place at the convocation has created new infrastructure and unified language and messaging that is helping our parishes weather this storm. Since the beginning of 2020, our focus has rightly been on ensuring the success of Call to Share, as well as supporting our parishes throughout this pandemic. Even so, the continued support of the One Faith campaign is inspiring, both through the new commitments received and the continued fulfillment of existing pledges. When the time is right we will refocus our efforts on the successful completion of the more than 50 parishes currently conducting their local campaign. If you have not yet made a commitment, please prayerfully consider your participation and give as generously as your situation permits. 25% of your gift will remain at your local parish — more than $3 million has already been distributed to parishes for local needs. Together, we will strengthen our Church for generations to come, propagating a culture of evangelization, caring for our retired priests and our seniors at Villa St. Francis, and being good stewards of our parish facilities and Savior Pastoral Center. Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas
The freedom that Jesus models for us is the ability to choose the good, to choose the noble, to choose to love. We all have this freedom. At this time of hardship and suffering we see all around us heroic acts of mercy, selfless efforts to comfort and care for others.
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The worldwide coronavirus pandemic has come to Kansas. In the midst of its devastating impact we look for hope.
• One Faith. One Family. One Future in Christ Campaign. Visit faithfamilyfuture.archkck.org/pledge/ to make a gift to the capital campaign.
The crisis is uniting our communities and families and strengthening friendships. It is creating opportunities to help, care and support victims and their families.
WITH GRATITUDE On behalf of those who will benefit from your generosity, thank you.
It is opening our hearts and making us more prayerful. It can deepen our appreciation for privileges we often take for granted. It can free us from ordinary habits and even addictions which are not necessary for our happiness. Each of us has the power to shape and mold our choices.
In this challenging time, consider what we are doing without. We cannot see our parents and grandparents who are sheltered at home or in a nursing home. We can no longer enjoy the simple pleasure of going out for dinner with friends. Perhaps a family member’s wedding has been postponed. We may not be able to receive Holy Communion regularly. This is not our future.
I ask you to consider ways your generosity can give hope to each other in the Archdiocese of Kansas in Kansas.
We know that our future is in Christ. These storms will end and these hardships will be over. God will fashion a new a grateful heart in each of us.
A hope that will not disappoint!
If you are able, consider making a gift to your favorite Catholic organization in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas so, together, we can feed the hungry, clothe the naked, give shelter to the homeless, and preserve our Catholic heritage for future generations.
Most Reverend Joseph F. Naumann Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas
Donate now at kansascity.igivecatholic.org through June 30, 2020.
12615 Parallel Parkway
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Kansas City, KS 66109
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913-647-0325
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www.archkck.org
MAY 22, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
FAMILY LIFE
H
ave you had a good cry lately? I have. I saw a Twitter post about a cheerful old fellow in an English care facility who slept with his late wife’s photo every night. So, a thoughtful staff member had a photo company create a pillow for him, one side of which displayed his spouse’s picture. When she presented it, he gasped and laughed in surprise, but then quickly clasped the pillow to himself and dissolved in tears. Cue the Kleenex. I started to cry and a floodgate opened. I sobbed for 15 minutes. Was that a touching post? Of course. Was my lengthy crying jag exclusively related to the old man clutching his wife’s photo and weeping? Of course not. These are emotional times. I cry easily in the
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Once in a while, it’s cathartic to let those tears flow
EFFIE CALDAROLA Effie Caldarola is a columnist for Catholic News Service.
best of times, but the pandemic has me unusually teary: exhausted nurses without adequate personal protection equipment, long lines of cars at food pantries, the stories of those dying alone. And the unsettling feeling, as I view the government response, that we are careening through uncharted waters in a rudderless ship.
So much sorrow and suffering and courage. A future so uncertain. Then, my own worries, mixed up with gratitude and love, with the tender realization of things I had taken for granted. A visit to my son in Alaska that won’t happen soon. A pregnant daughter I may not see for a long time. Another daughter, unemployed. The happy laughter at online family meetings that doesn’t extinguish the deep longing I have to hug my kids. The
Marceil “Marci” (Olberding) and Duane Feldkamp, members of St. Ann Parish, Effingham, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on May 30. The couple was married on May 30, 1970, at Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Seneca. Their children are: Deana Fajen, Amber Bradley and Lori Huff. They also have five grandchildren. The couple hopes to celebrate with family and friends at a later date.
niversary on May 21. The couple was married on May 21, 1955, in Topeka. A celebration hosted by their children will take place at a later date. Their children are: Brett Stanley, Lenexa; Scott Stanley, Shawnee; Theresa Breeden, Overland Park; Todd Stanley, Lenexa; and Jeffrey Stanley, Thousand Oaks, California. They also have 13 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren.
Clarice (Boyd) and Anthony Martini, members of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on May 21. The couple was married on May 21, 1955, at St. Mary Church of the Assumption in Waco, Texas. Their children are: Joni Kellogg and Anthony J. Martini. They also have three grandchildren and four great-grandchildren. They will celebrate later this summer.
Kathleen and John Bins, members of Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on May 21. The couple was married on May 21, 1960, at St. Matthew Church in St. Paul, Minnesota. A celebration is planned for the fall. Their children are: Mary, Mike, Bill and Patrick (deceased). They also have 11 grandchildren and one great-grandchild.
Barbara (Swoyer) and Gilbert Keiter, members of St. Paul Parish, Olathe, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on May 28. The couple was married on May 28, 1960, at St. Mary Cathedral, Wichita, by Father William Carr. Their children are: Ken, Jerry, David, Kathy, Cindy and Mike. They also have 17 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Due to the pandemic, they will celebrate at a later date when family members can attend. Margaret (Browning) and Robert Stanley, members of Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee, celebrated their 65th wedding an-
Mary (Karnowski) and Bill Dinkel, members of St. Matthew Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on May 29. The couple was married at Holy Name Church, Topeka, in 1950. Their children are: Billy Dinkel, Becky Norris, Patty Bullock, Tom Dinkel, Susan Brown and Cindy Billau. They also have 13 grandchildren and 16 great-grandchildren. The couple will celebrate at a later date with family and friends. Charles and Elaine Borchers, members of Curé of Ars Parish, Leawood, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on May 21.
craziness of drive-by, curbside visits from well over six feet away with a brother who lives only 10 minutes from me. Brian Stelter is an anchor with CNN. Recently, he missed a deadline for a daily newsletter he produces, and he was courageously upfront about why. That night, he said, he “crawled in bed and cried” over his feelings and fears about the pandemic. “I hit a wall. Gutted by the death toll. Disturbed by the government’s
shortcomings. Dismayed by political rhetoric that bears no resemblance to reality,” Stelter wrote. “Worried about friends who are losing their jobs; kids who are missing school; and senior citizens who are living in fear. “I crawled in bed and cried for our prepandemic lives. Tears had been waiting a month to escape.” “Now,” he said, “is not a time for fauxinvincibility.” It’s good to hear that from a guy, that gender that often suppresses tears, and from a successful professional. Not just permission to cry, but perhaps an assignment: Once in a while, let those tears flow. It’s cathartic. It’s a positive release. A caveat, of course: If you find yourself frequently overwhelmed with grief and emotion, that’s a warning signal. If you are experiencing
The couple was married May 21, 1955, at St. Irene Church in Warrenville, Illinois. Their children are: Claudette, Charles Jr., Julienne and Paul. They also have 10 grandchildren (one deceased) and five great-grandchildren. A family celebration is planned for a later date. John and Barbara (Rottinghaus) Miller, members of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on May 28. The couple was married on May 28, 1960, at St. Joseph. They will celebrate with a dinner for family and friends at a later date. Their children are: Greg Miller (deceased), D e n i s e Keating, JJ Miller, Lisa Mahoney and Laurie Long. They also have 10 grandchildren and two great-grandchildren. Ruth (Appelhanz) and Dennis Phillips, members of Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish, Topeka, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on May 16. The couple was married on May 16, 1970, at Sacred Heart Church, Topeka. They will celebrate with a reception on Aug. 22. Their children are: Randy Phillips, Becky Burks and Chad Phillips. They also have four grandchildren. Irene and Dean Kehoe, members of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on May 14. The couple was married at Sacred Heart Parish, Gardner, by Father Maurice Gardner. Their children are: Yvonne, Yvette, Larry and Peggy. They also have eight grand-
real depression, call a hotline, a friend, your parish or archdiocese for suggestions. But often our tears are positive reactions to the kindness of strangers, the courage of others, and love that endures, like that of the old English gent who clutched his wife’s picture. St. Ignatius of Loyola approved of tears, the kind that overcome us in the presence of God when we recognize our dependence on the Lord. So those tears that well up when you watch the evening news, or when you see people on balconies in Italy singing together, or New Yorkers cheering for their health providers at 7 p.m. each evening? Those tears are an acknowledgment of our shared humanity at a time when we humans worldwide need to unite. It’s OK. Once in a while, have a good cry.
children. Bill and Polly Mullin, members of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on May 16. The couple was married on May 16, 1970, at St. Therese Church in Garfield Heights, Ohio. They will celebrate with their children and grandchildren at a later date. Their children are: Linda Alstott, Grant Mullin and Brad Mullin. They also have five grandchildren. Bob and Joan Carlton, members of Curé of Ars Parish, Leawood, will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on June 5. The couple was married on June 5, 1950, at St. Lawrence Church in Monett, Missouri. Their children are: Robert Carlton, Jim Carlton, Richard Carlton and Janice Barbosa. They also have 11 grandchildren.
ANNIVERSARY submissions submissions ANNIVERSARY POLICY: The Leaven prints 50, 60, 65 and 70th anniversary notices. They are for parishioners in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas WHERE TO SUBMIT: Email: todd.habiger@theleaven.org. Because of the coronavirus The Leaven is not keeping regular office hours so all anniversaries must be emailed.
MAY 22, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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Parishioners both surprised by and grateful for parish calls >> Continued from page 4 were doing. It also gave them a chance to ask if we would check on people they were concerned about. If a name came back to the parish office about somebody, an employee called to personally check on them and let them know that another parishioner was concerned about them.” Michael Surface, one of the volunteer callers, told how he became involved. “I received an email from Marie Apel, parish coordinator, letting me know about a phone calling campaign to parishioners to try and stay connected and to let folks know that the parish was thinking about them and praying for them,” he explained. “With the current uncertainty, it is a difficult time for many, and we need to be in touch with each other and to let our parishioners know we care.” “It may be more difficult,” said Surface, “to live out being the hands and feet of Christ during this time, and hopefully a call to check on someone, to offer a listening ear, to lend support or a prayer helped others know their parish family was thinking of them. Even in the smallest of ways, we can spread the love of Jesus.” Surface said his contact list included more than three dozen families across the parish; the general reaction was one of thanks, and the folks he spoke with seemed to appreciate the call. “In general, people seemed to be faring well, other than waiting on the uncertainty to ease,” he said. “Everyone seemed to be able to gather basics with the biggest question centered on when Mass would be offered again.” He noted that the parish would be following the continued guidance provided by Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, church leadership and government officials, as they looked forward to returning to Mass as soon as safety would allow. Another volunteer, Ellen Brentine, noted her involvement with the calling program also began with replying to an email from Apel. “Her email requested the names of people willing to call other parishioners
PHOTO COURTESY OF THE TOPEKA CAPITAL-JOURNAL
Michael Surface has a contact list of more than three dozen Most Pure Heart of Mary families. He said the general reaction he receives is one of thanks and appreciation. to check to see how people were doing during this uncertain time,” Brentine said. “I responded ‘yes.’ I believe this was mid-Holy Week. It was then that Marie sent me a list of the people she would like me to call.” Brentine said she enjoyed making calls on behalf of Father Greg Hammes, pastor, and the parish because the people she reached out to were receptive to the call and appreciative that the pastor, as-
sociate pastor, retired priest in residence and the office staff were making an effort to reach out to parishioners and to provide services if necessary. Brentine explained that her list contained contact information for 37 parishioners. “With the help of my husband Frank, we were able to make contact with most people the three days before Easter and two days after Easter, she
explained. Though we reached many people for a little visit, some we were able to only leave a message ‘on behalf of Father Greg at Most Pure Heart of Mary.’ Two households didn’t have a working phone number. Since a mailing address was given, we sent them an Easter card, including some church information.” Brentine said that two things in particular stood out while listening to the people she called: “They were appreciative that Father Greg and staff cared enough to think of them and to have someone reach out to them to see how well they were doing. Over and over, people mentioned they missed attending church services, but were grateful for the livestreamed and online Masses, as well as the drive-thru confessions at the time and the availability for confessions by appointment.” Brentine added that at the time she and her husband made the calls, most people were faring quite well. “Some were essential workers, some were working from home and some were retired,” Brentine said. “All we spoke with seemed to be taking state guidelines seriously. No one expressed concerns at the time; they were just trying to adjust to the social distancing and other guidelines. We encouraged them to call the church office if something concerning arose.” Brentine described her participation in this ministry as “very rewarding. I feel I received more than I gave.” “I pray this outreach blessed folks of the parish and, even during difficult times, I hope they know the church and their parish family are here for them,” Surface said. “I’m thankful to Father Greg’s support and blessing of this outreach and hopeful this small act brightened someone’s day in the midst of the current uncertainty. I’m grateful for the opportunity for ministry and pray for everyone’s safety, wellness and spiritual vitality during this challenging time and look forward to participating in the sacraments and celebrating Mass with everyone soon.” Reprinted with permission from The Topeka Capital-Journal.
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MAY 22, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
WORLD
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DEEP CLEAN
Vatican workers sanitize St. Peter’s Basilica By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service
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ATICAN CITY (CNS) — In preparation for the May 18 resumption of public liturgies in Italy and a morning Mass with Pope Francis at the tomb of St. John Paul II, Vatican workers cleaned and sanitized the inside of St. Peter’s Basilica May 15. Vatican workers also will sanitize the other basilicas in Rome: St. John Lateran, St. Mary Major and St. Paul Outside the Walls, according to a communique from the Vatican press office. An accompanying video showed workers wearing protective masks and clothing, cleaning and disinfecting the floors and various surfaces inside St. Peter’s Basilica. Andrea Arcangeli, vice director of the sanitation department for Vatican City State, told Vatican News in the video that they were using detergent on the floors and a bleach-based solution sprayed onto surfaces. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says evidence suggests COVID-19 may survive for hours to days on surfaces made from a variety of materials, but that it can be easily inactivated by chemical disinfectants. Arcangeli said they will be able to reduce the viral and bacterial load on the surfaces, but it will never reach “zero,” which would require the kind of sterilization practiced in operating rooms. St. Peter’s Basilica has been closed to tourists and visitors since March 10. The Vatican has held a number of private, livestreamed services from the basilica in the presence of a reduced number of faithful and a pool of photographers. Pope Francis was scheduled to offer his morning Mass May 18 at the tomb of St. John Paul in the basilica in memory of the 100th anniversary of his birth. As of May 15, the Vatican had not given a date for when the basilica would be opened again to the public. The process of sanitizing all of Rome’s parish churches began May 13. Following a request from the Vicariate of Rome, the city of Rome has called on the Italian army and the city sanitation
CNS PHOTO/VATICAN MEDIA
Vatican workers in protective gear sanitize various surfaces inside St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican May 15, ahead of the resumption of Masses during the COVID-19 pandemic.
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“IT IS A WONDERFUL EXAMPLE OF INSTITUTIONAL COOPERATION FOR THE SAKE OF GETTING THE CITY BACK UP AND RUNNING AND FOR THE SAKE OF ALL CITIZENS.” department to sanitize all of Rome’s parish churches in preparation for the resumption of public liturgies May 18. The army has 80 teams of hazardousmaterial specialists active throughout Italy in decontaminating and sanitizing
needed areas, reported SIR, the news agency of the Italian bishops’ conference. Nine of those teams will be dedicated to decontaminating all 337 of Rome’s parish churches. The army is disinfecting the outside area of each church and place of worship, while the parish priest will have to request and indicate which areas inside the church they have permission to decontaminate, Brigadier General Giovanni Di Blasi told La Repubblica May 13. “It is a wonderful example of institutional cooperation for the sake of getting the city back up and running for the sake of all citizens,” said Rome’s mayor, Virginia Raggi, who attended the cleaning of the first church, St. John Bosco, in the southeast of the city. The citywide cleaning came after the Italian bishops and government agreed
May 7 on a protocol to allow the public to be present for liturgical celebrations starting May 18. The protocol specifies the guidelines each church and the faithful will have to follow to help safeguard public health. The restrictions will include wearing facial masks inside the church, social distancing and asking people to not go to church if they are showing flu-like symptoms or know they have been in contact with someone who has recently tested positive for the coronavirus. “All of us — priests, especially — will do everything to guarantee respect for the rules, to guarantee social distancing, safety measures, so that when celebrations begin, they can be done in an orderly fashion,” Auxiliary Bishop Gianpiero Palmieri of Rome told La Repubblica.
MAY 22, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Community live-in assistants - L’Arche Heartland of Overland Park serves adults with developmental and intellectual disabilities in day program support services and in residential services. We are seeking assistants who are looking for a unique opportunity in a faith-based organization. We are in immediate need of live-in assistants and potential live-out assistants to work in our day program serving 30 adults. We have a recycling program and community activities. Our core members participate in distributing for Meals on Wheels and Rise Against Hunger. They also attend community events such as the library, movies, bowling and going to parks. We also have a need for live-in and live-out assistants in our five residential homes. If interested, contact Jamie Henderson, community leader, by email at: jamie@larcheks.org. Career opportunity – Due to the success and growth of the Knights of Columbus, we are adding a financial representative in the Kansas City, Kansas, and Missouri metro areas, St. Joseph, Mo., and Maryville, Mo. This is ideal for a determined, high energy, high expectation, professional, self-disciplined, independent individual, who desires to serve others yet earn a better than average income. We provide top-rated financial products to our members and their families, and will provide excellent benefits and training. This is a full-time position. For more information or an interview, please contact John A. Mahon, General Agent, 1275 S.W. Topeka Blvd., Topeka, KS 66612; call (855) 356-4849; or email: mahonagencymail2@kofc.org. Principal - St. Thomas More Parish seeks a principal committed to Catholic education with strong leadership, communication and motivational skills. The position will begin on July 1, 2020. More information and application can be found at the following link: careers.hireology. com/thecatholicdioceseofkansascitystjoseph, and then scroll down to: St. Thomas More School. Middle school science teacher - Holy Spirit Catholic School in Overland Park is seeking a middle school science teacher for the 2020-21 school year. This individual must possess a Kansas teaching certification; an endorsement in science is a plus. Interested candidates please send an email to: mwatson@hscatholic.org for more information. Principal - Sacred Heart Elementary School in Colby is seeking to fill the position of principal beginning July 1. The required qualifications are: demonstrated commitment to the development of Christian spirit and a Catholic community of faith within the school environment; a master’s degree in education administration and supervision with experience in administration and teaching; and must also be an active member of the Catholic Church. Preference will be given to candidates who have the ability to communicate and work collaboratively with an excellent staff. Competitive salary and benefits commensurate with credentials and experience. Submit a letter of interest, resume, three letters of reference and university credentials to: Father Richard Daise, 585 N. French Ave., Colby, KS 67701 by May 15. If you have questions or need clarification, call (785) 462-2179. Music teacher - St. Ann School in Prairie Village is seeking a music teacher for the 2020–21 school year. This applicant should be eager to work with pre-kindergarten through eighth-grade students and lead programs such as the Fall Production, Christmas programs and Spring Fling. This candidate will also work closely with our parish liturgy and music director for all-school Masses and prayer services. Interested applicants should complete the teacher application process online at: www.arch kckcs.org and email a resume to principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org. Director of youth ministry - Prince of Peace Catholic Church in Olathe, is seeking a dynamic, Catholic youth minister for its community. To see the full job description and to apply, go to: www.popolathe.org/jobs. Music director - Divine Mercy Parish in Gardner is seeking a music director with specialized credentials in music and a thorough understanding of Roman Catholic liturgy. The music director should have experience in providing musical leadership during liturgies, preferably keyboard or piano. Effective functioning of this ministry requires, in particular, that the music director is a person of prayer, is sensitive spiritually and has an active worship life. This position is part time (10 - 12 hours per week). Please submit resume to: sarah@divinemercyks.org. Teacher - Xavier Catholic School in Leavenworth is seeking full-time elementary and part-time physical education teachers for the 2020-21 school year. Interested candidates, please send an email to: principal.xavier@ leavenworthcatholicschool.org for more information. Service technician - Would you like to be part of the success of a small, growing, local company? Seeking individuals looking for flexible part-time work maintaining and repairing small equipment for our established family company. Service is completed at customers’ locations and electrical knowledge is a plus. Position involves regional travel with 50% overnight stays; some lightweight lifting and walking; dependable transportation is a must. Positive attitude, dependability, time management and self-motivation skills, as well as being quality- and customer-oriented, are required. We need go-getters willing and ready to work! Please send resume to: Yourcareer101@gmail.com.
Director of faith formation - St. John Parish in Lawrence is seeking a full-time director of faith formation. This person would develop, articulate and administer a vision and direction for parish faith formation programs. He/she would oversee all faith formation programs and evaluate their effectiveness; develop/implement ideas and programs that would be available for parishioners from womb to tomb. Ideal candidate will be a bilingual (English/Spanish) practicing Catholic who holds a degree in catechesis or theology and/or has equivalent work experience relating to faith formation. This person would also have strong knowledge of Catholicism; intercultural competence in ministry; strong interpersonal skills; proven organizational and leadership skills; and computer/technology competencies. Two to four years of parish ministry experience preferred. For a full job description and requirements, go online to: www. sjevangelist.com. This position is eligible for the archdiocesan benefits package with a start date of July 20. Position open until filled. Please send cover letter and resume to Father John at: frjohn@saintjohns.net (subject line: DFF), or mail to: St. John Parish, Attn: Father John, 1229 Vermont St., Lawrence KS 66044. Part-time accounting staff - The Corpus Christi Catholic Community seeks to hire part-time accounting staff. This position entails data entry; receivable; payables; Quickbooks entries; reconciliations of bank and loan accounts; and other tasks as needed. Salary commensurate with expertise and experience. For a complete position description and to apply, visit: cccparishorg/ joblisting. Office assistant - Looking for a fulfilling job where you’re a part of a successful, growing, small company? Seeking a dependable, detail-oriented, adaptable, self-motivated and customer-focused individual with excellent communication skills for an office assistant position with an established local company. Individual will perform a wide variety of tasks, including invoicing, customer service, receiving/shipping, vendor relations, product ordering and collections. Computer skills are a must; Quickbooks knowledge is a plus. Please send resume to: Yourcareer101@gmail.com. Part-time accountant - Advice & Aid Pregnancy Centers is looking for an accountant (15 - 20 hours per month). Candidates must be dedicated to the pro-life belief and the dignity, sanctity and worth of every human life and agree with our vision, mission, statement of faith and core values. Candidates must have a bachelor’s degree in accounting and have proficiency with Excel and Quickbooks. Nonprofit experience is a plus. Please email resume and cover letter to: rtisdale@ adviceandaid.com or mail to Ruth Tisdale, P.O. Box 7123, Shawnee Mission, KS 66207. No calls please. Middle school math teacher - St. Ann School in Prairie Village is seeking a middle school math teacher for the 2020–21 school year. In addition to having a seventh-grade homeroom, this teacher will be responsible for teaching both seventh- and eighth-grade math. Applicants with experience teaching middle school math are preferred. Interested applicants should complete the teacher application process online at: www.archkckcs.org and email a resume to principal Liz Minks at: lminks@stannpv.org.
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. Local handyman - Painting int. and ext., wood rot, power washing, staining, masonry (chimney repair, patio’s) gutter cleaning, water heaters, junk removal, lawn mowing, window cleaning, honey - do list and more!! Member of Holy Angels Parish, Basehor. Call Billy at (913) 927-4118. Popcorn texture removal specialist. Renew your walls with a fresh coat of quality paint! Sheetrock and plaster repair Fully insured, serving Kansas for 27 years Call or text Jerry at (913) 206-1144. The Drywall Doctor, Inc. – A unique solution to your drywall problems! We fix all types of ceiling and wall damage — from water stains and stress cracks to texture repairs and skim coating. We provide professional, timely repairs and leave the job site clean! Lead-certified and insured! Serving the metro since 1997. Call (913) 768-6655. NELSON CREATIONS Affordable home remodeling: Kitchens, baths, basements and room additions. All interior and exterior work. Honest, dependable, experienced and family owned. Licensed and insured. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. (913) 927-5240 or nelsport@everestkc.net Concrete construction - Tear out and replace amped, stained or colored patios and drives. Retaining walls, footings, poured-in-place safe rooms, excavation and hauling. Asphalt drives and lots. Fully insured; references. Call Dan at (913) 207-4371 or send an email to: dandeeconst@aol.com.
DRC Construction We’ll get the job done right the first time. Windows - Doors - Decks - Siding Repair or replace, we will work with you to solve your problems. Choose us for any window, door, siding or deck project and be glad you did. Everything is guaranteed 100% (913) 461-4052 www.windowservicesoverlandpark.com drcconswindows@gmail.com Painting - Diamond Painting, (913) 648-4933, Residential/Commercial, Exterior/interior, Free Estimate, Affordable, Decks, DiamondPaintKc.com, Kcmo/Overland Park Metropolitan area. EL SOL Y LA TIERRA *Commercial & residential * Lawn renovation *Mowing * Clean-up and hauling * Dirt grading/installation * Landscape design * Free estimates Hablamos y escribimos Ingles!! www.elsolylatierra.com Call Lupe at (816) 935-0176 Rusty Dandy Painting, Inc. – We have been coloring your world for 40 years. Your home will be treated as if it were our own. Old cabinets will be made to look like new. Dingy walls and ceilings will be made beautiful. Woodwork will glow. Lead-certified and insured. Call (913) 341-9125.
SERVICES Handyman - Furloughed railroader trying to keep the bills paid for my family. I advertised here as Father and Son Home Exteriors and Remodeling for 13 years previously. I can do carpentry, windows, doors, trim, siding and decks. Also paint, sheetrock and tiling. No project too big or too small. Give me a call and ask for Josh at (913) 709-7230. Speedy Guzman Moving and delivery Licensed and insured Anytime (816) 935-0176 Bankruptcy consultation - If debts are overwhelming you, seek hope and help from compassionate, experienced Catholic attorney, Teresa Kidd. For a free consultation, call (913) 422-0610; send an email to: tkidd@ kc.rr.com; or visit the website at: www.teresakiddlawyer. com. Please do not wait until life seems hopeless before getting good quality legal advice that may solve your financial stress. Garage Door Repair New Garage Doors Platinum Amarr dealer, Elite Home Advisor top rating. Call Joe, mention The Leaven discount. A Total Door (913) 236-6440.
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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. Rental properties - Getting into this kind of investment can be scary. How about if you could have access to a seasoned investor after the sale as a consultant? I am selling some of my investments that are in the KCMO area that you might be interested in. I am not a realtor, but I have owned these properties for a long time. Call (785) 883-2936, leave me your contact information and I will return your call within 24 hours.
WANTED TO BUY Wanted to buy - Antique/vintage jewelry, paintings, pottery, sterling, etc. Single pieces or estate. Renee Maderak, (913) 475-7393. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. Will buy firearms and related accessories - One or a whole collection. Honest evaluation and top prices paid. Contact Tom at (913) 238-2473. Member of Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee. Wanted to buy - Old cars or hot rods. Uncompleted project cars in any condition, with or without titles. Cash buyer. Call (913) 980-3559.
FOR SALE For sale - One plot at Chapel Hills Memorial Gardens, Kansas City, Kansas. Plot will hold 2 cremains, one cremain and a casket, or one casket. Asking for $1,150. Seller will pay the $150 transfer fee. Call 1 (719) 633-8292. 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 - Bedroom furniture set in excellent condition. Sturdy and durable, from Macy’s. Set includes matching dresser, mirror and nightstand with intricate design in dark wood. Selling because of move. For more information, call (913) 438-0882. For sale - Two single crypts at Mount Calvary in the patio mausoleum, tier C. Valued at $14,950; will sell for $9500 Call Pam at (913) 631-4911.
CAREGIVING
Win disability benefits - Disabled and no longer able to work? Get help winning Social Security disability benefits. Free consultation. Eight years’ experience. No fee unless you win. Call (785) 331-6452 or send an email to: montemace2000@yahoo.org or visit montemace disability.org.
Looking for assisted living at home? - Before you move, call us and explore our in-home care options. We specialize in helping families live safely at home while saving thousands of dollars per year. Call today for more information or to request a FREE home care planning guide. Benefits of Home - Senior Care, www.benefits ofhome.com or call (913) 422-1591.
8 to Your IdealWeight Get Real, Get Healthy, Get Empowered Take back your power and release weight, fatigue and joint pain without hunger or cravings! http://8toyouridealweight.com/coach/kathi/ Imagewellness2@gmail.com
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.
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 local moving - A full-service mover. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload and in-home moving. No job too small. Serving JoCo since 1987. St. Joseph, Shawnee, parishioner. Call Mike at (913) 927-4347 or send an email to: mike@mikehammermoving.com. Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor, at (913) 909-2002. Cleaning lady - Reasonable rates; references provided. Call (913) 940-2959. Custom countertops - Laminates installed within five days. Cambria, granite and solid surface. Competitive prices, dependable work. Call the Top Shop, Inc., at (913) 962-5058. Members of St. Joseph, Shawnee. Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 829-4336.
REAL ESTATE Home for sale - Three bedroom ranch, one-and-a-half bath, two-car garage home in nice area of Overland Park. Appointment only. Call (816) 916-1769.
Wagner’s Mud-Jacking Co. Specializing in Foundation Repairs Mud-jacking and Waterproofing. Serving Lawrence, Topeka and surrounding areas. Topeka (785) 233-3447 Lawrence (785) 749-1696 In business since 1963 www.foundationrepairks.com
MAY 22, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY
Learning to become all ears
SEVENTH WEEK OF EASTER May 24 THE ASCENSION OF THE LORD Acts 1: 1-11 Ps 47: 2-3, 6-9 Eph 1: 17-23 Mt 28: 16-20 May 25 Bede the Venerable, priest, doctor of the church; Gregory VII, pope; Mary Magdalene de’ Pazzi, virgin Acts 19: 1-8 Ps 68: 2-5acd, 6-7b Jn 16: 29-33 May 26 Philip Neri, priest Acts 20: 17-27 Ps 68: 10-11, 20-21 Jn 17: 1-11a May 27 Augustine of Canterbury. bishop Acts 20: 28-38 Ps 68: 29-30, 33-36a, 35bc-36b Jn 17: 11b-19 May 28 Thursday Acts 22: 30; 23: 6-11 Ps 16: 1-2a, 5, 7-11 Jn 17: 20-26 May 29 Paul VI, pope Acts 25: 13b-21 Ps 103: 1-2, 11-12, 19-20b Jn 21: 15-19 May 30 Saturday Acts 28: 16-20, 30-31 Ps 11: 4-5, 7 Jn 21: 20-25 NINTH WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME May 31 PENTECOST SUNDAY Acts 2: 1-11 Ps 104: 1, 24, 29-31, 34 1 Cor 12: 3b-7, 12-13 Jn 20: 19-23 June 1 The Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of the Church Gn 3: 9-15, 20 Ps 87: 1-3, 5-7 Jn 19: 25-34 June 2 Marcellinus and Peter, martyrs 2 Pt 3: 12-15a, 17-18 Ps 90: 2-4, 10, 14, 16 Mk 12: 13-17 June 3 Charles Lwanga and companions, martyrs 2 Tm 1: 1-3, 6-12 Ps 123: 1b-2 Mk 12: 18-27 June 4 2 Tm 2: 8-15 Ps 25: 4-5b, 8-10, 14 Mk 12: 28-34 June 5 Boniface, bishop, martyr 2 Tm 3: 10-17 Ps 119: 157, 160-161, 165-166, 168 Mk 12: 35-37 June 6 Norbert, bishop 2 Tm 4: 1-8 Ps 71: 8-9, 14-15b, 16-17, 22 Mk 12: 38-44
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think it’s about Day 58, but who really knows? With this pandemic, it seems like it’s all one big day. The number that I’m referring to is how many days I’ve gone without preaching. Now that’s not totally accurate, since I did have a couple of funeral services along the way, as well as these columns, which can be “homily-like.” But overall, I’ve been “silent” for almost two months. The archbishop and many of my brother priests have been doing livestream Masses, as well as other innovative events online. I commend their efforts and salute their creativity. They’ve given my parishioners an opportunity in these days to hear someone else celebrate Mass and preach — an opportunity that folks in a “one priest” parish rarely get. For me, however, the suspension of public Masses triggered a need deep inside me — a hunger not to teach, but to be taught. And while there’s no question that I’ve missed the physical congregation at Mass, it’s also been a blessing to celebrate a “private” Mass. First of all, I’ve enjoyed
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.
the flexibility. I’ve had Masses in late morning, mid-afternoon and early evening, whenever the Spirit moved me. Secondly, I didn’t have to worry about a time limit on Mass. Sometimes, the Mass took much longer than at others. But it didn’t matter, since the parking lot didn’t need to be cleared out for the next Mass. Thirdly, the prayer of the faithful often brought me to tears as I had the leisure to pray for so many people and situations by name and to “feel” those needs. Most importantly,
though, was the privilege of being “preached to.” My homilists over these weeks have come from two sources: “Give Us This Day” daily prayer resource and “Daily Reflections for Easter to Pentecost,” by Mary DeTurris Poust. I’ve learned a lot from ancient saints like St. Gertrude of Helfta and St. Leo the Great to modern scholars and spiritual writers like our own Atchison Benedictine Sister Irene Nowell and Hosffman Ospino. And I always finished up with DeTurris Poust’s daily reflection, meditation and prayer. It was a blessing as well to sit with these wise homilists, soak up their words and not have to rush on to the prayer of the faithful. The pandemic has also given me a window into my prayer life. This story captures things well:
President Franklin D. Roosevelt got tired of smiling that big smile and saying the usual things at all those White House receptions. So, one evening, he decided to find out whether anybody was paying attention to what he was saying. As each person came up to him with extended hand, he flashed that big smile and said, “I murdered my grandmother this morning.” People would automatically respond with comments like, “How lovely!” or “Just continue with your great work!” Nobody listened to what Roosevelt was saying, except for one foreign diplomat. When the president said, “I murdered my grandmother this morning,” the diplomat responded softly, “I’m sure she had it coming to her.” (Story found in “Illustrations Unlimited,” edited by James S. Hewett.) As the “stay at home” directives slowed my schedule down, I’ve come to realize that God is like Roosevelt in the story above. He’s always speaking to me, but I’m rarely listening. Sadly, the reasons for that are many: I hurry through prayer, wanting to get to the next task on my to-do list; I do all the
talking when visiting with the Lord; I’m easily distracted (Is that a cobweb up in the corner?); I can’t still the “noise of the world” in my heart and mind. All that has changed in these past few weeks. I’ve had the chance to catch my breath. My “travel time” is practically nonexistent. (It’s as someone said, “I now get six weeks to the gallon!”) Outside of a few Zoom meetings and some phone calls, I’ve said precious few words and have been freed to listen — to birds chirping, to the wind rustling in the trees, to rain pattering on the windows, to shrieks of joy as neighbor kids play in their backyards. I’ve discovered anew the truth of these words from the Dalai Lama: “When you talk, you are only repeating what you already know. But if you listen, you may learn something new.” Being quiet doesn’t come naturally to me — as those who know me, know. But, as I still have so much to learn about God, myself and this beautiful world, I’ve made my default prayer that of Samuel in the Old Testament: “Speak, Lord, for your servant is listening.” I’m (trying to be) all ears!
Holy Spirit plays leading role in Acts of the Apostles
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n the ancient world, bridges were often seen as sacred places. After all, they were vital to the life of the community. They facilitated the flow of transportation. To mark their sacred quality, shrines or chapels were sometimes attached to the bridge. In ancient Rome, the chief priest was called the “Pontifex Maximus,” which means “the chief bridge maker.” Luke, the writer of Luke’s Gospel and the Acts of the Apostles, was also interested in making bridges, but of a different kind. In his introduction to the Acts (1:1-11), Luke provides a bridge between the time of Jesus’ ministry and the time of
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.
the early church. Luke’s Gospel had dealt with Jesus’ ministry: “In the first book,
Theophilus, I dealt with all that Jesus did and taught.” Now, the Acts of the Apostles will narrate the history of the early church. To build this bridge, Luke directs our attention to Jesus’ ascension into heaven. That is why we read this introduction to the Acts of the Apostles as the first
POPE FRANCIS The coronavirus pandemic has drawn well-deserved attention to nurses and midwives, who are among “the saints next door,” dedicated to helping people in some of the most joyful or painful moments of their lives, Pope Francis said. “Every day, we witness the testimony of courage and sacrifice of health care workers, and nurses in particular, who, with professionalism, self-sacrifice and a sense of responsibility and love for neighbor, assist
reading for Sunday’s Mass, when we celebrate the solemnity of the Ascension. In his parting words to the apostles, Jesus informs them: “You will be my witnesses in Jerusalem, throughout Judea and Samaria, and to the ends of the earth.” The remainder of the Acts of the Apostles will describe how the apostles live out those instructions. It will look at the life of the early church in Jerusalem. It will follow the travels of the apostles, while focusing upon Paul. It will reach its climax with Paul’s arrival in the city of Rome. Rome stands out as the capital of the Roman Empire. From that point, the good news about
Jesus Christ will spread throughout the known world. Symbolically and literally, Jesus’ prediction about the apostles’ witness will be fulfilled: “You will be my witnesses . . . to the ends of the earth.” This is only able to take place through the power of the Holy Spirit, which the apostles will receive on the day of Pentecost: “In a few days you will be baptized with the Holy Spirit.” Throughout the Acts of the Apostles, the Holy Spirit will play a conspicuous part in the spreading of the Gospel. In a sense, besides the apostles Peter and Paul, the Holy Spirit is one of the main characters in that book.
people affected by the virus, even to the point of putting their own health at risk,” the pope said in a message marking the May 12 celebration of International Nurses Day and the 200th anniversary of the birth of Florence Nightingale. The pope also paid tribute to the nurses who contracted the virus and died, assuring their families that “the Lord knows each of them by name.” “In many countries,” he said, “the pandemic has also brought to light a number of deficiencies in the provision of health care,” including the need to invest in nurses and give them greater respect and recognition. — CNS
MAY 22, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
COMMENTARY
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Hurry-up vaccine requires heightened scrutiny
reating a new vaccine and bringing it to market typically requires more than a decade of research and clinical testing. Many companies and research groups are working overtime to shorten this timeline dramatically in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic. Some have suggested it may be possible to develop a vaccine within a year or two. But such a feat would be a first, especially considering that no vaccine for any type of coronavirus has ever been successfully developed. The former director at the Food and Drug Administration’s Office of Biotechnology put it this way: “Scientists have tried unsuccessfully for decades to develop a vaccine to prevent HIV/ AIDS and a ‘universal’ flu vaccine that wouldn’t need to be reformulated and readministered every year. All have been duds.” Another specialist in the field of infectious diseases, when asked about the prospects of a
MAKING SENSE OF BIOETHICS
FATHER TAD PACHOLCZYK Father Tadeusz Pacholczyk is a priest of the Diocese of Fall River, Massachusetts, and serves as the director of education at the National Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia.
quick COVID-19 vaccine, demurred, saying it would require a “home run” and “nearly everything to go right.” Some vaccines end up taking so long to develop that the original threat disappears by the time they become available, as happened, for example, with the Ebola vaccine after the original viral outbreak in Africa.
Nevertheless, scores of laboratories are now urgently working to develop a COVID-19 vaccine. Their haste in trying not only to save lives, but also to beat their competitors, raises the concern that biomedical researchers may succumb to temptations to cut corners ethically in the research and development phases of their work. One concern involves safety testing. The bar for safety has always been very high for vaccines that are to be administered to healthy people, and typically tens of thousands of people need to be systematically tested before a new vaccine receives approval
and becomes widely available. The first rotavirus vaccine (RotaTeq) was tested on 72,000 healthy infants, while the newest shingles vaccine (Shingrix) underwent safety testing on about 29,000 people. And those tests were done only after extensive testing on animals had been completed. Such large-scale testing is a formidable and meticulous task requiring a good deal of time and expense so that the purported treatment doesn’t unintentionally harm those it intends to help. In terms of COVID19, the concerns about safety are even greater, since some developers are looking at novel and largely unproven technologies, like mRNA vaccines and DNA vaccines, raising further safety questions that may require additional time to sort through during the phase of clinical trials. Another concern involves the proposal to shorten the timeline by soliciting young, uninfected volunteers who
would be intentionally infected with the virus after having been given either the potential vaccine or a placebo. This “challenge trial” approach would enable researchers to assess the effectiveness of a proposed vaccine more rapidly than a traditional clinical trial, which would require waiting for some of the participants to become infected in the course of ordinary life. Experts who favor this approach say that they have already heard from many people willing to volunteer. Carrying out a challenge trial for a virus with no known cure clearly involves risk. There is no way to predict what kind of reaction a volunteer may have from either the virus or the proposed vaccine; even the young and healthy could end up hospitalized or dying. While it is not intrinsically unethical to take actions with a degree of risk for the good of the community — provided that it comes with the patients’ full and informed consent — questions about whether
it would be prudent to do so need to be carefully addressed. A final concern in attempting to speed up vaccine development involves the use of human cell lines derived from abortions. A variety of cell lines are available for COVID-19 research and vaccine development — some originating from hamsters, mice or other mammals, some from insects and some from humans. The cell lines from humans may come from acceptable sources, like human skin, or from problematic sources, like direct abortions. Vaccines, of course, are real “game changers” in public health. As a society, we must continue to insist that vaccine development and production be held to the highest ethical standards. This is especially true during the accelerated push arising from the present pandemic, lest we foster practices meant to save lives by risking the lives of other vulnerable human beings.
MAY 22, 2020 | THELEAVEN.ORG
LOCAL NEWS
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A LOT TO LIVE FOR
COVID patient recovers with the help of faith, parish support By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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HAWNEE — Jodi Chaput was in the hospital ready to give up on her fight with COVID-19. “I remember laying there in bed,” she said. “And one day, I just wanted to tell my doctor to either let me die or put me on the ventilator because I couldn’t do it anymore. “I just felt like I had no more fight left in me.” But Jodi had a lot to live for. Lifted up by family, friends, medical professionals and Shawnee’s Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish community, she overcame the virus and returned home to her husband Daran, who fought COVID-19 from home, and their three children.
Medical care from a fellow parishioner Jodi tested positive for COVID-19 on April 13 and was admitted to the hospital on April 16. Daran also tested positive, but his symptoms were milder, and he was never hospitalized. The couple suspects their children — Morgan, 14, Malin, 12, and Grant, 10 — had the virus, too, as they experienced mild symptoms during this time. Both Daran and Jodi are young, healthy and have no pre-existing issues that would make them more prone to be hospitalized, they said. But Jodi spent nine days at AdventHealth Shawnee Mission, where she works as an occupational therapist, fighting for her life. “It was the hardest thing ever,” she said. “I was on 10 liters of oxygen just at rest in bed. Then, anytime I had to get up, I was on 15 liters of oxygen. “It was so hard to breathe. I kept thinking it felt like trying to breathe out of a little Capri Sun straw.” Because she was alone, Jodi relied heavily on the medical staff for support. “All the doctors and the nurses were so caring,” she said. “It was a lot of work for them to come into the room to gown up every time with all the masks and gloves and everything. “But they never seemed bothered or put out.” One of the medical professionals who took care of Jodi was Dr. Ryan Hays, an internal medicine physician who is now the lead physician for the COVID-19 unit at AdventHealth. Hays is also a parishioner at Sacred Heart, with children close in age to the Chaputs, which allowed him to treat Jodi with her physical and spiritual health in mind. “It’s an absolutely amazing feeling to be able to connect with someone on the spiritual level,” said Hays. “To realize that it’s the mind, body [and] spirit all together that we are managing simultaneously is empowering and gives not only the patient lots of comfort, but also the providers that are helping care for them,” he added. Hays’ spiritual aid played a key role in Jodi’s journey to recovery. “He kept asking every day, ‘What can I bring you? Can I bring you a drink from somewhere or something to eat?’” said Jodi.
PHOTO BY LORI WOOD HABIGER
Daran and Jodi Chaput — both heath care professionals and members of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish in Shawnee — tested positive for COVID-19, but only Jodi had to be hospitalized because of it. The couple believes that all three children — from left, Morgan, Malin and Grant — also had the virus, but were never tested.
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“IT WAS THE HARDEST THING EVER. I WAS ON 10 LITERS OF OXYGEN JUST AT REST IN BED. THEN ANY TIME I HAD TO GET UP, I WAS ON 15 LITERS OF OXYGEN. “Nothing sounded good to eat,” she continued. “I wanted nothing. So, one day, he brought in a bottle of holy water that another patient had given him.” The holy water was a gift Hays received from a COVID-19 survivor he treated before Jodi. “He said, ‘You kept telling me I couldn’t bring you anything. But this is something I knew I could bring to you,’” said Jodi. Moments like that made the difference.
‘An outpouring of love’ Meanwhile at home, Daran was dealing with his own symptoms while also worrying about his wife and kids. “It was difficult because nobody could be there with Jodi to hold her hand or just be with her while she was going through this difficult time because of the infectiousness of the coronavirus,” he said. “I was stuck in our room, [sick] for three days,” he added. “Thank goodness our kids are old enough where they can take care of themselves and help with
our pets.” Although no one could go inside the home to help, people showered the family with care any way they could. “We had support from our parish and family and friends that came to our aid with food and prayers and, most importantly, an outpouring of love, which helped enlighten our spirits and deepen our faith,” said Daran. One evening, Sacred Heart held a livestream rosary and eucharistic adoration led by pastor Father Pat Sullivan, which Jodi watched from her hospital room. More than 900 people tuned in to pray for the family. “I organized this online rosary the night before we did it,” said Father Sullivan, “and we still had so many people on such short notice. I know of people that literally dropped other commitments to take part in the live version.” The prayers touched Jodi deeply. “The emotions of knowing that all these people paused during the middle of a workday to do this rosary — I could definitely feel the love and support and the power of prayer the whole time,” she said. The night before the livestream, Kelly Goodwin, a friend of the Chaputs and an ICU nurse, organized a rosary with six families who gathered at a distance outside Sacred Heart. “I think the power of prayer is amazing,” said Goodwin. “I’m sure it helped [Jodi] to know that people were praying.” Goodwin was inspired by the efforts she saw her fellow parishioners make. “I think Sacred Heart is such a great community,” she said. “Everybody rallies around each other. There were so many people that offered help.”
‘A powerful moment of God’s grace’ The morning of the livestream eucharistic adoration, Father Sullivan asked Father Andrew Strobl, pastor of St. John Paul II Church in Olathe, to give Jodi the anointing of the sick, since he has underlying conditions and couldn’t do it himself. Father Strobl quickly agreed. “The medical staff at AdventHealth was wonderful in making sure I was able to have access to provide the anointing of the sick,” said Father Strobl. “It was a blessing to be allowed into the room,” he continued, “having a nurse vest me in the proper protective gear and to visit Jodi in person. “It was a powerful moment of God’s grace.” That same day, Jodi received plasma from a survivor of COVID-19, and from then on, she began getting better and better. Father Sullivan believes prayer was a critical part in her recovery. “I have no doubt that these instances [of prayer and anointing] at a minimum assisted Jodi, if not provided for the miraculous turnaround that she experienced,” he said. “This is why prayer is so important.” Jodi was released from the hospital on April 25 and continues to get stronger each day with her family by her side — and a new appreciation of her loved ones brought on by her battle with COVID-19. “It makes you realize that life is definitely precious,” she said, “and it’s a blessing.”