02 20 26 Vol. 47 No. 24

UNSTOPPABLE Leaven freelancer keeps her eye on the prize

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

SHAWNEE — Only one thing could get Jill Ragar Esfeld through an hourlong eye proce dure while wide awake and lying still.

“I would start saying my rosary,” she said. “And I would say to myself, ‘Don’t think about anything else. Just say your rosary and worry about it when you’re done — with all 20 decades.’

her eyesight after both her retina and macula detached.

When her latest one earlier this month couldn’t recover her vision completely, she handled it in true Esfeld fashion — in gratitude for her good

“I would do that, and it got me through. It really did.”

The rosary ultimately carried her through four more procedures on the same eye attempting to recover

A freelance writer and photographer for The Leaven and parishioner at Good Shepherd Parish in Shawnee, Esfeld hasn’t let the challenges she’s faced over the past six months get in the way of the work she loves.

Life changing

Esfeld has used her distinct talent for writing to craft countless stories about the people of northeast Kansas

BECAUSE OF MY WORK FOR THE LEAVEN, ALL THE PEOPLE THAT I’VE MET AND THE THINGS THAT I’VE SEEN BY DOING THESE STORIES, YOU COULD NEVER CONVINCE ME THAT THERE’S NO GOD.

JILL RAGAR ESFELD LEAVEN FREELANCER

for more than two decades.

“Jill has been one of our most dedicated freelancers for more than 20 years,” said Leaven production manager Todd

Habiger. “I consider her part of the staff.”

The work has deepened her own spirituality.

“Because of my work for The Leaven, all the people that I’ve met and the things that I’ve seen by doing these stories,” said Esfeld, “you could never convince me that there’s no God.

“If somebody said to me, ‘There’s no God,’ it’d be like saying, ‘There’s no McDonald’s.’

“And I’d be like, ‘There’s one on every corner. How can you not see that?’”

Her own story

Esfeld’s journey to Catholic news writing began when she shared her own story with The Leaven.

She was enjoying a career as a

All-inclusive development breaks ground in Olathe

By John Sorce john.sorce@theleaven.org

OLATHE — A one-of-akind development is coming to Olathe.

Ground was broken for the fully accessible Halo Ridge development at the southwest corner of Renner Road and 119th St. on Feb. 12.

Archbishop Shawn McKnight was unable to make the groundbreaking, but toured the Halo Care Collective building on Jan. 23.

The development will include Michael’s WonderWorld, a fully accessible theme park with over 20 rides and attractions built to be enjoyed by visitors of every ability.

The park will be named for Michael Arkell, the son of Sarah and James Arkell and grandson of Church of the Nativity, Leawood, parishioners and longtime Catholic supporters Rita and Lamar Hunt Jr. The Arkells are members of St. Michael the Archangel Parish in Leawood.

Michael was born with a rare genetic condition, is nonverbal, is fed through a tube and relies on a wheelchair for mobility.

“We are building a city within a city,” said James Arkell, who is also the COO of Loretto Holdings. “The pain and unnecessary suffering that I have watched my family go through while trying to navigate services for our son Michael is the reason we are doing this.”

Halo Ridge will feature a sports arena that will contain two ice rinks and serve as a national hub for adaptive sports events.

The project will also include the first major flagship accessible hotel in the world along with dining and entertainment options — all of which will be designed to ensure every guest has a positive experience regardless of ability.

“This is about community leaders coming together to do more than just say that we care about inclusivity or accessibility,” said Olathe Mayor John Bacon. “Today, we are proving it.”

The project had been on Arkell’s radar for quite some time. But things

ARCHBISHOP MCKNIGHT

Feb. 20

Meet and Greet with regional leadership of Prime Healthcare — chancery offices

Feb. 21

Pastoral Council meeting — Savior Pastoral Center

Mass for Men Under Construction — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park

Feb. 22

Rite of Election, Western Region — Christ the King Church, Topeka

Rite of Election, Eastern Region — Church of the Ascension, Overland Park

Feb. 24

Meeting and dinner with archdiocesan deans — Shawnee

Feb. 28

Benedictine College Scholarship Mass, dinner and ball — Overland Park Convention Center

March 1

Confirmation — St. Ann Parish, Prairie Village

Mass and dinner — University of Saint Mary, Leavenworth

really started to take shape after the family visited Morgan’s Wonderland in San Antonio.

Seeing the impact of what something similar had on the people there made a lasting impression.

“I think what really hooked us on this transformational project for our community and the state of Kansas was seeing what will be coming here in action in another location,” said Michael Wilkes, retired city manager of Olathe.

“Being able to see what it means to the lives of people was amazing,” he added.

But the vision is about much more than entertainment. Halo Ridge will be a destination where families can come for entertainment, stay at the inclusive hotel and receive health care, all in one place.

One of the medical providers that will be part of the development is Dr. Nicole Kurlbaum, a general dentist with Kurlbaum Dental.

Kurlbaum runs a practice with her husband and has offices in Overland Park and Prairie Village. But they have started mobile dentistry, which in turn has led to them taking care of the special-needs population.

“One of the biggest responsibilities that is given to health care providers is to identify and challenge the barriers that stand between our patients and the care they need,” Kurlbaum said.

“I really believe that by partnering with the providers here,” she continued, “we’re going to be able to make a significant, appreciable difference for the special-needs community.”

The Kansas Health Foundation has made a $1 million commitment to help with the Halo Care Collective. But, as their president and CEO Ed O’Malley stated, more help is needed.

“The danger with an event like today is for it to feel like a finish line when it’s just the starting line,” O’Malley said. “We need more donors and investors, so let’s do what we can to fan the flames of this incredible mission.

“This is a place of hope, and we need more institutions with this

March 3

Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas board meeting — Savior Pastoral Center

Confirmation — Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish, Topeka

ARCHBISHOP EMERITUS NAUMANN

Feb. 23

Spiritual Mentorship new cohort Mass and dinner — Savior Pastoral Center

Feb. 27 - March 2

Pilgrimage to Mexico

Talented musician, educator, dies

ATCHISON — Sister Mary Lucy Kramer, 92, a Benedictine Sister of Mount St. Scholastica here, died Jan. 31.

Sister Mary Lucy was born on Nov. 9, 1933, in Atchison, the oldest of four children. She grew up in a rural area near Atchison known as Good Intent and graduated from Lillis High School in Kansas City, Missouri.

After attending Mount St. Scholastica College in Atchison, she entered the Benedictine community in 1953 and made her lifetime

profession in 1958. She taught in elementary schools in Nebraska, Missouri and Kansas for 20 years.

She earned a master’s degree in the teaching of English as a second language and began teaching in the ESL program at Donnelly College in Kansas City, Kansas, where she remained for more than 30 years.

Also holding a certificate in vocal music from the UMKC Conservatory, she was a gifted soloist and choir member at her Kansas City parish and at the monastery.

What can the Year of St. Francis do for the world?

By Kimberley Heatherington OSV News

STEUBENVILLE, Ohio (OSV News)

— After Pope Leo XIV proclaimed the Jubilee Year of St. Francis from Jan. 10 to Jan. 10, 2027, the Vatican’s Apostolic Penitentiary also issued a decree granting a plenary indulgence to mark the 800th anniversary year of the popular saint’s death.

Listed among the “certain works” suggested to obtain the plenary indulgence is “a pious pilgrimage to Franciscan churches.”

But several Franciscans told OSV News they hope Catholics will do more than simply stop by — as much as they and their fellow friars would enjoy visitors.

They hope Catholics will also learn about the life and charism of their founder, and how St. Francis of Assisi (c.1181-1226) remains a model blend of contemplation and activity for contemporary Catholics.

“It’s an exciting year; I don’t think any of us would have anticipated that Pope Leo would have declared this,” said Father Jonathan St. Andre, a Third Order Regular Franciscan friar and vice president for Franciscan Life at Franciscan University of Steubenville in Ohio. “We figured the pope would go to Assisi; there would be different events. But to make this a jubilee, and to offer an indulgence . . . is just remarkable.”

The Catechism of the Catholic Church explains that an indulgence “is a remission before God of the temporal punishment due to sins whose guilt has already been forgiven.”

Bishop Krzysztof Nykiel, regent of the Apostolic Penitentiary, told Vatican News that the specific conditions to gain the Year of St. Francis indulgence include “sacramental confession, eucharistic Communion, certain prayers according to the intentions of the pope, interior detachment from sin and the performance of certain works, such as a pious pilgrimage to Franciscan churches, participation in Jubilee celebrations, prayer and meditation in the Franciscan spirit, as well as daily acts of charity and humility that express the spirituality of St. Francis.”

The 13th-century Italian saint is known for renouncing his family’s wealth to embrace “Lady Poverty,” attracting followers who ultimately formed the first Franciscans, the Order

of Friars Minor. His “spiritual sister” St. Clare of Assisi founded the like-minded Poor Clares.

Visitors to the 250-acre Franciscan University campus can see three Franciscan churches, including the newly renovated Christ the King Chapel. A fall academic conference — “Sister Death, Gate of Life” — will focus on St. Francis’ holistic vision of existence, the end of which he welcomed something like a cosmic relative by calling it “sister.”

A Franciscan virtues series will be available to students,

and the Transitus — an Oct. 3 remembrance of St. Francis’ death — will receive special attention.

All of it, Father Jonathan hopes, will get St. Francis out of the garden.

“Your typical person — and it’s not their fault — thinks of Francis as a bird bath. A lover of animals. And he was,” he said. “But I always try to bring people to the deeper vision of St. Francis; that even when it comes to the animals, he loved the animals because they were Christic — all things were

including the tale of the friar reasoning with a ravenous wolf terrorizing an Italian town.

“He brokered peace between the people of Gubbio and the wolf of Gubbio in that famous story. He brokered peace between the people of Assisi and the mayor of Assisi in the famous ‘Canticle of Creation.’ St. Francis . . . was as comfortable with the leper as he was with the pope, and he brought them together,” said Father John.

“So I think — in fact, I know — there is something in our Franciscan charism, by looking to the person of St. Francis of Assisi, that can help to heal some of the divisions that are in our world today,” he added.

Father Edgardo Jara — also a member of the Order of Friars Minor and pastor of Mission San Luis Rey Parish in Oceanside, California — agreed.

“The jubilee will be a tool to remind people what Francis showed us and told us 800 years ago — to incarnate God in our lives, and especially in our actions,” he said.

Father Edgardo and his fellow Franciscans shepherd a modern parish next door to Mission San Luis Rey, a National Historic Landmark completed in 1815 and the largest of the 21 California missions.

created through the Father in Christ and the power of the Holy Spirit.”

“St. Francis saw God’s presence imprinted on creation,”

Father Jonathan continued.

“That’s just one example, but I think this year will be an opportunity for people to come to a fuller, substantial, more authentic vision of St. Francis and the Franciscan tradition.”

The Franciscan Renewal Center in Scottsdale, Arizona, is offering a full slate of programs that will assist in that aim, including retreats, conversations and a movie night.

Franciscan Father John Aherne is also hopeful that the faithful will focus on St. Francis’ spiritual heritage.

“Maybe even the larger question is: What can the Year of St. Francis do for the world?” he asked. “You know, especially in a time when our world is so divided — politically and ideologically and economically — we can look to St. Francis as a guide in how we can come together.”

A member of the Order of Friars Minor and pastor of St. Mary Church in Pompton Lakes, New Jersey, Father John offered examples from St. Francis’ life and legends,

And like Father John, Father Edgardo sees St. Francis as a force for unity — a saint capable of issuing a global reminder “that we all are brothers and sisters, especially in this time of division and conflicts that the world is living right now, [and] that we need to see each other as all daughters and sons of God.”

“It’s a good reminder,” he added, “that the Gospel is still something that we can live and practice.”

Banners proclaiming the Year of St. Francis festoon the Mission San Luis Rey campus, and special prayers, services and gatherings will punctuate the liturgical and social calendar — including a torchlit procession on the Oct. 3 Transitus featuring an effigy of St. Francis.

Ultimately, said Father Edgardo, St. Francis’ spirituality is “something that we can live in our different ways — married or not, religious, priest, pope — everyone can prayerfully bring the Gospel to live this way of life.”

He added, “So I think this year is going to teach us to not only think of ourselves — but to see how we can love our neighbor, love God and love creation as well.”

‘Fore’ the gift of life: Fundraiser to benefit maternity home

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

OVERLAND PARK – Are you ready to swing “fore” a good cause?

If so, mark your calendars for April 17’s “Teeing Off for Two: Supporting Mothers and Babies, One Swing at a Time,” an event at Topgolf in Overland Park to support the ministry of Nativity House KC.

Even if you’ve never “teed off,” you can “chip in” your financial support and help score “a hole-in-one” for Nativity House KC at the 6–9 p.m. fundraiser featuring climate-controlled hitting bays, games for all skill levels, a barbecue buffet, a silent auction and remarks by Archbishop Shawn McKnight.

Participants will also have the opportunity to learn more about Nativity House KC and meet mothers who are now thriving, thanks to the efforts of the organization’s staff and volunteers, including Kelly Werkowitch.

Werkowitch began her affiliation with the organization in 2017 as a volunteer. In 2018, she became the executive director serving in that role until this past summer, when she was named the development director.

Now, Werkowitch raises not only money for Nativity House KC, but also awareness of the need for its residential and community-based services. She hopes many throughout the archdiocese will consider participating in “Teeing Off for Two” to learn more about its mission, its programs, and the mothers and families it has served since its founding in 2014.

Nativity House KC exists to “provide shelter, education, hope, healing and services in a faith-based environment for pregnant adult women who are experiencing homelessness,” according to its website.

Werkowitch said the ministry provides that housing, mentorship, education and spiritual development at no

cost to the mother. Additionally, staff and volunteers promote and encourage the pursuit of higher education and career development. At any given time, Nativity House KC can provide shelter for up to five mothers, but as Werkowitch explained, there’s a great need for other services.

Relying upon a recently hired dedicated case manager, Werkowitch said, has allowed the organization to increase its community-based services.

“We can reach the mothers in our community that may not necessarily need residential care services, but need that case management, the referrals,

materials (diapers, wipes, etc.) — everything we need for those babies — [and] making sure that she’s getting to her OB appointments,” she said.

“It’s about changing one life while saving another,” she added, “and sometimes that takes time and resources. We encourage our moms to further their education, whether that’s completing high school or whether that’s completing technical school or college.”

All of Nativity House KC’s services are faith-based.

“Your spiritual life is a journey, and sometimes God calls us to plant a seed,” she said. “Sometimes God calls us to

Students, families celebrate the gift of their culture

LENEXA — Students at St. James Academy here shared their unique cultures at the second annual Multicultural Festival on Jan. 28.

Throughout the evening, students expressed aspects of their identity by hosting booths, wearing traditional clothing and performing pieces that reflected their heritage.

According to Wendy Leon-Ryan, director of culture and engagement at St. James, one parent shared that hosting a booth with their child was “such a blessing,” and described conversations that were had about Jesus, food, language, culture and community.

“This kind of platform matters,” said Leon-Ryan. “When students and families truly come to know one another, love grows, and when love grows, bullying and meanness lose their power.

“Moments like these strengthen our community and draw us closer to the ‘civilization of love’ envisioned by St. John Paul II.”

“This celebration would not be possible,” she added, “without the

generosity of families who shared so freely, the students who served with joy and a community willing to show up for one another.”

kind of grow that seed. And being able to just witness our faith, you know, actively in serving God and having Mass [to which] all of the moms are encouraged and invited to join us. We also offer prayer groups and Bible studies within our programs as well. It’s just a beautiful component that we’re able to share and witness God’s mercy and love and grace and guidance.”

For more information about Nativity House KC, its services and “Teeing Off for Two,” go online to: nativityhousekc. org.

Michael H. and Regina M. (Mangan) Stockmann , members of Immaculate Conception-St. Joseph Parish, Leavenworth, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary with a family dinner. The couple was married on Feb. 27, 1976, at St. Aloysius Church, St. Louis. Their children are:

Baker,

Wise, Michael Stockmann and Tom Stockmann. They have also been blessed with six grandchildren.

As writer or photographer, Esfeld ‘leads with her heart’

>> Continued from page 1

technical writer when her son became sick with Kawasaki disease, a rare, life-threatening vasculitis, while he was in first grade.

“I had to quit writing because his aftercare required a lot of doctor’s appointments,” said Esfeld.

But she wasn’t ready to stop working.

While in college, Esfeld had prayed that God would help her make a career out of one of her degrees — technical writing and art.

It turns out God gave her the opportunity to use both.

She put her artistic talent to use, creating images of the Madonna for school auctions, and sold many more to individuals upon request.

With the money raised, “I decided to start a children’s program in the inner city doing arts and crafts with children in a homeless shelter,” said Esfeld.

“I went there every week and took kids that needed service hours with me to help out,” she added.

The Leaven heard about the program and published an article about it. When managing editor Anita McSorley found out Esfeld was a writer, she asked if she’d be interested in freelancing.

“The funny thing about it is when I was in college, I prayed [for the intercession of] St. Francis de Sales,” said Esfeld. “He was the patron saint of the Catholic press, but because I was going to be a writer, that was the only saint I knew that had something to do with writing.

“And then I ended up working for the Catholic press. It was almost like he was all along going, ‘I’m going to get you.’”

Perfect fit

Esfeld’s style turned out to be exactly what McSorley was looking for.

“Jill tells stories the way people like to read them and in a way that matches The Leaven’s style to a T,” said McSorley.

“As a writer and interviewer, she leads with her heart, and she uses her skills to take us into the lives of Catholics of all stripes,” she added.

Esfeld’s favorite beats are human interest and social justice.

“I don’t think people realize what [Catholics] do behind the scenes — all the laypeople that are out there making a real difference in the world,” she said.

“I love to report on that stuff, on people that have been impacted by the Catholic Church in terms of seriously changing their lives because of the charity and the work they do,” she continued. “I love telling those stories.”

Pushing the limits

Esfeld’s husband Jerry is impressed by her ability to convey such powerful stories.

“Her intros [to articles] amaze me — how she can come up with that out of the interview she had,” he said.

Jerry has witnessed his wife work multiple writing jobs over the years.

“I would say she enjoys The Leaven probably more than any of them,” he said. “She’s

a very spiritual person. And she’s dedicated.”

He recalls multiple times his wife pushed herself to the limits, including covering Catholic Charities’ Snow Ball gala just one day after getting two shots in her eye.

Esfeld said the severity of her eye issues is rare. The problem worsened while visiting her daughter and her family in Oregon for two weeks in August 2025.

“By the time I got back to Kansas City and to my eye

doctor, the damage was pretty severe,” she said. “I was pretty much blind in that eye.”

After each procedure, she’s had to lie face down for weeks at a time, only getting up for short breaks, and has had to avoid reading.

Fortunately, she has 20/20 vision in her dominant eye, so she’ll be able to continue her photography.

And despite the physical limitations she’s experienced, her work ethic has never faltered.

“She’s always been willing to take on tough assignments,” said Habiger, “and I’m amazed that she’s been willing and able to continue to work as she’s battled eye issues.

“It’s a testament to her dedication to The Leaven and the people of the archdiocese.”

Compassion from suffering

“They say God doesn’t prevent you from suffering,” said Esfeld. “And I believe that, because I’ve suffered plenty.

“But he promises to be with you through the suffering, and that’s the key. If you pray, if you believe, he will be with you and get you through it.”

She sees her recent suffering as an opportunity to grow.

“Anything you go through like that, it teaches you compassion,” said Esfeld. “And that’s all we’re here to learn — love and compassion. That’s all you can take with you.”

Her work in Catholic journalism has solidified that belief.

“That’s such a gift for the kind of work we do is to be reaffirmed in our faith every day when we see people living it successfully and making a difference in the world,” said Esfeld.

“Coincidence after coincidence — you can call it that,” she said. “But I say it’s miracles after miracles.”

Walking by faith: A mother, a daughter, and the Camino

Special to The Leaven

OLATHE — Retirement is a time to explore new interests and build on existing ones. Recently, a Santa Marta resident here, Valerie Bauer, decided to deepen her faith by making the Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James) pilgrimage in Spain with her daughter last October.

The Camino is an ancient network of pilgrim routes across Europe, primarily in Spain, leading to the shrine of the apostle St. James in the Cathedral of Santiago de Compostela. Upon reaching Santiago, walkers can obtain a Compostela certificate if they have covered at least the final 100 kilometers on foot.

With more than 1,000 years of history, it is a significant Christian pilgrimage, now walked by thousands each year for spiritual growth, personal reflection or trekking. The pilgrimage was declared a UNESCO World Heritage Site in 1993.

Faith-filled living later in life

“I was inspired to make this pilgrimage several years ago,” said Bauer, “while in Spain and Portugal. I witnessed a lot of people carrying backpacks and asked about their journey. What they were doing seemed incredible to me, and I hoped that one day I, too, could do the same. I wanted to experience what felt like a holy path that St. James walked.”

Bauer’s upcoming milestone birthday seemed like the ideal opportunity to make the trek.

“I had just turned 74 and was living at Santa Marta,” she said. “I was talking with a few residents about turning 75 in a year and what I would like to do. I remembered my desire to walk the Camino de Santiago and announced that it would be a great way to welcome my 75th birthday. At first, I was only musing about it, but the thought stayed with me.

“I spoke with my husband about it, and he was so supportive of my desire and intention. I expressed my interest to our adult daughter, and she agreed

to go. I saw it as an opportunity for fun, healing and joy for us both.”

In preparation for her journey, Bauer walked more than 600 miles and did

A journey of pilgrimage and purpose

Bauer describes her journey this way.

“We walked 11 to 16 miles per day and were very fortunate the weather was rain-free and mild,” she recalled. “Our days started on the Camino about 9 a.m., but it was surprisingly still dark there. We were by ourselves, electing not to join a group.

“Fatigue did not seem an issue. For me there was so much incentive to glorify God in the beauty of this Camino. We laughed and reminisced and listened to the incessant chestnuts falling from the trees. That’s when we were quietest, listening and praying.”

“Our meals were simple,” she continued, “but grand in many ways. I love seafood and octopus and filled up on this nearly every day. The red wine in Spain is like no other, and we enjoyed some every evening following our long day.

“I still can’t believe that what started out to be a light conversation with fellow residents at Santa Marta turned out to be an incredible journey in my life and it did not disappoint. The path was hard at times, and I didn’t realize that the farther we walked, the clearer our oneness with each other grew. Now, my daughter’s lifetime wish is to return there with her children!”

Living among other active Catholic seniors

Bauer and her husband have lived at Santa Marta for two-and-a-half years and describe it as a wonderful community of friends who care for each other like family.

“We are able to strengthen our faith life through daily worship here,” she said, “and bond more readily with one another through our shared faith. I wish the many friends I left behind in Iowa could come here and experience Santa Marta.”

Open to residents of all faiths, Santa Marta supports residents, like Bauer, on their individual spiritual paths.

Project lifts up the dignity of all humanity, says Hunt Jr.

>> Continued from page 2

spirit of collaboration if we’re going to improve the lives of those who need us the most.”

Hunt Jr. believes the project will help the community recognize the dignity of each person, regardless of his or her needs.

“This project brings us more to the idea of goodness and wisdom,” Hunt Jr. said. “Goodness means thinking of others first and yourself last.

“I’m reminded of a very famous Catholic saint, St. John Paul II, who said, ‘Let us look deeply into the dignity of the human person.’ That’s exactly what this project is going to do for all of us, is to look at that dignity of all humanity and really lift it up.”

Also on hand for the groundbreaking was Kansas Gov. Laura Kelly. She shared the sentiment and feels the outcome of the project will be life-changing for many.

“I am in awe of what we are creating together and what it will mean — not just for the disabled community, but the entire community and the entire state,” Kelly said.

“The vision is bold, the direction is clear and the outcome will be life-changing for so many,” she added.

“We’re not here for ourselves,” Arkell said. “We’re here for individuals and families like ours. Families who deserve better support, clearer paths and a community that supports them.

“Halo Ridge is more than any other

retail development or entertainment complex. When it’s complete, it will represent a city within a city and a network

of organizations working together to innovate, educate and improve the lives of the entire IDD (Intellectual and Developmental Disabilities) community.”

To learn more about the project, go online to: michaelswonderworld.com.

GAME ON

St. James Academy student broadcaster turns setback into blessing

By John Sorce john.sorce@theleaven.org

LENEXA — Not many adults, let alone high schoolers, are able to turn a life event that takes away something they’ve had their whole lives and turn it into a positive.

But St. James Academy, Lenexa, sophomore Mary Claire Zacharias is one of those people.

Zacharias was a lifelong basketball player and had aspirations of playing in college.

But a neck injury suffered in a car accident right before the basketball season of her freshman year left her unable to play contact sports ever again.

“It was hard to find out I could never play the sport again that I put so much work into,” Zacharias said. “But I want to show people that a situation does not have to break you.

“You can keep going because that is what God ultimately wants you to do, and find something else in your path.”

with becoming the lead play-by-play voice for St. James’ soccer teams.

She also does color commentary and sideline reporting for football and basketball games while also hosting their pregame shows.

“I feel like it’s a God-given gift that I didn’t know I had,” Zacharias said. “But now he’s letting me share it with the world.

“It’s ultimately God speaking through me and telling me all the little things in my head to say.”

Another thing that helps Zacharias during basketball season is the fact that she grew up playing with a lot of the girls on the team.

“Color commentating is analysis of the game, so knowing a lot of the girls and having trained with them helps,” she said. “I know a lot of the plays they run, so knowing what is about to happen has helped me a lot.”

IT WAS HARD TO FIND OUT I COULD NEVER PLAY THE SPORT AGAIN THAT I PUT SO MUCH WORK INTO. BUT I WANT TO SHOW PEOPLE THAT A SITUATION DOES NOT HAVE TO BREAK YOU.

MARY CLAIRE ZACHARIAS ST. JAMES ACADEMY SOPHOMORE

As fate would have it, an email was sent out shortly after the accident by Cohen Merrick, the school’s director of broadcasting and media, looking for students interested in broadcasting for the Thunder Broadcasting Network.

Broadcasting was not something that ever crossed Zacharias’ mind before. She was able to recall only one instance growing up where she and her twin sister Caroline stood behind the couch and commentated an event they were watching on TV.

“It was just a one-time thing for fun,” she said. “This was not on my mind at all.”

But she felt “a calling from God” to give it a try. She started by operating a camera and then got opportunities to commentate.

Zacharias has worn a variety of hats since putting on the headset, starting

She hopes to take on some play-byplay opportunities for football and basketball in the coming years after some of the current upperclassmen graduate.

But being the only girl calling games was not easy at first. Zacharias credited Merrick in helping with her self-confidence and teaching her about broadcasting.

It also gives her an opportunity to meet other people she wouldn’t know otherwise.

“There are other girls that are in the control room or on a camera, but they’re not people that I would usually spend time with outside of school,” she said. “I think it’s nice that I get to surround myself with other people when I do Thunder broadcasting.”

Zacharias has also begun to promote her broadcasts over social media, though she only uses X and is grateful for her parents’ protection when it comes to having an online presence.

She admits all the attention can be overwhelming at times. But she has

learned to keep things in perspective and set boundaries with it.

“God does not want to get you stressed out about the numbers because none of that matters,” she said. “But branding is huge these days and I think it’s important to brand myself to see what opportunities could be out there.”

One thing that separates Zacharias is the work she puts into her broadcasts

on her own time. It takes her six to eight hours to prepare for a basketball game, and she is already working on her football chart for the fall.

“The biggest thing is the time that she puts into it,” Merrick said. “The guy who used to host our pregame shows graduated and I approached her about doing it. She then came up with all the segments and how the show would go.

“We don’t expect the students to do that. She just does it, and I think that’s what sets her apart.”

She credits that work ethic to her basketball days and trainer Luther Glover, who trains NFL players like Tyreek Hill and Mecole Hardman.

“He taught me to work as hard as you can to be the best you can be,” Zacharias said. “Nothing is going to be handed to

you and that goes for anything in life.

“If you put in the work, it’s going to show.”

Putting in the work also looks like reaching out to professionals in the industry for advice.

That’s how a connection with ESPN’s Andraya Carter started, which led to an appearance on “College GameDay” before the Kansas men’s basketball game against BYU at Allen Fieldhouse on Jan. 31.

“It started with an email I sent to Andraya last fall sharing some of my work and asking for her advice,” Zacharias said. “She said if GameDay was to schedule a show in Lawrence that I could come shadow her.

“Once it was confirmed that GameDay was coming for the KU/BYU game, we figured out the details to make it happen. I learned a lot and it was a great morning.”

As for the future, Merrick is grateful

to have Zacharias for two more years.

“She’s very humble,” he said. “She does so much work and loves finding ways to make her broadcast better.”

For Zacharias’ part, she hopes to continue pursuing broadcasting beyond high school but will follow God’s lead wherever that may be.

“I would love to continue doing this,” Zacharias said. “But we will see where God takes me and I will follow his lead.”

Venerable Archbishop Fulton Sheen to be beatified

By Junno Arocho Esteves OSV News

PEORIA, Ill. (OSV News) —

After decades of anticipation and a cause marked by unexpected delays, the Diocese of Peoria has announced that Venerable Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen — beloved evangelist, television pioneer and native son of Illinois — will at last be beatified, a joy-filled announcement that comes only after years of legal disputes and renewed scrutiny briefly slowed his path to the altars.

Archbishop Sheen, a native of El Paso, Illinois, was ordained Sept. 20, 1919, at St. Mary Cathedral in Peoria. He taught at The Catholic University of America in Washington and led the Society of the Propagation of the Faith. He is best remembered for his popular television show, “Life Is Worth Living.”

He died in 1979 at age 84, and his cause for sainthood was officially opened in 2002. The church declared his heroic virtues, and he was given the title “venerable” in 2012 by Pope Benedict XVI.

The path to sainthood for Archbishop Sheen was anything but smooth. In 2014, the Vatican suspended his cause due to a dispute between the Diocese of Peoria, which had opened the cause, and the Archdiocese of New York, where the late archbishop was buried.

At the center of the disagreement was the wish of Joan Sheen Cunningham, the archbishop’s closest living relative, to have Archbishop Sheen’s remains buried in Peoria and a statement in his will that he wished to be buried in New York.

A New York State Court of Appeals sided with Cunningham in 2016, and his remains were moved to St. Mary Cathedral in Peoria on June 27, 2019.

In July 2019, Pope Francis recognized a miracle attributed to the former archbishop of New York, paving the way for his beatification in December that year.

The miracle concerned the healing of James Fulton Engstrom of Washington, Illinois, who was stillborn when delivered during a home birth in 2010. After doctors were ready to declare him dead after showing no signs of life for 61 minutes, his heart began to beat after his parents prayed for a miracle through Archbishop Sheen’s intercession.

Venerable Fulton J. Sheen, pictured in an undated photo, is remembered as one of the most influential and innovative evangelists in American history. Once dubbed “God’s microphone,” Archbishop Sheen announced God’s truth in a nonconfrontational, yet no less life-giving, manner to untold millions through radio, print and television.

The beatification ceremony was to follow on Dec. 21 that same year.

However, Bishop Daniel R. Jenky of Peoria announced Dec. 3 that it was postponed “at the request of a few members” of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops.

In a statement issued a few days after Bishop Jenky’s announcement, the Diocese of Rochester said that prior to the beatification announcements, it had expressed concerns to the Diocese of Peoria and the then-Congregation for the Causes of Saints “about advancing the cause for the beatification of Archbishop Sheen at this time without a further review of his role in priests’ assignments.”

Archbishop Sheen served as bishop of Rochester from October 1966 until his retirement in October 1969. Upon his retirement, he was elevated to the rank of archbishop.

St. Paul VI named him archbishop of the titular see of Newport, Wales. Archbishop Sheen remained active, spending the last years of his life chiefly in writing and preaching.

The diocese said that although “other prelates” shared similar concerns, it had no complaints against Archbishop Sheen “engaging in any personal inappropriate conduct, nor were any insinuations made in this regard.”

“The Diocese of Rochester did its due diligence in this matter and believed that, while not casting suspicion, it was prudent that Archbishop Sheen’s cause receive further study and deliberation, while also acknowledging the competency of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints to render its decision. The Holy See ultimately decided to postpone the beatification,” it said.

Nevertheless, no complaints have emerged, and no lawsuits or allegations were filed within the litigation window under New York’s Child Victims Act.

Skiing priest hears confessions on chairlifts to the top

By Caroline de Sury OSV News

VAL CENIS, France (OSV News) — Father Geoffroy Génin is a 69-year-old French priest whose appearance is sometimes unusual. Tall and slim, he has the look of an athlete. Once a week, he can be seen on the ski slopes in the heart of a magnificent snow-covered valley in the Alps. Dressed in a ski suit and goggles, he wears a red T-shirt or a blue bib bearing his name and the website of his parish. He has made a habit of hearing people’s confessions on the chairlift that takes them to the top of the slopes.

“It is an open-air confessional for an airy pastoral ministry,” he told OSV News with humor.

Father Génin’s parish, Notre-Dame de l’Alliance, includes churches in numerous mountain communities, where the population doubles with the arrival of vacationers, particularly during the winter sports season. It is to meet them that he stands near the ski lifts of the Val Cenis ski area every Monday morning in the Maurienne Valley in Savoie.

The department of Savoie is very close to the Italian border. Nine-tenths of the diocese’s territory is mountainous and home to around 60 ski resorts. The diocese is known for its shortage of priests.

“I am originally from Lyon,” Father Génin told OSV News. “That is where I studied at the seminary and where I first exercised my ministry.”

Father Génin had grown up in a family where he had been baptized, but where faith was not practiced.

“I was a cultural Christian,” he said. “I had taken a little catechism, but that was all.”

At around age 35 or 36, he was working in production management. He wanted to give more meaning to his life but did not know how to go about it.

“One day, I went to visit the Abbey of Cîteaux, the founding abbey of the Cistercian order,” he told OSV News. “I was with my friends visiting the Burgundy wine cellars, and we arrived there somewhat by chance, as tourists.”

“I was deeply struck by the quiet peace that inhabited these monks,” Father Génin recounted. “I was so impressed that I went back to see them several times afterwards. The monks eventually advised me to go and see the priest in my parish. I had to search for him, because I had no idea where to find him!”

A few years later, in 2000, Father Génin was ordained as a priest in the highly urbanized city of Lyon at the age of 43. But in 2014, he moved to Savoie, a much more rural diocese.

“I had spent all my childhood vacations in the Alps, so I volunteered when the bishop there asked the Diocese of Lyon to ‘lend him priests,’” he said.

Father Génin became a parish priest in Bourg-Saint-Maurice, a town in the Tarentaise Valley, well known for its renowned alpine ski resorts, including Les Arcs, one of the largest and most prestigious ski resorts in France. A great skier

himself, he felt completely at home in this environment.

“I love the mountains,” he said. “And I love meeting people who enjoy mountain sports. I enjoy doing various activities with them, like climbing, paragliding, hang gliding, and skiing in winter.”

“Above all, I love long hikes,” he added. “I go hiking a lot.”

It was during a Sunday Mass, as Easter approached, that some skiers asked him one day to hear their confessions.

“I did not have time at all that day, so I told them to meet me the next day at the foot of the slopes,” he recounted. “The

“We constantly hear how grateful children are that their parents had things taken care of. Have you done this for your children?”

following morning, I rode up with each of them at one end of the chairlift for a discreet confession, whispered in a low voice, that lasted six or seven minutes. After absolution, at the top, facing the snow-capped mountains, I skied down the slope with them!”

“I found it so easy that I kept going,” Father Génin said. “Confession goes well with skiing, because the mountains allow you to gain altitude and take a step back. And confession is not sad or tearful. On the contrary, it lightens your heart. So, I have continued until now to offer confessions on the chairlift to those who come to Mass on Sundays. We make an appointment for the next day so that I can be sure they will not forget. Once there, seeing their friends confess, others volunteer.”

Today, Father Génin lives in Val Cenis in the Maurienne Valley. There, the ski resorts are smaller and more family-oriented.

“The atmosphere is particularly friendly,” he said. “I can talk to those who work on the ski lifts. No one thinks to thank them for all the work they do throughout the day. They tell me their prayer intentions, and sometimes, whenever there are fewer people around, they also come to the chairlift to confess.”

Sometimes, these meetings are an opportunity for simple exchanges, without confession, especially if the people are not believers.

“I enjoy meeting people where they are,” he told OSV News. “Right now, people are on the slopes. So I am there, too. And the simplicity of mountain life facilitates human relationships.”

In addition to confessions, Father Génin loves to take people who cannot ski on their own out skiing. He glides down the slopes on tandem flex skis with elderly or disabled people.

“I do it as often as possible,” he said. “I am very happy to share this happiness with those who cannot enjoy it on their own.”

These days, Father Génin is following the 2026 Winter Olympics in Milan Cortina, Italy, from afar.

“I am not really a fan of watching sports on TV, but I am following the news about the athletes who come from here,” he said. “For me, sports are all about sweat, blood and flesh, rather than television. And it is a great opportunity to meet people who never go to church and who would otherwise never think of going to see a priest.”

EMPLOYMENT

Please note: The Leaven is no longer able to accept ad submissions over the phone. Please submit ads by email to: olivia.martin@theleaven.org.

Parish manager - Good Shepherd in Shawnee is looking to hire a full-time parish manager to work with the church and school. This position involves executive level responsibilities, which include but are not limited to fiscal management, human resources, including payroll and staff management along with operations oversight. Qualified candidates will also be responsible for development and donor relations (stewardship). Familiarity and competence with current technology is necessary. Strong interpersonal and communication skills required. Spanish language skills would be a plus. A demonstrated commitment to the Catholic faith and mission is essential, along with a desire to work in and support a positive, faith-oriented environment. This full-time position is eligible for archdiocesan benefits. Please send cover letter and resume to: frkent@gsshawnee.org. Resumes will be accepted until the position is filled. Social worker/care manager - Part time (24 hrs/wk). At Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic in Overland Park, we believe in unexpected care — the kind that shows up with compassion, insight and love when someone needs it most. If you’re someone who thrives in a busy, meaningful environment — the kind of work that makes a tangible difference — this may be the opportunity you’ve been praying for. We’re currently seeking LBSW or LMSW to join our team. In this role, you’ll provide direct psychosocial support, education and care coordination for patients navigating pregnancyrelated decisions and life circumstances. Working within an environment rooted in excellence, dignity and compassion, you’ll walk alongside women and families with empathy, clarity and professionalism. You’ll play a vital role in ensuring each client receives accurate information, emotional support, appropriate referrals and individualized care planning, while collaborating closely with the clinical team to support holistic patient care. Your impact matters. Whether you’re meeting one-on-one with a client, facilitating education or coordinating resources, your presence will help create moments of hope, stability and empowerment — one meaningful interaction at a time. Key responsibilities: Determine the nature of client’s situation through interviews, observations, questionnaires and on-site visits assessing medical, psychological, emotional, familial and social needs. Educate clients on available resources, options and next steps. Coordinate referrals and community services to support client needs. Collaborate with medical and support staff to ensure integrated, compassionate care. Maintain a peaceful, professional and welcoming environment. Uphold the values and mission of Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic in every interaction. A bit about you: You’re an LBSW or LMSW in good standing. You’re organized, empathetic and steady in emotionally sensitive situations. You’re passionate about walking with women and families through tender, life-changing moments. You’re a person of faith who leads with humility, integrity and compassion. If you are interested in this position, please send resume and cover letter to: AndreaC@twolineskc.com.

Business manager - St. Francis de Sales Church in Lansing is looking for a business manager. This is a full-time position that reports directly to the pastor (some evening and weekend work required). The business manager is an administrator in support of the pastor’s responsibilities to the parish. They are a steward of the physical, financial and personnel resources. The ideal candidate should have a college degree and/or equivalent business experience. Must have a working knowledge of QuickBooks and Microsoft Office applications. Must be able to work independently with minimal supervision, and with other staff/volunteers. Applicant must be a practicing Catholic. Benefits available, including 401(k) and health insurance. Full job description provided to candidates. For more information, email: businessmanager@ stfrancislansing.org or call the office at (913) 727-3742.

Catholic elementary school principal - Holy Spirit in Overland Park stands at an exciting inflection point in its history. Energized by a growing hunger for greater depth, intellectual richness and a stronger metaphysical foundation rooted in the church’s tradition, the faculty is ready to carry this renewal into the bloodstream of the school. The momentum is real; what is needed now is a leader with the experience and vision to cultivate joyful intellectual rigor in both staff and students, translating formation into pedagogy and classroom culture. To learn more, see the full job description at: https://arcadiaed.com/careers or reach out to: edenton@arcadiaed.com with questions or interest.

Administrative assistant - The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas (CFNEK) is seeking to hire an administrative assistant. This position will provide administrative, clerical and operational support to CFNEK, working under the guidance and direction of the executive director to accomplish the mission of the foundation. The position is full time, 40 hours per week on-site and requires some evening and weekend hours. Please visit the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas website for more information or to apply at: https://www.cfnek.org/employment.

Teachers - Nativity Parish School (Leawood) is seeking full-time teachers for the 2026-27 school year: Kindergarten-5th grade, Spanish, P.E., middle school math, middle school science and STREAM Interested applicants should email principal Luke Jennison at: luke.jennison@kcnativity.org.

Chief operations officer - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is seeking a new COO who will bring efficient and effective systems experience to increase the impact and productivity of the organization while retaining the entrepreneurial spark that drives the Catholic Charities mission. To apply, visit: cornerstone-kc.com/current-searches or email: suzannec@cornerstone-kc.com.

Senior director of housing - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is seeking a new senior director of housing who will work collaboratively with case management staff, clients and external partners to develop strategies surrounding eviction prevention programming, longterm housing solutions and promote self-sufficiency through a trauma-informed care approach. To apply, visit: cornerstone-kc.com/current-searches or email: suzannec@cornerstone-kc.com.

Elementary school principal - St. Joseph Catholic Academy is seeking a full-time elementary principal to serve at St. Francis Xavier School in St. Joseph, Missouri. This position is to serve as the spiritual, educational and administrative leader of a Catholic school. The principal upholds diocesan policies, fosters community engagement and oversees the daily operations of the school in collaboration with the pastor, president and the Catholic schools office. For more information and to apply: https://kcsjcatholic. org/start/job-openings/.

Catholic elementary school principal - Sacred Heart School in Emporia is seeking a dynamic and visionary leader with a passion for Catholic education. The principal will continue the school’s tradition of forming disciples, pursuing academic excellence and spiritual growth. The principal will lead by example and inspire a team of dedicated faculty and staff. Applicants must have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Apply online at: archkckcs. org/apply. For more information, contact Vince Cascone at: vcascone@archkckcs.org.

Executive director of communal life - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth seek an executive director of communal life to lead community life and support the well-being of Sisters across multiple residential settings. This role directs and oversees all functions, activities and staff involved in ongoing formation, communal well-being and individual health for Sisters living in neighborhood residences and on the main campus, including independent, assisted and skilled nursing care. Resume and cover letter required. Qualifications: Must be a member of the Roman Catholic Church in good standing. Bachelor’s degree or higher in social work, spirituality, theology or related field. Minimum five (5) years of experience in a faith-based setting. 1-3 years supervisory experience. Salary: $112,320 annually. Apply and view the full job ad at: https://www.scls.org/employees/.

Building attendant - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is the Catholic Church in northeast Kansas: growing as disciples of Jesus; making disciples for Jesus. The Savior Pastoral Center is seeking to hire a part-time, live-in building attendant. This position provides hospitality, security, maintenance and custodial services at the Savior Pastoral Center. This position will average 18-20 hours per week; includes a fully paid, spacious one-bedroom apartment; and requires the ability to work evenings, weekends as needed and every other Saturday at the front desk. For more details or to apply, please visit “Employment Opportunities” at: www.archkck.org.

Gift planning consultant - The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas (CFNEK) is seeking to hire a gift planning consultant. This position will build and maintain relationships with pastors, individual donors and professional advisors, and encourage personal stewardship and general endowment funding through work with archdiocesan entities and leadership. The position is on-site, full-time, 40-hours per week and requires some evening and weekend hours. For more info or to apply, please visit: cfnek.org.

Director of operations - Sacred Heart Church and School in Shawnee are hiring a director of operations! Are you wired with strategic and systems-level thinking? Are you a mission-driven leader with strong communication and relationship-building skills? Do you enjoy financial management, risk management and managing operational health? If so, please apply at: www.shoj.org or contact Jennifer Peavler at: jennifer.peavler@shoj. org. Applications accepted until Feb. 28.

Director of faith formation and youth ministry - St. Francis de Sales Church in Lansing is looking for a director of faith formation and youth ministry. This is a full-time position (some evening and weekend work required). This position reports directly to the pastor. Must be a practicing Catholic in good standing with strong knowledge of Catholic doctrine. Must have excellent communication, organizational, leadership and record-keeping skills. The candidate will invite students and families into a personal encounter with Jesus Christ, a deeper understanding of the Catholic Church and her teachings and participation in the mystical body of Christ. Provide leadership, training and supervision of all aspects of catechesis for youth in grades kindergarten through 12. Develop and conduct the ministry of catechesis, which fosters and enhances spiritual growth and formation for parish youth and families. Attend archdiocesan meetings and formation opportunities. Support broader parish efforts through participation in the pastoral council and regular staff meetings. Job description provided to candidates. If interested, call the parish office at (913) 727-3742 or email resume to: faithformation@ stfrancislansing.org.

School health room specialist - Sacred Heart School in Shawnee is hiring a school health room specialist! If you are a compassionate person who enjoys working with elementary students, with great organization and communication skills, please apply at: www.shoj. org or contact Jennifer Peavler at: jennifer.peavler@ shoj.org.

Catholic financial planners - The Knights of Columbus Mahon Agency has openings throughout all of NE Kansas and western Missouri, including Kansas City, Topeka, Holton, Wamego, Lawrence, Gardner, Liberty and Chillicothe. We have much to offer professional, disciplined and determined men who would like to share needed life insurance, disability income, longterm care and annuity products with other Catholics. This is a full-time position with excellent, multi-tiered training and benefits, allowing the successful field agent to earn a professional level income. It’s an exciting career opportunity that may be the right fit at the right time for you, or someone you know. For more information, contact John Mahon at (785) 4088800, or john.mahon@kofc.org.

Manager assistant - Help St. Mary’s Food Kitchen serve the hungry in Kansas City, Kansas, as a manager assistant. St. Mary’s provides a lunch to the needy each day of the year. The manager assistant will support the volunteer crews, ensure policies and procedures are followed, supervise the cleaning of the kitchen and dining room, fill in for the manager when absent, fulfill other duties as assigned and treat each guest and volunteer with respect and compassion. This position is part-time, generally two days per week, but other days as needed but assigned through conversation and agreement with the manager. Hours are 9 a.m. to 2 p.m., but occasionally 8:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Please contact David Alvey at: stmfoodkitchen@gmail.com. $20 per hour. Holidays time and a half.

Client relations coordinator - Part time (16 hr/wk). Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic in Overland Park. At Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic, we believe in unexpected care — the kind that shows up with compassion, insight and love when someone needs it most. We’re a faith-driven organization committed to serving women and families with dignity, excellence and hope. We’re currently seeking a client relations coordinator to join our team. If you thrive in a fast-paced, meaningful environment where your work makes a tangible difference, this may be the opportunity you’ve been praying for. In this role, you’ll be at the heart of our client’s education experience, supporting every woman and family in an environment rooted in excellence, dignity and care. Your impact matters. Whether you’re meeting with moms one-on-one or in a group setting, you’ll be creating a holistic learning experience—one small moment at a time. Key responsibilities: Create and maintain relationships with moms in Connections, our parenting education program. Maintain a peaceful, professional and welcoming environment. Collaborate with team members to ensure seamless education services. Uphold the values and mission of Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic in every interaction. A bit about you: Strong interpersonal and communication skills. Compassionate, calm, and confident under pressure. Experience in client services, ministry, or administrative roles is a plus. Bilingual a plus. A heart for serving others and a commitment to our faith-based mission. If you’re passionate about making a difference and want to be part of a team that shows up with love every day, we’d love to hear from you. To apply for this position, send resume and cover letter to: AndreaC@twolineskc.com.

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

Part-time kitchen assistant - Nativity School in Leawood is seeking a part-time kitchen assistant, 8 to 15 hours a week. Duties will include prepping food, serving food, setting up/breaking down food service line and garden bar, cleaning and washing dishes. Any candidate hired will need to pass a criminal background check and attend Virtus training as conditions of employment. Applicants should email principal Luke Jennison at: luke.jennison@kcnativity.org.

Catholic elementary school principal - St. Matthew School in Topeka is seeking a dynamic and visionary leader with a passion for Catholic education. The principal will continue the school’s tradition of forming disciples, pursuing academic excellence and spiritual growth. The principal will lead by example and inspire a team of dedicated faculty and staff. Applicants must have or be eligible for Kansas licensure in educational leadership. Apply online at: archkckcs. org/apply. For more information, contact Vince Cascone at: vcascone@archkckcs.org.

Small equipment cleaning/repair - A locally owned family business is currently seeking part-time candidates to provide cleaning and repair services on microscopes. Expenses paid, work done in the field and each day is different! No previous experience necessary, on-the-job training provided. Needs to be detail-oriented team player, with good time management and customer service skills. Some travel with the team is required. Please contact us at: techneeded23@ gmail.com or call (913) 631-3000.

Part-time commercial cleaner - Now hiring! You will clean commercial offices. Evening work. Legends and Edwardsville area. (913) 414-7136 for info.

Benet House Retreat Center director - Benet House is seeking a full-time Director who is responsible for all operations, including programming retreats throughout the year. Benet House Retreat Center is owned and operated by the Sisters of St. Benedict at St. Mary Monastery, Rock Island, Illinois. It is located on 90 acres with walking paths, a wooded area, a lake and an abundance of wildlife. Benet House ‘welcomes each person as Christ’ (RB) and is open to all faiths. The applicant must have at least 3 years’ experience in retreat ministry. For more information, go to www.smmsisters.org/retreats or take a tour at https://smmsisters.org/virtual-monastery. Applicants must submit a cover letter and resume. The cover letter should speak to your qualifications and leadership experience. Please email to: rbussan@smm sisters.org.

Administrative assistant - St. Agnes Church in Roeland Park seeks a Catholic in good standing with strong tech/communication skills and a welcoming heart. This year-round position offers full benefits and flexible scheduling to support a great work/ life balance around family and school schedules. To apply, visit: www.stagneskc.org or email: church@ stagneskc.org. Questions? Call (913) 262-2400.

SERVICES

A and X Cleaning Service - Keeping local businesses clean and healthy. Eco-friendly green cleaning products are used. Our hands-on approach ensures reliable service, consistent quality and attention to detail in every space we clean. Contact us for a free consultation at: anxcleaningllc@gmail.com.

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

Joe’s Decks & More Deck and fence repair, mowing and handyman services Member of St. Joseph in Shawnee (913) 449-9848

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

GARAGE DOOR REPAIR EXPERTS New Garage Doors & Openers A Total Door, Inc. Since ’83. Leaven Discount buffy@atotaldoor.com or (913) 236-6440 www.atotaldoor.com

Dewfall Media professional video services - We partner with you to tell meaningful and engaging stories through visual media. www.dewfallmedia.com. Contact Andrew (717) 818 5168.

Double A’s Lawn Service Mowing, Mulch, Gutters, Leaf Cleanup, Debris Removal & Brush Trimming Free Estimates & Insured Alex Spoerre (913) 488-5195

Two men and a brush - Refresh, repaint, renew your home with painting you can trust! Call for a free estimate on your house, deck or fence! Call John at (402) 763-7244. 15% discount for bookings made before March 15th.

Jack Harrison Heating & Air Conditioning - Proudly serving Johnson County, Kansas, parts of KCK and KCMO, we’re your trusted local experts in residential and light commercial HVAC. Whether you need a repair, seasonal tuneup or full system replacement, we’ve got you covered — with honest advice, quality work and friendly service. We’re a family-owned and operated company, rooted in the community as members of St. Paul Parish in Olathe. Call Jack Harrison Heating & Air today at (913) 308-3131 or visit: www. JackHarrisonAir.com to schedule online. Let our family take care of yours!

TOTAL HOME REPAIR

All aspects of interior home repairs. Retired master plumber. Professional interior painting, general repairs, tile work. Handyman services. Lifetime of experience. Army veteran. Ascension parishioner. (913) 488-4930

Pro Force Property Cleanout Services - Full home and property cleanouts: furniture, appliances, trash. Yard cleanup including trees or any debris. We do eviction or foreclosure cleanouts, move in, move out. Cleanouts throughout the Greater Kansas City area. Call Michael at (913) 565-5206 or email: MichaelMcMahan012@gmail.com.

Bill Dean Mechanical LLC Heating, Cooling, Electrical, and Plumbing Furnace, AC and Water Heater Install and Service wmdean14@hotmail.com, billdeanmechanical.com Joco lic. # 2026-0008446, text or call (913) 724-3294

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VESPERS AND HOLY HOUR

Holy Angels Church 15440 Leavenworth Rd., Basehor Feb. 22 at 5 p.m.

The Basehor Chorale from the Catholic Academy of Sacred Music, under the direction of Dr. Lucas Tappan, will sing at a vespers service and Holy Hour on the First Sunday of Lent. Father Brent Stull will come to celebrate the Holy Hour with us.

‘TO PRAY MARVELOUSLY WELL’ PLAY

Queen of the Holy Rosary Parish (hall) 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park Feb. 22 at 3 p.m.

This inspiring new production from Chicago’s Still Point Theatre Collective explores the journeys of St. Teresa of Avila and St. Edith Stein in a one-of-a-kind spiritual dialogue across the centuries. Written by acclaimed playwright Jenny Magnus, this one-hour play directed by Virginia Smith is brought to life by actress Lisa Wagner-Carollo, who has toured the world in “Haunted by God: The Life of Dorothy Day.” Admission is free.

LITTLE

FLOWER CIRCLE #503

Christ the King Parish (Yadrich Hall)

5973 S.W. 25th St., Topeka

Feb. 22 at 12:50 p.m.

Join the Daughters of Isabella for a rosary, business meeting and social time. We’ll be celebrating our 97th birthday. If anyone knows of a member or family member of Daughters of Isabella in need of prayers, call Shirley at (785) 554-3028.

WIDOWS/WIDOWERS MEETING

Most Pure Heart of Mary (Culhane Room)

3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka

Feb 26 at 1:30 p.m.

The Christian Widows and Widowers organization will host a free soup lunch. For more information, text Gen Orozco at (785) 230-2473.

LEAVENWORTH

CATHOLIC SCHOOL

AUCTION

Riverfront Community Center

123 S. Esplanade St., Leavenworth Feb. 28 at 6 p.m.

Enjoy a night of food, fellowship and fun while supporting Catholic education in Leavenworth County. Get your tickets and make a difference!

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Landscaping Design or Renovate! Light tree trimming/gutters Fall cleanup/leaf removal

Free estimates; local parishioners. Call Charles or Emily (913) 605-8145.

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

Pure Touch Cleaning KC - Bringing warmth and comfort back into your home this winter! Locally owned • Women-led • Family-based care you can trust. Deep cleans • Regular maintenance • Move-in/out • Holiday prep. Call/text: Owner Nicole (913) 999-6267. Let us make your home feel fresh, cozy and ready for the season.

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.

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

HOME IMPROVEMENT

Haus to Home Remodeling - Transform your space with affordable remodeling done right. Bathrooms, basements and everything in between — crafted with honesty and quality. Family-owned with free estimates. Haustohomekc.com | Cole (913) 544-7352.

HOPE BALL

Westin Kansas City at Crown Center

1 E. Pershing Rd., Kansas City, Missouri

Feb. 28 at 4 p.m.

The Hope Ball is Catholic Charities’ largest fundraiser of the year in the Kansas City-St. Joseph Diocese, bringing the community together for an elegant evening in support of neighbors in need. The public is invited to participate by becoming a sponsor, purchasing tickets or making a meaningful donation. For more info, go online to: https://www.catholiccharitiesball.org/.

ST. JOSEPH TABLE

St. Joseph Church (McDevitt Hall) 11311 Johnson Dr., Shawnee

March 1 from 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m.

The table blessing is at 8:30 a.m.; pasta dinner from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donations are appreciated and will benefit those in need in our parish and community. Questions? Call Christine at (913) 706-8860.

ST. MARY ANNUAL DINNER

Hartford Community Building

117 Commercial St., Hartford

March 1 from 11:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m.

There will be six varieties of soups served, along with sides and desserts, for a freewill donation. Raffle tickets are $1 each. Visit the website at: stmaryshartford.org for more details.

INTRO TO IGNATIAN SPIRITUALITY

St. Pius X Church

5500 Woodson Dr., Mission

March 3 and March 10

Join the Ignatian Spirituality Center of KC as we offer two guided evenings introducing the heart of Ignatian spirituality, a centuries-old Catholic tradition that helps people pray more deeply, listen more honestly to their interior lives and discern God’s presence in everyday experience. For more information and to register, go to: www.ignatian centerkc.org/events/2026.

WILLS AND TRUSTS WORKSHOP

St. Agnes Church

5250 Mission Rd., Roeland Park

March 4 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

The speaker will be Casey Connealy, of Gaughan & Connealy. Refreshments and a social precede the presentation. Register online at: www.cfnek.org/events or contact Greg at (913) 647-0365 or by email at: galejos@archkck.org.

Father and Son Home Remodeling - We specialize in kitchen/bathroom and basement remodeling, from start to finish. We also do decks, covered decks, porches, sun-rooms and room additions! If you’re not sure we do it, just call. From my family to yours, thank you for supporting my small business. To contact me, call (913) 709-7230 and ask for Josh.

FOR SALE

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

For sale - 2 casket crypt for sale: St. John’s Corridor mausoleum at Gate of Heaven. Tier A, crypt 6, valued $15,885. Asking $11,000 (includes transfer fee). Contact Kristen (913) 645-3428.

WANTED TO BUY

BUYING OIL & GAS ROYALTIES

Simplify your life. Paying 48 times average last 6 months income. Call Dan (913) 980-0946.

$$Paying Cash$$ - Antique Furniture, crocks, tin and cast iron toys, old tools, glassware, American coins, jewelry. Most anything old. Please call Patricia at (913) 515-2950. A member of Holy Trinity Parish, Lenexa.

Wanted to buy

Do you have a spare car or truck that you need to get rid of? If you do, CALL ME!

I’m a cash buyer. We’re Holy Trinity parishioners. My name is Mark. (913) 980-4905.

WOMEN’S LENTEN RETREAT

Cathedral of St. Peter

409 N. 15th St., Kansas City, Kansas

March 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Join other women of faith as we hit pause and listen to God’s voice. The day begins with Mass in the chapel at 9 a.m., followed by breakfast and retreat in the parish center. The cost is $25. Register online at: cathedralkck.org/2026-womens-lentenretreat, or call (913) 371-0840.

IRISH DINNER

Immaculate Conception Church (Miege Hall)

711 N. 5th St., Leavenworth

March 8 from 11:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m.

Cost is $15 for a corned beef dinner; $10 for Irish stew; $5 for hot dog, chips and dessert. There will be a silent auction and a raffle for cash prizes.

BREAKFAST WITH THE KNIGHTS

Divine Mercy Church

555 W. Main St., Gardner

March 8 from 8:30 to 10 a.m.

The breakfast will include eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, pancakes, waffles and drinks. Join us for great fellowship. The cost is $6 for those over the age of 13; free for ages 12 and under. Proceeds are used for charitable works.

WIDOWED WOMEN OF FAITH LUNCH

Perkins Restaurant (back room) 1720 S.W. Wanamaker Rd., Topeka 3rd Tuesdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Join us for lunch and companionship. No RSVP needed, just come. Invite others. Questions? Send an email to: Widowed WomenofFaith@gmail.com or call Julie at (913) 558-0191.

DIVINE MERCY HOLY HOUR

Queen of the Holy Rosary Church 7023 W. 71st St., Overland Park Wednesdays at 7 p.m.

Join us for eucharistic adoration and Benediction. Use the southwest doors of the church. Call Judy at (913) 963-3191 for information.

DIVORCE SUPPORT GROUP

St. Michael the Archangel (Gabriel Room) 14251 Nall Ave., Leawood 1st & 3rd Wednesday at 7 p.m.

WANTED TO BUY - PAYING CASH

Antiques & Collectibles: jewelry, military items, railroad items, sterling, OLD holiday/toys & more. Renee Maderak (913) 475-7393 St. Joseph, 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.

CASH PAID FOR COIN COLLECTIONS!

Silver dollar coins, half-dollars, quarters, dimes, old pennies. Cash in hand. Also paying cash for old paper currency. Cash in that old dusty box of coins! Call Kirk (913) 213-9843. Member of Holy Trinity Parish. Please sell to local people.

CAREGIVING

Caregiving - Homecare CNA with 15 years’ experience. Monday-Friday. Call (913) 526-0797.

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

REAL ESTATE

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

Those who  have experienced a divorce understand as perhaps few others can. We were sad, lonely, scared and angry, but we have found that with God, time and the support of others, healing is possible. For more information, visit the website at: www.stmichaelcp.org/divorce-support.

SANTA MARTA WALK-IN WEDNESDAY

Santa Marta Retirement Community 13800 W. 117th St., Olathe Wednesdays from 1 to 2:30 p.m.

Join us and enjoy a small sample of what life is like at our community. On Walkin Wednesdays, learn about the Santa Marta community. To RSVP or find a complete list of our upcoming events, call (913) 489-2683; or visit the website at: Santa MartaRetirement.com/Events.

BINGO NIGHT

Sacred Heart Church

2646 S. 34th St., Kansas City, Kansas 2nd Saturdays at 7 p.m.

The Sacred Hearts Knights of Columbus will be hosting bingo for cash prizes. Refreshments will be sold. For more information, call Kevin at (913) 207-0900.

SEASONS OF HOPE

Sts. Peter and Paul Parish

411 Pioneer, Seneca Sundays at 5 p.m.

Seasons of Hope is a Christ-centered support group that is a nurturing link to the church, the Almighty and anyone of faith who is mourning. Those mourning a loss are invited to come and bring a guest. For more information, call or text: Julie Strathman at (785) 294-8360; Roger Becker at (785) 364-6393; or Janet Hermesch at (785) 294-0779.

LAY FRANCISCAN EXPLORATION

Prince of Peace Church

(downstairs meeting room)

16000 W. 143rd St., Olathe 2nd Saturday at 9 a.m.

Secular Franciscans are Catholic laymen and women who make a lifelong commitment to following Christ’s example in their daily lives. If you feel called to a life of prayer, conversion, peace and service, we invite you to visit our fraternity. Join us to find support in your spiritual growth and a community committed to bringing life to the Gospel. For more information, send an email to: ols secularfranciscansolathe@gmail.com or call/text Megan at (913) 744-6695.

Paul O’Toole – Real Estate Agent (KS & MO) Weichert Realtors – Welch & Company (913) 489-1229 (mobile) | (913) 647-5700 (office)

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

PILGRIMAGE

European pilgrimage - June 22-30. Join Father Willliam Carey, Deacon Tom Doyle and Grace Legaspi on a pilgrimage to Medjugorje and Zadar. Traverse the steps of millions who’ve climbed Apparition Hill. Meet one of the visionaries who continues to allegedly see Our Lady yearly. Celebrate Mass at the tomb of St. Simeon of the Presentation of Our Lord in Zadar. Email Grace at: mgracelegaspi@gmail.com for details.

Peru Pilgrimage: Evangelization of the Ancient Incas – July 19-30, 2026. Join us for an unforgettable 11-day journey from Lima to the Sacred Valley, exploring Machu Picchu, Cusco and the lives of saints like St. Rose of Lima. Experience the dramatic encounter between the ancient Incas and the flourishing Catholic baroque of Peru. Space is limited! Early bird pricing until Feb. 19. For details, email: olivia.stear@ viaheritagetravel.com.

Classified Advertising

To purchase a Leaven classified ad, email: olivia.martin@theleaven.org

DAILY READINGS

FIRST WEEK OF LENT

Feb. 22

FIRST SUNDAY OF LENT

Gn 2: 7-9; 3: 1-7

Ps 51: 3-6, 12-13, 17

Rom 5: 12-19

Mt 4: 1-11

Feb. 23

Polycarp, bishop, martyr

Lv 19: 1-2, 11-18

Ps 19: 8-10, 15

Mt 25: 31-46

Feb. 24

Tuesday

Is 55: 10-11

Ps 34: 4-7, 16-19

Mt 6: 7-15

Feb. 25

Wednesday

Jon 3: 1-10

Ps 51: 3-4, 12-13, 18-19

Lk 11: 29-32

Feb. 26

Thursday

Est C: 12, 14-16, 23-25

Ps 138: 1-3, 7c-8

Mt 7: 7-12

Feb. 27

Gregory of Narek, abbot, doctor of the church

Ez 18: 21-28

Ps 130: 1-8

Mt 5: 20-26

Feb. 28

Saturday

Dt 26: 16-19

Ps 119: 1-2, 4-5, 7-8

Mt 5: 43-48

ISAAC JOGUES 1607-1646

Born in Orleans, France, Isaac joined the Jesuits at a young age and was sent to his order’s North American mission in 1636. He and Rene Goupil were captured and tortured by a band of Iroquois in 1642. Rene was killed and Isaac was held as a slave until his rescue by Dutch settlers. He returned to France, secured permission to continue saying Mass despite mutilated hands, and returned to Canada in 1644. He and John Lalande were tomahawked and beheaded by Huron Indians who invited them to a meal. These three and five others, the North American martyrs, are patron saints of Canada and North America. They share this feast and shrines in New York State and Ontario, Canada.

It’s said: “If you want to go fast, go alone. If you want to go far, go together.”

We’re now walking through this long season of Lent, a time set aside to delve deeper into our spiritual lives by the traditional disciplines of prayer, fasting and almsgiving. If you truly desire to grow in holiness in these days, then don’t make the journey alone. Lent is not a sprint; it’s a marathon. And if you want to successfully “do” Lent — to go far — walk together.

Let me clarify things through this little story:

Late one December, the principal of an elementary school said to her teachers, “Let’s all write out New Year’s resolutions about how we can be better teachers, and I’ll put them on the staff bulletin board.” The teachers agreed, and when the resolutions were posted, they all gathered around to read them. One of the young teachers suddenly

Lent calls for a return to the basics. On Ash Wednesday, for instance, we are exhorted to give alms, to pray, to fast (Mt 6:1-6, 16-18). These simple commands come directly from the Lord, from the Sermon on the Mount.

The purpose of such basic practices is simply holiness, to share in the Father’s holiness.

“So be perfect,” Jesus said, “just as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Mt 5:48). That’s it, it’s simple. That’s the why of Lent.

But Lent is also about memory. In a special way during Lent, we recall, to put it in cinematic terms, our

Will you walk with me this

MARK MY WORDS

FATHER MARK GOLDASICH

went into a fit of anger. “She didn’t put up my resolution! It was one of the first ones turned in. She doesn’t care about me. That just shows what it’s like around here!” On and on, this teacher ranted and raved.

The principal, who overheard this from her office, was mortified. She hadn’t meant to exclude anyone’s resolution. Quickly rummaging through the papers on her desk,

she found the missing resolution. Immediately, she went to put it on the bulletin board. And what was that irate teacher’s resolution? “I resolve not to let little things upset me anymore.” (Story adapted from Paul J. Wharton’s “Stories and Parables for Preachers and Teachers.”)

How serious are you about any Lenten resolutions you’ve made? Will you keep them to yourself? Or are you courageous enough to share them with others, to be held accountable by family and friends?

I need to make my Lenten resolutions public if I’m serious about keeping this

Lent?

season well. So, with that in mind, here are mine:

• I order too much stuff, too often, from Amazon. Sadly, it’s often things that I want but don’t need. So, during Lent, I resolve not to buy anything from Amazon or other stores, other than groceries or medications.

• For some reason this past Christmas, I left a number of people “ungreeted” with cards. I resolve each day of Lent to write one note to these neglected friends and to other folks I’d like to keep in better touch with.

• Lastly, this one is absolutely the hardest thing for me to do (and it’s one that I’ve failed at multiple times): I resolve to spend one hour each day simplifying my life. I’ll push myself to spend 20 minutes each morning, afternoon and evening bringing order to what is often chaos in my home. (In fact, I have a few boxes of items to donate that I collected months ago but never

During Lent, we recall our origin

FATHER JOSHUA J. WHITFIELD

Father

Dallas and author of “The Crisis of Bad Preaching” and other books.

origin story. Again, on Ash Wednesday, we do this by means of ritual.

“Remember that you are dust, and to dust you shall return,” you may have heard as either a priest or some brother or sister in Christ sprinkled ashes on your head. A ritual that recalls at once our beginning and our end, it places us within the story and struggle of Adam and Eve.

Likewise, at Mass on the First Sunday of Lent, you will hear the priest praying about “overturning all the snares of the ancient serpent.” And again, the same truth is being underlined, and that is, our spiritual struggle — our struggle for redemption and holiness — is an ancient struggle, a human struggle.

took the time to get them out of my house. I’ll be loading them into my trunk after writing this column!)

How will you spend this Lent? Let’s resolve to walk together in these 40 days, asking our loving and merciful God to help us live out these words of Pope Leo:

“Let us begin by disarming our language, avoiding harsh words and rash judgment, refraining from slander and speaking ill of those who are not present and cannot defend themselves. Instead, let us strive to measure our words and cultivate kindness and respect in our families, among our friends, at work, on social media, in political debates, in the media and in Christian communities.”

Above all, as you journey through the ups and downs of Lent, keep in mind these words of St. Francis de Sales: “Have patience with all things, but first of all with yourself.”

story

In fact, it’s the human struggle. Which, of course, is why we need Jesus, for there’s no way we could overturn any serpents on our own.

Hence, this Sunday’s readings. The story of our creation from “the clay of the ground” followed immediately by the story of the serpent and the fall: There is, of course, much to meditate upon in this story — for instance, on the psychology of sin (Gn 2:7).

The tragedy of Eden is the tragedy of our long collective history of sin, the tragedy of our many individual sins. Jesus is showing us the way out of Satan’s scheme. He’s showing us how to finally win that

fight which began so very long ago. Which is why Lent is for everyone. Because not only is the struggle primeval, it’s also universal. We will always in some sense be in the desert. All of us.

The way St. Leo the Great put it, he said that those seeking baptism need Lent “in order to receive what they do not have as yet,” whereas those who have already been baptized need it “in order to preserve what they have received.”

Again, what Lent is about is the basics, our origin and our redemption story. And that’s a story that includes us all, which is why Lent is meant for you, too.

In a world of empty words, Scripture offers nourishment, pope says

VATICAN CITY (CNS) — Ignorance of sacred Scripture is ignorance of Jesus Christ, Pope Leo XIV said during his weekly general audience.

“The ultimate purpose of reading and meditating on the Scriptures,” he said Feb. 11, is “to get to know Christ and, through him, to enter into a relationship with God, a relationship that

can be understood as a conversation, a dialogue.”

Also, with the season of Lent beginning on Feb. 18, the pope said the season “is a time for deepening our knowledge and love of the Lord, for examining our hearts and our lives, as well as refocusing our gaze on Jesus and his love for us.”

In his main catechesis during his

audience in the Paul VI Audience Hall, Pope Leo continued his series of talks on Vatican II, specifically the Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation (“Dei Verbum”). The word of God is a source of comfort, guidance and strength for Christians, he said, and it should be shared with others, too.

Our shared generosity funds more than 40 ministries

Anew appeal year is underway, and it is a fitting moment to pause and say thank you. Through your generosity and faithful support, the Archdiocesan Call to Share (ACTS) continues to strengthen ministries that serve people across every stage of life throughout northeast Kansas.

Through ACTS, your support reaches far beyond a single parish, supporting outreach to the poor and vulnerable, Catholic education, evangelization, stewardship and opportunities for conversion throughout our local church.

LISA MCKELVEY

Lisa McKelvey is the executive director of the archdiocesan office of stewardship and development. You can email her at: lmckelvey@archkck.org.

To begin the 2026 ACTS appeal, you may have heard from your pastor at Mass or heard a message

SPIRIT OF STEWARDSHIP

be lived and experienced throughout the archdiocese.

Watch the archbishop’s message here at: www.archkck.org/acts.

from Archbishop McKnight inviting all of us to participate. If you have not yet had the opportunity to watch his video message, I encourage you to take a moment to do so. His reflection beautifully illustrates how our shared generosity allows Christ’s love to

As you reflect on his message, I hope you see yourself in our shared mission. None of this is possible without your partnership. Your generosity ensures that more than 40 ministries continue to flourish and impact countless lives.

To learn more about the ministries supported through ACTS, visit

the website at: www. archkck.org/acts. There you will also find our Annual Impact Report from last year to see the direct fruits of your work in action. I invite you to join the over 4,200 families from across our archdiocese who have already pledged their support to this year’s Archdiocesan Call to Share. If you are ready to make your 2026 ACTS gift, you can do so online at: call.arch kck.org.

If you are not already doing so, I encourage you to make a recurring gift.

A recurring monthly gift is a great way to have a tremendous impact with a gift of

any size, providing ongoing support to these ministries yearround. A monthly gift is also a great way for new donors to easily add the Archdiocesan Call to Share into their charitable giving.

Thank you for your continued support of these shared ministries. Let your giving be a visible sign that our faith is alive in action.

As always, if you have any questions about any of the ministries supported or wish to meet about your support, you can reach me by email at: LMcKelvey @archkck. org or call (913) 6473071.

Those studying to be Catholic on cusp of even greater journey

This Sunday, the First Sunday of Lent, the church throughout the world will celebrate the Rite of Election. This rite begins the final period for the catechumens who will be baptized at Easter. Many dioceses will also be celebrating the Rite of Calling the Candidates to Continuing Conversion. This rite recognizes those who, already one with us in baptism, are seeking confirmation and full communion with the Catholic Church.

The season of Lent traces its very origins to the ancient catechumenate, originally a final period of fasting

AS THE CHURCH PRAYS

MICHAEL PODREBARAC

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

and prayer which followed years of formation and growing closer

and closer to the Lord. It was only over time that what the catechumens were first called to, everyone became called to, as the faithful would come to renew their own baptism at Easter.

During the next six weeks, the catechumens

will likely be anointed with the oil of catechumens, which the archbishop blesses during Holy Week. On the Third, Fourth and Fifth Sundays of Lent, they will celebrate the Scrutinies, three minor exorcisms which will free them even further from the bonds of sin and draw them ever closer to Jesus.

After the first scrutiny, they’ll receive a copy of the Creed, the profession of faith that all the faithful make at their baptism; this creed they will profess just before their baptism on Holy Saturday. After the third scrutiny, they will be presented with a copy

of the Lord’s Prayer, the model of all prayer by which we pray in solidarity with him to God the Father.

Finally, after the last counsels, instructions, preparations and rehearsals have taken place, the catechumens will gather with the church in the darkness of Holy Saturday night, to receive the light of Christ in the blessed fire of Easter, and to listen to the “greatest (and truest) story ever told” — the history of salvation from the chronicle of creation in Genesis to the empty tomb of conquering life in St. Matthew’s Gospel.

Then, led by a faith which began long

ago, and has matured steadily day after day, week after week, and month after month, they will be buried with Christ in the waters of baptism, rising with him as beloved children.

They, alongside the candidates for full communion, will be anointed with the Holy Spirit of Pentecost. They will enter fully into the eucharistic sacrifice for the very first time, partaking of the body and blood, soul and divinity of the Son of the living God, the holiest of all communions.

One journey completed, a greater journey begun.