03 20 26 Vol. 47 No. 28

Archdiocese announces organizational changes to strengthen support for parishes and ministries

KANSAS CITY, Kan. —Archbishop Shawn McKnight has announced organizational changes within the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas designed to strengthen the church’s ability to serve its parishes, schools, and ministries. Following consultation with outside experts and listening sessions with staff, clergy, and key stakeholders, it became clear that the current structure must evolve to enable the archdiocese to effectively advance the mission of the church in northeast Kansas.

“Our goal is to ensure that every parish in our archdiocese is a place that the wider community can see as home, as an oasis in their journey of life, and as a sanctuary of mercy and a center of charity for all who seek the Lord,” Archbishop McKnight said. “To serve that mission well, we must ensure that our chancery is structured as a source of support to strengthen and sustain the work of our parishes and ministries. Through prayer and thoughtful discernment, we came to recognize that adjustments are needed to better serve the

OUR GOAL IS TO ENSURE THAT EVERY PARISH IN OUR ARCHDIOCESE IS A PLACE THAT THE WIDER COMMUNITY CAN SEE AS HOME, AS AN OASIS IN THEIR JOURNEY OF LIFE, AND AS A SANCTUARY OF MERCY AND A CENTER OF CHARITY FOR ALL WHO SEEK THE LORD.

ARCHBISHOP SHAWN MCKNIGHT

needs and life of our local church.”

This comprehensive review of the chancery’s structure and operations found that a revitalized model could better support the growing pastoral and administrative needs of parishes, schools, and ministries across the archdiocese. Reviews of this kind are a normal part of leadership transition in the life of the church, as the

bishop discerns how to best structure the ministries and services of the chancery.

As part of Archbishop McKnight’s commitment to stronger support

and collaboration with the parishes, several ministries that were previously organized as separate offices will now be brought together into a new team called Parish Evangelization Services. This team will provide expertise and consultation to support parishes in areas including faith formation and catechesis, Gospel of Life, charity and mercy, human dignity and social justice, marriage and family life, and the liturgy and sacraments. By integrating these ministries more closely with parish life, the archdiocese seeks to offer more effective support and collaboration in service of the church’s mission.

This renewed approach will also ensure that ministry is more fully integrated across the life of the archdiocese. Rather than operating through separate offices, outreach will increasingly be embedded across ministries, including expanded multilingual support and greater attention to those on the margins. This includes serving Spanish-speaking Catholics more intentionally across archdiocesan ministries, as well as continuing outreach to individuals with disabilities, the underserved, and those who are imprisoned.

Several dynamic initiatives will be launched in the coming months,

>> See “CHANCERY” on page 2

Chancery offices undergoes reorganization

>> Continued from page 1

including the establishment of liturgical and building commissions, an indepth review of archdiocesan policies and procedures, and deeper collaboration between clergy and laity.

In addition, after several months of deliberate evaluation and prayerful discernment, it was determined that the organization and positions within the structure of the chancery should evolve to better facilitate how the archdiocese carries out the mission of the church. Regretfully, as part of this reorganization, not every chancery position will fit into the new model. In recognition of the service of those employees impacted, the archdiocese is providing transition support, including outplacement services, counseling, and generous notice and severance packages.

TWhile these changes are not financially driven, they reflect the archdiocese’s responsibility to steward wisely the resources entrusted to the church and ensure they are effectively directed towards the mission of serving God’s people.

“These changes are difficult, and they affect people who have given much to the church,” Archbishop McKnight said. “I am deeply grateful to those whose positions are affected and thank them for their meaningful contributions to the archdiocese. I am also thankful for the staff who continue this important work and accompany me in this next chapter.”

The archdiocese will continue to implement these changes in the months ahead as part of its ongoing commitment to renew and strengthen the church’s mission of evangelization, charity, and pastoral care.

State agencies warn of text scams

he Kansas Department of Transportation (KDOT) and the Kansas Department of Revenue (KDOR) are alerting the public to a sophisticated “smishing” (SMS phishing) scam targeting residents by using fraudulent text messages.

Scammers are impersonating the DMV and toll authorities and sending urgent texts that demand immediate payment for “unpaid traffic tickets” or “outstanding tolls.” These messages often threaten license suspension to pressure victims into clicking malicious links.

KDOT does not manage tolls and will never request payment via text.

Official notifications from KDOR are sent via the U.S. Postal Service, not via unsolicited text messages.

You can check the status of your driver’s license for free on the KDOR website at: www.kdor.ks.gov/Apps/ DLStatus/login.aspx. Also, use your phone’s “Report Spam” feature before deleting the message to help prevent future attempts.

If you have provided financial information to a fraudulent website, contact your bank or credit card company immediately to freeze your accounts. Report the incident to the Federal Trade Commission at: reportfraud.ftc. gov or the Internet Crime Complaint Center at: ic3.gov.

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ARCHBISHOP MCKNIGHT

March 20

Tour of Jewish Community Center, Overland Park

March 21

Order of Malta Anointing Mass and reception — St. Michael the Archangel Church, Leawood

Symposium on Transforming Culture Vigil Mass, blessing and dinner — Benedictine College, Atchison

March 23

Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) executive committee meeting — conference call

March 24

Catholic Education Foundation (CEF) Scholarship Parents Mass and Dinner — Savior Pastoral Center

March 25

Mass and lunch — St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Overland Park

CEF board meeting and tour of Resurrection School — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas

March 26

Mass and lunch — St. James Academy High School, Lenexa

Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas (CFNEK) Deo Gratias Mass and dinner — Holy Trinity, Lenexa

March 27

Hayden High School advisory committee meeting — chancery library

Saint John Vianney Center board meeting — virtual

March 28

Rural Catholic Youth Conference opening Mass and lunch — Prairie Star Ranch

March 29

Palm Sunday Mass and dinner — University of St. Mary, Leavenworth

March 31

Brunch and reflection with priests — Corpus Christi Church, Lawrence

Chrism Mass and reception — Corpus Christi Church, Lawrence

Dinner with Bishop Ward Cyclone Night auction winners — Grünauer Restaurant, Kansas City, Missouri

April 2

Holy Thursday Mass — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas

April 3

Good Friday Liturgy — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas

April 4

Holy Saturday Vigil Mass — Cathedral of St. Peter, Kansas City, Kansas

ARCHBISHOP EMERITUS NAUMANN

March 21

Mass — Sts. Peter and Paul Church, Seneca

March 24

Eucharistic adoration with Bishop Ward students — Cathedral

Mass and blessing for expectant parents — Holy Spirit, Overland Park

March 31

Chrism Mass — Corpus Christi Church, Lawrence

CORNED BEEF, CABBAGE AND A CAUSE

Annual parish fundraiser serves up pots of gold

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

EMERALD — It might not be located exactly at the end of the rainbow, but St. Patrick Church located in what used to be the town of Emerald boasted its own pot of gold on March 15.

Well, maybe not exactly a pot of gold. It was more like pots and pans of traditional Irish food as parishioners served up corned beef, cabbage, stew, soda bread and pies at its annual fundraiser. The event, which began in 1998, started as a way for parishioners to raise funds for the church’s roof and has continued as a way for this very small parish to pay the bills.

Over the years, the event has grown and now draws 600 to 800 people from the region and beyond. Besides food, the one-day festival featured the sounds of Irish and Americana music. Although other groups have performed in the past, in recent years it has been the Lintner Band of Ottawa that has entertained the parishioners and guests, performing such tunes as “My Grandfather’s Clock,” “Cold Frosty Morning” and “Ballad of the Irish Rover” using instruments ranging from guitars and fiddles to a hammered dulcimer and a bodhrán (a type of Irish frame drum).

Planning for the event begins in earnest every year in January, and in the weeks and days leading up to the event, members of the Altar Society and other volunteers prepare the food. That often means spending days of four, eight or

even 16 hours to prepare nearly 400 pounds of corned beef, cut vegetables and bake bread.

Then there’s the decorating, the set-up, the serving and the cleanup, not to mention the advertising, solicitation of donations and the scheduling and wrangling of volunteers to bus tables, take raffle tickets and greet guests at the bottom of the stairs leading into the parish hall.

Hardly sitting down for more than a minute at a stretch, Louise O’Neill hugged family and friends, welcomed everyone to the event and even danced a little bit.

“I just love the music, the food, the whole nine yards,” she enthused.

For Father George Rhodes, the day served as a reminder of the importance of honoring not only a parish’s patron saint, but also coming together as a family.

This year marked the priest’s first year as part of the celebration, having become the parish’s parochial administrator on Oct. 31. In addition to St. Patrick’s Parish, he also serves as the parochial administrator of St. Francis Xavier in Burlington, St. Joseph in Waverly and St. Teresa of Avila in Westphalia.

“It’s not only a way for us to really stay close to St. Patrick, our patron, for us to ask for his intercession,” he said, “but it’s also for us a great occasion to come together as a community for the sake of living a Christian life together.

“Christianity is hard to do on our own, and for us, this is an excuse to joyfully get together. . . . I’ve been looking forward to it,” he said.

High school art contest adds new dimension

By John Sorce john.sorce@theleaven.org

KANSAS CITY, Kan. — When Archbishop Shawn McKnight spoke at the Archbishop’s Canvas and Quill High School Invitational on March 6, he likened art to God’s creation of humanity in the Book of Genesis.

“Our first two stories of creation from the Book of Genesis reminds us that we are made in the image and likeness of God,” he said. “We share God’s ability to create, and it’s as if God created the universe and specifically had us as part of this creation.

“When we produce things, we’re reflecting something of that creativity of God. That’s especially seen in the work of art. There’s something Godlike about it.”

The theme of this year’s awards was apostolic succession, which traces the historical lineage of bishops and popes back to the original apostles.

Archbishop McKnight is intrigued by the topic and compared it to how an authority structure affects all of humanity.

“I find the subject very fascinating,” said the archbishop. “Authority isn’t something unique to us Catholics. It is part of the order of nature. All groupings of human beings need structures of authority to remain cohesive as a social group.

“Our Lord knew that, and that’s why he established authority that he gave to Peter and his successors.”

The event was formerly known as the Archbishop’s Art Invitational, but it grew this year to include the written word and incorporate poetry.

It also introduced two new awards for top honors: the St. Bede Award for poetry and the St. Luke Award for art. St. Bede the Venerable was an

Full list of award winners

Popular Choice Award

Poetry: Luke Toepfer, St. James Academy (Lenexa) senior

Art: Mary Alice Solano, Bishop Miege (Roeland Park) junior

St. Bede Award (first place poetry): Luke Toepfer, St. James Academy senior

St. Luke Award: (first place art): Ella Wondra, St. James Academy sophomore

Archbishop’s Award (second place)

Poetry: Alaina Meyer, Hayden (Topeka) senior

Art: Mary Alice Solano, Bishop Miege junior

Superintendent’s Award (third place)

eighth-century monk, scholar and doctor of the church. He devoted his life to studying, writing and preserving the history of the church and had a strong love for the written word.

St. Luke the Evangelist, author of the Gospel of Luke and the Acts of the Apostles, was also an artist and is considered the patron saint of artists.

Those awards went to Lenexa’s St. James Academy senior Luke Toepfer for poetry, and sophomore Ella Wondra for art.

Wondra’s pencil drawing called “Inheritance of the Faith” shows a key being passed from one set of hands to another.

“I was confused [about the theme] at first, but I figured it out and I’m glad that my gifts from God were really portrayed in my art,” Wondra said. “It took a while but ended up being something that I am really proud of.”

Toepfer’s poem called “A Broken Record Sings” relates to Peter’s three denials of Christ and his ensuing forgiveness.

He said the Holy Spirit spoke it through him during adoration.

“I was sitting in front of the monstrance and asked Jesus what he wanted me to hear,” Toepfer said. “After that, I took out my pen and started writing.

“I was inviting the Holy Spirit to show what he wanted to reveal about myself, and that’s what I got. It’s one of my favorites.”

Toepfer also took home the poetry popular choice award, as voted on by the public leading up to the event.

The art popular choice award went to Roeland Park’s Bishop Miege junior Mary Alice Solano, who was a firstplace winner a year ago.

Her colored pencil drawing called “Glowing Respect” shows three men

Poetry: Megan Thummel, Hayden junior

Art: Chloe Meyer, St. Thomas Aquinas (Overland Park) junior

looking up towards Jesus.

“I combined a lot of reference pictures together,” Solano said. “Jesus was easy to draw, and I think the hardest part was finding the right shades and colors because I don’t work with colored pencils often.

“For the people next to him, I wanted to cover every age to be more diverse.”

Archbishop McKnight hopes to see the arts continue to thrive in archdiocesan schools.

“It is very important that we highlight the importance of the arts in Catholic education,” he said. “Encouraging young, budding artists and their teachers is a wonderful way of doing that.”

Unplug & unwind: Why one JoCo school is embracing landlines

By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

LEAWOOD — Kids at Nativity Parish School here skated like it’s 1999 on Feb. 23 to kick off what their moms hope will be a lower-tech lifestyle.

Kindergarten through fifth grade students from more than 200 Nativity families have opted to trade smartphones for the old-fashioned landline.

They gathered at Skate City in Overland Park to pick up a Tin Can phone and a goodie bag with resources on digital health education.

“What better place if we’re talking about bringing back the landline?” asked Tracy Foster, co-founder and exexecutive director of Screen Sanity.

The nonprofit partnered with a group of Nativity moms on the communityfunded, grassroots pilot initiative called Project Landline.

The excitement was palpable when 193 students showed up to skate — screen free — on a non-school day.

“It went beyond what we could’ve even imagined,” said Foster, “with the number of kids who came, the excitement that they had, the fun of them whizzing around on roller skates.

“It was truly so celebratory and joyful and heartwarming.”

Going old school

Abby Dean and Cory Wright were two of the first Nativity moms to jump on board with Project Landline.

Dean has a kindergartner and a third grader at Nativity, and Wright has a third and a fifth grader at the school.

“We all had landlines growing up and had to share them with our siblings and were stuck in the kitchen talking,” said Dean. “We couldn’t go hide in our room and gossip.

“We’ve gone backwards, but in a good way, on introducing that phone.”

Foster said Screen Sanity was excited to work with Tin Can (tincan.kids) on the project.

Its Wi-Fi-based phone functions like a landline so children can connect with friends without the pressure and distractions that come with smartphones.

Instead of FaceTiming, texting or scrolling on social media, the kids can communicate simply with their voices.

“The level of change in conversation [from] them having a FaceTime phone call with their friends versus this landline phone from the get-go was leaps and bounds different,” said Wright.

Changing the culture

Dean believes Project Landline is an important step to protect today’s children, who might experience bullying at school like previous generations.

“But kids then go home and are on a smartphone and are sitting in silence and isolation, looking at social media and reading things and getting bullied,” said Dean.

“They don’t have the protection of coming home and leaving it at school like we did and having that safe space,” she continued. “They’re still looking at their phone, and it piles on.

“And you can understand why their mental health has gone downhill since smartphones were introduced.”

Studies have found that smartphone use before age 12 is associated with

higher risks of mental health issues like depression, poor sleep and obesity.

“We have the data,” said Wright. “We know that these aren’t the right answers for our kids.”

“The lack of permanence is also key for me,” she added. “You might be mad at somebody, and you want to talk through it with your friend. But that is a private conversation on a landline that’s not being recorded or screenshotted and shared with the entire class.

“This ruins kids’ lives with that technology that they have on smartphones.”

Back to the basics

Tin Can phones can call other Tin Can phones and 911 for free, or users can subscribe to a party line plan to call any external phone number.

Only approved contacts can make calls to a Tin Can phone, which includes a parents-only companion app. The phones also have a Do Not Disturb option.

While reaching out to local businesses to fundraise for the project, or-

ganizers realized how great the need is.

“When we were talking with the local businesses, they were sharing how much they think this is important — obviously for the kids — but also because they can see the effect of not learning how to have phone calls on their younger employees,” said Foster.

“They don’t know how to make a phone call,” she said. “They get nervous.”

The anxiety associated with making phone calls has a name: telephobia.

Foster believes smartphones are causing today’s youth to miss out on developmental skills that foster confidence in this area — like communication, independence and manners — which previous generations experienced organically.

“These kids, they need to learn how to call and order pizza,” said Foster. “They need to learn how to call and make an appointment.

“They need to learn how to call a friend and work through an issue using their voice. They need to call a grandparent or someone else and say, ‘How are you feeling today?’

About Screen Sanity

Screen Sanity was founded in 2018 by three moms hoping to change the culture around smartphone use in children.

It offers a number of tools and trainings for individuals and groups, including a Parent Night Kit, Social Worker CEU training and a Pediatric Provider Program.

To learn more, visit the website at: screensanity.org.

“It’s important developmental stuff that we didn’t really realize we were taking away when we got rid of phones in houses.”

Answering the call

Dean and Wright believe Project Landline has been effective because so many Nativity parents are on board with postponing smartphone use.

“You need people for [the kids] to call but also parents that are going to align with you on beliefs and try to protect our kids,” said Dean.

“We needed it to be a level playing field for everybody,” added Wright.

Foster hopes more parents will be inspired to give the landline a try, and that when they decide their child is old enough, they’ll foster responsible smartphone use.

“For us as a nonprofit, our goal is to help change cultural norms around technology introduction,” said Foster. “We’d love to make it the norm that kids get a landline instead.

“We’re excited,” she continued, “and we just pray that this would be something that helps our kids to build connection, responsibility, skills that are so important that we just hadn’t realized they were losing out on.”

To learn more about Project Landline, visit: screensanity.org/projectlandline.

Don’t only look for the helpers; step up and be one

By Susan Hines-Brigger Special to The Leaven

Are you there, God?

Right now, we are living in difficult times. There is division, war, arguing, and anger. Add on any personal struggles we are dealing with and there is a lot of frustration and pain. Given all that, it can be rather easy to slip into a feeling of hopelessness. By nature, we want to find answers, and we usually want them to come clearly and quickly.

Of course, our first instinct is to turn to God. After all, why wouldn’t it be? Sometimes, though, it can feel like God isn’t listening. After all, why would an all-loving God allow such pain and trouble to take place?

That, however, is when our faith comes into play. God is definitely there. We just may not recognize it because it doesn’t look like what we want it to.

That reminds me of one of my favorite quotes. It is one that television star Fred Rogers said his mother would share with him when he found things in the news that were scary.

“Look for the helpers,” she would tell him. And she was 100% right. There are people right here on earth that are living out the message of Christ, helping each of us to feel that presence in the seeming

heart of darkness. We just need to dig a little deeper, past the easy answer for which we are looking.

Only then can we find the helpers that we need, the face of Christ here on earth. Those helpers can be family, friends, clergy, fellow parishioners, organizations, or any host of people.

The help can be literal, such as sitting

with a friend in need, volunteering at a local food bank or shelter. Or it can be less visible to others. For instance, if praying is all we can do, then that is the ministry we are being called to carry out. A friend of mine gathers all the prayer requests she receives, places them in a bowl and once a week sits and prays for those people.

Being a helper could even be just speaking up in the face of what we see as injustice. For instance, just a few months ago Archbishop Shawn McKnight joined with Bishop Carl Kemme and Bishop Gerald Vincke to speak out against what they felt was injustice regarding immigration. In their joint pastoral letter they wrote, “Amid political division

and fear, we remind our communities that at the center of every immigration debate are real people: families in our pews, children in our schools, workers in our neighborhoods, and volunteers in our parishes.”

They went on to urge the faithful to “encounter immigrants as neighbors and build welcoming parishes where politics never poisons compassion.”

Not only must we look for the helpers to assist us, though. We must also remember that sometimes we ourselves are called to be the helpers, living out the message of Christ to our brothers and sisters.

We must be the face of God in times of struggle. That is where God is.

P.R.A.Y. needs help saving young children in Brazil

By Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

“Nobody wants Elayne.”

That’s just the harsh reality, said Sister Magdalena, PJC, who helps run Project Rescue of Amazon Youth (P.R.A.Y.) in Brazil.

The organization, founded in 1997, and now partnered with the Fraternity the Poor of Jesus Christ, has had many success stories over the years as they’ve helped save abandoned, abused and neglected children in Para and Mozambique, Brazil.

Elayne, however, is a special case.

She arrived at P.R.A.Y. five years ago with three siblings.

“Their father had died, and their mother is a drug addict,” said Sister Magdalena. “They became wards of the state, and the justice system sent them to us because we have the only place for children who are abandoned, orphaned, neglected, and/or abused.”

While her siblings have all been adopted, Elayne has issues that make adoption virtually impossible. She’s non-verbal, autistic and has mental issues. She’s also prone to uncontrollable outbursts of rage.

“She recently had a serious outburst, and nothing could calm her down,” said Sister Magdalena. “She was sent to a special hospital in Belem, Para, Brazil.”

But the hospital can only keep her for so long. Soon she will be back in the care of P.R.A.Y.

Elayne is 16 years old and will be at P.R.A.Y. for the rest of her life. She can’t survive on her own.

Without P.R.A.Y. Elayne “would be on the streets and subject to all sorts of abuse. She would go hungry, be physically violated, raped, and even

killed,” said Sister Magdalena.

Because of her aggressiveness, Elayne needs a round-the-clock caregiver. P.R.A.Y. is hoping to raise funds to hire two caregivers that can trade off caring for Elayne.

“She has to have a person who takes care of only her,” said Sister Magdalena. “The caregiver prepares her to go to a special school, as well as bathes her, changes diapers, helps her eat her food and gives her medicine.”

P.R.A.Y. also would like to build a small house on the property where Elayne and her caregiver could live, separate from the others at P.R.A.Y.

“We need to protect the other children, and she would be calmer alone with a caregiver,” said Sister Magdalena. “We would be happy to have prayers and any financial help that someone would feel in their heart to give.”

Sister Magdalena, originally a parishioner of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, said that Elayne isn’t always aggressive.

“She smiles, and seems to understand when talked to,” she said.

Sister Magdalena said that P.R.A.Y. is committed to helping Elayne live the best life she can under their care.

“There is no other place to help her,” she said. In addition to Elayne’s needs, P.R.A.Y. is also in search of funds to buy a new vehicle to transport their children around. An old Volkswagen van that the organization has used for years has given its last ride. P.R.A.Y. is looking for a small, cheap replacement to help in their mission to care for God’s children.

Donations can be sent to: P.R.A.Y., 601 Elm St., Wamego, KS 66547

ON THE RUN

PHOTOS BY JAY SOLDNER

Priests, seminarians and high school and middle school students took part in the annual Runnin’ with the Revs game March 9 at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Overland Park. The game, sponsored by the Serra Club and the vocations office, helps promote vocation awareness in the archdiocese. The next game will be held on April 17 at 7 p.m. at Hayden High School in Topeka.

s LACING UP

u SWEET ASSIST

Ricky Wells, a junior at Bishop Ward High School, passes the ball over Father Joel Haug (No. 21), pastor of Sacred Heart, Sabetha; St. Augustine, Fidelity; and St. James, Wetmore, to his teammate Father Dan Mauro (No. 9), associate pastor of Holy Trinity Parish and chaplain of St. James Academy, both in Lenexa.

HE SHOOTS. HE SCORES!

t AT THE LINE

Blake Wilken of St.

is all concentration as he attempts a free throw.

t DESIGNATED SHOOTER

Father Andrew Gaffney, associate pastor of Prince of Peace Parish, Olathe, was called out of the stands to shoot free throws for a fellow priest.

s LET IT FLY

Sophie Edwards, a kindergartner at St. Joseph School, Shawnee, takes her shot at the basket during halftime of the Runnin’ With The Revs game. Little ones in attendance were able to take the court and attempt a basket.

t AIRBORNE

Father Timothy Skoch gets Colton Wondra, an eighth grader at Corpus Christi, Lawrence, in the air on a ball fake.

ON THE BIG STAGE

The seventh and eighth grade Wyandotte County Catholic Association (WCCA) girls basketball team from Our Lady of Unity School in Kansas City, Kansas, had the opportunity to play a game during halftime of the women’s Big 12 tournament game that featured the University of Kansas and the University of Central Florida on March 4 at the T-Mobile Center in Kansas City, Missouri.

Correction

The March 3 article “Deaf minister honored, invites prayers of support” had an incorrect byline. The story was written by Jan Dixon. The Leaven regrets the error.

Wills workshop set for March 25

SHAWNEE — The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas will host a wills and trusts workshop at 6 p.m. on March 25 at Sacred Heart of Jesus Church, 5501 Monticello Rd, Shawnee. The presentation will be given by Casey Connealy, Estate Planning Attorney of Gaughan & Connealy.

Register by visiting: www.cfnek. org/events.

SOLUTION

In a return to tradition, Pope Leo moves into new home in the Apostolic Palace

By OSV News

Pope Leo XIV moved into his new apartments at the Vatican’s Apostolic Palace March 14, the Holy See Press Office announced that afternoon in Rome. Pope Leo’s new quarters include several rooms, among them the private study — where the pope appears at the window to lead the Angelus prayer in St. Peter’s Square every Sunday — a library and a small chapel. According to Italian media, the apartment also includes a home gym.

With Pope Leo’s return to the Apostolic Palace, his rooms will be different from those of Pope Benedict XVI, the last pope to live in that space. Instead of occupying the traditional papal living quarters, Italian media has reported that Pope Leo will live in a loft, or attic, above the “Third Loggia,” or top floor, of the building. Vatican media has reported that Pope Leo will live with his private secretaries, Msgr. Edgard Rimaycuna and Father Marco Billeri.

Pope Leo’s choice to live in the Apostolic Palace marks a change from his immediate predecessor and a return to more than 100 years of tradition. Pope Francis lived his entire pontificate in a suite in the Vatican guesthouse, formally known as the Domus Sanctae Marthae, preferring to be residing within a larger community.

Pope Leo’s move takes place after months of renovation at the Apostolic Palace — and accompanying speculation — during which the Holy Father continued to live at his apartment at the Vatican’s Palazzo del Sant’Uffizio, where he had already been residing while serving as prefect of the Dicastery for Bishops.

In 1903, St. Pius X became the first pope to live in the apartments overlooking St. Peter’s Square. The apartments were completely remodeled by Pope Paul VI in 1964 and have undergone smaller modifications by each pope since, according to “Mondo Vaticano,” a Vatican-published miniencyclopedia about Vatican build-

GUZIK

NEWS

Lights can be seen above the third floor of the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican on the evening of March 14, the day the Holy See Press Office informed media that Pope Leo XIV would be moving into his official papal apartments at the palace. The move marks a return to more than 100 years of tradition, following Pope Francis’ decision to live at the Vatican’s guesthouse during his 13-year papacy.

ings, offices and tradition.

On May 11, 2025, Pope Leo removed the seals that had been placed on the door of the papal apartment in the Apostolic Palace on April 21, following the death of Pope Francis.

In St. Peter’s Square on the evening of March 14, it was business as usual as tourists milled around taking in the sights — mostly unaware that a major shift in the life of the pope was happening nearby. A group of Romans who learned from OSV News that the pope was moving

Pope to receive Liberty Medal for promoting religious liberty

PHILADELPHIA (OSV News) — As the U.S. marks its 250th anniversary, Pope Leo XIV will be honored in the nation’s former capital of Philadelphia (1790-1800) for his efforts to promote religious liberty as well as freedom of expression and conscience. The National Constitution Center will bestow its Liberty Medal on Pope Leo July 3 during a public ceremony outside its location at Independence Mall in Philadelphia, part of Independence National Historical Park, home to several sites of historical significance in the nation’s founding. The medal honors both individuals and organizations “who strive to secure the blessings of liberty to people around the globe,” said the center in its release. The pope is set to deliver live acceptance remarks from the Vatican, which will be livestreamed to in-person attendees and online at the center’s website. Pope Leo is only the second religious leader to receive the award, preceded by 2015 recipient the 14th Dalai Lama of Tibet.

into the apostolic palace that day were very excited to hear the news.

And though Pope Leo’s bedroom — for reasons of security and privacy — won’t be as public as that of his predecessors, a small light in the palace was visible from the square -an indicator that the space officially is in use once again.

Vatican News, Catholic News Service and Paulina Guzik, OSV News international editor, contributed to this report.

God’s name can never be used to justify ‘absurd’

pursuit of war

ROME (CNS) — Believing problems and differences can be resolved with war is absurd, Pope Leo XIV said, chastising those who use God’s name in their dark and deadly pursuits. “God cannot be enlisted by darkness,” he said in his homily during Mass in a parish on the outskirts of Rome March 15. “Rather, he always comes to bring light, hope and peace to humanity, and it is peace that must be sought by those who call upon him.” So many of “our brothers and sisters around the world are suffering because of violent conflicts, sparked by the absurd notion that problems and differences can be resolved through war. . . . Some even go so far as to invoke God’s name in these choices of death,” he said. What is needed is “unceasing dialogue for peace. . . . This is the message of this Sunday: No matter how deep the abyss into which a person may fall because of their sins, Christ comes to bring a brighter light, capable of freeing them from the blindness of evil, so that they may begin a new life,” he said in his homily.

EMPLOYMENT

Development director - Cor Christi Catholic Center in Topeka is seeking to hire a full-time development director under the supervision of the center director. Responsibilities include developing, coordinating and executing fundraising events, engaging and cultivating relations with current and prospective donors and maintaining donor records. Bachelor’s degree in fundraising, communication or marketing with event planning or equivalent experience. Three years experience preferred. Full job description is online at: www. wucatholic.org/employment-opportunities. To apply, send cover letter, your resume and three references to Jessica Hammer at: director@wucatholic.org. Subject line: Development Director.

Music director - St. Agnes Church, Roeland Park, is seeking a full-time music director to lead our vibrant parish of 1,200 families. Responsibilities include leading music for three weekend Masses, holy days and school liturgies, as well as directing adult and children’s choirs. Candidates must be practicing Catholics in good standing with a bachelor’s degree in music (or equivalent), proficiency in piano/ organ and strong vocal skills. Experience in liturgical planning and volunteer management required. This is a benefits-eligible position. For a full job description and to apply, please visit: https://stagneskc.org/ employment/.

Investigator - The archdiocesan office of ministerial standards is seeking to hire an investigator. This position will utilize pertinent interviewing, surveillance and desktop research abilities to fully investigate reported events in areas such as sexual abuse, financial impropriety, serious workplace misconduct and canonical concerns. An associate’s degree or higher is required as well as extensive experience with conducting complex investigations, ideally related to abuse/neglect, human services, law enforcement or compliance. For more information or to apply, please visit “Employment Opportunities” on the archdiocesan website: archkck.org.

Director of ministerial standards - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has an immediate opening for a director of ministerial standards. This position safeguards the integrity of the church’s ministry by ensuring that all allegations of misconduct are received, assessed and investigated with professionalism, objectivity and in compliance with civil and ecclesiastical law. The director provides strategic and operational leadership for the office of ministerial standards, including hiring, training and supervising staff; establishing investigative protocols and workflows; and developing standardized forms, templates, policies and procedures. Please visit “Employment Opportunities” on the archdiocesan website for more information or to apply: archkck.org.

Director of admissions - Bishop Miege is seeking a director of admissions. Responsibilities include managing admission processes, fostering relationships and promoting Catholic education at Miege. The director will collaborate with administration and staff to support enrollment goals and coordinate admissions events such as Future Stag days, open house, and more. Send a letter of interest and resume to Ellen Monty: emonty@bishopmiege.com.

Sales reps - Invictus Roofing and Solar Company serving the Kansas City Metro is seeking to hire 3-4 sales reps this spring. Looking for motivated people who want to grow and excel in project management: with a strong element of sales and competitive commission-based pay. Little to no experience required - job training and field training handled in-house. Please call Brian at (913) 302-8361 or Nick at (913) 680-7862. St. Rose Philipine Duchesne parishioner.

Middle school math teacher - Holy Spirit School in Overland Park is seeking a certified middle school math teacher for the 2026-27 school year. The ideal candidate will support our mission of academic excellence and Catholic formation while engaging students in a rigorous and supportive math program. Interested candidates should submit a resume to Dr. Maureen Huppe: mhuppe@hscatholic.org.

Part-time horse groom and groundskeeper - Looking for part-time horse groom and groundskeeper on a small family farm just south of Spring Hill. Responsibilities include all areas of the farm, including cleaning, mucking stalls, mowing, gardening, weed eating, horse care, moving hay, painting, digging, fencing, etc. It’s hot and dirty in the summer and cold and dirty in the winter. Prior experience preferred but not required. Must have a willingness to work hard, be honest, be reliable and coachable. Must be able to lift heavy loads like hay, grain, etc. No smoking or any tobacco or alcohol on the premises, no exceptions. You must have your own transportation to and from work. Starting pay is $25 an hour, flexible hours and anywhere from 10 to 20 hours per week. Text or call (913) 710-4428.

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.

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.

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.

Mission outreach coordinator - Catholic Community Health is hiring a part-time, hourly, mostly remote mission outreach coordinator. This role builds and strengthens relationships with parishes and Catholic organizations to expand awareness of Catholic Community Health’s hospice, home care and services at Villa St. Francis. The position secures and coordinates outreach opportunities, delivers mission-centered presentations and cultivates referral partnerships. It tracks outreach activity and referral growth and provides reporting to inform strategy. The role collaborates closely with the director of mission outreach and development to support mission growth and community engagement. Candidates should have strong interpersonal skills with the ability to build rapport with pastors, parish staff and Catholic ministry leaders; have a history of parish, ministry or diocesan communications; have proficiency with CRMs; experience with database management; and strong organization skills. Interested candidates should email: mnolan@ catholiccommunityhealth.org for more information or to apply.

Accountant III - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has an immediate opening for an accountant III in the shared business services department within the chancery. The accountant III supports parish and other entity functions such as monthly accounting processing, accounts payable, payroll and reconciling balance sheet accounts. This position is full time and will average 40 hours per week. This position is on-site with work completed in the chancery office, and some remote work at the parish or school if needed. Please visit “Employment Opportunities” on the bottom of the archdiocesan website for more information or to apply.

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.

Executive director of resources - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth (SCL) seek an executive director of resources to provide strategic, mission-driven leadership for the congregation’s operational, financial and organizational resource management. This full-time, onsite position works closely with the SCL leadership team and collaborates with the executive directors of communal life and mission to steward the resources necessary to advance the SCL mission and implement the current chapter directional statement. Resume and cover letter required. The executive director oversees finance, facilities, campus operations, information technology, and selected human resources functions, ensuring operational excellence, regulatory compliance, and alignment with Catholic social teaching. Qualified candidates will have a bachelor’s degree (advanced degree strongly preferred), at least seven years of strategic leadership experience across operations or related disciplines, and a proven track record of team supervision and organizational management. To apply and view full details, please visit https://www. scls.org/employees.

Administrative assistant - The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas, a 501(c)3 organization affiliated with the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, is seeking an administrative assistant. This position provides administrative, clerical and operational support to CFNEK, working under the guidance and direction of the executive director and the management team to accomplish the mission of the foundation. This is a full-time, 40 hours per week, in-office position. May occasionally work evenings and weekends as needed. Please visit the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas website for more information or to apply at: www. cfnek.org.

Director of justice, peace and integrity of creation

- The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth (SCL) seek a Director of Justice, Peace, and Integrity of Creation (JPIC) to provide strategic, mission-focused leadership for the congregation’s justice ministry. This full-time, onsite role leads long-term justice priorities, supervises the JPIC team, and represents the congregation in advocacy and partnership efforts. Resume and cover letter required. Qualified candidates will have a bachelor’s degree (master’s preferred), at least seven years of experience in justice ministry, advocacy, community organizing, or similar mission-driven work, and strong strategic leadership, communication and relationship-building skills. To apply and view full details, please visit: https://www.scls.org/employees.

Director of facilities - St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, is seeking a full-time director of facilities to oversee and manage our parish campus. This leadership role is responsible for ensuring the effective operation, maintenance, and safety of our 20-acre campus, which includes seven buildings, a football field, a track, and related facilities. A successful candidate should be Catholic, with strong relationship skills and the ability to work in a collaborative setting. Interested applicants should submit a resume to: mthomas@stjoeshawnee. org or call (913) 248-4562 for more information.

Preschool teacher - St. Joseph Catholic Early Education Center in Shawnee is seeking a full-time preschool teacher to provide a safe, nurturing and faith-filled classroom environment. The ideal candidate will support the spiritual, academic and social development of preschool-aged children while working collaboratively with staff and families. Interested applicants should submit a resume to: mthomas@stjoeshawnee.org or call (913) 248-4562 for more information.

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 pregnancy- related 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.

Mission and development coordinator - Santa Marta, a premier Catholic life plan community in Olathe, is seeking a mission and development coordinator to advance our mission of service, compassion, and stewardship. This role leads meaningful service initiatives, volunteer engagement and fundraising efforts that strengthen connections among residents, families, associates and the wider community. Ideal candidates bring strong relationship-building skills, fundraising experience and a passion for serving older adults. Bachelor’s degree required; Catholic preferred. Visit: santamartaretirement.com, click “Careers,” then “View job postings” for more information or to apply.

Teachers - Nativity Parish School (Leawood) is seeking full-time teachers for the 2026-27 school year: fourthgrade, fifth-grade, middle school math, and middle school science. Interested applicants should email principal Luke Jennison at: luke.jennison@kc nativity. 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.

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.

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.

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. Apply and view the full job ad at: https://www. scls.org/employees.

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.

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.

ELA specialist - Queen of the Holy Rosary Wea School seeks an ELA specialist to support instruction and student growth. Please send resume to: info@ qhrwea.org or call (913) 533-2462.

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.

Father and Son Home Remodeling - We specialize in kitchen/bathroom and basement remodeling, from start to finish. We also do decks, covered decks, porches, sunrooms 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.

SERVICES

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

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ORDER OF MALTA HEALING MASS

St. Michael the Archangel Church 14201 Nall Ave., Leawood March 21 at 10 a.m.

Celebrants will be Archbishop Shawn McKnight and Bishop James V. Johnston Jr. The anointing of the sick in both dioceses will be administered to Catholics whose health is seriously impaired by illness or old age. All are invited to participate. The sacrament of reconciliation will be from 9 - 9:45 a.m. A reception will follow Mass. Send questions by email to: maltakc@ yahoo.com.

WOMEN’S SALESIAN REFLECTION

Church of the Nativity (Magi Room)

3800 W. 119th St., Leawood March 21 from 9 to 11 a.m.

Reflect with the Society of the Daughters of St. Francis de Sales as we share meditations on “Salesian Balance” in the tradition of Salesian spirituality after 8:15 a.m. Mass. All materials are provided, and coffee and light refreshments will be served. To attend, contact Barbara at (816) 535-4531 or send an email to: willabird1960@gmail.com. For more info, go online to: sfdsassociation.org.

HEARTACHE TO HEALING

Church of the Ascension (St. John room)

9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park

March 24 at 6:30 p.m.

Join our social support group for those widowed early in life. Please bring a snack or drink to share and your favorite game. We will play games and get to know each other as we walk this road together. Come join the fun. Your emailed RSVP is appreciated, but not necessary, to Laura at: khaeus1@hotmail.com.

WILLS AND TRUSTS WORKSHOP

Sacred Heart of Jesus Church

5501 Monticello Rd., Shawnee

March 25 from 6 to 7:30 p.m.

The speaker is Casey Connealy, of Gaughan & Connealy. Refreshments and social precede the wills and trusts presentation. Enter near the eucharistic adoration chapel doors on the north side of the church. Register online at: www.cfnek.org/events or contact Greg at (913) 647-0365 or by email at: galejos@arch kck.org.

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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.

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.

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.

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.

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

Landscaping Design or Renovate!

Light tree trimming/gutters Fall cleanup/leaf removal

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

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.

Popcorn ceiling texture removal

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

“THE WELL” EVENT

Holy Trinity Church

13615 W. 92nd St., Lenexa

March 25 from 7 to 9:30 p.m.

“The Well” engages the imagination and the senses for a revival with live music by Mike Mangione and the dynamic presentation of Christopher West. To purchase tickets, visit: aftontickets.com/TheWellLenexa.

2026 DEO GRATIAS DINNER

Holy Trinity Church

13615 W. 92nd St., Lenexa

March 26 from 5:30 to 8:30 p.m.

The evening starts with Mass with Archbishop McKnight, followed by a dinner and program at the Father Quigley Faith Formation Center across the street. Register online at: cfnek.org/events/deogratias.

WIDOW AND WIDOWERS POTLUCK

Most Pure Heart of Mary Parish

(Culhane Room)

3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka

March 26 from 5 to 7 p.m.

The Christian Widows and Widowers Organization is hosting a potluck dinner. Bring a covered dish or dessert. There will be quarter bingo after dinner. There is no cost to attend. For information, text Gen at (785) 230-2473.

HOLY WEEK SILENT RETREAT

Christ’s Peace House of Prayer

22131 Meagher Rd., Easton

March 27 to 29

Enter Holy Week in profound silence and contemplate the passion of Christ through the witness of the Shroud of Turin. This retreat invites you to remain close to Jesus in his suffering, behold the mystery of redemption and open your heart to the transforming love revealed in his wounds. Cabins/courtyard rooms are $180; single: $270; couple or single guest rooms: $110 (meals included). Fill out the individual retreat form online at: ChristsPeace.com or call (913) 773-8255.

A CAPPELLA TENEBRAE SERVICE

Holy Trinity Church (Stone Chapel)

9130 Pflumm Rd., Lenexa

March 31 at 7:30 p.m.

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

Double A’s Lawn Service

Mowing, Mulch, Gutters, Leaf Cleanup, Debris Removal & Brush Trimming Free Estimates & Insured Alex Spoerre (913) 488-5195

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.

CAREGIVING

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.

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 - PAYING CASH

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

St. James Academy’s a cappella choir will offer its yearly candlelit Tenebrae Service that offers a series of readings, each followed by a musical selection for meditation, and is an excellent accompaniment to your Holy Week experience.

MEN’S WELCOME BREAKFAST

St. Michael the Archangel Church

14251 Nall Ave., Leawood April 9 at 6:40 a.m.

A complimentary breakfast will be provided by the Knights of Columbus after the 6:40 a.m. Mass. Msgr. Stuart Swetland will speak on merciful love versus righteous judgment, understanding mercy in the midst of suffering and practical ways to redirect anger and transform loss into peace, understanding and joy.

CATHOLIC CHALLENGE SOFTBALL

Macken Park

1002 Clark Ferguson Dr., North Kansas City, Missouri

April 10

All young adults are welcome to join us for faith, community and sports. Softball will be a six-week season from April 24 to May 29 with double-headers. Games will be played on Friday nights. Cost is $45 per person. Sign-ups close April 10. For sign-ups and other information, visit: www.kansascityonahill.org/CCS.

HEART OF MERCY RETREAT

Christ’s Peace House of Prayer

22131 Meagher Rd., Easton

April 10 to 12

Celebrate Divine Mercy Sunday by entering deeply into the mystery of Christ’s limitless compassion. Cabins/courtyard rooms: $180; single/$270; couple or single guest rooms: $110 (meals included). Fill out the individual retreat form at: ChristsPeace. com or call (913) 773-8255.

TRAVELING OUR LADY OF FATIMA

Various metro-area parishes

April 10 to 28

The International Pilgrim Virgin Statue of Our Lady of Fatima, which has been traveling globally since 1947, is the primary way in which the Fatima message was spread throughout the world, after World War II. The statue will stop at several parishes in

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. 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.

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.

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.

FOR SALE

For sale - Single crypt in Resurrection Cemetery, Prince of Peace mausoleum, Assumption patio, tier D, crypt 3B. $4,000 includes conveyance fee. Contact Tom at (913) 702-4472.

the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas and the Diocese of Kansas City-St. Joseph. For locations and more information, visit: www.fatimatourforpeace.com/tours.

SPECIAL NEEDS DINNER AND DANCE

Church of the Ascension (parish hall)

9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park

April 11 from 6 to 9 p.m.

Adults 18+, their parents or caretakers are invited to connect with other adults in the archdiocese, eat a Rosati’s Italian dinner, dance and participate in other activities. $7 to attend. Casual attire. RSVP by April 3.

“ARSENIC AND OLD LACE” PLAY

Maur Hill-Mount Academy 1000 Green St., Atchison

April 9 and 11 at 7 p.m.

April 12 at 2 p.m.

Maur Hill-Mount Academy presents “Arsenic and Old Lace” by Joseph Kesselring. Full of laughs, suspense and surprises, this show will have you on the edge of your seat and then rolling in the aisles. Tickets are $5 and available at the door. For more information, call (913) 367-5482.

THEOLOGY OF DATING EVENT

St. Pius X Church

5500 Woodson Rd., Mission

April 15 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m.

Join us for a potluck meal followed by a presentation on how to navigate dating struggles. Come meet new people, socialize and get practical dating tips from a Catholic perspective. Questions: katie@ findingadamfindingeve.com. More info: https://findingadamfindingeve.com.

DIVORCE SUPPORT GROUP

Holy Spirit Church

11300 103rd St., Overland Park

Third Saturdays from 6 to 8 p.m.

Divorce isn’t the end of your story. Join us for formation and community to prepare you for what is next. Make new friends and get tips for healing and hope. Questions can be sent to: katie@thecall2love.com. For more information, go to: https://www. thecall2love.com/called-to-love-again.

For sale - Looking for something special for first Communion? Selling handmade first Communion outfits for 18” or American Girl dolls. Includes dress, veil, tights, shoes and cross necklace for $40. Taking orders now. Email Patty at: Wwelch4@kc.rr.com or text (913) 620-4581. Home phone: (913) 345-9498. Please say when the first Communion will take place.

For sale - Resurrection Cemetery double lawn crypt. Faith lawn, section B, lot 12, plots 2A and 2B. Includes lots, vaults and markers. Original selling price is $12,752. Price negotiable. Call (913) 649-6571. 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 $10,250 (includes transfer fee). Contact Kristen (913) 645-3428.

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.

DAILY READINGS

FIFTH WEEK OF LENT

March 22

FIFTH SUNDAY OF LENT

Ez 37: 12-14

Ps 130: 1-8

Rom 8: 8-11

Jn 11: 1-45

March 23

Turibius of Mogrovejo,

bishop

Dn 13: 1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62

Ps 23: 1-6

Jn 8: 1-11

March 24

Tuesday

Nm 21: 4-9

Ps 102: 2-3, 16-21

Jn 8: 21-30

March 25

THE ANNUNCIATION OF THE LORD

Is 7: 10-14; 8: 10

Ps 40: 7-11

Heb 10: 4-10

Lk 1: 26-38

March 26

Thursday

Gn 17: 3-9

Ps 105: 4-9

Jn 8: 51-59

March 27

Friday

Jer 20: 10-13

Ps 18: 2-7

Jn 10: 31-42

March 28

Saturday

Ez 37: 21-28

(Ps) Jer 31: 10-12d, 13

Jn 11: 45-56

BERTHOLD

died c. 1195

Not much is known about this hermit who is considered by some historians to be the founder of the order of Carmelite friars. Various legends had him born in Limoges, France, educated at the University of Paris, and participating in the Crusades in Turkey. What is known is that he directed a group of Frankish hermits living on Mount Carmel in Palestine in the second half of the 12th century. The existence on Mount Carmel of a church and hermitage in the spiritual tradition of the prophet Elijah is documented from 1163 on.

After Berthold’s death, the hermits were led by another Frenchman, St. Brocard; Carmelite houses became wellestablished throughout Europe by 1300.

Church’s unity comes from faith in Christ

By Josephine Peterson OSV News

VATICAN CITY (CNS) —

The Catholic Church is made up of diverse people who are united by their faith in Christ and are called to welcome all of humanity, Pope Leo XIV said during his weekly general audience.

“Its unifying principle is not a language, a culture, an ethnicity, but faith in Christ,” he said in St. Peter’s Square March 11.

Continuing his series of reflections on the Second Vatican Council, the pope focused on the Dogmatic Constitution “Lumen Gentium,” which describes the church as the “People of God.”

The church is the assembly of “all those who in faith look upon Jesus,” he said, united not by nationality or culture but by their shared faith in Christ.

Pope Leo said this understanding is rooted in the Bible, pointing to God’s covenant

IIT IS A GREAT SIGN OF HOPE . . . TO KNOW THAT THE CHURCH IS A PEOPLE IN WHICH WOMEN AND MEN OF DIFFERENT NATIONALITIES, LANGUAGES AND CULTURES LIVE TOGETHER IN FAITH.

with Abraham and the people of Israel, which

prepared the way for the new covenant established through the death and resurrection of Jesus.

The pope said love is the law that governs relationships within the church, as believers receive and experience it through Jesus. Through Christ, believers from every nation are united in faith, he said. The church is the people of God who “draw their existence from the body of Christ and who are themselves the body of Christ.”

Rather than turning inward, the pope said, the church must remain open to everyone.

“Unified in Christ,

Lord and Savior of every man and woman, the church can never turn inwards on herself, but is open to everyone and is for everyone,” he said.

In a world marked by conflict and division, Pope Leo added, the diversity of the church is a sign of hope.

“It is a great sign of hope — especially in our times, marked by so many conflicts and wars — to know that the church is a people in which women and men of different nationalities, languages and cultures live together in faith,” he said.

Before greeting Italian-speakers, the pope said he was close to the Lebanese people “in this moment of grave trial,” following the death of Father Pierre El-Raii. The Maronite priest was killed in an Israeli bombing of southern Lebanon March 9. The pope said his funeral was to be held March 11 in Al-Qlayaa, a Christian village.

“In Arabic, ‘El Raii’

means shepherd. Father Pierre was a true shepherd who always remained close to his people with the love and sacrifice of Jesus, the Good Shepherd,” he said in Italian. “As soon as he heard that some parishioners had been wounded in a bombing, without hesitation, he ran to help them.”

Before the audience, Pope Leo met privately with Cardinal Dominique J. Mathieu, Archbishop of Tehran and Isfahan, Iran. The Belgian cardinal, who is a member of the Franciscans, arrived in Rome March 8 after being evacuated along with every member of the Italian Embassy, where he is based.

During the general audience, Pope Leo asked for prayers of peace in Iran and throughout the Middle East, above all for the many civilian victims and innocent children.

“May our prayer be a comfort to those who suffer and a seed of hope for the future,” he said.

Story of Lazarus speaks to our own transformation

t is the seventh of John’s seven signs, the resurrection of Lazarus from the dead. It is a sign that at once tells us about Jesus and ourselves, that he is the resurrection and the life and that such is our destiny. That is, for those of us who believe.

As with any masterpiece, it’s a story to be discerned from many angles. Within the drama of John itself, for instance, the miracle of Lazarus is the controversy which pushes the plot toward the Passion; for after this, John tells us, “the Pharisees gathered the council, and said, ‘What are we to do?’” (Jn 11:47). That is, the story points us to Palm Sunday and to the Triduum; it alerts us that the tragedy is soon to unfold.

Mystagogically we can also read this story, again recalling the ancient scrutinies, as a parable of the catechumen’s journey toward baptism. Desiring the living water of God, receiving the light and sight of faith in Christ, now in death the Christian, the beloved of

Father Joshua J. Whitfield is pastor of St. Rita Catholic Community in Dallas and author of “The Crisis of Bad Preaching” and other books.

Jesus, receives resurrected life.

All these stories work as a symbol not only of baptism and life in Christ but of the future transformation of one’s earthly death into the gift of eternal life. That is, the Samaritan woman is us; the man born blind is us; Lazarus too is us.

This is also a story about the fulfillment of Christ, about how Jesus proves the truth of his words, the truth of who he is, by his deeds. “I am the light of

the world,” Jesus says, and then in short order he gives the man born blind the light of sight (Jn 8:12; 9:5). “I am the resurrection and the life,” Jesus says, and then not long after that he shouts, “Lazarus, come out” (Jn 11:25; 43). What he is he accomplishes; the signs testify. He is the Messiah. He is light and life. Which brings us to consider a spiritual truth. Jesus is resurrection and life; he is light too. That much is clear from what we have read of John’s Gospel thus far. But what’s beautiful is that the way we draw near to resurrection and life and light is by drawing near to Jesus, by loving him, by becoming his friend. Christianity is not some esoteric cult, some cold pure intellectual philosophy; rather, it’s humble friendship with God. It’s simply knowing and loving Jesus enough such that you can recognize his voice even from the grave.

The resurrection of Lazarus proves what Jesus said earlier in John’s Gospel. Arguing

earlier in Jerusalem, Jesus said, “the hour is coming, and now is, when the dead will hear the voice of the Son of God, and those who hear will live” (Jn 5:25).

That’s why when Jesus heard of Lazarus’ death, he said that it was meant “for the glory of God, so that the Son of God may be glorified by means of it” (Jn 11:4). Because Jesus knew what he would do, that he would call his friend out from the darkness of the tomb into the light of life.

Again, because Jesus and Lazarus were friends. Repeatedly in this story the love between Jesus and Lazarus is underlined; that’s not an accident.

“See how he loved him!” the onlookers say (Jn 11:36). In fact, over the years many scholars have wondered if Lazarus might have been the mysterious “Beloved Disciple,” but that’s beside the point.

Rather, what matters is that what we see in John 11 is closer to what St. Thomas Aquinas put very simply, and that is that the perfec-

tion of charity is man’s friendship with God. Which, again very simply, is a friendship possible for each of us. Are you close enough to Jesus that it makes sense for him to attend your funeral? That’s another way to put it. We attend the funerals of friends and acquaintances; sometimes we are close to the deceased while at other times we’re merely paying our respects. Family and close friends we honor and console. Who first received the news? Who needs to be there? These are questions of friendship. Who were the dead man’s friends? If you were the deceased in question, where would Jesus fit into your funeral? Are you his friend? Is he yours? A close friend?

A mere acquaintance? A fruitful meditation, maybe that’s a good way to pray about it. For I don’t know about you, but I want Jesus to attend my funeral, to call my name in the graveyard. Because I know what it did for Lazarus. I believe what it can do for me.

HHoly Week liturgies invite us into a very human story

oly Week is soon upon us. And so, speaking for myself . . .

I am the crowds of Palm Sunday, for I have, within the same hour, both hailed Him and rejected Him.

I am Simon the Zealot, for I have valued Him from the vantage of politics.

I am Judas, for I have sold Him, when the price was right.

I am Peter, for I have boasted a loyalty to Him that he knew was hollow.

I am the Twelve, for I have abandoned Him.

I am the temple guards, for I have bound Him.

AS THE CHURCH PRAYS

MICHAEL PODREBARAC

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

I am Caiaphas, for I have judged Him out of spite and envy.

I am Peter, for I have denied Him, again and again, out of fear and the quest for self-preservation.

I am Peter, for I have wept bitterly over my denial of Him.

I am Pilate, for I have questioned Him, mocking the concept

of truth.

I am Herod, for I have dismissed Him as a faker.

I am the Roman soldiers, for I have mocked Him, degraded him, and bruised him by my willful folly.

I am the chief priests, for I have claimed no king but Caesar.

I am Barabbas, for I have been chosen over Him by others, their champion of insurrection.

I am Simon the Cyrene, for I have been tasked to bear His cross.

I am the crucifiers, for I have been pleaded for by Him for not knowing what I was

doing.

I am the first thief, for I have selfishly tempted Him to prove himself.

I am the second thief, for I have confessed Him, and have begged him to remember me.

I am John, for I have been assigned devotion to His mother.

I am Judas, for I have despaired His love, and chosen to be my own reference point.

I am the centurion, for I have acknowledged him as the Son of God.

I am Joseph of Arimathea and Nicodemus, for I have begged His body.

I am Magdalene, for I have heard Him speak my name.

I am the disciples, locked behind doors, for I have isolated myself in fear and shame.

I am Peter and John, for I have run to Him with intrigue.

I am the disciples, for, despite locked doors, I have seen Him risen and bidding me his peace.

I am each of these, for I have been loved by Him, who gave Himself for me.

May your participation in the liturgies of Holy Week remind you of who, and just how loved, you are.

Catholics who love America must stand against a post-truth world

The French have a saying, “C’est moche, mais ça marche”; which translates to, “It’s ugly but it works.” It’s used ironically as an apology for solutions incongruous with ideology. Historically, Americans have distinguished themselves from other nations by our preference for the pragmatic over the ideological. We focused more on what needs to get done than on how it gets done by making space for compromise. Yet, now it seems that we as a people are losing this ability.

A key ingredient is missing in the “E

DO UNTO OTHERS

In the Gospel, some of the most powerful moments begin with a simple act of trust. One of those moments unfolds along the shore of the Sea of Galilee in the Gospel of Luke 5:1-11.

I recently had the opportunity to attend a Catholic philanthropy conference where a close priest friend shared a reflection on the quiet power of legacy and the importance of honoring a donor’s deepest desires in the work of Catholic philanthropy.

He began with this Gospel account. After a long night of fishing

Deacon Scholl is the archdiocesan consultant for social justice. You can email him at: socialjustice@archkck.org.

Pluribus Unum” (“Out of many, one)” secret sauce that for 200 years enabled us to

be one nation despite our different ethnicities and creeds. The problem, in a nutshell, is that because we now spend most of our attention online, our news, information and entertainment are algorithmically manipulated to corral us unawares into ideological enclaves.

This segregation is not a bug; it’s a feature. The solution can be found in one of the four pastoral pillars of “Evangelii Gaudium”: “Realities are more important than ideas.”

Catholic social teaching is a Christian framework for thinking about and solving social problems, which draws from the teachings of Jesus and the lived experience of Scripture and human history.

The Body of Christ relates to the world like a good husband relates to his wife: mostly listening, responding with action, and occasionally speaking up when the moment arises. Such a moment happened when the

Magisterium promulgated the apostolic exhortation “Evangelli Gaudium” (“The Joy of the Gospel”).

While it’s not exclusively a Catholic social teaching, it lays out four pillars for achieving the common good and peace in society (para. 217-237).

These principles are: 1. Time is greater than space: Focus on long-term processes rather than shortterm results. 2. Unity prevails over conflict: Seek communion rather than divisiveness.

3. Realities are more important than ideas: Address concrete, lived situations rather than abstract doctrines. 4. The whole is

The quiet power of legacy

FACILITATING CATHOLIC GIVING

with nothing to show for their efforts, Jesus tells Simon Peter to put

out into the deep and lower the nets once again. Peter replies that they have worked all night without success. Yet trusting the Lord’s word, they obey. What follows is abundance. The nets fill with so many fish

that Peter and his companions must signal to another boat to come and help.

It is a powerful image of the church. The mission of Christ is never meant for one person alone; it takes all of us working together to bring in the catch.

My priest friend illustrated this beautifully with a story about his uncle, who passed away recently at the age of 96. His uncle had lived a quiet and faithful life as a bachelor. In the last years of his life, he told Father, “God has been so good to me. I want to give it away

before I die.”

As they talked about possible causes, his uncle shared that while many people supported their parish, he felt drawn to help children in Africa. Father connected him with Benedictine Sisters who operate schools and clinics there and shared their mission with him.

About a month later, Father received a notice from the Sisters who had recently opened a letter from his uncle. Inside was a very large check and a simple note that read: “Build a school.”

A quiet gift. A pro-

greater than the part: Balance local concerns with the global. Reality is more important than ideas. How many of our problems right now in America are coming from a refusal to acknowledge reality when facts don’t comport with ideologies? As Catholic Christians who also love America, we must stand against a posttruth world by praying for the “eyes that see and ears that hear” (Mt. 13.16) and challenge our countrymen to attend to what actually happens as opposed to how we think it should. Otherwise, it will only get more ugly.

found impact. At the Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas, we are honored to help families and individuals direct their generosity in ways that reflect their faith and their hopes for the future of the church. Like the fishermen in the Gospel who called the other boat to help bring in the nets, we are all invited to take part in Christ’s mission.

And when we trust the Lord enough to “put out into the deep,” the catch can be far greater than we could ever imagine.

5 things to know about the sacrament of reconciliation

By OSV News

Looking around at the evil and suffering we encounter on our screens, in our communities, in our families and even staring back at us in the mirror, it can be difficult to believe that Christ came 2,000 years ago to heal our world.

We sure don’t look redeemed.

The tension between sin and reconciliation, though, is at the heart of the mission of the Catholic Church. Christ told his apostles to teach “repentance and forgiveness of sins,” and he empowered them to be ministers of God’s mercy. It is carried on today in the sacrament of reconciliation.

Here are five things you might not know, others you once learned but perhaps forgot, and inspiration to recommit daily to seeking closer friendship with God through repentance and fighting sin, wherever it is found.

1. Jesus instituted the sacrament of penance when he appeared to the apostles on Easter Sunday night. In the Gospel of John, Jesus breathes on the apostles and tells them, “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained” (20:22-23).

2. The sacrament of penance looked a lot different in the early church. In St. Paul’s writings (for example, 1 Cor 5:3-5; 2 Cor 2:7-11), we see the apostles’ role in placing sinners under bans of excommunication and then reconciling them. It also seems there was an initial custom of public confession of sins, but that seems to have ended early on. By the fifth century, church leaders actively discouraged the practice.

In some regions, it was common for people guilty of serious sins (like apostasy, adultery or murder) to be enrolled as “public penitents,” meaning they dressed in sackcloth and ashes and performed prescribed penances and almsgiving. They then would be reconciled publicly with the church on the Thursday before Easter.

3. We owe it to Irish monks for several innovations that led to the

practice of the sacrament of penance as we recognize it today. They formalized the practice of confession of sins made privately to a priest, and under a seal of secrecy, and absolution was granted before penance, usually also private, was performed. This Celtic practice of immediate absolution became very popular and was spread throughout Europe through the Irish monks’ missionary endeavors.

4. During the Middle Ages, theologians all recognized penance as a sacrament of the church, but disagreed on fine points like whether forgiveness came about through the grace of the person’s sorrow, or through the grace of the priest’s absolution. St. Thomas Aquinas, using scholastic terms, defined the “matter” of the sacrament as the penitent’s sorrow, and the “form” as the priest’s absolution.

The second Council of Lyons, France, in 1274 formally defined penance as a sacrament.

But it was the Council of Trent, Italy, in the mid-16th century that really made extensive clarifications to the sacrament. It devoted some nine chapters and 15 canons on sin and penance. The Second Vatican Council also dwelled on the sacrament, emphasizing its healing nature.

5. Why do we use both “reconciliation” and “penance” to describe the sacrament? Reconciliation and penance are two different aspects of the sacrament. Reconciliation refers primarily to the process by which someone who is in serious sin returns to the full communion of the church through confession and absolution.

Penance refers to the process by which someone who is guilty of lesser sins and who has not broken communion with the church through mortal sin continues his or her life in the church by spiritual growth and conversion via sacramental confession.

This distinction between reconciliation and penance also serves to orient people as they prepare for the sacrament. (The Catechism also refers to it as the “sacrament of forgiveness” and the “sacrament of conversion.”