08 21 26 Vol. 48 No. 4 by The Leaven

THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 48, NO. 4 | AUGUST 21, 2026

BACKPACKS, BELLS AND BEGINNINGS

chool is back in session! The Leaven visited several schools across the archdiocese to capture the sights and sounds of the first day. See even more photos and videos on our Facebook and Instagram pages @TheLeavenKC. Photos continue on pages 8 and 9.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY GREG MULLINAX

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Photos clockwise from top: n Good Shepherd School in Shawnee kicked off its school year on Aug. 14. Second graders Olivia Plagge and Silas Miller-Mott prepare for the school day to begin. n Kindergarten teacher Mariah Dalsing, of St. Rose Philippine Duchesne School in Garnett, gets a warm welcome from her niece Lennon Wolken on the first day of school. In the background are pre-kindergartner Makenna Hermreck and first grader Deacon Hermreck. n Araly Amaya Dominguez gives her daughter Arianna Araly Moreno-Amaya a kiss goodbye as she starts first grade at Our Lady of Unity School in Kansas City, Kansas. n Hayden High School, Topeka, freshman Diego Luna gives his mother Cristina a big hug before being escorted into the school for freshman orientation.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY TODD HABIGER

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

2 LOCAL NEWS

AUGUST 21, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG

ARCHBISHOP MCKNIGHT Aug. 23 Mass and pastoral visitation — Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church, St. Marys Aug. 26 Mass of the Holy Spirit— Rockhurst High School, Kansas City, Missouri Meeting with the archdiocesan finance council — chancery Aug. 27 Convocation Mass of the Holy Spirit — Donnelly College, Kansas City, Kansas Aug. 30 Concelebration of Mass with Abbatial Blessing of The Rt. Reverend Paul Sheller, OSB, by Bishop James V. Johnston, Jr. — Conception Abbey, Missouri

COURTESY PHOTO

Maryann Traxler, center, performed as Elsa in the Coaterie’s local production of “Frozen” this past July — and she did so while six months pregnant with her first child.

‘Frozen’ star demonstrates that ‘God is so pro-our dreams’ By Catherine Halbmaier Special to The Leaven

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Maryann Traxler was “on a train with no intention of stopping” when the COVID-19 pandemic forced her to move home in 2020. Traxler, a professional actress, grew up a member of Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe. Following high school, she spent two years pursuing her dream career in New York City, followed by almost three years performing on cruise ships. This July, Traxler performed as Elsa in the Coaterie’s local production of “Frozen” — and she did so while six months pregnant with her first child. “I was hopeful that, though it was difficult and vulnerable for me, it would be really powerful for other people to see,” said Traxler.

Believing in God’s abundance Traxler’s most recent role is just the tip of the iceberg. She had no plans to stay in Kansas City post-pandemic. That changed when she met her future husband on a dating app. “I knew that we were both headed for marriage,” said Traxler. “We were both so passionate about vocation.” Traxler said her excitement to be married was at times tinted by anxiety. “It was a very scary time for me,” she said.

“I experienced so much spiritual attack that [marriage] would mean no more theater, no more New York City, no more performing professionally,” she continued. Then, God turned everything on its head. “I had kind of fallen under the belief that I think many young performers do — that we can’t do both. We can’t both be married and have a career that we love,” she said. But the Lord’s plans, and her husband’s unwavering support, proved that this belief was not reality. Once settled and married in Kansas City, Traxler’s career began to thrive in an unprecedented way. “I was working more than I had before,” she said, “but in a way that felt really fulfilling for my soul because I returned home to my husband and my family. “It completely transformed my belief of how I could be both a performer, and a wife and a mother.”

Becoming Elsa — and a mother The biggest news of Traxler’s career came three days after the biggest news of her life. “I probably would have wept about getting Elsa had I not found out I was pregnant three days before,” Traxler said. “But everything paled in comparison at that point,” she added. In light of her pregnancy, Traxler worried the director would feel differently about giving her the part of an iconic Disney character. “I had never seen a pregnant

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person play a role like this,” she said, “and I had hardly experienced people living their Catholic faith authentically and performing in theater, let alone somebody that’s pregnant. So, I just was like, what is the rubric for this?” But Traxler’s director, a mother herself, encouraged the actress. “I was kind of struggling,” said Traxler. “Some people may be able to tell in this dress that I’m carrying a child. Like, is this okay? And [the director] looked at me and she said, ‘This is the time that you will be the most creative in your life . . . and have the most access to depth and emotion, and you will tell this story more beautifully now than you ever would have before.’ “And that’s been a beautiful journey because I found that to be absolutely true.” Because of this experience, Traxler now believes motherhood will enable her to perform in ways she never would have before. “The Lord has just been demolishing any insecurity, any lies and old, buried beliefs that he doesn’t desire to fulfill us if we are willing to lay it all down for him,” she said. Through living out her career and vocation, Traxler has found that the Lord desires to transform us into the creation we were always meant to be. “God is so pro-our dreams and what is best for us,” said Traxler. “He loves us so much that we don’t have to shove all these other things aside. “And we don’t have to shove vocation aside to be a part of society in a really big, beautiful way.”

ARCHBISHOP EMERITUS NAUMANN Aug. 25 National Center for Healthcare Leadership board meeting Sept. 1 Pro-life Committee meeting Sept. 3 RAAP leadership board meeting

Benedictine hires new director of Center for Family Life

TCHISON — Father Stefan Zarnay, DCJM, has joined Benedictine College’s Center for Family Life here as its new director. Father Stefan is a member of the Disciples of the Hearts of Jesus and Mary. Ordained in 2018, he most recently served as rector of Casa Benedetto XVI in Rome and academic director of the Karol Wojtyla Academy in Slovakia. Father Stefan Find out more about the Center Zarnay, DCJM for Family Life and its activities at: Benedictine.edu/FamilyLife.

USM announces new provost and VP for academic affairs

EAVENWORTH — The University of Saint Mary has named Nicole Hess-Escalante as the new provost and vice president for academic affairs. Hess-Escalante formerly served as USM’s associate vice president for academics. In her new role, Hess-Escalante will be responsible for leading academic programs and overseeing all forms of curricular activities through strategic planning and curriculum development. She first began at the university in 2015 as an assistant professor and served as a program director of business administration, associate professor of business administration and division chair for business and information technologies.

LOCAL NEWS 3

AUGUST 21, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG

FAITH FEEDS COMMUNITY

Tonganoxie sandwich ministry nourishes local kids By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

ONGANOXIE — When local businesses and churches learned that some children here might go hungry this summer, they responded together. Father Mark Goldasich, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish in Tonganoxie, wasn’t surprised his own parishioners stepped up in a big way. “They see it as living out their faith,” said Father Goldasich. “They come [to Mass] on Sunday, and we talk about how we need to feed the hungry and clothe the naked and give drink to the thirsty.” The need arose when the local public school was no longer able to provide meals for children during the summer months. “When they first had this meeting in May at the library asking for help, it was pretty cool to see so many people show up to that,” said Jennifer Eastes, director of religious education at Sacred Heart. “I think every church in town was probably represented, which was neat,” she continued. “Everybody wanted to help.” Sacred Heart and other local groups stepped in to help the Tonganoxie Public Library’s Chieftain Café, which offers after-school snacks to kids throughout the year. The groups provided the café with sandwiches, chips and drinks to serve children who would otherwise go hungry. “It’s really amazing for us that people — especially kids — would be hungry,” said Father Goldasich, “and that they would go to a refrigerator and there’d be nothing in there.” His parishioners donated the food items needed to do their part, and on Aug. 3, a dozen people formed an assembly line at the church to make sandwiches for the second time this summer. “We figured it isn’t gourmet — peanut butter and jelly sandwiches — but it’s more the thought that goes behind it and the love that goes behind it,” said Father Goldasich. Teri Morgan, a Sacred Heart parishioner for more than 30 years, was grateful for the opportunity to volunteer. “I think it’s really important that we help all generations within our community,” she said, “and especially the kiddos, making sure that they have lunches [when] they wouldn’t be able to otherwise. “It’s just really special to help.” Tonganoxie High School sophomore Ivan Franco was also excited to give back. “I wanted to volunteer and help and do my part,” said Franco. “It feels good giving back to my community and helping people that need it.” Father Goldasich is proud of his parishioners for their generosity. “I’m glad we stepped forward,” he said. “It speaks about how important we feel our faith is, but also that we want to reach out to those who are in need in some way, especially kids.”

Above, from left, Tuff Rush, Ivan Franco, Nancy Lanza, Father Mark Goldasich and Jennifer Eastes form an assembly line on Aug. 3 to make sandwiches for children in Tonganoxie who would otherwise go hungry. Left, Evan Breuer packs a peanut butter and jelly sandwich that will go to a child in need. Publisher Most Rev. Shawn McKnight

Publication No. (ISSN0194-9799) Published biweekly January through December. Address communications to: The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. Phone: (913) 721-1570; or email at: sub@theleaven.org. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, provide old and new address and parish. Subscriptions $27/ year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.

Interim Managing Editor Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org

Editor-in-Chief Marissa Easter measter@archkck.org

Senior Reporter/Social Media Editor Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

Editorial Assistant Olivia Martin-Davies olivia.martin@theleaven.org

4 LOCAL NEWS

AUGUST 21, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Sister Janice Steiger, SCL, dies on July 27

EAVENWORTH — Sister Janice Steiger, 88, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth for 68 years, died on July 27. Born on June 3, 1938, in Glenham, South Dakota, she was the fifth of 10 children of Albert and Elizabeth Steiger. Janice spent her childhood on a family farm west of Billings, Montana, after her family relocated from South Dakota. She attended a small two-room country school and became deeply involved in 4-H, where she developed a love of learning, service and practical skills. Even as a young girl, Janice sensed a desire to help others, imagining a future as either a teacher or a nurse. In time, God would call her to become both. During her high school years, Janice worked as a nurse’s aide at St. Vincent’s Hospital in Billings where she met Sister Mary Francine Stubbs, a Sister of Charity of Leavenworth. As she discerned God’s call, Sister Mary Francine encouraged her and helped guide her through the application process. Janice entered the Sisters of Charity community on Aug. 20, 1957. She received her habit on Feb. 20, 1958, and was given the name Sister Marie Alberta. She later returned to her baptismal name. Sister Janice began her ministry as an elementary school teacher, serving in Missouri, Wyoming and Montana. During those early years, she discovered a calling to healthcare while working as an activity director at St. John Hospital in Leavenworth. That experience inspired her to pursue a bachelor of science degree in occupational therapy from the University of Kansas. As an occupational therapist, Sister Janice spent many years at Providence Hospital in Kansas City, Kansas, eventually serving as supervisor of the occupational therapy department. She later brought her clinical expertise into home health through Catholic Charities in Kansas City, Missouri, where she combined professional care with compassionate accompaniment. Her ministry eventually evolved into pastoral service. After earning a master’s degree in Christian Spirituality from Creighton University, Sister Janice served as RCIA (now OCIA) coordinator, director of religious education, pastoral associate and pastoral care minister in Missouri, Montana, Kansas and Colorado. After her retirement, Sister Janice continued serving others as a personal care provider in Colorado before returning to the motherhouse in Leavenworth in 2013 for volunteer ministry.

Celebrate Constitution Week Sept. 17 to 23

SAWATOMIE — The Kansas Daughters of the American Revolution encourage everyone to fly their flag from Sept. 17 to 23 for Constitution Week in thanksgiving for the constitutional right to freedom of religion.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Chris Arth, archdiocesan general counsel, speaks to priests at a new workshop to help newly ordained and missionary priests become pastors. From left are: Father Aaron Waldeck, Father Colm Larkin, Father Sudeep Kodigandla, Father Dan Mauro, Father Timothy Skoch and Father Dan Morris.

Program helps priests become pastors By John Sorce Special to The Leaven

TCHISON — Priests are some of the most educated people around. Each one, at minimum, holds a master’s degree. And they’ll be the first to say there’s always more to learn, especially when it comes to parish life. Recognizing that reality, the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has launched a new program to equip priests with the necessary tools for leading a parish — from how to develop a synodal culture to managing finances. “The idea going forward is everybody will go through this two-year workshop of formation and preparation before they are allowed to be named a pastor of a parish or a parochial administrator,” said Father Dan Morris, director of seminarians for the archdiocese. The program took inspiration from the book “A Seminarian’s Toolbox: Preparing for Parish Leadership” edited by Patrick Stokely. “Each chapter is dedicated to a different aspect of leadership and authored by a different person in the field,” said Father Morris. “There are only so many years of seminary formation,” he continued, “and this helps the newly ordained receive the essential preparation in helping him succeed as a pastor.”

The first session of this program was held at Benedictine College in Atchison from July 19 to 24. Priests who have been ordained within the last five years and have been a priest for at least a year and missionary priests were present. It focused on identity, vision and mission; leadership, collaboration and pastoring in a synodal church; canonical and legal matters; human resources; and parish administration and finance. A second session will take place next July and will cover communications; risk management and prevention; Catholic and parish schools; parish operations; and managing the liturgical life of a parish. Father George Rhodes, parochial administrator of St. Francis Xavier in Burlington, St. Joseph in Waverly, St. Teresa in Westphalia and St. Patrick, Emerald, was ordained a priest in 2023 and assigned to those four parishes last fall. “It was an unusual time for a move, and I didn’t get the normal new pastor training, so I felt like I had a lot to learn,” said Father Rhodes. “I was glad to have an opportunity to have a lot of questions answered and learn a lot of other things I would not have otherwise known,” he added. The week included speakers from the chancery offices as well as Archbishop Shawn McKnight and Jim Lundholm-Eads, senior consultant at Leadership Roundtable. The goal was

to build confidence and competence in administrative and leadership roles during the first years of priesthood by learning from chancery, lay, and clergy experts. “We don’t know what we don’t know, so it’s healthy that they are speaking into all of these things and making us aware that they want to help us succeed as pastors,” said Father Morris. “Seminary laid the groundwork for being a diocesan priest and a spiritual father, but you can’t teach all of these things in seminary,” said Father Rhodes. “There are archdiocesan policies and practices that couldn’t be taught at a seminary where people are from different dioceses. “Both are needed, and I’m grateful for both.” Father Marcos Lopez, CS, is a missionary priest from Mexico who has been serving in the archdiocese for three years. He is the parochial administrator of Blessed Sacrament and Christ the King parishes in Kansas City, Kansas. “Now we have a map of the different services in our archdiocese,” said Father Marcos. “It’s beautiful to work together as priests, bishops and lay people in the synodal church like Archbishop McKnight is calling us.” “The hope is this will make us better able to serve our parishes and the people of them,” added Father Rhodes. “That’s the ultimate goal.”

AUGUST 21, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG

LOCAL NEWS 5

Educators urged to foster human dignity in the age of AI By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

EAWOOD — One antidote to concerns surrounding the rapid rise of AI sits at the heart of Catholic schools, according to Adam Kronk and Patrick Schmadeke. Their mission is to uphold the dignity of each student, which “we believe exists because they’re made of the image and likeness of God,” said Kronk, “and not because they’re very productive or very efficient.” That’s “the first, most primary, most important lens through which to look at the use of AI,” he said. Kronk is the director and Schmadeke the assistant network director, pastoral ministry, of the DELTA Network, which is part of the Institute for Ethics and the Common Good at the University of Notre Dame. They presented after the commissioning Mass for archdiocesan educators at St. Michael the Archangel Church in Leawood on Aug. 5. The Mass was celebrated by Archbishop Shawn McKnight, with priests from around the archdiocese concelebrating. During his homily, the archbishop posed a question: What makes a good teacher? “It’s teachers who know how to foster and form good relationships with their students — to learn how to teach in a way that is not only focused on the facts but of the growth of the human being,” he said. Many of the principals, teachers, counselors and chaplains in attendance heard from the new superintendent of archdiocesan schools, Dr. Erin Vader, for the first time following the Mass. She took the opportunity to uplift the educators in their work and counter the narrative often seen on social media apps like Instagram, which says teachers are victims who should be pitied. “I reject that narrative,” said Vader. “I reject it wholeheartedly as a teacher. “The teachers I know, the teachers I see, are superheroes. They make miracles out of nothing every day. They find that teeny, tiniest spark in a child and blow it up into a flame.” Vader said teachers have the unique opportunity to foster the dignity of their students — a theme highlighted by Kronk and Schmadeke. The pair referenced Pope Leo XIV’s first encyclical, “Magnifica Humanitas” (“Magnificent Humanity”), in which the word dignity appears 105 times.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Patrick Schmadeke, assistant network director, pastoral ministry, of the DELTA Network, speaks to educators from schools across the archdiocese at St. Michael the Archangel Church in Leawood on Aug. 5. He and DELTA Network director Adam Kronk presented following a commissioning Mass. And while AI can be a helpful tool, they said, it can’t replace the inimitable perspective of the learner. “Our vocation as teachers is not to download all of human knowledge into [a student’s] brain,” said Kronk, “but it’s to enable them to contribute their unique, new thing to the world.” Catholic school teachers can utilize the advancements in technology without making it the focal point of the mission, said Schmadeke. “Our culture is sort of a technocratic culture in many respects,” he said. “We are not exempt from the influences of culture just because we’re baptized. “And so, the hard work of prayer, the hard work of communal discernment, is to identify the ways in which that culture — that technocratic image of the human person — has invaded our own imaginaLEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER tions, and to replace that with [the misDr. Erin Vader, the new superintendent of archdiocesan schools, addresses the educators. She sion] Jesus is calling us to.” encouraged them to embrace the unique role they have in fostering the dignity of their students. The educators wrapped up the mornBoth emphasized the need for AI liter- ing by breaking out into small groups, They utilized the DELTA framework acy — to understand what it can and can’t where they discussed how the DELTA — dignity, embodiment, love, transcenframework might be integrated into be used for, like replacing the human dence and agency — to encourage educatheir school communities. relationship students experience in the tors to use technology in ways that don’t classroom. diminish human agency.

6 LOCAL NEWS

AUGUST 21, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Holy presence: Relics to have permanent place at Nativity By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org

EAWOOD — Relics of three of the most prominent figures in the Catholic Church will soon have a permanent home at Church of the Nativity here. “Our parish has been entrusted with the relics of three remarkable witnesses to Christ: St. John Paul II, St. Teresa of Calcutta and Blessed Michael McGivney,” said Father Jerry Volz, pastor of Nativity. “This gift is especially meaningful because these three holy people lived in our own time,” he continued, “and each witnessed Christ in a different way — through courageous leadership, loving service, priesthood, family and parish life.” The relics were on display in a reliquary during a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Shawn McKnight at Nativity on Aug. 13, the feast of Blessed McGivney, founder of the Knights of Columbus. Father Volz and Father Mike Hawken, vicar general and moderator of the curia and former Nativity pastor, concelebrated. Father Brent Stull, associate pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, was the master of ceremonies. Deacon Jim Mullin assisted. “For us Catholics, it’s very meaningful to have literal relics — pieces of those who lived such sanctified lives [and] great examples of the beatitudes,” said Archbishop McKnight during his homily. “What strikes me with each of the three saints is the example of strong leadership,” he continued, “which our church and our world so desperately need — authentic, genuine leadership.” The Mass included a Knights of Columbus honor guard and was followed by the opportunity to venerate the relics and a reception. Mementos provided by parishioner Karen Thompson, the daughter of Virgil Dechant, the Supreme Knight of the Knights of Columbus from 1977 to 2000, were available for viewing. “He would eventually have over 70 personal visits with now-St. John Paul II,” said Father Volz. A permanent cabinet for the relics within a wall of Nativity’s adoration chapel will be crafted by Ian Byrne, lead singer of the Irish band The Elders. Father Volz expects the project to be

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Three relics were on display during a Mass celebrated by Archbishop Shawn McKnight at Church of the Nativity in Leawood on Aug. 13. Father Brent Stull, left, was the master of ceremonies, and Father Jerry Volz and Father Mike Hawken, to the archbishop’s left, concelebrated.

More to come The relics are expected to be on permanent display by 2027. The Leaven will publish an article when they are available to venerate.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Tom Zarda venerates the relics of St. John Paul II, St. Teresa of Calcutta and Blessed Father Michael McGivney in a reliquary on display in Nativity’s adoration chapel Aug. 13. complete by 2027, and when it is, the relics will be available for public veneration.

Joe Falco, a member of the Nativity Knights, is excited to have a piece of Blessed McGivney at his parish.

ACROSS 1 Alter 5 Fill 9 Singing voice 13 Subdue 14 Saul, later 15 Luck o’ the __ 16 Son of Adam and Eve 17 Mined metals 18 Receiver of a gift 19 Biblical unit of length 21 Garden of __ 23 Soar 24 Good grief! 25 Sister of Leah 29 Sarcastic 30 Mr. Donahue 32 North American country 33 Biblical weeds 36 Resources 37 Long-term memory 38 University (abbr.) 39 Dye with wax 40 Run away 41 Move up and down 42 NT church leader 43 Where Jesus died 44 Sphere 45 Stare 46 Thai

47 49 50 53 55 57 60 62 63 64 65 66 67 68

“All the Knights in Kansas City will have a place to come,” said Falco. “It’ll be in our chapel, and we can sit there and have some quiet time and thank him for all that he’s done.” Father Volz hopes the relics will inspire those who visit Nativity. “Their presence at Nativity will be a tangible reminder of the communion of saints and of our own call to holiness,” he said. “The saints remind us that holiness is not reserved for another time, another place or another kind of person,” he added. “The same Christ who called them calls each of us.”

Smelly vegetables Movie 2001’s talking computer Advertisements Overlook nonbeliever Unripe Garner Covered stadium Expenditure KJV pronoun Double-reed instrument Prefix ten Trying Fasting season

DOWN 1 Workers 2 Capital of Afghanistan 3 Nail filing board 4 Healthy 5 Squishy 6 Expression of disgust 7 Day of the wk. 8 Otherwise 9 Rodeo bull 10 Old Testament city 11 Compass point 12 That girl 15 Utopian ideas 20 Belongs to us

22 26 27 28 29 30 31 33 34 35 36 39 40 42 43 46 48 49 50 51 52 54 56 57 58 59 61

Quaff Howdy Painter Richard Tinseled cloth Marry Fisherman disciple Secret of Samson’s strength Not allowed Squirrel’s dinner Jewish teacher Created Sanctify Day of the week (abbr.) Annual storm causing current Golden __ (Israelite idol) Brown from the sun Last letter of Greek alphabet Employer Mud brick Evil angel Partly frozen rain Abel’s brother Object of false worship The Creator Regret And so forth Expression of surprise Solution on page 13

LOCAL NEWS 7

AUGUST 21, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG

College students find Catholic community during summer By Olivia Martin-Davies olivia.martin@theleaven.org

ENEXA — Last Easter saw an unprecedented wave of college-aged students enter the Catholic Church across the nation. Locally, 64 students joined at the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center at the University of Kansas in Lawrence and 30 at Benedictine College in Atchison. Further afield, 92 joined at St. Isidore’s Catholic Student Center at Kansas State University in Manhattan. “We have so many vibrant Catholic centers on college campuses,” said Isabelle Connealy, a St. James Academy, Lenexa, alumna and a sophomore at K-State. “Then we send [students] home [for the summer], and there’s no ministry. “That’s really hard because you go from a context where everything is so vibrant and alive to nothing.” So, she decided to propose a solution. It’s called Via Laete, which is Latin for “go joyfully.” Via Laete is a Kansas City-based summer group for Catholic college students. Connealy and Kate McKinzie, also a St. James alumna and a junior at the University of Nebraska-Lincoln, launched the group mid-May. They met once a week through the beginning of August and participated in a different activity each time. “We played sand volleyball the first week, [then] had a World Cup watch party, a rosary and board game night, a pasta and paint night,” said Connealy. Other events included eucharistic adoration and a tea party, hosted by male members of the group. “The tea party [was] the best thing ever,” said Connealy. “The guys wanted to plan it, which was just so awesome. “They hosted it at one of their houses, they baked everybody treats, they escorted the girls to the door. It was amazing.” Connealy and McKinzie started an Instagram account to promote the group and a GroupMe to communicate event details. They amassed over 130 people in the GroupMe — including some students from Chicago, Iowa and Nebraska who were in the area for summer internships. Connealy said 15-20 people came to each week’s event. “I’m honestly amazed at how many people have come,” said Connealy. “We’ve had new people at pretty much every event.”

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College students in Kansas City for the summer prepare to pray the rosary at Lenexa City Center during a Via Laete meetup. From left are: Lucy Giem, Vittoria Quaranta, Jordan Prue and Elijah Jones.

IT’S REALLY BEAUTIFUL TO BE PART OF A COMMUNITY AND A LITTLE FAMILY THAT’S YOUNG PEOPLE WHO ARE ALSO CATHOLIC AND JUST TRYING TO FIGURE OUT THE WORLD LIKE I AM. LUCY DREILING BENEDICTINE FRESHMAN Many of them came without knowing anyone else. Lucy Dreiling, an incoming freshman at Benedictine, was one of them. “I’m close with my grandma who lives in Shawnee. Her neighbor is super Catholic and her son is in Via Laete . . .

and he added me to the GroupMe,” said Dreiling. “My first event was the World Cup watch party, and I remember being so nervous on the way there,” she said. “Once I got there, it was so fun and I almost lost my voice because I was talking for so long. “I just had so many fruitful conversations.” Dreiling is a brand-new Catholic. She was baptized and confirmed at St. Joseph Church in Shawnee this April, just ahead of her high school graduation. “Because I’m a convert and I don’t live with anyone who’s a practicing Catholic, it can feel kind of isolating for me sometimes, and it can feel hard to try to navigate keeping the faith,” she said. Dreiling hasn’t found a home parish yet, but because of Via Laete she has found a home. “It’s really beautiful to be part of a

community and a little family that’s young people who are also Catholic and just trying to figure out the world like I am,” she said. McKinzie agreed. “I believe strongly in having a part of your community where others share your same state of life — people who feel like you are in this together with similar current experiences,” she said. Dreiling said even though the event changed every week, she loved how Via Laete always set aside time for prayer. She hopes that in future years the group will become a place for college students to rediscover their Catholic faith. “Especially for people who may have fallen away from the faith,” she said, “I think it’s a great way to dip your toes back into the water. “They do a great job of having fun and keeping it all about the faith.” For more information, follow Via Laete on Instagram: @via.laete.

READY, SET, SCHOOL!

LEAVEN PHOTO BY TODD HABIGER

Hayden High School, Topeka, freshman Jaxton White is escorted into school for freshman orientation by senior Maura Valdivia. The upperclassmen girls wore colorful wigs as part of the day’s “Wig Out” theme. Each freshman was escorted into Hayden by an upperclassman.

Zoe Montes-Aguilar, an eighth grader at Holy Spirit School in Overland Park, is surprised on the fi

LEAVEN PHOTO BY TODD HABIGER

The light shines on Sts. Peter and Paul School, Seneca, fourth grader Macie Steinlage just right as she and her classmates join together for an all-school Mass to kickoff the school year.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY AMY WILKEN

From left, Elaine Schwager, Abigail Kemmeter and Margaret Bellinder, kindergartners at Holy Spirit School in Overland Park, say the Pledge of Allegiance to start the school day.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER

Gianna Foltz, a first grader at St. Rose Philippine Duchesne School in Garnett, gets right to work on the first day of school under the watchful eye of Our Lord.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY GREG MULLINAX

Students and families of Good Shepherd School in Shawnee were greeted by bubbles as they returned to school on Aug. 13.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY AMY WILKEN

first day of school with a custom sticker that a classmate made for her entire grade level.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Cally Dahlstrom, principal at Our Lady of Unity School in Kansas City, Kansas, greets kindergartner D’Angelo Antoni Coughlin as his father, Steven, drops him off for the start of the school year.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY TODD HABIGER

Second grader Kambrie Hynek offers a big high five to Father Joel Haug, pastor of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca. Walking with Kambrie is her brother Brigham and mother Julie.

LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE

Kevin O’Brien, principal of Bishop Ward High School in Kansas City, Kansas, fist bumps senior Richard Wells as he makes his way into the school to start the new year.

10 LOCAL NEWS

AUGUST 21, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Two Benedictines celebrate 25th Jubilee

By Sister Jennifer Halling, OSB Special to The Leaven

TCHISON — Sister Suzanne Fitzmaurice, OSB, and Sister Gisélia Inacio Morais, OSB, celebrated their 25th anniversary of monastic profession on July 26, with a Mass at their monastery of Mount St. Scholastica here, followed by a luncheon.

Drawn to Benedictine life Before coming to the Mount, Sister Suzanne was working as a parish youth minister in the Houston area. “I always felt something was missing, but I wasn’t sure what that was,” she said. Then, signs started pointing to religious life. Sister Suzanne began exploring apostolic communities but an uncle, who was a Benedictine monk, suggested that she look at the Benedictine way of life. In 1997, she came to the Mount for a visit. “My world was very busy all the time,” said Sister Suzanne. “The stillness of Benedictine life attracted me, along with the chanting and prayer life.” Sister Suzanne entered the Mount as a postulant in 1998, began her novitiate in 1999, made her first profession in 2001 and made her perpetual profession in 2004. She has engaged in a wide variety of ministries, with roles as a teacher and campus minister at Notre Dame de Sion High School in Kansas City, Missouri, and Cristo Rey Kansas City High School; associate director of Keeler Women’s Center; and at the Mount as a vocation minister, director of monastic temporalities, technology advisor, spiritual director and retreat leader. Her travels have included a trip to Tanzania in 2011

COURTESY PHOTO

Sister Suzanne Fitzmaurice, OSB, (left) and Sister Gisélia Inacio Morais, OSB, (right) celebrated the 25th anniversary of their monastic professions at Mount St. Scholastica in Atchison. to teach Sisters there and a pilgrimage to visit Benedictine sites in Rome in spring 2026.

Answering an early call Sister Gisélia is part of a Brazilian mission of the Mount in Mineiros, Brazil. The seeds of Sister Gisélia’s vocation were planted during her childhood, at a time when her father had to travel to work in another city and her family faced many hardships.

“There were some nuns who helped us a great deal, and to this day I am very grateful to them,” said Sister Gisélia. “My vocation was born from that living example set by those holy women. I was 7 years old at the time. They visited my mother often and helped us with food, clothing and prayer.” Upon moving with her parents to Mineiros, she found a job at Divino Espirito Santo Parish, where Sister Eliene Batista Gouvea, OSB, was the coordinator and Father Joaquin Carlos Carvalho, OSB, was the pastor. Father Joaquin is a member of the men’s community that was founded from St. Benedict’s Abbey in Atchison. Eventually, Sister Gisélia asked to do a trial period at the monastery. “At first, everything was new,” she said, “but as I lived there alongside the Sisters, I began to experience simple yet powerful moments of prayer, communal life and work. “This led me to make a firm decision: Here was where I wanted to be, alongside those Sisters whom I had always admired for their work, charism and fidelity to the church.” Sister Gisélia made her first profession in 2001 and her perpetual profession in 2005. Sister Gisélia studied at a music conservatory and now serves in the liturgical music ministry at St. Benedict Parish in Mineiros, where she teaches, forms new liturgical music groups and is the guitarist at some of the Sunday Masses. She also oversees a small farm owned by the Sisters. “From the very first moments I was introduced to the Rule of St. Benedict, I identified deeply with it,” said Sister Gisélia, “and my heart was already burning with the desire to seek to live according to St. Benedict’s teachings. “I have never had any doubts about the life I chose to live.”

LOCAL NEWS 11

AUGUST 21, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG

USM assistant professor selected to national advisory council

Speaker to challenge men to become protectors of life

By John Shultz Special to The Leaven

EAVENWORTH — Craig Workman, an assistant professor at the University of Saint Mary here, has been selected to serve on the National Humanities Center’s Teacher Advisory Council. Workman will be one of the 20 individuals from across the United States to serve on the council for the 2026-27 academic year. The Teacher Advisory Council supports the educational programs associated with the NHC, a nonprofit organization dedicated to advancing humanities studies. Educators serving on the council are tasked with helping develop, evaluate and promote educational materials created by the NHC. They are also responsible for building bridges between scholars and educators to support humanities’ education. “It is an honor to be selected alongside a group of talented and dedicated educators from across the country to innovate the future of humanities-focused education,” Workman said. “This appointment recognizes the efforts all humanities educators put into their profession, as well as the support needed to help these programs thrive. I’m excited to lead and serve other educators as I carry out NHC’s mission of advancing research, fostering connections, and empowering others.” Workman currently teaches classes associated with both the English and history programs at USM. He is the first professor to represent USM on the council since its founding in 2016. Teachers from various disciplines serve on the council for one-year terms to ensure that the NHC consistently engages with relevant and fresh perspectives. The NHC also actively supports educators nationally by providing teaching resources, such as hosting webinars and the Being Human Festival, as well as offering primary source collections and other professional development opportunities.

By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org

VERLAND PARK — One phone call in the late 1980s changed the course of Jeff Joaquin’s life forever. His girlfriend was preg-

PHOTO BY AMY WILKEN

On Aug. 10, Father Luke Doyle revealed the book cover for his book, “Priest in the Wild: Stories of Meeting God in the Everyday,” to family, friends and supporters. The book will be available through Ascension Press on Aug. 27.

Father Luke Doyle’s first book teaches through story By Lindsey Weishar Special to The Leaven

AWRENCE — Prayer is at the heart of Father Luke Doyle’s first book, “Priest in the Wild: Stories of Meeting God in the Everyday,” which will be published by Ascension Press at the end of August. Father Doyle describes the book as “a simple invitation into the life of a priest who is striving to live at the intersection of Catholic faith and American culture.” With stories about bears in Alaska to the realization that God wants us to talk to him about everything — even baseball — Father Doyle invites readers into his life of prayer. Now chaplain and director of the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center at the University of Kansas, Father Doyle’s call to write this book began when he served as a preacher for the National Eucharistic Revival from 2022-2025. During that time, he noticed

NEED HELP HEALING FROM A PAST ABORTION? Call or text 913-621-2199

that his preaching spoke to people, particularly through the stories he told. Encouragement from fellow priests and lay people prompted him to start writing. His assignment to the St. Lawrence Center has also deepened the themes in his book. “Walking with our students has helped me learn how to be a father in a new way, and it has also taught me how to more effectively proclaim the Gospel,” said Father Doyle. The book contains a series of stories that introduce readers to insights from Father Doyle’s prayer life and priesthood. Reflecting on the power of story, Father Doyle said, “I walk in the footsteps of the greatest storyteller in history, and like him, I believe in the power of a good story’s ability to teach, encourage, inspire and heal.” Proceeds from Father Doyle’s book will support the St. Lawrence Center’s mission.

nant. Instead of standing beside her and embracing fatherhood, Joaquin said, he drove her to an abortion clinic, a decision he now calls “the worst decision I’ve ever made in my life.” Today, that painful chapter has become the foundation of a ministry centered on healing and redemption, Jeff Joaquin calling men to embrace their God-given vocation as protectors of women, children and family. Joaquin will share that message Sept. 24 as the keynote speaker for the Life & Hope Banquet at the Overland Park Convention Center, the annual fundraiser for the Wyandotte and Olathe pregnancy clinics. Leah Conner, executive director of the Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic, believes his perspective is one many people need to hear. “We’re going to be talking about encouraging men to stand up and do what they were called to do . . . and support the women,” she said. “They are the number one influencers of women in these difficult circumstances,” she added. Joaquin’s presentation will draw from his spiritual journey chronicled in the documentary “How to Save a Life: A Powerful Documentary of Hope, Healing and Redemption.” For more information about the banquet, including ticket information, visit: lifeandhopeteam.org/event/banquet.

12 CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Director of community engagement - Catholic Charities of Northeast Kansas is seeking a dynamic director of community engagement to help advance our mission of serving neighbors in need throughout our 21-county service area. This leadership role will build and strengthen relationships with parishes, schools, businesses, volunteers and community partners while promoting Catholic social teaching and fostering a culture of service. The ideal candidate will have at least five years of ministry or human services leadership experience, strong communication and public speaking skills and a passion for engaging others in the church’s mission of charity and justice. A bachelor’s degree in theology, education or a related field is required, along with the ability to lead teams, develop programs and inspire community involvement. For more information and to apply, visit: catholiccharitiesks.org/careers. Director of faith formation - Good Shepherd Church in Shawnee is seeking a director of faith formation and sacramental preparation for a bilingual (English/ Spanish) program. This director must be a practicing Catholic in good standing with the church. He or she is a person of prayer, committed to the authentic teaching of the Catholic faith. A fully bilingual candidate is preferred, but at a minimum this candidate must have the skills, resources and enthusiasm to facilitate and to clearly communicate with English and Spanish speaking families. The director is a professional catechetical leader who assists children, adolescents and their families in their faith formation. The director will work with other staff members to foster and maintain a positive working environment where worship, prayer, hospitality and learning are the primary motivators. If interested or to learn more, please contact the parish manager at: mgomez@ gsshawnee.org. Pastoral associate and ministry coordinator - St. John Paul II Church in Olathe is seeking a part-time, faith-filled, organized and collaborative individual to serve as our pastoral associate and ministry coordinator. This position will work closely with the pastor and staff to strengthen parish life by supporting ministries, fostering communications, coordinating outreach and helping develop new initiatives that engage parishioners in the life and mission of the church. This position averages 15-20 hours per week with occasional weekends and evenings required. For a full job description and information on how to apply, visit our website at: www.stjpii.org under “Employment Opportunities.” Transportation driver (PRN) - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth are seeking a PRN transportation driver. This individual will safely transport passengers, including those with mobility needs, to appointments and other destinations. This role offers handson experience in vehicle operation, maintenance and providing compassionate customer service. Must be 21 years of age or older. One to two years of driving, chauffeur, shuttle or related experience preferred, along with knowledge of vehicles, maintenance and diagnostic analysis. Flexible hours with advanced scheduling. No guaranteed hours are provided. For the full job description or to apply, visit our website at: www.scls.org/employees. Horse groom and groundskeeper - Looking for a part-time horse groom and groundskeeper on a small family farm just south of Spring Hill. Responsibilities include all areas of the farm: 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 is preferred but not required. Must be willing to work hard, be honest, reliable and coachable. Must be able to lift heavy loads like hay, grain, etc. No smoking, vaping or any tobacco products or alcohol are permitted on the premises, no exceptions. You must have your own transportation to and from work. Starting pay is $25 an hour. Mornings are preferred, but hours are flexible, ranging from 10 to 20 hours per week. Please call or text Brian at (913) 710-4428. Housekeeper (PRN) - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth are hiring a PRN housekeeper. This role focuses on the daily cleaning and upkeep of dining areas, common spaces, offices and restrooms, with occasional support for special events. We’re looking for someone reliable, independent and eager to make a difference. At least one year of prior cleaning experience and maintaining professional spaces a plus. This PRN position provides flexible, as-needed coverage for staffing shortages, vacations and employee absences. Hours are available Monday-Friday from 6:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., based on departmental needs. No guaranteed hours are provided. Ideal candidates will have flexible availability and be willing to pick up shifts to help maintain office operations during periods of increased workload or when regular staff members are away. Apply on our website: www.scls.org/employees. Accountant - St. Joseph Church in Shawnee is seeking an organized and detail-oriented accounts receivable specialist to support accurate financial operations through the processing, reconciliation, tracking, and reporting of accounting transactions. This is a full-time position that plays an important role in maintaining financial records, resolving discrepancies, preparing reports and providing excellent service to parishioners, school/EEC families and staff. Interested applicants should apply on St. Joseph website or email Melissa Thomas at mthomas@stjoeshawnee.org.

AUGUST 21, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG Part-time nurse - Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic is looking for a part-time R.N. (8-24 hrs/week) to provide compassionate care, patient education and clinical support in a Christ-centered environment. If you’re passionate about walking alongside women during life-changing moments, this may be the opportunity you’ve been praying for. Apply today: andreac@two lineskc.com. Donor systems specialists (part-time) - Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic in Overland Park is seeking a detail-oriented donor systems specialist to manage donor records, process contributions, maintain database accuracy and support donor communications. Strong computer and data entry skills required. Experience with donor database software preferred. Must support the Christian mission and life-affirming values of the clinic. To apply, send your resume and cover letter to: rbogard@twolineskc.com. Building attendant - The Savior Pastoral Center is seeking to hire a building attendant. This position will provide hospitality, security, maintenance and custodial services. The job averages 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. High school diploma or GED required. To apply, visit: archkck.org, scroll to the bottom of the home page and click “Employment Opportunities.” Small equipment cleaning/repair - a small locally-owned family business is currently seeking full-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 a detail-oriented service 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. Senior director of development - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has an immediate opening for a senior director of development. This role provides strategic leadership to advance the long-term sustainability and comprehensive development efforts of the archdiocese and its ministries while ensuring thoughtful planning and effective execution of development initiatives. Please visit “Employment Opportunities” at the bottom of the archkck.org home page for more information or to apply. Medical professionals - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth are hiring a certified nursing assistant, certified medication aide, licensed practical nurse and registered nurse. We are seeking compassionate, dependable healthcare professionals who are committed to providing exceptional resident care. Take the next step in your healthcare career today and apply at: www.scls.org/employees/. Clinical nutrition manager - The Sisters of Charity of Leavenworth are seeking a registered and licensed dietitian to lead nutrition services and make a meaningful impact in the lives of the Sisters. The clinical nutrition manager serves as the organization’s registered and licensed dietitian and provides leadership for nutrition and dietetic services throughout the motherhouse, Ross Hall and wellness. This position establishes nutrition standards of care, completes nutrition assessments, develops individualized nutrition care plans, oversees the quality of services provided by the contracted food service provider and collaborates with the interdisciplinary team to promote each Sister’s health, dignity, independence and quality of life. Join a mission-driven team dedicated to health, dignity and compassionate care. For the full job description and to apply, visit our website at: www.scls.org/employees/. Business manager - St. Francis de Sales Parish in Lansing is looking for a part-time business manager. The business manager will work in conjunction with the bookkeeper to provide for the financial stewardship, facilities oversight and administrative function of the parish. The ideal candidate must have a working knowledge of Microsoft Office applications and be able to work independently with minimal supervision. Applicant must be a practicing Catholic. Full job description provided to candidates. Some evening and weekend work required. For more information, email: businessmanager@stfrancislansing.org or call the office at (913) 727-3742. Managing editor - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has an immediate opening for a managing editor for The Leaven. Reporting to the chief communications officer, the managing editor leads the daily operations and publication by providing hands-on leadership for the timely production of engaging, high-quality content. Please visit “Employment Opportunities” at the bottom of the archkck.org home page for more information or to apply. Marketing coordinator - The Catholic Foundation of Northeast Kansas (CFNEK) is seeking to hire a fulltime marketing coordinator responsible for executing the marketing program by increasing visibility, engagement, development opportunities and charitable giving. Please visit: cfnek.org for more information or to apply. Youth ministry coordinator - ReachKCK is seeking to hire a full-time youth ministry coordinator responsible for creating opportunities for youth and young adults to encounter Jesus Christ and grow in their Catholic faith. Please visit “Employment Opportunities” at the bottom of the archkck.org home page for more information or to apply.

Senior accountant - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has an immediate opening for a senior accountant. This position plays an important role in supporting the mission of the church by serving as a subject matter expert in all areas of accounting to directly assist parishes supported by our shared business services model. Please visit “Employment Opportunities” at the bottom of the archkck.org home page for more information or to apply. Purchasing manager - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas has an immediate opening for a purchasing manager. Reporting to the CFO, the purchasing manager serves as the central point of contact for vendor evaluation, selection, and onboarding activities to ensure vendor partnerships reflect archdiocesan values and business needs. This role provides expertise in sourcing strategies, vendor relationships and procurement processes that strengthen operational capacity and cross-functional alignment. Please visit “Employment Opportunities” at the bottom of the archkck.org home page for more information or to apply. Administrative assistant - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking a part-time administrative assistant for the office of real estate and construction. This role assists with matters related to real estate transactions, construction projects, property management and facility-related initiatives. Please visit “Employment Opportunities” at the bottom of the archkck.org home page for more information or to apply. After-hours custodian - St. Joseph Church in Shawnee is seeking part-time janitorial service to maintain a clean, sanitary and welcoming environment for our students, families, faculty, staff and visitors. The selected candidate will provide routine custodial services Monday through Friday and monthly detail cleaning for classrooms, offices, common areas, restrooms, cafeteria, chapel and other designated spaces. Interested applicants should apply on the St. Joseph website — www.church.stjoeshawnee.org, or email Sam Petty at spetty@stjoeshawnee.org. In-home care assistant - We are looking for an engaging in-home caregiver for our son with special needs in western Shawnee. He loves music, interacting with others, reading books and is learning new life skills. Help needed on Mon., Wed. or Fri. evenings and on weekends. $17/hr. Please call (785) 393-1589. Crisis-focused support specialist - Help turn moments of crisis into opportunities for hope. As a crisis-focused support specialist, you’ll use empathy, de-escalation and resource expertise to support individuals and families facing housing, utility, food and other financial emergencies. Join a mission-driven team where your compassion, critical thinking and ability to remain calm under pressure can make a lasting difference in someone’s life. For more information, please go to: catholiccharitiesks.org/careers/. Maintenance professional (part-time) - St. John Paul II Church and Academy in Olathe is seeking a dependable, self-motivated part-time maintenance professional to help care for our rectory, church and school facilities. This flexible, as-needed position is ideal for someone who enjoys a variety of maintenance tasks and takes pride in keeping buildings and grounds safe, clean and well-maintained. For more information, please visit our website at: stjpii.org/employment-opportunities or email us at: operations@ stjpii.org. Part-time kitchen aide - Sacred Heart of Jesus School in Shawnee is seeking a part-time kitchen aide to support the daily operation of our school lunch program. This position is ideal for someone who enjoys serving children, works well as part of a team, and takes pride in maintaining a clean, welcoming and faith-filled environment. The kitchen aide assists with meal preparation, serving lunches, maintaining food safety standards and keeping the kitchen and lunchroom clean and organized. The ideal candidate is a joyful servant who embraces our core values: unapologetically Catholic, joyful servants and grit. This is a school-year position, working two days per week, 9:30 a.m.–2 p.m. (5 hours per day). Please inquire and/or apply on our website: shoj.org/employment-opportunities. Part-time lunchroom coordinator - Sacred Heart of Jesus School in Shawnee is seeking a part-time lunchroom coordinator to oversee the daily operation of our student lunchroom. The position is responsible for coordinating lunchroom set-up and close-down, supervising operations, promoting positive student behavior, working collaboratively with kitchen staff and volunteers and ensuring the lunchroom operates efficiently each day. The ideal candidate is a joyful servant who embraces our core values: unapologetically Catholic, joyful servants and grit. This is a school-year position working approximately 15 hours per week (Monday–Friday, 10:30 a.m.–1:30 p.m.). Interested applicants are encouraged to inquire or apply online at: shoj.org/employment-opportunities. Administrative assistant - St. Therese Church in North Kansas City, Missouri, is seeking a full-time administrative assistant to provide comprehensive secretarial and office support to the parish staff. This role requires strong organizational skills, attention to detail and a welcoming, service-oriented approach reflecting a spirit of hospitality and Christian charity. This position is full-time with benefits and averages 35 hours a week. For more information and to apply, visit: https://kcsjcatholic.org/start/job-openings.

Director of religious education (DRE) - St. Agnes Parish, Roeland Park, is seeking a part-time director of religious education to provide vision, leadership and administrative oversight for the religious education program (PREP/CCD) serving students in grades 1 through 8. The ideal candidate is an intentional disciple who fosters a culture of evangelization, builds dynamic partnerships with parents and ensures full compliance with all archdiocesan frameworks. This position includes oversight of both traditional parish religious education programming and a family faith formation option that equips parents to serve as the primary educators of their children in the Catholic faith. Please inquire and/or apply on our website: stagneskc.org/director-of-religious-education/. Teachers - St. Joseph Early Education Center is looking for caring, passionate and dedicated teachers to join our preschool team. The ideal candidate should have experience working with early childhood, have an understanding of child development, and strive to support and model our Catholic faith within the classroom. Interested applicants should email Kristan Mora at: kmora@stjoeshawnee.org or call (913) 6310004. Maintenance/custodial technician - St. Joseph Church is seeking a full-time maintenance/custodial staff member to support the care and upkeep of our campus in Shawnee. This position is responsible for maintaining a clean, safe and welcoming environment across our 20-acre campus, which includes seven buildings, a football field, a track and related facilities. Interested applicants should apply on St. Joseph’s website or email Sam Petty at spetty@stjoeshawnee.org. 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. Music director - The position is at Mother Teresa of Calcutta Church in Topeka. Please see description at: mtcctopeka.org. To apply, please submit your resume to: office@mtcctopeka.org by Aug. 10. Call Lisa at (785) 286-2188 with questions. 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.

HOME IMPROVEMENT 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. 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.

SERVICES Footprints Floors Family-owned and operated. St. Paul parishioners. Hardwood, tile, stone, vinyl and more Call for free estimate: (913) 372-3007 Footprintsfloors.com/kansas-city 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

>> Continued on page 13

CALENDAR/CLASSIFIEDS 13

AUGUST 21, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG

WIDOW AND WIDOWERS POTLUCK Most Pure Heart of Mary (Culhane room) 3601 S.W. 17th St., Topeka Aug. 27 from 5 to 7 p.m.

The Christian Widow and Widowers Potluck are hosting a potluck dinner with quarter bingo after dinner. Please bring a covered dish or dessert. For information, text Gen at (785) 230-2473.

SINGLES’ MIXER Strang Hall (Bar area) 7313 W. 80th St., Overland Park Aug. 27 at 6:30 p.m.

Join a community of young adult singles looking to date for marriage. Come for food, drinks and to meet new people. Questions: katie@findingadamfindingeve. com. For more information, go to: https:// findingadamfindingeve.com.

CONVOCATION SPEECH Benedictine College (Ralph Nolan gymnasium) 1020 N. 2nd St., Atchison Sept. 1 at 11 a.m.

Kelsey Reinhardt, president and CEO of CatholicVote and co-founder of Zeale, will give the keynote address during the 2026 academic convocation at Benedictine College. All are invited to attend.

SYMPOSIUM ON TRANSFORMING CULTURE Benedictine College 1020 N. 2nd St., Atchison Sept. 4-5

Catholic speakers, professors, field professionals, students and clergy will present on the theme “The Church in an Algorithmic Age.” Registration for the symposium, along with additional information, is available at benedictine.edu/events/ symposium.

OUR LADY’S MONTESSORI TRIVIA Our Lady’s Montessori School (St. Terese Little Flower parish hall) 5814 Euclid Ave., Kansas City, Missouri Sept. 12 at 6:30 p.m.

Funds benefit Our Lady’s Montessori School, a K-8 school run by the SOLT Sis-

ters. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Questions start at 6:30 p.m. and will be done by 9 p.m. Cost is $160 for a table of 8 or $20 per person (eight rounds of trivia, two individual games and eight mulligans). BYO food and drink. RSVP by emailing: triviani ght2000@gmail.com.

DIVORCE SUPPORT GROUP Holy Spirit Church 11300 103rd St., Overland Park Sept. 19 at 6 p.m.

From Called To Love Again: 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. We’ll meet in the room off the gathering space. For questions, email: katie@thecall2love.com. For more information, go to: thecall2love. com.

BREAKFAST WITH THE KNIGHTS Divine Mercy Church 555 W. Main St., Gardner Sept. 20 from 8:30 to 10 a.m.

The breakfast will include eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, pancakes, waffles and drinks. The cost is $7 for those over the age of 13; free for ages 12 and under. Proceeds are used for charitable works, such as scholarships and other giving throughout the year.

WIDOWED WOMEN OF FAITH LUNCH Perkins Restaurant (back room) 1720 S.W. Wanamaker Rd., Topeka Third Tuesdays, 11 a.m. to 1 p.m.

Join us for lunch and companionship. No RSVP needed, just come and invite others. For questions, email: Widowed WomenofFaith@gmail.com or call Julie at (913) 558-0191.

MILLIONS OF MONICAS PRAYER GROUP Church of the Ascension 9510 W. 127th St., Overland Park Second Saturdays from 9:15 to 10:15 a.m.

Join with other mothers as we pray to grow in holiness and humility and for our children’s return to the Catholic Church. For more information, contact Veronica at (913) 481-8113 or visit: www.millionsofmonicas. com.

>> Continued from page 12 K-12 tutoring - Tutor has classroom experience and has taught for 19 years. Tutor teaches in a fun and meaningful context. For more info please call/ text Kathleen (913) 206-2151 or email: klmamuric@ yahoo.com. Does your child struggle with reading? Targeted Support for Struggling Readers Real Progress • Real Results Janel Setter, Reading Specialist (M.S.) 785-304-9800 setterreading.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 Electrical Plumbing American Standard Heating & Cooling Furnace, AC and Water Heater Install and Service Email: Wmdean14@hotmail.com Web site: billdeanmechanical.com Joco lic # 2026-0008446, Text or call 913-724-3294 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. DASH Fencing Wood Fencing Repair and Replacement Free Estimates - Senior Discounts Available Reliable Service You Can Trust (913) 420-0197 Ephesians 3:18-19 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. 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. Popcorn ceiling texture removal Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Interior painting specialist. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. Joe’s Decks & More Deck and fence repair, mowing and handyman services Member of St. Joseph in Shawnee (913) 449-9848 Sacred Heart Counseling - Are you looking for counseling from an authentic Catholic perspective? We have offices in Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Shawnee & Atchison. Book online at SacredHeartCounselingKC.com, in person or telehealth. 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 Masonry work - Quality new or repair work. Brick, block and chimney/fireplace repair. Insured; second-generation bricklayer. Member of St. Paul Parish, Olathe. Call (913) 271-0362.

FOR SALE For sale - Two burial plots, full package $12,000. Resurrection Cemetery, Lenexa, Veterans Garden: V8, sec. B, space 3 & 4. All cemetery goods & services included. Contact Vic at (913) 669-1809.

SOLUTION

For sale - Two cemetery plots at Johnson County Memorial Gardens in the Garden of Apostles, lot 213, spaces 1 and 2. Valued at $9,750, asking $3,750 per lot for a total of $7,500 or best offer. Call Bailey at (913) 449-4699. For sale - Two plots in Mt. Calvary Cemetery, KCK. Located in S.W. area, sec 11, lot 12, spaces 7 & 8. Price is $2,000 each. Contact Charles at (913) 6691809. 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 - One cemetery plot. Shawnee Mission Memory Gardens. Garden of Valor. Lot 65, block A, space 1, sect. 3. Containing one double-depth interment space. Asking price is $3,500. Email: nlloyd2278@gmail.com or call (682) 471-1735. For sale - Cemetery plot for sale at Chapel Hill Memorial Gardens in Kansas City, Kansas. Space: Disciples H115 (double depth). Vaults: lawn crypts already there. Marker: classic pine 16x24 on 20x28 granite. Two openings and closings. $7,500. Call (913) 488-8634. For sale - Two cemetery plots. Shawnee Mission Memory Gardens. Garden of Valor. Lot #37. Section D. Spaces 4A and 4B. Containing two interment spaces. Asking price is $4,500. Email: klhall_1964@ yahoo.com or call (913) 370-1776.

CAREGIVING Prestige Home Care of Kansas - Catholic owned and operated. We have been in business for 19 years. We provide the full range of non-skilled care to help seniors and those with disabilities to remain in their residence. We specialize in assisting veterans. Visit our website at: www.ksprestigehomecare. com or call us at (913) 680-0493. 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 $$Paying Cash$$ - 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. BUYING OIL & GAS ROYALTIES Simplify your life. Paying 48 times average last 6 months income. Call Dan (913) 980-0946. Vehicle wanted - A family in need is seeking transportation for work, medical appointments and daily living. If you have a vehicle you would donate or sell at a reduced price, your generosity will make a wonderful difference in their life. Please contact Msgr. Tank at (913) 708-2877. Thank you for your kindness and generosity. 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 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. 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 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.

NEED HELP HEALING FROM A PAST ABORTION? Call or text 913-621-2199

14 COLUMNISTS DAILY READINGS TWENTY-FIRST WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Aug. 23 TWENTY-FIRST SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME Is 22: 19-23 Ps 138: 1-3, 6, 8 Rom 11: 33-36 Mt 16: 13-20 Aug. 24 BARTHOLOMEW, APOSTLE Rv 21: 9b-14 Ps 145: 10-13, 17-18 Jn 1: 45-51 Aug. 25 Louis, Joseph Calasanz, priest 2 Thes 2: 1-3a, 14-17 Ps 96: 10-13 Mt 23: 23-26 Aug. 26 Wednesday 2 Thes 3: 6-10, 16-18 Ps 128: 1-2, 4-5 Mt 23: 27-32 Aug. 27 Monica 1 Cor 1: 1-9 Ps 145: 2-7 Mt 24: 42-51 Aug. 28 Augustine, bishop, doctor of the church 1 Cor 1: 17-25 Ps 33: 1-2, 4-5, 10-11 Mt 25: 1-13 Aug. 29 The Passion of John the Baptist 1 Cor 1: 26-31 Ps 33: 12-13, 18-19, 20-21 Mk 6: 17-29 TWENTY-SECOND WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME Aug. 30 TWENTY-SECOND SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Jer 20: 7-9 Ps 63: 2-6, 8-9 Rom 12: 1-2 Mt 16: 21-27 Aug. 31 Monday 1 Cor 2: 1-5 Ps 119: 97-102 Lk 4: 16-30 Sept. 1 Tuesday 1 Cor 2: 10b-16 Ps 145: 8-14 Lk 4: 31-37 Sept. 2 Wednesday 1 Cor 3: 1-9 Ps 33: 12-15, 20-21 Lk 4: 38-44 Sept. 3 Gregory the Great, pope, doctor of the church 1 Cor 3: 18-23 Ps 24: 1bc-2, 3-4ab, 5-6 Lk 5: 1-11 Sept. 4 Friday 1 Cor 4: 1-5 Ps 37: 3-6, 27-28, 39-40 Lk 5: 33-39 Sept. 5 Teresa of Calcutta, virgin 1 Cor 4: 6b-15 Ps 145: 17-21 Lk 6: 1-5

AUGUST 21, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG

Rock Chalking in Johnson County

fter having spent 21 of the last 31 years of my life in Lawrence, I get asked a lot how I like Johnson County and St. Ann Parish in Prairie Village. There’s a big diﬀerence, of course, between campus ministry and parish life. The parish has a diversity of ages. It also has a constant flow of people that the herky-jerky campus schedule lacks. The parish never really slows down. At the parish, I also have to talk about something other than my favorite subject, the Jayhawks. Make no mistake, my passion for all things KU comes through, and St.

assled for a sign, I imagine worn out, Jesus turns to his disciples. As if it’s something of a pop quiz, frustrated he asks them, “But who do you say that I am?” Were his own disciples as hard-hearted and hard-headed as the Sadducees and Pharisees? Read through the beginning of this chapter from Matthew’s Gospel to understand the context here. Were the disciples also leaven-like men without faith demanding signs? This is what Jesus wanted to know. It’s why he asked the questions he asked: “Who do people say the Son of Man is? . . . But who do you say that I am?” (Mt 16:13-15) Jesus hoped his disciples would be different. Thankfully they were. Peter speaks for them all. “You are the Christ, the Son of the Living God” (Mt 16:16). Peter sees what so many do not, that Jesus is the Messiah. Beyond the rustic Galilean, beyond the carpenter, even beyond the

ALONG THE WAY

FATHER MITCHEL ZIMMERMAN Father Mitchel Zimmerman is the pastor of St. Ann Parish in Prairie Village.

Ann’s is flooded with crimson and blue. Yet the Mizzou and K-State fans and the mosaic of college fans from every school un-

der the sun is always present. It’s been a joy to learn new heroic stories of faith written in new contexts, fueled by our common pursuit of God alone as our proper end. I never knew I wanted or needed friends from K-State, much less Mizzou. Yet when you pray with people, it’s amazing

how the Catholic faith runs deeper and transcends these seemingly timeless rivalries. What is deeper is our collective hunger for God, and the chance we have to do life together as Jesus taught us. I’ll always think Jayhawk Catholics are especially ferocious, all bias confessed. Yet some of the people I most treasure praying with are Wildcats and Tigers. There is such a strong interest in the Catholic Church right now. It was such a fun mission to try to authentically connect Jayhawks to the Catholic Mass and tradition. What incredible vocation stories of holiness continue to be written at the intersection of

the Catholic faith and the new exploration of meaning that takes place on a college campus. I’ve found that this hunger for something more meaningful and life-giving is everywhere. It’s abusive to tell people to make up the meaning of life for themselves. It’s much more exciting to explore it together, in whatever context the Catholic mission puts us. Being a Catholic priest only gets more exciting and challenging with each new context. What a glorious and incredible ride God has invited us all on together. The best is yet to be.

God gives us all a unique vocation

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

wonderworker and the provocative preacher, Peter sees that Jesus is the promised Christ. One must understand, as St. Thomas Aquinas taught at the very beginning of the Summa, that “human beings are ordered to God as an end that surpasses the grasp of reason.” That is, human beings are created to know what they are incapable of fully knowing by their own efforts. That’s not to say that

humans are incapable of reasoning reasonably enough that God exists; they can indeed rationally come to grasp, as St. Thomas put it, that “which everyone names God.” But to know God and not merely know of him is to enjoy knowledge of a different kind. Reading about someone and knowing someone personally are two different kinds of knowing. For the latter sort of knowing, when it comes to God, can come only by way of revelation, by the initiative of God himself, by his own gift; or as Jesus put it, “by my Father who is in heaven” (Mt 16:17). So, what does this mean for you? It means that to make any progress at all, one must first be open to the possibility that faith is necessary to seek understanding. One can’t merely do research or rationally read oneself into believing; reading, reasoning and research are indeed important, but the seeking person needs more, an initial

openness to a light that comes from beyond oneself, from God. That is, spiritual enlightenment is always in some way the fruit of prayer, even if the praying person doesn’t exactly realize that’s what he or she is doing. Faith then is what separates the disciples from the Pharisees and Sadducees, the Christian from the pagan. But what comes next? Again, the lesson is simple. After faith comes a new identity, a new vocation. “And so I say to you, you are Peter, and upon this rock I will build my church, and the gates of the netherworld shall not prevail against it” (Mt 16:18). This is Peter’s unique vocation. These words are written atop St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome. These words are why what St. Irenaeus wrote almost 2,000 years ago is still true that “every church, that is believers from everywhere, must agree with this church,” that is, the Church of Rome founded by Peter and Paul. This is why our

first reading is from Isaiah 22, very simply, Eliakim prefigures Peter. Here is the biblical beginning of our understanding of the papacy. Yet however beautiful all that is, we shouldn’t lose sight of what this passage teaches the rest of us about ourselves. Peter was given the gift of faith, but so are we. Peter was given a vocation, but so are we. Peter’s vocation is a vocation of mercy, a vocation that builds up the church. But so is my vocation and so is yours. Now, I’m not ever going to be a pope and likely you won’t be one either. But with the pope, sharing in the faith with him, our task is to live out our unique vocations which all serve the same heavenly ends: to share the mercy of God and the fullness of his church. But again, it does all begin with Jesus and the question he puts to each of us: “But who do you say that I am?” And so, what’s your answer?

BARTHOLOMEW 23 BC - 69 AD

Though Bartholomew is listed among the Twelve Apostles in the synoptic Gospels, little more is known about him. Some scholars identify him as the apostle Nathanael, whom Jesus famously described in John 1:47: “Here is a true Israelite. There is no duplicity in him.” According to popular tradition, Bartholomew evangelized in Lycaonia, India and Armenia, where he reportedly was flayed alive. This image of his martyrdom was a subject of Renaissance artists, and he is often depicted holding his skin. He is a figure of humble faith and commitment.

LOCAL NEWS 15

AUGUST 21, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG Cheryl and George E. Miller, members of St. John the Baptist Parish, Greeley, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 22 with a dinner and dance with family and friends. The couple was married on Aug. 21, 1976, at St. John. Their children are: Ed and Anna. They also have five grandchildren. Terry and Reed Wintering, members of Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 4. The couple was married on Sept. 4, 1976, at St. Bernadette Church, Westlake, Ohio. They will celebrate with a trip to Hawaii. Their children are: Katie Hunter, Chris Wintering and Julie Wintering. They also have two grandchildren.

NEED HELP HEALING FROM A PAST ABORTION? Call or text 913-621-2199

John W. and Jo Ann (Baucom) Scott, members of Sacred Heart Parish, Ottawa, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 14. The couple was married on Aug. 14, 1976, at Sacred Heart by Father Jerry Sheeds. They have two children, Paul and Matthew, and four grandchildren. Vicki and Deacon Jim Skahan, members of Sacred Heart-St. Casimir Parish, Leavenworth, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 21. The couple was married on Aug. 21, 1976, at Holy Name Church, Kansas City, Kansas. A Mass and celebration is planned for a later date. Their children are: Nick, Andrea and Chris. They also have eight grandchildren and one great-grandchild.

Gloria (Delich) and Dick Anderson, m e m bers of St Joseph Parish, Shawnee, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 20. The couple was married on Aug. 20, 1966, at Christ the King Church, Kansas City, Kansas. Their children are: Kimberly, Jeff and Mark. They also have 10 grandchildren and five great-grandchildren. Jeanne (Blakesley) and Clarence Rues, members of Immaculate Conception Parish, Louisburg, celebrated their 50th wedding anniversary with brunch for family and friends in July. The couple was married on July 17, 1976, at Holy Angels Church, Garnett, by Father Gerald Sheeds. Their children are: Christopher and Kathleen Mullin. They also have six grandchildren.

Kathy and Dutch tenBroek, members of Holy Spirit Parish, Overland Park, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Aug. 29 with a Mass and dinner at Holy Spirit. The couple was married on Aug. 19, 1966, at St. Leo Church, Oakland, California. Their children are: Jacobus, Nicolaas, Pieter and Kelley. They also have nine grandchildren. Blake and Rob Zachritz, members of Mater Dei Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 28. The couple was married in 1976 at St. Joseph Church, Macon, Georgia. Their children are: Bekah Zachritz, Galen Zachritz and Hannah Pampati. They also have six grandchildren.

POST-ABORTION HEALING FOR MEN Call or text 913-621-2199

LOCAL NEWS 16

AUGUST 21, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG

PHOTO COURTESY OF FATHER GREG HAMMES

Father Greg Hammes attended Mass celebrated by Pope Leo XIV for the canonization of seven new saints in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican on Oct. 19, 2025.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FATHER GREG HAMMES

After his time in Rome, Father Hammes returned to the United States to do a 30-day silent retreat in California, practicing the spiritual exercise of St. Ignatius of Loyola.

PHOTO COURTESY OF FATHER GREG HAMMES

Father Hammes joined a program for priests on sabbatical in Rome at the Institute of Continuing Theological Education at the Pontifical North American College.

TIME TO REFRESH AND RENEW Priest’s sabbatical offers time for prayer, travel and rediscovery

By John Sorce Special to The Leaven

ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Everyone needs a getaway at some point. Even priests — and they have a special way of doing

so. A sabbatical, according to the handbook of the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, is defined as “an educational or personal spiritual renewal experience that a priest may seek to assist in his personal and/or pastoral growth.” Priests can ask the archbishop for a sabbatical after serving for a minimum of 10 years in the archdiocese. They would then have to serve for another 10 years before they could apply again. Requests go directly to the archbishop and outline why the priest wants the sabbatical and what his goals would be during that time.

Time to recharge According to Father Nathan Haverland, pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Shawnee, who heads up continuing education for priests in the archdiocese, goals for a sabbatical are tailored towards each priest. The timing of one can also differ. “Some guys will do a sabbatical in between assignments,” Father Haverland said. “Some do it in the middle of assignment, and somebody would be appointed administrator while the priest is away. “Each scenario depends on the uniqueness of the timing and situation.” One priest who recently completed a sabbatical is Father Greg Hammes, pastor of Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe. Father Hammes started thinking about taking a sabbatical last January. He officially wrote a letter and outlined a six-month plan, which was approved. “I saw an opportunity between some big things going on at the parish where I thought there [were] six months I could squeeze out,” he said. “I also knew I had stable help here and had people who could cover Prince of Peace while I was gone.” His sabbatical lasted from July through January and began with spending some time with family and friends. Rekindling those relationships was one thing that stood out to him. “I don’t get that a lot as a big parish pastor, and I really remembered that life

PHOTO COURTESY OF FATHER GREG HAMMES

Father Greg Hammes, pastor of Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe, walked the Camino de Santiago (Way of St. James) during his sabbatical. is about relationships,” Father Hammes said. “And I include [my relationship with] the Lord with my family and friends.” He then traveled to Portugal where he was able to tour Lisbon, take a pilgrimage to the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Fatima and walk the Camino de Santiago. Father Hammes then joined a program for priests on sabbatical in Rome at the Institute of Continuing Theological Education at the Pontifical North American College. “It was very cool to meet priests from across the world at the Rome program,” he said. “We all have similar joys and challenges, and it was great to get a renewed sense of the bigger church as well.”

It was then that he noticed a common theme for his trips to Rome. “I was in Rome for the Jubilee, and I realized I keep showing up in Rome on Jubilees,” he said. “I went to the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy in 2016 with the parish choir at my previous parish. Then the one before that in 2000, I was backpacking there after just graduating college. “For some reason, I tend to end up in Rome on the Jubilee, even if I don’t purposely intend it.”

Success is spiritual renewal After his time in Rome, Father

Hammes returned to the United States to do a 30-day silent retreat in California, practicing the spiritual exercise of St. Ignatius of Loyola. It was here where he felt his prayer start to move to another level. “My prayer was fine when [the sabbatical] first started,” Father Hammes said. “But it was really amped when I went on my 30-day retreat and pretty much all I did was pray. “It helped deepen my prayer life, remind me how important that is and just brought a good renewal to it.” After spending the holidays with family, he wrapped up the sabbatical by taking a trip to Costa Rica with his priest prayer group. “Father Daniel Coronado is originally from Costa Rica, so we had a great tour guide,” Father Hammes said. While there, he was able to visit San Jose and Our Lady of the Angels Basilica in Cartago, as well as spend fellowship time with other priests. Father Hammes returned to Prince of Peace at the end of January. His parishioners were glad to have him back, and he feels refreshed in his ministry. “They’re glad that I’m back and they’re still saying that a few months later,” he said. “I think there was some worry if I would be back, but that was never a question. A sabbatical is about time to refresh and renew a good thing, which is my vocation as a priest. “I feel like there was a grace that I asked for, and I think I really received it. I was praying before the sabbatical, and the theme of the biblical word of ‘steadfast’ came to mind. “I want to have that strength and stability to finish the rest of my life strong.” Father Haverland shared his idea of a successful sabbatical. “I think success is when a priest comes back spiritually renewed and ready for pastoral ministry,” Father Haverland said. “That might also come with some educational experience to help him better minister to his people.” Father Hammes would encourage any priest who is able to take a sabbatical to do so. “If you can make it happen, do it,” he said. “We priests have a lot on our plates, and it can be hard to give yourself proper self-care. I think this will sustain me for many years.”