THELEAVEN.ORG | VOL. 48, NO. 5 | SEPTEMBER 4, 2026
For Leawood parish, it’s
‘ALL HANDS ON DECK’
at St. Mary’s Food Kitchen STORY BY JOHN SORCE | PHOTOS BY JAY SOLDNER
Every month, volunteers from Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood prepare and serve food at St. Mary’s Food Kitchen in Kansas City, Kansas.
Susan Parker, a volunteer at St. Mary’s Food Kitchen in Kansas City, Kansas, offers a cup of salsa to a patron of the food kitchen. Parker works alongside volunteers from Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood. From left are: Bruce Snyder, Robert Zahner, Terry Truesdell, Carol Jones, Richard Steele, Parker and Whitney Greaves.
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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Before the doors open at St. Mary’s Food Kitchen here, the work of feeding hundreds of hungry people has already begun. On the third Monday of each month, volunteers from Curé of Ars Parish in Leawood gather before sunrise to load fresh food into vehicles, drive to St. Mary’s Food Kitchen and turn a moun-
tain of ingredients into the parish’s famous taco salad meal. “We always do the same meal because it’s very popular,” said Jacqueline Elbert, Curé’s parish coordinator and St. Mary’s Food Kitchen treasurer. St. Mary’s Food Kitchen is located at 645 Nebraska Avenue in Kansas City, Kansas. It is open daily from 11 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. “There are a lot of people out there who are homeless and hungry,” said
Father John Riley, pastor of Curé. “We come together with several churches of all denominations throughout the metro area to feed the hungry.” Each day of the week, a different church or faith-based organization serves lunch. On Aug. 17, that group was Curé. Once at the kitchen, volunteer Doug Leibbrandt’s responsibilities include preparing the 120 pounds of meat, which is cooked ahead of time.
One thing he always looks forward to is meeting people he otherwise never would have met. “I get to see people that I’ve met through doing this over the years,” Leibbrandt said. “We call each other by first name, and having those conversations has helped build friendships that will last forever.” The parish has an online sign up >> See “CURÉ” on page 8
2 LOCAL NEWS
SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Archbishop announces changes to The Leaven
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ear Brothers and Sisters in Christ, For more than 87 years, The Leaven and its predecessor, The Eastern Kansas Register, have helped Catholics across Northeast Kansas remain connected to the life and mission of our local church. For many of you, receiving The Leaven in your mailbox is a treasured experience and valued part of that connection. I am grateful for your loyalty to the newspaper and for the important place it holds in our archdiocese. In the past, The Leaven would resume a weekly publication from September through mid-May. Beginning this fall, our print schedule will continue every other week year-round. I recognize this will be a change for our longtime readers, and I want you to understand the reasons for this decision. The cost of printing and mailing a newspaper continues to rise exponentially. At the same time, postal delays mean that our households do not receive The Leaven until several days or more after it has been published. For a newspaper, particularly one reporting on a very active archdiocese, that delay presents a real challenge. Remaining on a biweekly print schedule will allow us to devote more of our resources to providing news when it is most useful to you, while continuing to produce the printed newspaper our readers love. Beginning in October, we will launch a biweekly email newsletter featuring timely news and features from across the archdiocese. We will also strengthen The Leaven’s online presence so that stories can be shared more quickly as they happen. The e-newsletter will be available free of charge to anyone who wishes to receive it. To subscribe, please sign up at: theleaven.org/emailsign-up. We recognize the way people receive information has evolved, even more so for our younger generations. As the archdiocese’s primary news source, we have a responsibility to meet our people where they are, using
ARCHBISHOP MCKNIGHT Sept. 8 Pontifical College Josephinum board of trustees meeting — virtual Priest Personnel board meeting — chancery Sept. 9 Early Education Center groundbreaking blessing — St. Joseph School, Shawnee Serra Club Mass and lunch— St. Joseph Church, Shawnee Blessing and ribbon cutting for St. Joseph Athletic Facility — St. Joseph School, Shawnee Sept. 11 Pontifical College Josephinum executive committee meeting — virtual Sept. 12 Archdiocesan convocation for parish leaders — Savior Pastoral Center, Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 13 Mass for the Institution of Lectors for Deacon Candidates — Savior Pastoral Center Sept. 14 USCCB Committee on Laity, Marriage, Family Life and Youth Meeting — virtual Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate (CARA) executive committee meeting — virtual
Archbishop Shawn McKnight the resources available to share the life of the church more effectively and proclaim the Gospel with greater reach. Strengthening our digital channels is not a replacement for the printed Leaven; it is an additional way to ensure the good news of Christ can reach people more effectively. Please be assured of our commitment to making each edition of The Leaven relevant and meaningful to our readers. We are looking for ways to enrich its coverage by adding more local stories throughout every corner of our archdiocese and including new features such as volunteer opportunities and baptismal announcements celebrating the newest members of our Catholic family. We will continue telling the stories of the Catholic community of northeast Kansas, helping us recognize the many ways Christ is at work among us. Thank you for reading The Leaven and for your continued commitment to remaining connected to our local church. I am Sincerely yours in Christ, Most Reverend Shawn McKnight Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas Publisher, The Leaven
Sept. 15 Deanery parish leadership meeting — virtual Sept. 16 Presbyteral Council meeting — chancery Confirmation — Immaculate Conception Church, Louisburg Sept. 18 St. John Vianney Center board meeting — virtual Sept. 18-21 Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem 2026 annual meeting — Kansas City Downtown Marriott Hotel, Kansas City, Missouri Sept. 21 C.O.R.E. (Celebrate Our Religious Enthusiastically) priest appreciation event dinner — St. Michael the Archangel Church, Leawood Sept. 22 An Evening of Art Event — Spiritual Life Center, Bel Aire
ARCHBISHOP EMERITUS NAUMANN Sept. 8 Trinity House voiceover recording — St. Joseph House Sept. 12 Keynote speaker JMJ Pregnancy Centers — Orlando, Florida Sept. 14 Spiritual Mentorship Program Mass — Savior Pastoral Center Sept. 16 CEF School of Excellence Mass and reception — Cathedral of St. Peter the Apostle, Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 18 Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem (EOHSJ) annual meeting — Kansas City Marriott Downtown EOHSJ welcome Mass and dinner — Kansas City Marriott Downtown Sept. 21 EOHSJ travelers Mass — Kansas City Marriott Downtown C.O.R.E. priests appreciation day dinner — St. Michael the Archangel Church, Leawood
LOCAL NEWS 3
SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
THRIVING THREE YEARS IN
Retired priests grateful for a home of their own
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Vianney House has been a home for retired priests of the archdiocese since it opened in July 2023. Although it is separate from the nearby Santa Marta senior living community, it contracts services like housekeeping, meals and significant maintenance from Santa Marta.
By Moira Cullings moira.cullings@theleaven.org
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LATHE — Decades ago, Archbishop Ignatius J. Strecker sent Msgr. Ray Burger and Father Robert Pflumm on a mission. Their assignment was to look at old convents that could be transformed into a residence for retired priests. “The first complaint we had was, have you ever been in a convent closet?” said Msgr. Burger with a laugh. “It is about a foot deep, that’s all, because all [the Sisters] had is two habits.” “That wouldn’t do for a priest,” he said. “The rooms were really sparse. There was no room for any kind of activity. “Nothing came of that, but that was early in his years here as archbishop. And then Archbishop [James P.] Keleher did get very much interested in it and began meetings among the priests that eventually led to this.” “This” is Vianney House — a home for retired priests of the archdiocese. In July, it celebrated its third anniversary of opening. “It means very much to every one of us,” said Msgr. Burger. “We’ve worked years to get this place. “We’re very happy for what has happened over the last 10 years, but [also the forethought that] was taking place 40 years ago.” Vianney House was decades in the making and a priority of Archbishop Emeritus Joseph F. Naumann, who pushed its funding through the One Faith, One Family, One Future . . . in Christ capital campaign. Msgr. Burger was one of the “trailblazers” who moved in first, followed by Father Harry Schneider and Father Bob Hasenkamp. “They were the champions of getting the thing ironed out,” said Michael Tracy, chair of the building committee and a parishioner at Church of the Ascension in Overland Park. “I think in year three, we’re pretty good,” said Tracy. “The building’s in good shape.” Father Ron Livojevich is the newest resident. He moved in on Aug. 3, joining the “trailblazers” and three others — Father Frank Burger, Father John
I THINK IT MEANS VERY MUCH TO EVERY ONE OF US. WE’VE WORKED YEARS TO GET THIS PLACE. MSGR. RAY BURGER
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Msgr. Ray Burger welcomes visitors to Vianney House. Msgr. Burger was a driving force behind the retirement home for priests of the archdiocese and was the first to move in when it was completed three years ago.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY DOUG HESSE
Father Ron Livojevich is the newest resident of Vianney House. He moved in Aug. 3. Pilcher and Father Anthony Williams. Vianney House has 10 apartments, and “we want them all filled,” said Tracy. For Father Hasenkamp, the decision to move in was easy. “I thought it’d be really good to be with other priests,” he said. “I had been living in an apartment by myself for many years.” He liked the idea of continuing to
have his own space, “but then to have this whole common area and to have other guys around and to live in a place where there’s a chapel — all of that attracted me.” “For me, all of those reasons,” added Father Schneider. “Also security, and we can participate in all the amenities of Santa Marta.” Although Vianney House is separate
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 Candi Scanlon at cscanlon@archkck.org. Postmaster: Send address changes to The Leaven, 12615 Parallel Pkwy., Kansas City, KS 66109. For change of address, visit www.theleaven.org/subscribe. Subscriptions $27/year. Periodicals postage paid at Kansas City, KS 66109.
Interim Managing Editor Todd Habiger todd.habiger@theleaven.org
from the nearby Santa Marta senior living community, it contracts services like housekeeping, meals and significant maintenance, and the priests can take advantage of amenities like its library. For other needs that arise, Ascension’s Knights of Columbus are on hand. The priests appreciate many things about Vianney House, especially that it’s all one level. Its common area includes a lounge with an electric fireplace, TV area, dining area with a kitchenette and a chapel. Each apartment is equipped with a kitchen, dining area, living room, laundry room, guest bathroom, bedroom, walk-in closet, private bathroom, garage and walkout patio. “It’s quite spacious,” said Father Schneider, who said that priests from other dioceses who visit are amazed by the space. “And other dioceses have heard about it and want to build retirement centers,” he added. “They’ve sent priests here to look at it and get the plans for them to consider.” When the priests aren’t enjoying alone time or hanging out together, they stay active in the community, celebrating Masses where they’re needed. “I really enjoy it,” said Father Schneider. “You can go and help and do ministry, and you don’t have to worry about any of the administrative stuff in the parishes.” “These are the hardest working retirees you’re going to find,” said Tracy. For him, giving back to the priests who have spent so much of their lives serving others has been gratifying. “It’s been a lot of fun and an honor to be able to help create a nice place for our retired priests,” he said.
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
SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG John and Mary (Burdick) Rottinghaus, members of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish in Seneca, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary with a Mass, dinner and reception in their honor on Aug. 30. They are also planning a trip to Rome in the fall. The couple was married on Aug. 13, 1966, at St. Augustine Church, Fidelity. Their children are: Shawn, Brenda, Sam, Gayle, Cynthia, Emmy, Jackie, Josh, Mary Jon, Frank, Ben and Veronica. They also have 38 grandchildren and 12 great-grandchildren.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY JAY SOLDNER
Dr. Erin Vader is the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas’ new superintendent of Catholic schools. She brings 30 years of Catholic education experience and a love of people to the archdiocese.
Faith is at the heart of new superintendent’s work By Olivia Martin-Davies olivia.martin@theleaven.org
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ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Dr. Erin Vader never planned to become a teacher. In fact, when her mother urged her to apply to be a second grade teacher at Our Mother of Mercy School in Fort Worth, Texas, Vader was certain teaching wasn’t for her. The Lord disagreed. Two applications later, Vader signed a contract to teach seventh grade language arts at another area Catholic school. “I didn’t know what I was doing,” said Vader. “I ended up with probably the world’s best seventh grade class ever. They were very kind to me and I realized, ‘Oh, I am a teacher. This is what I’m supposed to do.’ “Interestingly, years later, I ended up being principal of Our Mother of Mercy. “It came full circle!” With 30 years working in Catholic education, Vader joined the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas as superintendent of Catholic schools on Aug. 1. Vader comes to the archdiocese
from the Diocese of Jefferson City, where she served as superintendent from 2020 to 2026. Father Michael Hawken, vicar general and moderator of the curia and chair of the superintendent search committee, said the committee sought a leader equally committed to Catholic identity and academic excellence. “The search committee’s goal was to find a faith-filled leader whose love for the Lord and the Catholic Church would guide their work,” he said. The committee was also seeking someone able to collaborate with pastors, principals, teachers, school boards and others across the archdiocese. “We believe we have found these qualifications and many additional gifts in Dr. Erin Vader,” Father Hawken said. For Vader, that faith-centered mission is at the heart of her work as superintendent. “You have to have a strong faith for this job,” she said. “What we’re doing is not just curriculum. It’s not just learning standards. We are responsible for helping parents form not just their child’s brain or body but their soul.” “That’s a tremendous amount of
responsibility,” she continued, “and I want to be able to say when I get to meet Christ face-to-face, ‘I really did my best. I really did my best to help these parents do that.’ “This is my calling.” Vader explained that a Catholic school superintendent acts as the archbishop’s conduit to the schools. Unlike a public school superintendent, she does not directly supervise most principals. Instead, she advises pastors and principals, supports school leadership and helps ensure archdiocesan standards are met. That work, she said, requires listening, relationship building and the ability to make difficult decisions while keeping the needs of the entire archdiocese in view. Her first priority is getting to know the people she now serves. Over the coming months, Vader plans to visit schools, meet teachers and students and spend time with principals and pastors. “That’s the best part of any day for me — being able to go visit a school or talk to a principal or do something that can be a direct help,” she said. “Nothing beats being with people,” she added. “Nothing beats that.”
Larry and Joyce Moore, members of Good Shepherd Parish, Shawnee, celebrated their 60th wedding anniversary on Sept. 3. The couple was married on Sept. 3, 1966, in Parsons. Their children are: Amelia, Pamela and Ryan. They also have nine grandchildren. Joseph and Dorothy Ginzel, members of St. Patrick Parish, Osage City, celebrated their 65th wedding anniversary on Sept. 2. Their children are: Joey, John and Chris (deceased). They also have 14 grandchildren and 10 great grandchildren. Charles “Rich” and Florence Courtney, members of St. Joseph of the Valley Church, Leavenworth, will celebrate their 70th wedding anniversary on Sept. 13 with a cake and punch reception at the McLouth Community Center. Family and friends are welcome to stop by and visit. The couple was married on Sept. 15, 1956, by Father Francis McVay at St. Joseph of the Valley Church. Their children are: Charles Courtney (deceased), Deb King, Carol Courtney and Ed Courtney. They also have six grandchildren and eight great-grandchildren. Laura (Dercher)and Robert “Dale” We t z e l , m e m bers of St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug 29 with a family dinner. The couple was married on Aug. 28, 1976, at St. Joseph Church, Kansas City, Kansas. Their children are: Heather Roche, Olathe; Alysha Wetzel, Overland Park; and Heath Wetzel, Overland Park. They also have two granddaughters.
LOCAL NEWS 5
SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
RALLYING AROUND FAITH
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he third annual Flush Youth Rally took place Aug. 15 on the grounds of St. Joseph Church in Flush. The rally began with a performance by singer/songwriter Ken Savy. Father Luke Doyle, chaplain of the St. Lawrence Catholic Campus Center at the University of Kansas in Lawrence, was a guest speaker. The day also included breakout sessions for boys and girls followed by a closing Mass.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Participants at the third annual Flush Youth Rally enjoy the entertainment at the start of the rally.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Father Gale Hammerschmidt, pastor of St. Isidore’s Catholic Student Center at Kansas State University in Manhattan, celebrates Mass at the end of the youth rally. Father Nicholas Blaha, pastor of St. Joseph Parish in Flush and St. Bernard Parish, Wamego, concelebrated.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Contemporary Christian singer and songwriter Ken Savy fires up the crowd with some Christian pop-rock music.
LEAVEN PHOTO BY KATHRYN WHITE
Angie Bittner, director of rural outreach at Prairie Star Ranch in Williamsburg, leads a breakout session for girls at the Flush Youth Rally.
6 LOCAL NEWS
SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Germans establish strong roots throughout the archdiocese By Therese Horvat Special to The Leaven
GERMAN St. Boniface Parish, Scipio St. Joseph Parish, Leavenworth The histories of St. Boniface Parish in Scipio and St. Joseph Parish, Leavenworth, share strong German and Carmelite connections. Three years after he took up residence in Leavenworth, Bishop John Baptist Miege established St. Joseph Parish in the city to serve the growing German population. In July 1859, the first church was dedicated. Father David McEvoy, O.Carm, is a native son of Leavenworth, former pastor of St. Joseph and current parochial administrator of St. Boniface. He explained that the Carmelites came to the United States from Germany in 1864. St. Joseph was their first permanent establishment in the United States. A year later, two more Carmelite priests were sent to serve German immigrants in Scipio. The Carmelites established a priory there that at one time housed 10 to 12 priests and working Brothers. The religious Brothers helped quarry stone that went into building the parish church. Economic opportunities, the promise of free or inexpensive land and a climate akin to their homeland attracted large numbers of Germans to Leavenworth. Among these immigrants were Father David’s maternal great-grandparents. In 1871, the present parish church was blessed. At St. Joseph, the German language was spoken for 80 years. Mass was in Latin and the homily in German. St. Joseph hosts an annual Germanfest to celebrate the heritage of the parish and the lasting traditions of the German people. Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Seneca While he is a member of St. Joseph Parish in Leavenworth, Kenneth Uphaus traces his family roots back to Seneca. In 1926, his father August, age 17, came to the United States through Ellis Island from Vörden, Germany. August traveled by train to Baileyville, where he provided free labor on the large
FROM THE ST. JOSEPH CENTENNIAL BOOK
The children at St. Joseph School in Leavenworth are photographed in 1894. The parish school was established in 1859. Today, Xavier School serves the parishes in Leavenworth.
HOW CATHOLIC IMMIGRANTS BUILT AMERICA This is the fourth article in a series.
farm of a so-called “second cousin.” In return, the farmer sponsored August and provided collateral for a loan to purchase land in Seneca. “People made good for one another in those days,” said Uphaus. By the time August arrived in Seneca, Sts. Peter and Paul had been a parish for almost 60 years. In the 1860s, a Benedictine priest from Atchison celebrated monthly Masses in the home of Matthias Stein, with 10 families in attendance. Bishop Miege saw the need for a church in Seneca and asked Stein to locate suitable property. Catholics and Protestants alike supported the idea and contributed funds to purchase a district school building and the entire block on which it stood. While German was commonly
FROM THE ST. BONIFACE CENTENNIAL BOOK
The first Communion class of 1897 poses in front of the convent and school at St. Boniface Parish in Scipio. spoken, August refused to teach the language to his sons because the Benedictine Sisters had emphasized the importance of learning English. August owned 600 acres at one time.
ACROSS 1 Blessed are the __ 5 Metric linear unit 10 Joke 13 Opposed 14 Book by Homer 15 Opinion sampler 16 College head 17 After that 18 Nimbus 19 Obtained 21 Khaki (2 wds.) 23 Take to court 26 Be sick 28 Solidarity 29 Communication device 32 Eye infection 33 One of Columbus’ ships 34 Rationale 36 Sky light 37 Authoritative list of scripture 38 Word meaning father 42 For God so loved the __ 43 Window part 44 Adam’s son 46 Young 49 Stamp 51 Miles per hour 52 Cook with oil COPYRIGHT © BY CLIFF LEITCH, THE CHRISTIAN BIBLE REFERENCE SITE, WWW.CHRISTIANBIBLEREFERENCE.ORG. USED BY PERMISSION
53 57 59 60 62 66 67 68 69 70 71
Pertaining to dorm rules Change hue Tides Last letter of Greek alphabet River sediment He built the ark Intended Fresh Put on Empower Do __ others
DOWN 1 Sore 2 Compass point 3 Airport abbr. 4 __ James Version 5 Snapple’s competitor 6 Samuel’s mentor 7 Dye 8 Biblical word for You idiot! 9 Adam and Eve’s garden 10 Soccer position 11 Dispense 12 Give __ to God 15 Bogus 20 Rowing device 22 Severs 23 Transgressions
He purchased and rebuilt a house from his in-laws. Uphaus and his five brothers grew up in the home and attended grade school and high school at Sts. Peter and Paul.
24 Piece 25 Bunsen burner 27 Rounded part 30 Hearing part 31 Brave 32 Transgression 35 City destroyed by fire 37 Cheat 38 Tree 39 Punch 40 Smudge 41 Member of an alliance 42 Clean off 44 Gift consecrated to God 45 Mennonite 47 Make current 48 Scriptural your 49 Use money 50 Not allowed 54 Very large book 55 Last word of a prayer 56 Heavy metal 58 Twin brother of Jacob 61 African antelope 63 No room for them in the __ 64 Permit 65 Duo Solution on page 13
LOCAL NEWS 7
SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Coalition of pregnancy resource centers hosts first major event By Marc and Julie Anderson mjanderson@theleaven.org
S
ALINA — According to Kansans for Life, more than 50 pregnancy resource centers operate in Kansas, as opposed to seven abortion clinics. This means pregnancy resource centers outnumber abortion clinics 7 to 1. The resource centers serve communities such as Arkansas City, Coffeyville, El Dorado, Overland Park and Topeka. And many have long carried out their mission of serving children, women and families largely on their own. Recognizing greater impact could come through collaboration, the archdiocese, along with pregnancy resource center executive directors Bridgit Smith of Insight Women’s Health in Lawrence and Ruth Tisdale of Two Lines Pregnancy Clinic in Overland Park, helped establish Life Alliance Kansas in 2023. The statewide coalition of approximately three dozen pregnancy resource centers shares resources and best practices, encourages one another and works to increase collective impact while upholding the dignity of every human life. “Pregnancy resource centers and pregnancy help organizations are founded out of a heart for the mission,” said Eileen Lambert, Life Alliance Kansas’ executive director and only employee. “But the [further] west you go in Kansas, the more rural you go, the more isolated they are. They don’t have the
COURTESY PHOTO
Lynn Imler of Choose Life Marketing facilitated a breakout session titled “Can She Find You and Trust You: Using Digital Marketing and AI to Reach Women in Your Area” during the Life Alliance Kansas’ first summit this past June. funding. They don’t have the resources.” Many centers serve women and families with limited staff and funding. For example, said Lambert, it costs about $10,000 to train a nurse to perform ultrasounds independently, a service critical to every pregnancy resource center’s mission. “By having a coalition, by having connections and shared resources, [we know] someone else has figured it out. Let’s not reinvent the wheel,” Lambert said. “There are other people that are doing the same thing. We can work together. We can help each other out.” Life Alliance Kansas is also working to increase awareness of available services.
“Kansas is an abortion destination state,” Lambert said. “We need to let everybody know that pregnancy resource centers exist [and] exactly what services they offer.” The coalition held its first major gathering June 18 — a one-day summit in Salina that brought together 90 people from pregnancy centers across the state, including executive directors, board members, nurses and client advocates. The summit was especially meaningful for staff members who often cannot attend larger national conferences, Lambert said. “A lot of the other staff, the client advocates, the nurses, the administrative
assistants don’t,” she said. “So, this was something they got to go to and be in a room with 100 people and know that they’re not alone.” The coalition’s work also extends to advocacy. A legislative session at the summit included training from Lucrecia Nold of the Kansas Catholic Conference. Lambert previously worked with Nold and several centers to support the Pregnancy Center Autonomy and Rights of Expression Act, which became law on July 1 through a legislative override. Pregnancy resource center leaders say the collaboration has strengthened their work. “I think it’s important that we link arms and work together,” said Leah Conner, executive director of Wyandotte Pregnancy Clinic. “I think we’re stronger, much stronger together. . . . If we can be more in solidarity, I think we’ll be more effective.” McKenzie Murley, executive director of Sparrow Women’s Health Clinic in Lansing, said the coalition has helped reduce the isolation that can come with ministry work. “It just always fills my cup when I’m able to spend time with others who are laboring in the same vineyard, who have similar struggles,” Murley said. “It was an uplifting and encouraging day,” she added. For more information about Life Alliance Kansas, visit: www.lifeallianceks. org.
Curé treats food kitchen patrons with dignity and respect >> Continued from page 1
for volunteers and donations and, once Elbert knows how many people will be volunteering, she assigns tasks for the morning. “Everyone has their role,” said Father Riley, “and it’s all hands on deck as we get ready.” “We take an attitude of ‘How would we serve our children or family?’ And if we wouldn’t give [the meal] to our family, we’re not going to serve it to these people,” said Elbert. “So, besides the chips, everything we serve is fresh.” LeeAnn Egger has been volunteering with the kitchen for seven years. When her husband retired, they both decided to get more involved with Curé and, by extension, the kitchen. “There’s a great need, and we wanted to do some corporal works of mercy,” she said. “We signed up, and the more you do it, the more you see the need and want to continue.” Her duties for the parish’s latest day at the kitchen included organizing donations into bins prior to getting everything loaded into cars. “It can be chaotic when people are bringing food in the morning, so we
came up with a system where we have bins with signs and sort out the donations before we head over to the kitchen,” Egger said. Father Riley is grateful to lead a parish with the generosity that Curé has. “This is a very generous parish,” he said. “We have the Catholic Charities food truck here once a month, and we fill that up. But we also receive cash donations on that weekend, which we then give to Catholic Charities so they can buy things like milk and eggs that we can’t keep in a hot panel truck. “The people here are very generous in giving to those who are in need.” Volunteers like Egger have been moved by the gratitude of those they serve. “There are homeless, poor and other people who need a meal,” said Egger. “Sometimes you will see someone eat part of it and save the rest for later, because that might be the only meal they get all day. “You can see how grateful they are, and it can be overwhelming.” To learn more about St. Mary’s Food Kitchen, go to: stmaryfoodkitchen.org.
Bill Hobbs looks over the containers of salsa to make sure they are clean and the lids are on tight. H
Donna Potts and Mary Imming slice up fresh watermelon at St. Mary’s Food Kitchen on Aug. 17. Each day, a different church or faith-based organization serves lunch at St. Mary’s.
Richard Steele hands out tortilla chips that are part of Curé of Ars’ very popular taco salad. Serving alongside Steele are, from left, Terry Truesdell and Carol Jones.
From left, LeeAnn Egger, Ray Wilson, Father John Riley and Tom Wiese grab the ingredients needed to Kitchen. “Everyone has their role,” said Father Riley, “and it’s all hands on deck as we get ready.”
Hundreds of hungry people go to St. Mary’s Food Kitchen every day for a nice meal. For some, it’s the only meal they get that day.
o make the meal to be served at St. Mary’s Food
Mary Pat Moll puts together the vanilla pudding treats as part of Curé of Ars’ offering to the hungry at St. Mary’s Food Kitchen.
From left, Robert Zahner, Rene Gillespie and Doug Leibbrandt get ready to start cooking. Once at the kitchen, Leibbrandt is responsible for preparing the 120 pounds of meat.
10 LOCAL NEWS
SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Val and Aurea Schmitz, members of Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, Seneca, will celebrate their 65th wedding anniversary on Sept. 13 with a Mass at the church, followed by a reception. The couple was married Sept. 9, 1961, at Sacred Heart Church, Baileyville, by Father Edward Roberts. Their children are: Rodney, Kristina, Shawn and Kelli. They also have eight grandchildren and four great grandchildren.
Roger and Bernadette Fulks, members of Sacred Heart of Jesus Parish, Shawnee, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 12 with an open house for friends and family. The couple was married on Sept. 3, 1976, at Holy Family Church, Eudora, by Father Patrick Hogan. Their children are: Ryan, John, Theresa, Mark, Maria, Matthew, Paul, Phillip, Patrick, Daniel, Catherine and Sarah. They also have 44 grandchildren.
Kathie and Ken Baldwin, members of Corpus Christi Parish, L a w rence, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 4. The couple was married Sept. 4, 1976, at St. Teresa Church, Westphalia. Their children are: Josh and Jake. They also have four grandchildren. They celebrated in June with a family trip to Branson.
Barbara and Robert Wilson, members of Church of the Ascension, Overland Park, celeb ra t e d their 50th wedding anniversary on Aug. 8 with a renewal of vows at Queen of the Holy Rosary Church, Overland Park, and a dinner with family and friends at J. Gilbert’s in Overland Park. The couple was married on Aug. 7, 1976, at Queen of the Holy Rosary. They have a daughter, Madison.
Audrey and Christopher Dusil, members of Christ the King Parish, Kansas City, Kansas, will celebrate their 50th wedding anniversary on Sept. 12 with a dinner and reception for family and friends hosted by their sons. The couple was married on Sept. 11, 1976, at Sacred Heart Church, Bonner Springs. Their children are: Tony, Carla (deceased) and John. They also have 18 grandchildren and six great-grandchildren.
Ginny and Merlin Stallbaumer, members of Mother Teresa of Calcutta Parish, Topeka, will celebrate their 60th wedding anniversary on Sept. 17 with a private family dinner. The couple was married on Sept. 17, 1966, at St. Augustine Church, Fidelity. Their children are: Michael and Todd. They also have seven grandchildren.
The Most Reverend Shawn McKnight, S.Th.D Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas Decree of Promulgation Whereas the Decree of 15 August 2025 dispensing parishes for one year from the observance of non-essential elements of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults (OCIA) in order to fully implement the OCIA is coming to a close; Whereas the full observance of the revised edition of the OCIA requires supplemental guidance for its full implementation within the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas; After careful consideration of the norms established in the OCIA, consultation with experts and leaders in formation, and assessing their recommendations for application within the Archdiocese, I hereby DECREE the Guidelines and Norms for the Implementation and Use of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults and the accompanying OCIA Supplemental Norms to be approved and established in the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, taking effect on 1 September 2026. These Guidelines and all the Norms of the OCIA, universal and particular, are binding on all parishes and institutions within the Archdiocese. With these guidelines established, the general dispensation granted on 15 August 2025, in particular the dispensation from the requirement of a yearlong catechumenate, is concluded. Any individuals admitted to the Order of the Catechumenate after 27 September 2026 shall receive the sacraments of initiation at the Easter Vigil of 2028. Any request for a dispensation from these norms, in particular, the yearlong-catechumenate, must be submitted to the Office of Parish Evangelization Services on an individual basis by the pastor of the individuals requesting it. This decree is to be published on the website of the Archdiocese and in the next edition of The Leaven. Given at the Chancery in Kansas City, KS on the 20th day of August in the year of Our Lord 2026. The Most Reverend Shawn McKnight Archbishop of Kansas City in Kansas
Rev. Anthony J. Saiki, J.C.L. Chancellor
LOCAL NEWS 11
SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas imposes ministerial restrictions on Phil Baniewicz following independent investigation conclusion
K
ANSAS CITY, Kan. — Based on the recommendation of the Independent Review Board of the Archdiocese after an independent investigation into the allegations regarding Mr. Phil Baniewicz, former president of Bishop Miege High School (Miege), concerning his ability to oversee a safe environment for minors and vulnerable adults, Archbishop Shawn McKnight has determined that Mr. Baniewicz is not suitable for ecclesiastical employment, appointment, volunteer service, or ministry involving minors or other vulnerable persons within the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas. “The protection of minors and persons in vulnerable situations is fundamental to the mission of our church,” Archbishop McKnight said. “As believers and followers of Jesus Christ, we have a sacred responsibility to safeguard the innate human dignity of every person and to hold one another, especially those who exercise authority and power in the church, to the high moral standards of our faith.” The archbishop’s decision is based upon an independent investigation and the canonical assessment made after the investigation concluded, and was promulgated via a formal canonical, or church, decree signed Aug. 13, 2026.
On June 5, 2025, the Miege board of trustees placed Mr. Baniewicz on administrative leave due to concerns about his inability to oversee a safe environment. Simultaneously, Archbishop McKnight announced a thorough investigation into the matter. On June 17, 2025, Mr. Baniewicz was restricted from all active ministry in the archdiocese and put on a safety plan due to a newly revealed allegation of inappropriate behavior with a minor. On Aug. 6, 2025, the Miege board of trustees determined new leadership was in the best interest of the Miege community, and Mr. Baniewicz’s employment with Miege ended. The independent investigation was led by a professional investigation firm that conducted a comprehensive process that included 68 interviews, review and analysis of extensive records and reports, and consultation with authorities from multiple jurisdictions. The process was initiated by the archdiocese, which through outside legal counsel retained an independent investigation firm and also engaged the services of the Child Protection Center, an independent agency in Kansas City dedicated to providing forensic interviews for alleged victims of abuse or violence as minors. The archdiocese cooperated with local law enforcement
and the Kansas Department for Children and Families throughout the investigation. The investigation examined 16 distinct allegations against Mr. Baniewicz spanning from approximately 1985 to 2025. It included a review of reports regarding his work as a youth minister in Mesa, Arizona, from 1985 to 1993; a senior officer of Life Teen, Inc., from 1993 to 2006; president of Maur Hill Mount Academy in Kansas from 2010 to 2023; and president of Miege from 2023 to 2025. Mr. Baniewicz was given multiple opportunities to address the allegations. He was interviewed and submitted a written statement. The investigation included interviews with the complainants, most of whom did not have an apparent connection to one another. The interviews exhibited a substantial degree of consistency regarding Mr. Baniewicz’s behavior. The investigation disclosed serious concerns regarding Mr. Baniewicz’s conduct and determined a consistent pattern of imprudent professional conduct, repeated failures to maintain appropriate ministerial and professional boundaries with minors, deficient safeguarding practices, and conduct incompatible with the standards ex-
pected of those entrusted with ecclesiastical service involving children and vulnerable people. To date, no criminal charges have been filed against Mr. Baniewicz. While the investigation did not establish the level of certainty required by church law to initiate a canonical disciplinary process, it revealed a persistent and deeply concerning pattern of conduct that reached the level at which administrative action must be taken. Therefore, exercising his responsibility to safeguard the faithful and provide for the good of the church, Archbishop McKnight has decreed that Mr. Baniewicz is unsuitable for ecclesiastical employment, appointment, volunteer service, or ministry involving minors or vulnerable persons within the Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas, and his current safety plan will remain in place. Anyone with information regarding misconduct by any church volunteer, employee, religious or clergy member — regardless of when it occurred — is encouraged to contact civil authorities first and then call or text the archdiocese’s confidential report line at (913) 276-8703 or report online at www.archkck.org/reportabuse.
12 CLASSIFIEDS EMPLOYMENT Facilities maintenance manager (FMM) - This role ensures that the buildings and grounds of St. Agnes Parish, Roeland Park, (including school, church, church offices, convent, two homes on property, playgrounds and athletic fields) are maintained in a manner that ensures a safe, welcoming and productive environment for parishioners, students, staff and visitors. All duties undertaken should be carried out in a manner that best protects the parish’s investment in buildings and equipment. The FMM will also be charged with the responsibility of assuring that the maintenance and care of these facilities are accomplished within the budget established by the parish finance council. This position reports to the director of operations. The FMM is expected to work no less than 40 hrs./week. For job requirements and to apply, please visit: stagneskc.org/employment. Chief financial officer - Exchange Bank & Trust is a $600M family-owned community bank located in N.E. Kansas and N.W. Missouri. Primary duties: preparation, analysis and presentation of financial results to management, board and regulatory authorities; management, preparation and presentation of annual budgeting process; management of relationships and process for annual third-party audit, tax preparation and 401-K audit; bank policy development and reviews; acquisition analysis and participate in setting the bank’s strategic direction. This is an in-person position. The CFO will be required to spend a significant amount of time at the Atchison, Kansas, headquarters. Please send resume to: bhawk@ebt.bank. Part-time/day concrete finisher - Work 1 to 2 days per week or as needed on concreting days. Jobs will already be formed and prepped. Applicant must be capable of understanding and performing all duties involved in placing and finishing concrete flatwork. Email Al at: al_wegener@amdgconstructionkc.com or call at (913) 232-6029. Part-time flooring installer - Fortress Floors KC is hiring a part-time crew member (20-40 hours/week, $18.50/hour) to help install polyurea/polyaspartic chip floor coatings. No experience required — we’ll teach you the trade. We’re looking for someone who shows up on time, works hard and is eager to learn. Great opportunity for someone looking for steady, hands-on work. Contact Kevin at (816) 694-3987 to apply. Director of stewardship and community - Prince of Peace Parish in Olathe, a vibrant parish of 2,600 families, is seeking a director of stewardship and community to lead parish stewardship and development efforts, build community through events and increase volunteerism. Candidates should be joyful, faithfilled, enthusiastic, proactive and organized, with skills in communication, fundraising and relationship-building. For more information, visit: popolathe. org/jobs. To apply, send resume and cover letter to April Bailey at: abailey@popolathe.org. Senior accountant - Church of the Nativity in Leawood is seeking a senior accountant. This position supports the comprehensive financial operations of the church and school through accounting, financial reporting, reconciliations, budgeting, HR/payroll, compliance and financial analysis. You will team with the director of operations (advanced accounting degree/experience to assist where needed) and bookkeeper (10+ years experience). Candidates should have a bachelor’s degree in accounting, finance or a related field and at least four years of relevant experience. Bring your strong Excel and accounting software (QuickBooks preferred) skills. We’re looking for strong attention to detail, analytic, organization, multi-tasking and collaboration skills. This position is open due to retirement with relocation; ample overlap is planned to ensure a smooth transition. You’ll be employed in a sound financial environment that’s enjoyed a consistent operating surplus since 2018. Your guidance and execution will help us sustain financial security while growing as a most welcoming parish. Request more info or apply at: jobapplication@kcnativity.org. Administrative assistant - The Archdiocese of Kansas City in Kansas is seeking to hire an administrative assistant for the office of real estate and construction who will assist with matters related to real estate transactions, construction projects, property management and facility-related initiatives. The position is part-time, averaging 24 hours per week with work completed on-site at the chancery office. A high school diploma or equivalent is required. To apply, visit: archkck.org and click “Employment Opportunities.” 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. 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.
SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG 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.
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.
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.
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.
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. 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.
Small equipment cleaning/repair - a small locally-owned family business is currently seeking fulltime 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.
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/. 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. 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.
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.”
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.
Facilities & maintenance (full-time) - St. John Paul II Catholic Church and Academy in Olathe is seeking a dependable, self-motivated, skilled individual to help care for our rectory, church and school facilities. This position will average 30–40/hrs a week. Candidates should have experience with basic plumbing, electrical, carpentry and general repairs. For full job description & how to apply, visit our website at stjpii. org or email operations@stjpii.org.
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.
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. 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 Popcorn ceiling texture removal Call Jerry at (913) 206-1144. 30 years’ experience. Interior painting specialist. Member St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee. 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! 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
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CALENDAR/CLASSIFIEDS 13
SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
DISCO DANCE Camelot Dance Studio 6635 W. 151st St., Overland Park Sept. 12 from 7 to 11 p.m.
Come dressed “disco style” and join the fun. There will be a John Travolta lookalike contest and great music. Tickets are $15 and snacks will be provided. All adults welcome. Sponsored by Camelot Dance Studio and Nativity Church Singles group.
SUMMER SOCIAL WITH THE SISTERS Sisters, Servants of Mary Convent 800 N. 18th St., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 12 from 11:30 a.m. to 2 p.m.
All are welcome to join the Sisters, Servants of Mary, Ministers to the Sick, for hot dogs, ice cream and soda on the backyard patio at their convent. Free will donation.
AMERICAN TRIVIA NIGHT St. Terese Little Flower Church (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 Sisters. Doors open 5:30 p.m., questions start 6:30 p.m., done by 9 p.m. $160 for table of eight or $20/person (eight rounds of trivia, two individual games and eight mulligans). BYO food and drink. RSVP: trivianight2000@gmail.com.
CATHOLIC CEMETERIES MEMORIAL MASSES Various locations Sept. 12 at 9 a.m.
There will be Masses remembering those buried or entombed at Catholic
>> Continued from page 12 Board-Certified Nurse Practitioner Personalized aesthetic & wellness care Dysport • Dermal Fillers • Microneedling • Medical Weight Management Natural, confidence-enhancing results with a personalized approach to every patient. Aesthetics & Wellness by Tanairi, WHNP-BC Call or text (913) 972-5097. 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. 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 Faith-based counseling to cope with life concerns - Kansas City area. Call Mary Vorsten, licensed clinical professional counselor, at (913) 909-2002. 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 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. 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 mental health care that aligns with the Catholic faith? We have offices in Olathe, Leawood, Lenexa, Shawnee & Atchison. Book online at SacredHeartCounselingKC. com, in person or telehealth.
Cemeteries of Northeast Kansas in Kansas City, Kansas, Lenexa and Topeka. For more information, call (913) 371-4040.
SLOPPY JOE DINNER AND BINGO St. Patrick Church (Parish Center) 1086 N. 94th St., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 12 from 6 to 8 p.m.
The Knights of Columbus Bicentennial Council is hosting a sloppy joe dinner including corn, french fries, drinks and dessert for $12. Bingo will follow dinner: 10 games ($12) for cash prizes.
ROSARY RALLY St. Mary-St. Anthony Church 615 N. 7th St,. Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 13 from 3 to 4:15 p.m.
Please join us to honor our Blessed Mother and our Lady of Fatima. We will pray the Joyful, Sorrowful and Glorious mysteries followed by benediction and the opportunity to enroll in the Brown Scapular. More info: rosaryrallieskc.org.
SISTERS, SERVANTS OF MARY PILGRIMAGE Cathedral of St. Peter 416 N. 14th St., Kansas City, Kansas Sept. 13 at 10 a.m.
Join the Sisters, Servants of Mary at Sunday Mass and a walking pilgrimage to their convent after. This is an opportunity to obtain plenary indulgence. For more information, call (913) 371-3423.
CORPUS CHRISTI MOONEY CREEK PICNIC 18760 Rogers Rd., Atchison Sept. 13 after 10 a.m. Mass
Menu includes pulled pork, hot dogs,
MIKE HAMMER MOVING - A full-service mover. Local and long-distance moving. Packing, pianos, rental truck load/unload, storage container load/unload. In-home moving and office moves. No job too small. Serving the KC metro since 1987. St. Joseph Parish, Shawnee, parishioner. Call the office at (913) 927-4347 or email: mike@mikehammermoving.com. GARAGE DOOR REPAIR EXPERTS New Garage Doors & Openers A Total Door, Inc. Since ’83. Leaven Discount buffy@atotaldoor.com or (913) 236-6440 www.atotaldoor.com 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. 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. 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
FOR SALE Residential lifts - New and recycled. Stair lifts, porch lifts, ceiling lifts and elevators. St. Michael’s parishioners. KC Lift & Elevator at (913) 327-5557. (Formerly Silver Cross - KC.) For sale - 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 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. 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. For sale - 2 plots in the Mt. Calvary Cemetery in Topeka, KS. Side by side in the Trumpeter addition. $2,000 each. Call (512) 947-0977.
baked beans, chips, assorted salads, dessert and drinks. Suggested donation: $15 adults, $10 children 6-12, kids 5 and under eat free. Bingo, kids games, silent auction, pie auction, country store and raffle tickets for a chance to win $1,000 cash (need not be present to win).
HOLY SMOKIN’ JAMBOREE Mother Teresa Church 2014 N.W. 46th St., Topeka Sept. 12 from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m. Sept. 13 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
Outdoor family event with barbecue, bingo, cake walk, car show, crafts, raffles, silent auction and live music featuring THE BASH Saturday night with beer garden and outdoor Mass Sunday. $2 wristbands for all-day kids’ activities. See schedule of events and register for the 5K, car show and cornhole tournament at: mtcctopeka. org/holy-smokin-jamboree.
KNIGHTS GOLF TOURNAMENT Prairie Highlands Golf Course 14085 W Inverness St., Olathe Sept. 14 at 9 a.m.
Registration begins at 9 a.m., play at 10 a.m. Four player scramble costs $125 per player/$500 team. Includes 18 holes of golf with cart, lunch and refreshments on the course. Prizes will be awarded. Sponsored by the Gardner Divine Mercy Parish Knights of Columbus.
ST. JOHN HENRY NEWMAN RETREAT Christ’s Peace House of Prayer 22131 Meagher Rd., Easton Sept. 18 to 20
John Henry Newman, recently declared a Doctor of the Church. 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.
HOLY CROSS PARISH FESTIVAL Church of the Holy Cross 8311 W. 93rd St., Overland Park Sept. 19 from 3 to 8:30 p.m.
Come celebrate the Exaltation of the Holy Cross with a lively afternoon for the whole family. Feast on burgers, hot dogs, Mexican tacos, Venezuelan, Argentine and Brazilian favorites. Enjoy live music, folkloric dancing, kids’ games and more. All are welcome.
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. Send questions to: 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.
Join us for a reflective retreat celebrating the life, wisdom and holiness of St.
The breakfast will include eggs, sausage, biscuits and gravy, pancakes, waffles and drinks. Join us for great fellowship. The cost is $7 for those over the age of 13; free for ages 12 and under. Proceeds are used for charitable works.
PILGRIMAGE
REAL ESTATE
Pilgrimages to Medjugorje - Sept. 30-Oct. 7, 2026. and Dec. 26-Jan. 4, 2027. Hosted by visionary Mirjana Soldo. For more information, email Grace Legaspi at: mgracelegaspi@gmail.com or go to: www. fiattravel.com.
Paul O’Toole – Real Estate Agent (KS & MO) Weichert Realtors – Welch & Company (913) 489-1229 (mobile) | (913) 647-5700 (office)
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 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. 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.
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.
Classified Advertising Cost is $20 for the first five lines, $1.50 per line thereafter. To purchase a Leaven classified ad, email: olivia.martin@theleaven.org
SOLUTION
14 COLUMNISTS
SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
On mission in the Marshall Islands
DAILY READINGS TWENTY-THIRD WEEK OF ORDINARY TIME Sept. 6 TWENTY-THIRD SUNDAY OF ORDINARY TIME Ez 33: 7-9 Ps 95: 1-2, 6-9 Rom 13: 8-10 Mt 18: 15-20 Sept. 7 Monday 1 Cor 5: 1-8 Ps 5: 5-6, 7, 12 Lk 6: 6-11 Sept. 8 THE NATIVITY OF THE BLESSED VIRGIN MARY Mi 5: 1-4a Ps 13: 6abc Mt 1: 1-16 Sept. 9 Wednesday Peter Claver, priest 1 Cor 7: 25-31 Ps 45: 11-12, 14-17 Lk 6: 20-26 Sept. 10 Thursday 1 Cor 8: 1b-7, 11-13 Ps 139: 1b-3, 13-14b, 23-24 Lk 6: 27-38 Sept. 11 Friday 1 Cor 9: 16-19, 22b-27 Ps 84: 3-6, 12 Lk 6: 39-42 Sept. 12 The Most Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary 1 Cor 10: 14-22 Ps 116: 12-13, 17-18 Lk 6: 43-49 TWENTY-FOURTH WEEK IN ORDINARY TIME Sept. 13 TWENTY-FOURTH SUNDAY IN ORDINARY TIME Sir 27: 30 — 28: 7 Ps 103: 1-4, 9-12 Rom 14: 7-9 Mt 18: 21-35 Sept. 14 THE EXALTATION OF THE HOLY CROSS Nm 21: 4b-9 Ps 78: 1b-2, 34-38 Phil 2: 6-11 Jn 3: 13-17 Sept. 15 Our Lady of Sorrows 1 Cor 12: 12-14, 27-31 Ps 100: 1b-5 Jn 19: 25-27 Sept. 16 Cornelius, pope, and Cyprian, bishop, martyrs 1 Cor 12: 31 — 13: 13 Ps 33: 2-5, 12, 22 Lk 7: 31-35 Sept. 17 Robert Bellarmine, bishop, doctor of the church; Hildegard of Bingen, virgin, doctor of the church 1 Cor 15: 1-11 Ps 118: 1b-2, 16-17, 28 Lk 7: 36-50
T
hrough the years, I have read about and admired those who were missionaries to other countries. I admired them because they left family, country and friends for a foreign country, and many never saw their home again. To spread the faith in Jesus, they learned a new language, got to know a different culture and saw firsthand the majesty of God’s creation. As they broadened their experience, so, too, did their understanding of the magnificence of God. Matthew 19:29 reads: “And everyone who has left houses or brothers or sisters or father or mother or children or fields, for my name’s sake, will receive a hundredfold.” This, I have experienced throughout my life in unexpected ways. It began by volunteering to learn Spanish and the Mexican culture, which broad-
ALONG THE WAY
FATHER DAN GARDNER Father Dan Gardner is a retired priest. Hes serves as a contract chaplain on Kwajalein in the Marshall Islands.
ened to learning about several Latin American cultures. At the Mexican-American Cultural Center in San Antonio, we were taught that it was necessary to embrace another culture in order to be able to share our faith in Jesus with others and receive their faith, too. Serving 30 years in Hispanic ministry and being in parishes that
host multiple cultures, I have attempted to live and react differently to various peoples. Many years ago, I heard Major Jack Reardon of Kansas City, Kansas, instruct people that when a person gives a talk to a group of people, they must first know who their audience is. That teaching has remained with me and I have tried to put it to use. I would develop two different sermons for weekend Masses: one in English and another in Spanish. It was with a missionary attitude that I accepted an invita-
tion to be a contract chaplain at an Army garrison on Kwajalein in the Marshall Islands. Father Jim Ludwikoski extended the invitation to split time with him, taking six-month segments each. After all the repeated paperwork (tedious at best) and training, I arrived on Kwajalein on Sept. 9, 2025. Being 18 hours ahead of Central Daylight Time, it was still Sept. 8 here in the States when I arrived. It was a steep learning curve for me. I never served as a chaplain in the Armed Forces, so there were new rules and terms to learn. I needed to give reports to the local parish community, the Military Archdiocese (from whence came my faculties to celebrate Mass, etc.) and the local Army garrison. Silly me, I thought that I had retired from administrative duties! When I arrived, the Catholic community and Protestant chaplain welcomed me with
open arms and joy. They had been without a Catholic chaplain for about six weeks. The community is a mixture of families from America, Australia, Cameroon, Philippines and a scattering few from the Marshall Islands. Out of approximately 1,300 people, only 14 were in the Army. The rest, like me, were civilian contract personnel. Some have their families with them, so there is a grade school and high school. Thus, in missionary style, away from everything I have ever known, I jumped into the deep end of the pool and began treading water quickly. What was evident from the beginning was the hunger of the residents to be able to attend Mass and receive the sacraments. Various cultures were living together, sharing one faith. God is indeed expansive, and I am indeed blessed by this opportunity.
Jesus takes truth-telling to a whole new level
V
áclav Havel gave a speech at the Vatican in 1999. Somewhat controversially he quoted John Hus, the Czech Reformer who was burnt at the stake in 1415. St. John Paul II, also in 1999, called it a “cruel death” and expressed the hurch’s “deep sorrow” for Hus’s execution. That too was controversial to some. But that’s an aside; what is important is what Havel said, what he quoted: “Therefore, faithful Christian, seek Truth, listen to the Truth, hear Truth, love Truth, speak Truth, uphold Truth, defend Truth until death; for Truth shall deliver you from sin, from the Devil, from death of the soul, and in the end, from death everlasting.” What has always
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.
impressed me and convicted me when reading Havel’s words was how he expected Christians to be people of truth. He assumed it; he assumed that everyone knew Christians are truthful. Even when it was plain that
Christians weren’t acting like it, still Havel clearly expected that Christians, if they would be faithful, would always be truthful people, that they would always “live in the truth” as he liked to put it. And it’s the recurring lesson in this Sunday’s readings. God’s warning to Ezekiel, the “watchman,” is blunt, forthright. He says to him, “when you hear me say anything, you shall warn them for me” (Ez 33:7). The prophet is to speak the whole truth of God to the people, what St. Paul later called the “whole counsel of God” (Acts 20:27). To avoid speaking the truth, a prophet would not only be irresponsible, but he would also “die for his guilt” (Ez 33:9). Now we come to the Gospel of Matthew.
Jesus is talking about the nature of the Christian community, that Christians should be so truthful to each other that they are willing to speak truth to one another, including difficult truth. “If your brother sins against you, go and tell him his fault,” Jesus tells his disciples (Mt 18:15). To put it simply, a believer should be willing to speak truth to a fellow believer even if that means calling them out for their sins. Now we should note here that the words “against you” do not appear in many ancient manuscripts; that is, it’s possible Jesus is saying something even more radical, that Christians should call each other out whenever a believer sins and not just when they sin “against you.” This takes Christian
commitment to truth further, beyond the interpersonal and into the communal. It suggests that we should be willing, in love, to call out a fellow believer whenever he or she fails to live according to the truth of Christ. This takes truth-telling to a whole other level. And what if that was what Jesus was saying? What if he was saying we should be fully truthful like that? If so, we’d really want to be sure that our hearts were not hardened to the voice of the Lord. We would also really want to be sure that we recognized and received true prophets and not false ones. We’d also want to be sure we know how to speak truth in love. And maybe that’s the point, exactly the renewal we Christians must seek.
Sept. 18 Friday 1 Cor 15: 12-20 Ps 17: 1b-d, 6-7, 8b, 15 Lk 8: 1-3
PETER CLAVER
Sept. 19 Januarius, bishop, martyr 1 Cor 15: 35-37, 42-49 Ps 56: 10c-12, 13-14 Lk 8: 4-15
This Spanish-born saint of the slave trade entered the Society of Jesus in 1601. After studies in Barcelona and on Mallorca, where the Jesuit porter, Alphonsus Rodriguez, urged him to go to the New World, Peter went to South America in 1610 and was the first Jesuit ordained in Cartagena, Colombia, a port of entry for West African slaves. Peter ministered to this desolate human cargo aboard the ships and ashore before they were sold, feeding, comforting and baptizing, by his own count, 300,000 slaves. He and St. Alphonsus were canonized in 1888.
1580-1654
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Guadalupe Home Plus is a new 6-bed senior care home in St. Mary’s, KS, now accepting residents! We offer personalized care, home-cooked meals, and a family atmosphere rooted in Catholic values. Under Our Lady’s mantle, we are all family. Visit guadalupehomeplus.com to learn more, call or stop by for a visit—we’d love to meet you!
LOCAL NEWS 16
SEPTEMBER 4, 2026 | THELEAVEN.ORG
HEAVENLY SOUND
St. John the Baptist’s bell rings again thanks to a convert and an electrical crew By Eileen Scott Special to The Leaven
G
REELEY — For decades, the bells of St. John the Baptist Church here rang across the open fields and throughout the town, calling the community to Mass, celebration and mourning. Then, roughly five years ago, something odd happened. And it took the efforts of a brand-new Catholic, an electrical crew and a word from God to set it right. The smaller of the two bells in the tower went silent. It wasn’t obvious at first because the larger bell kept ringing. But once parishioners looked up, they saw something wasn’t right. The smaller bell got stuck upside down. Because of the fragility of the aging terra-cotta roof and the precarious location of the bell, the parish leaders decided to leave it alone and only the large bell was used. The predicament of the smaller bell caught the attention of Barb Hicks, who entered the Catholic Church during the Easter Vigil this year. She inquired about the bell and heard speculation that it became locked when an altar server pulled too hard on the bell rope, thinking it was the one for the larger bell. Recently, while driving between the church and her home, Hicks came upon an electrical crew working at a substation. She wasn’t thinking about the bell as she marveled at the large bucket truck used to reach the tallest utility pole. However, the moment she looked up at the bucket, everything changed. “God said [to me] that truck would reach the bell,” said Hicks. And she couldn’t just drive away. She identified the crew as Black & McDonald and called their offices. Hicks explained the bell’s predicament to Todd Newell, a superintendent from Topeka, and asked if
they could help. Hicks was surprised when Newell responded, “That’s the kind of thing we like doing: helping people.” A few days later, the truck rolled up to the 80-yearold limestone church. The crew positioned the truck to reach the bell while avoiding damage to the sidewalks. The bucket was raised, and the crew members used a long fiberglass utility pole to dislodge it. With that, the bell flipped right side up and then . . . nothing. Hicks thought: What if after all this the bell doesn’t work? What if it was damaged? But after a few moments, the bell pealed, and its joyful noise resonated across the fields and the community. “I’m grateful for these kind men who went out of their way to help us,” said Father Thomas Maddock, pastor of St. John the Baptist and Holy Angels Parish in Garnett. “It was a moment of joy,” he continued. “All the people there were cheering, all of us collaborating to make it work.” However, a few days later, when it came time for the bells to ring for Sunday Mass, there was silence. It turns out that two small altar servers couldn’t pull the bell rope hard enough. Father Maddock surmised they were afraid to get the bell stuck again. “I’ll have to do more training with them this week,” he said. According to Father Maddock, the story isn’t just about fixing the bell. It’s an example of humility, faithfulness and kindness. “Barb is on fire with her Catholic faith. She’s not afraid to dive into Catholic life,” he said. “I do see this as a genuine act of childlike faith. Barb knows she has a heavenly Father who says, ‘Ask and you shall receive.’ “And the Father likes to give good gifts.”
PHOTO BY BARB HICKS
For years, the bottom bell of St. John the Baptist Church in Greeley was stuck upside down.
PHOTO BY BARB HICKS
A crew from Black & McDonald worked to dislodge the lower bell at St. John the Baptist Church in Greeley from the position it had been stuck in for years. After the bell was returned to its natural position and it rang, those gathered to watch gave cheers of thanksgiving to the crew.