Support for the Project

The Lego Church Project (Face Book Page)

Donate PayPal

kc8wzm@gmail.com

First off I want to give a big Thank You to my supporters. The ones who encourage me. The ones who often share my FB posts and tweets when I am talking about the project. The ones who see the passion in my heart for what I do. The ones who believe in the message that I share with the Project. To those who have already donated. It your support that keeps this project going. Even when I'm facing my own personal challenges.

This post will cover donations and other ways to support the Project.

Donations:

Why are they needed?

I am a one man operation as far as the building of the project goes. Given my disability I am unable to drive or work. I rely on Government benefits to make ends meet and over all I don't do too bad for myself considering. However LEGO, even on the secondary market, is not cheap. Given the nature of what I do with the project. Parts wear out over time. Plus their are new parts coming all time that can be put to good use. Given my fixed income. I don't always have extra cash because of price increases in other areas like food.

What kind of donation?

The project relies on people either donating money or donating LEGO parts directly. Personally I've always preferred to accept LEGO directly from people. Often times kids grow out of it and parents then need to figure out what to do. I can help out with that. With the development of services like Pay Pal. It makes donating money much easier. But either format is helpful for me in the long run.

If I donate Money where are you spending it?

Any money I get goes to either LEGO or Bricklink (online market place) for parts that I need.

How can I donate money?

Using the Pay Pal Link is the best way to send money directly. If you don't have access to pay pal or are not a fan of using them. Drop me an e-mail at kc8wzm@gmail.com and we can work something out.

How can I donate LEGO parts directly?

Drop me an e-mail to kc8wzm@gmail.com and I will give you my mailing address.

 Support: 

Their are other ways to support the Project.

Helping me secure a display location and/or proving transportation:

I have a hard time securing locations on my own. With out the help of others to act as a go-between many of my displays would not happen. If you have a place in mind. Talk to them and see if they would like to host the project. Keep in mind I will need help with transportation given that I don't drive. Both for the project and myself. More information on displays can be found here or drop me an e-mail to kc8wzm@gmail.com and I can give you more details. Including types of displays and what kind of rides would I need.

Helping me get the word out about The Project:

Social media is an amazing tool that can be used to reach many people in this world. The Lego Church Project Face Book page is the nexus for what I do. It contains all the photos of the last 18 years. Updates on display locations and building process for each season.

Getting the word out about what I am doing and why I am doing it is as important to me as the build. Having the chance to share my love and passion for the Catholic faith along with my personal mission of disability awareness and reminding people of how important the Mass is to our faith is an amazing thing.

Share The Lego Church Project FB page. Tell people that my work exists. I'm also always looking for chances to share my work in the media. Such a TV/Radio or even print and pod casts. I haven't had much luck getting to Catholic Media. So let people know that this is something you want to see featured. Every little bit helps.

But as always the best way to support my work is though Prayer. Please keep me in prayer. This isn't something for myself. This something that gives glory to God in all things. With out Christ. This Project would not happen.

Once again. Thank you for all the support. It means a lot to me.

-jm

Making Disability Disappear

Down syndrome is disappearing

The link above is to a news story put out by CBS. The key points of the story for the sake of this post is that thanks to testing. Most women who find out their child might have Down syndrome have abortions. The story says "close to 100%". 

As someone who has a mild form of cerebral palsy this is disturbing to me on so many levels. That instead of showing love and compassion. We become monsters of our own creation in deciding who has a right to live. But also who should not be allowed to live. That seems to be the key element of abortion in general. This feeling that a child is better off dead than being allowed to exist at all. Doesn't matter what the justification is. So long as that "choice" ends in death. To think that the only way we can prevent disability is to simply eliminate the child. I am truly at a loss for words as I ponder on what I've read in the few days.

To deal with some kind of disability, no matter what type or form, can be a profound challenge. I know it has been for me in my life. While I am blessed in so many ways. I know that their are families who have a much bigger struggle. In them I see this deep well of love that comes from their hearts. It is something that is shown even in their moments of frustration. Their is a compassion and a sense of purpose. This unconditional love that has no limits. That their child brings a deep sense of joy. The idea that a mother would want to destroy a life that may not even be born with a disability is disturbing to me on so many levels. This notion that in order to save a life we must take a life away.

But I worry for a much darker future for those of us who have a disability. I worry that at some point those who want to eliminate disability though abortion will seek to end the lives of those who are already born. Forcing euthanasia on those of us who have our challenges. That able bodied people will feel that someone like me does not deserve the same right to life as the person standing next to me.  The more that I read stories like the one I linked to. It really makes me wonder about the future of this world. Perhaps I am over reacting. I honestly pray that I am wrong. But I'm starting to see indications that my fears may not be that far off from reality. If anything the two stories I have linked to shows. It is a strong indication of the future we are heading into. One that not only embraces the culture of death. But encourages that culture on those who are most vulnerable and at risk. We as followers Christ must speak out against this culture even if it means being hated for it. We cannot allow Christians who support abortion (directly or indirectly) weaken our resolve.

It is my prayer that Christians who support abortion would open up their hearts and realize that they are doing more harm than good. That these stories would serve as a wake up call that a dark future awaits those who are most vulnerable That we can no longer remain silent. Our voices must be heard. If we don't raise our voices now. Then we might not be able to raise them later.

Till then.

-JM

Being Reminded

I am reminded tonight that when their are times when the road is unknown, the path not as clear as we would like it. The evil one will use that to his advantage. To try and derail us from the path of Christ. Using fear and doubt in our hearts to try and stop us from seeing the amazing glory of Christ our Savior. To try and convince us that our fate is sealed and the outcome is all in the negative. The evil one will try to plant images in our hearts of every bad thing that could happen.

Tonight I am also reminded of how important prayer is. That it is a tool to combat the evil with in our own hearts. That it truly is the light that shines on in the darkest places. That by asking for the Holy Spirit to help us in our time of need. That it becomes a beacon and a lantern that can guide us though the biggest storms in our hearts. That prayer is a reminder that above all else. Our Father in Heaven loves us deeper than we could ever hope to realize. Those who dismiss the power of prayer fail to understand it's important to those who openly, and boldly proclaim Christ. That we have embraced something far greater than ourselves.

Every storm that we face in our lives. Their is always a chance the evil one will take advantage. It is a time when we are at our weakest. Yet by embracing Christ our Savor. By embracing God the Father. Along with the power of the Holy Spirit. We become strong again and that we can face our storms head on. In the middle of my own storm tonight. I was reminded of this in a powerful way. I ask as always for your prayers for me. For the things that I am involved in. Knowing that I will pray for you as well.

Till then.

-JM

The Ride

People my weight are not suppose to be able to ride blocks let alone miles... I've said it before. I'm 450lbs. It is who I am. My weight issues have been the stuff of legends. But that is a story for another day.

Fact is people my weight class in theory shouldn't be able to go on rides of my nature and survive. But I do it often. The fact that I can is rather amazing. I've had my beach cruiser style bike for over eight years. My rides are sometimes the stuff of legends. Since I've had this bike I've put on way more miles than I have ever expected to do so. To the point that I sometimes stop in to Bicycle Village on the ride. Which when all is said and done is a seven mile round trip for me.  They know the history of me and the bike. They know that when I go for a ride. It is always a ride that most people would not consider. Bike like that is only rated for about 250lbs. Over the years I've had to replace parts on it. Such as the crankshaft I broke last week.

Riding for me is a major release of energy. It allows me to get out into the world around me and surround myself with the sights and sounds of what is in this world. Over the years it has helped me recover from some of my more epic and dramatic falls. Helping me though bouts of arthritis pain that has developed in both of my knees. Partly because of the weight. Partly because I keep falling. It is also one of the few things I can do to help drown out the tinnitus. It creates background noise that gives me some relief for a bit from the constant tone that I hear. Riding is something that I truly enjoy doing. I have a lot of fun with it. Keep in mind some of my long rides can be ten mile round trips. Short rides for me are around three or four mile round trips. If you do that even two days a week. The miles can add up rather quickly. It's also rather funny with me. I complain the next day when I'm not achy from one of my more infamous "insanity rides." Such as the twelve mile loop I do that takes me around the campus of Saginaw Valley State University and back to my apartment. I don't do it often. But even that is a fun challenge for me. Weight loss, while important, isn't the primary goal. The ride helps my joints out. Also helps with my over all endurance and stamina. Along with a natural way to deal with my anxiety and depression.

This past week has been a week of "unknowns". This last crankshaft failure has brought me back to a reality that my cruiser is probably on borrowed time. I'm not easy one stuff at all. The bike is no exception. You ride hard enough at some point stuff will start to break. Which is part of the unknown. The question is should I repair the bike and ride things out. The frame is in great shape. But the bike is battered and beat up from years of heavy use. Some other stuff like the rims are going to need to be looked at as well. But also my balance isn't what it use to be. The cerebral palsy is catching up making me more of a fall risk than ever before. Yeah, I know the weight isn't doing me any favors on that issue either. But in the last six or seven years I've had some pretty major falls. Often taking direct hits on to my knees. My left knee isn't still back 100% from last year's stuff.

I've thought about getting a three-wheel bike. Long as I can ride that is all that matters to me. But I need one that is more or less industrial class. A bike made of stronger materials that can handle or at least tolerate some of my more longer rides. They make bikes that are rated up to 500lbs. But they are by no means cheap. Looking at least 800$ to $1000 for the bikes I've looked at. Not sure how I would be able to afford one. My parents can probably help out. But even still that is a lot of money even for them. That is one of the other unknowns. Figuring out how to pay for such a ride.

It's in the hands of God. All I can do is pray for the answers that I seek. Fact is I need to have some kind of transportation that is not connected to any of my rides. I need to have some level of freedom with out a car and the bike does just that. Not being able to use the bike has been hard on me. A level of frustration that is hard to describe but I suspect people know where I'm coming from. Pray that something can develop soon. I miss the ride already. Last time I took that fall last year. I was on the bike with in a few days. So not being able to ride is driving me up the wall....

Till next time.

-JM

Few quick updates 8/6/17

Here are a few quick updates and info that don't fit into a full blog post:

Wanted to give everyone an update on me from Last Sunday's entry. I'm still having some issues with my left knee and leg. Though over all I'm feeling a little bit better. My nerves on the other hand are shot to hades. Not from riding the bike. But just from the entire falling aspect. The more I fall the more worried I get that I'm going to break something.

The bike has not been repaired. At this point I'm not sure if we are going to repair it or out right replace it. Though I'm leaning on getting a replacement bike. Probably an industrial grade three-wheel. Problem of course is figuring out how to PAY for it. Those start at around 800$ for one that can hold up to 500lbs. So please keep this issue in prayer that something can develop.

Also on the prayer list is more displays with transport for the Lego Church Project! Something of this nature needs to be shared with other and not kept in my apartment.

Still looking for some donations! Either direct LEGO bricks or funds to be able to buy specific parts via BrickLink. If you have parts to donate directly: Drop me an e-mail over at kc8wzm@gmail.com and I will send you the info! Check out the Donations link or "What Can You Do to Help" Blog

Thanks to everyone who has helped out. Offered up kind words or even shared/retweeted various postings of mine. I am always thankful to those who support what I do. Never thought I would take the project to where it has been.

That's all for now.

-JM

I'm blessed to be alive.

I'm sitting here still pretty shaken up over 24 hours later. Amazed that despite how bad I'm hurting. That things didn't go dramatically worse. Given what happened it could have gone in a very different direction and you wouldn't be reading this blog post.

Kat was taking off with her mom and aunt out of town. Which is no big deal. My plan was to do one of my infamous "insanity" bike rides that would take me around 10 miles give or take. After taking it over with my mom and asking to borrow some money so I could get a bite to eat. She insisted that I trim it down to five miles. Which I agreed.

On the Beach Cruiser I have I tend to take side walks. Bay Rd in Saginaw is not a bike friendly street. Very busy traffic. Side walks are a must. Most times I take the south bound side of the walks because it's more of a straight shot. Pretty easy to move around and most times no real things I need to navigate. In this case their were a few issues I ran into that I felt would be less than fun to try and move around. For a five mile trip or so I stop at Bay and Tittabawassee and then turn around on the same side of the road. In this case I decided to cross and take the other side most of the way back.

A few hours after being in the area and just going around it was on my ride back almost a mile and a half from home that I had the problem. On a pedal bike their are a lot of things that can and often times will go wrong. Most common is either the chain or the tires. Rare is the crankshaft or pedals. I was just about to cross a drive entrance I was pointed at an angle to reach the next section of side walk when I felt my left pedal give way and heard it hit the ground. Next thing I know I'm on the ground on top of the bike almost in traffic on Bay. I landed in an odd way with my left knee taking a direct hit and my right bicep feeling like I had been impaled by part of the handle bar.

I've fallen before. It is a constant danger with me. This isn't the first time I've had the crank break. In fact over the 8 years I've had the bike this is the third one that has given out in the same way and spot. I was flat on the bike for a few mins before cars pulled up and people helped me to get up. They called MMR and I was checked out. No broken bones. All soft tissue damage. You fall as may times as I have. You know what your body will do. You know what kind of damage to expect.

But it still shakes you to the core. I have no idea how close I got to being in Bay Rd. From my best guess it was pretty damn close. I'm beat up. I'm hurting all over. But I'm very much alive. Very much blessed. Another half a foot and it would be a different story. Rather sobering thought. Still this was one of the bad one. But By the Grace of God I'm still standing.

I end this with a little appeal. I'm still looking for help with the Lego Church Project. See "What can you do to help?" Would mean a lot to me. Thankful for the support I do have. Right now I'm just trying to heal up and rest.

-JM

Lego Church: What I need

Little under a month ago I posted over here that I was still accepting either LEGO Bricks/Parts or monetary donations for the Lego Church Project. However I never went into full detail of what is I'm looking to get at some point.

This is a partial list based on some ideas I'm toying with currently and some primary parts that I do need to replace with in the next year or so due to wear and tear. With some reasons as to why I'm looking for them.

Unless noted using the basic "stud" measurement format.

-Basic Bricks in Red, Blue, White, yellow: in various sizes including 2x4, 2x2, 1x4, 1x6, 1x1, 1x2. These are the core blocks that I use. Out of all of them I probably go though more 2x4, and 2x2 red bricks. You would think that I would need larger sizes. But working with with what I do. Sometimes its easier to take care of issues using the smaller sizes. These are the bricks that get abused the most. Keep in mind when I'm looking up on Bricklink. I'm always looking for used. In most cases they are still decent enough shape and have a little character to them still. I also use a lot of white parts for the alter and such. Sadly they do get sun damaged over time.

-basic plates: info pretty much same as the above. For these I often need the smaller sizes such as 1x2 and 2x2. These get used for a lot of the detail work. But I also use some of the bigger plates as filler for the floors. The longer 2x?? get used for longer custom built beams that keep the project together. At some point I would like to be able to the full first row of the roof grid in plates. I think that would shave off a pound or two and also make the project much more sound in terms of building.

-Building an impressive and proper pipe organ. I think some of the older parishes that still have the Pipe organs are rather neat from a building stand point. To be able to do something that is dramatic and impressive would be fun to attempt. I know from past ideas that I don't have enough parts to pull off something like this. But praying that I can try at some point.

-More translucent bricks in many colors. Their are some sections which I like to have clear windows. But their are some sections where a translucent brick would work/look better.

The reality is that LEGO. Even used is costly for someone on a fixed income. I'm not one to ask for help. Either for stuff with the project, transportation, or even asking for help in setting up display sites.

If you have LEGO that you are looking to donate directly drop me an e-mail at kc8wzm@gmail.com and I will send you my address.

If you would like to donate money you can send it to this link: http://paypal.me/LegoChurchProject.

If you would like more info on my over all vision for the Lego Church Project. Check out the blog post "My Vision for the Project."

My thanks to everyone who has given me the support needed to make this project possible. I am deeply humbled.

-JM

Donations update

Recently over Twitter I've been asked if I'm still taking donation for the Lego Church Project.

The answer is: YES. Any money donated to the PayPal account will allow me to replace existing bricks that have worn out and are no longer use able. Keep in mind my collection, thanks to donations, expands well over several decades. The Project moves around a lot during a typical season and that can cause parts to wear out. In some rare cases those parts can break! The list of stuff I'm always needing to replace is long.

I am also still willing to accept donations directly of LEGO parts. In fact in many ways I would rather take the parts over the donations. For more information on donating LEGO.. check out "What Can You do to Help?" Blog post!

Thanks to everyone for your help and kindness means the world to me.

-JM

Our Older Generation

Over the years I've done a lot of displays. Once in a while a door opens up and you get to take the project to a place that isn't a church or other function. This past weekend I had a very neat and blessed chance to take the Season 18 Project to Caretel Inns. It is an Assisted Living facility. I was at the Bay City, MI location.

I've often said the project has no age limit. That sometimes the biggest impact I have is not with the younger generation. But the older one. That for them they relive their life though my work. They are the ones who remember the time when the parishes use to be filled with people. When their had to be more than one Mass on Sunday to fill the needs of the parish ministry. Those days are long past. Yet here I am with my project full of people taking part in the Mass. It is something that touches deep into the soul of who we are. To see the residents of this place. To see the smiles on their face. The excitement in their hearts. For me it was a humbling experience that I shall not forget. The display went by so well that it looks like I will be back with Season 19 next year.

We should never forget the Older Generation. For they still have the knowledge and the wisdom that they can teach us. This is a generation we should always have the deepest respect for. This weekend was humbling in how the project was received. I am very blessed and thankful. This has been a powerful season for my work. I can't wait till the next display.

My thanks to Steven for setting things up and helping with the transportation.

-JM

My vision for the Project

On Nov 27th of last year I was interviewed by WJRT which is out of Flint, MI. It was the first time I've ever been on TV talking about the project. The last few times I've been in the media it was in print. Including a few years ago a story that went to the APwire via the Saginaw News/Mlive.com even going so far as to making a blurb in USA Today. Since that time I've been wondering what else I can do with the project.

The displays of course are one of the most important aspects of what I do. They allow me to showcase my work. But even then finding locations and the transportation to make them possible is a profound challenge. The primary way to do this is to develop contacts and partnerships with parishes and leaders. All of the displays of the past few years have been done in this fashion. However securing sites and having them commit to rides is not always easy. More so when a location doesn't fully understand what I'm asking. Or the reasons behind me doing it. This creates a high level of internal frustration on my part. Some of which is a direct result of my own limits.

Currently I'm doing around three or four displays per season. Which really isn't a lot given the nature of what I am doing with the project. For me if the host locations provided transportation I could easily do around six or seven displays from May to December. With a decent mix of multi week runs and single events. Because of the nature of how I do the project every year. Some of those events could turn into multi year runs. Such as Christ the Good Shepherd which has hosted the project for Christmas every year since 2003. That is the core of my frustrations. Being able to locate good locations and have the support to pull off an amazing display which includes either all or part of the transportation. So far I've been rather blessed in that respect. But that brings up an important element of what I do. Every year is a new project. Each season tells a different story. So if I'm coming back to a location I was at the previous year. Then that means I have a brand new building to show off.

It is also important for me to be able to share the message of the project. Which is why I don't mind the media attention I have gotten. So long as I am able to share what God is doing for me then it is very worth while. The problem of course is that when your doing a display and you have a flood of people. You don't always get the chance to share with them what the mission is. In fact I've had many people get out right surprised that I have a mild form of cerebral palsy. It catches them off guard and makes my work stand out even more. But the moments to plant seeds are very fleeting at most. I've often thought about trying to create some kind of talk that I could give about what I feel is important in raising awareness and hope for those of us who deal with challenges. A renewed sense of purpose. I've seen this first hand in some of the people who look into the project. To realize that they are able to do more than what their limits suggest. My problem of course is that I'm not fully sure how to realize this goal of mine. I'm honestly not sure on how to proceed and let alone develop the contacts needed to pull something off. But either way. I want to expand the role of the Project because I see it something very important in this day and age.

The Lego Church Project is a dream of mine turned into a reality. I would ask for your prayers and continued support for what I am doing. I pray that I can expand the role of the project in a way that deeply touches the lives of those around me. This is an art project. But it is also a passion of mine. The message of what I am doing is just as important to me as building of the project. I see it as a very neat way to reach out and evangelize. I once again thank everyone who has given donations or have given support in other ways. I am deeply humbled by this.

If you have any further questions drop me an e-mail at: kc8wzm@gmail.com.

-JM

Reflection for June 1st.

The world is a simmering pot that has been trying to boil over for a while now. With each passing year we seem to get closer to that edge. Lately things have started to get way more out of hand. I have seen people on FB suggesting violence is indeed to solution to the problem. Even assassination of world leaders. That it is OK to show disrespect in profound ways because you disagree with the other side's view point. I look around me and their is total anger in people's hearts. I see fear that has been generated because sometimes social media takes things way to far.

As I sit and reflect on the negative and hostile emotions around me. I am reminded of things that I have said in past reflections. About surrendering to Christ all things. To turn over our worries. Our anger. Our fears to Christ. To pray that our leaders would be granted profound wisdom to act in the best ways for the people. That party lines would not matter so much as the human factor.
But something else dawned on me. For us Catholics one of the best forms of prayer is asking Our Mother Mary for her help. One of the things that she told the children of Fatima was to pray the Rosary for Peace. Perhaps that can be extended to peace in our own hearts so that we can properly and wisely deal with the chaos around us. Peace for our world leaders and for those who have anger in their hearts.

I've also been told that Praying is worthless. That prayer does nothing in face of the issues at hand. I could not disagree more. Prayer unlocks the answers that we otherwise would not see. To find that inner peace to confront our challenges. To help fight the fear and anxiety in our troubled times. To remind us how important *all* life is.

Some days it feels like the world is crumbing in around us. But on our darkest of days that we are reminded that Christ is indeed the light that shines in that darkness.

Holy Mary, Mother of God, Pray for us.
Jesus Christ, our Lord and Savior, Pray for us.
Holy Spirit, guide us.
God the Father we thank you.
Amen.


-JM

Eye on Research

Please see THIS post if you want more information on what Visual Snow is.

I belong and help out with a Facebook group for Visual Snow. Something that I've been doing for a few years now. Lately their has been a bit of a debate about raising money for on going research. With some even going so far to say that such research is a waste of money. Personally I think such negative views are extremely counter productive to the overall goals. Distracting us from the bigger picture at play.

Eye on Vision Foundation which is run by Jen Ambrose has been working hard for years to raise enough money to fund a full research into this condition. She like many others suffers from a more severe form of it which sometimes limits her over all vision and has a direct impact on her daily life.

My Visual Snow these days is way more mild though their are some days when my vision is directly impacted because of it. More so at night. However when thinking about the research. I don't see it from a perspective of myself. I want the research to very much move forward. Their are many of us who suffer with this condition who are in far worse shape than me.

Any time we conduct research into anything. Their is always a chance that a path may develop and new doors being opened where they didn't exist before. Medical journals have been written on "accidental" discoveries that have changed the way we operate. I see the research into visual snow not just helping us. But with other conditions such as tinnitus. A condition that readers of this blog know I suffer with on a more sever level.

Overall I feel that the efforts of Eye On Vision Foundation are extremely important to the visual snow community. I know that Mrs. Ambrose has spend a considerable amount of time and money into this effort. Those of us who deal with this condition want answers. We want this condition to be accepted as something legitimate. But we also want treatments and possible cures. We want help and so far Eye on Vision is the only group doing this.

If you would like to help out Eye On Vision Foundation. Which is a 501(c)3 origination. Please check out their donation page HERE.

-JM

Storms in our lives

Note: This was written as a FB post.

In the storms of our lives we must surrender all to Christ. Even when we cannot see a clear path out of the storm. It is often said that Christ is our light. This is very much true in this day and age. The evil one will use every trick in the playbook to try and build a wall between us and Christ. Often times it is way more subtle than people realize. A distraction here and there that can lead to total panic and anxiety. Sometimes the storm lasts far longer than what we would like. Often times it seems like the storm will never pass. No matter what. We should thank the Lord for all that He has done. Along with thanking Him for all He Will Do. Their is a praise and worship song that came to mind as I was on the ride today. "Amen Amen our hearts cry, His word is true! All that the Lord has said. He will do." I surrender to Christ all that is going on right now. Just not for myself. But for those closest to me. Lord give us the strength, the wisdom, and the courage stand up and ride the out the storms.

-jm

Not an easy road

 It is not always easy when we have a chronic condition that makes taking part in every day life a struggle. To go on with our lives as if nothing is wrong. Yet knowing that our lives are by no means normal. We wake up each morning. Wondering how our issues will directly effect us. Wondering if today will be a good day or a day where we want to crawl and hide. Our struggles are very much real. Even if others don't fully understand them. 

I was born with a mild case of Cerebral Palsy. Because of that I have some mobility issues along with a host of other challenges. Too many to list in this blog post. In addition to the Visual Snow and it's related issues. I also suffer from hearing loss as a result of the extremely severe case of tinnitus. In fact on any typical day the noise is far worse than the snow. On top of that I also deal with moderate anxiety/panic attacks. This is the reality that I live in. These are the challenges that I face every single day. My own worse enemy happens to be the person I see every time I look into the mirror.

Over the years the Lego Church Project has become a focal point for me. A deep statement about not letting challenges define you. When I first developed Visual Snow around 2011/12 the static was such a distraction that I wasn't sure I could work on the project. No clear idea if the VS would effect my ability to do something that I love. As you can tell from the blog and the FB page. This is not an easy project to work on.  I've been doing this project for 18 years now. I refuse to let any of my challenges stop me from what I am doing. VS and the other stuff I face are just part of who I am. But they are by no means the full story. I would rather be defined by my faith. My project. My life. I don't want to be defined by my challenges. I would rather use my project and my challenges to raise awareness. To show that no matter what you face you can do something creative with your life. That God can and will use your talents in amazing and creative ways.

When you deal with any kind of chronic and on going condition. Life can be a struggle. I had a very important choice to make. One that I still make every day. I would rather do my best to rise above my challenges and to live my life the best that I can. The road is by no means easy. Even for me. But I take comfort in the fact that my challenges have not stopped me from doing the things that I love. That I have a deep passion for. What helps me to survive the rough days is my faith in Christ. My enjoyment of the Catholic faith and all that it is. Taking comfort that with Christ I know I can ride out the storms that seen to toss me around just a little too much for my liking.

I close this post out with this: People ask me how I survive with my challenges. My answer is always the same. "By the Grace of God I am still Standing."

A Deep Passion

I've been doing displays with the Lego Church Project for eighteen years now. It is an amazing time for me to be able to showcase my talents and my mission. If  the building of the project is the telling of a story. Then the displays themselves is the sharing of that story. 

Their is always a level of excitement any time I have the chance to show my project. I have fans who have followed me over the years and they are always asking me what kind of project I'm working on. They look forward to seeing how I out do myself from the previous years. They know I do this yearly and understand that the project the following year will not be the same. 

When I bring the project to a new location. Their is an extra bit of excitement. For me it is the chance to see and visit another parish community. To visit with them and see how that parish does things. From the lay out of the building to the way the Mass is presented. For the project itself it is the chance show my work to a new audience. People that might have heard about my work but have never seen it in person. 

I have a mild case of cerebral palsy. I also suffer from severe tinnitus and visual snow. Doing these displays allows me to share my messages of disability awareness- that God can and use your talents even you have a challenge or disability. It also allows me to share my faith though the church itself. My love and my passion for what we believe in. 

One of the comments that I always get is "the church is always full of people". Our parishes are struggling a lot these days. Many have stopped going to Mass for various reasons. The Project is full of people because it is a reminder of how important our faith is to us. But it is also a prayer that more people would come home to the faith. That our parishes would be filled again. For me the project is a creative way to reach out to people. I don't see the church as it is. But rather how it *should* be.

I close this blog post with this: The Lego Church Project is a deep passion of mine. I am building faith one brick at a time. I enjoy the building of it. I enjoy sharing it. I am thankful to any place willing to host a display. Along with the people willing to help to make sure that happens. 

-JM

Miss Donna

Yesterday morning my elderly neighbor Miss Donna returned to Christ at the young age of 78. I knew for for about 9 and a half years. Shortly after I moved into the complex. She was a fiery German who was rather quick to tell you how it was. Even if you did not like the message. Yet if she let you into her world she was your family. You could count on her just as much as she counted on you. From the stories she shared it sounded like she had one heck of an adventure in this life. I'm blessed that she got to see me and Kat together. In fact she took Kat under her wing and really became another Grandmother to us both. Donna was truly a blessing in our lives. While we will both be sad that she is no longer here. Her memory lives on in our hearts. Knowing that she is no longer suffering. I thank God for the time we were friends with her. She was an amazing person. God grant you rest my friend. You earned it.

-JM

My Faith

My Catholic faith is the center of who I am as a person. It is the foundation of what makes me whole. It has guided me though some of the the most trying times of my existence. It has helped me celebrate when times have gone well. It also gives me the proper foundation on my own political views. Putting Christ first allows me to put elements of my life into proper perspective and is not some kind of "cop-out". Rather to surrender to Christ is one of the most hardest things an human can do. Because of our nature we want to be in complete control. In fact I would challenge more to do what I have chosen to do. It also gives me much needed wisdom and understanding of what goes on. I don't consider myself blinded by the single political party mentality that has gripped our nation as of late. My reasons for not supporting a single party are long and deep. But at the core of those reasons is how important my Catholic faith is to me and the values that they hold. So I gladly put my faith in Christ above all else. Because nations will come and they will go. But in the end Christ will always remain.

-JM

Poetry

Back in the day I use to be way more of a writer than I am now. Part of me would like to get back into it. I found it was a creative release and another way to explore some issues. The following is a brand new poem that I wrote the other day.

A Father's Shadow

JM Kraemer

At the time of my birth,

I was held in his arms.

Resting in my father's shadow.

As I grow and as I learn

Lessons that he has passed to me.

I crawl in my father's shadow

As a teen I am one to test limits,

Yet the lessons still remain,

I walk in my father's shadow.

As an adult I still have much to learn,

Passing along the wisdom he has gained

I still am in my father's shadow.

As I grow older with wisdom of my own,

The thoughts and words that I use.

I am passing my father's shadow.

At this I now fully understand,

What all those lessons have prepared me for.

I have left my father's shadow.

As I age with the passing of time.

It dawns on me this simple reality,

I have become my father's shadow.

Displays

One of the neat aspects of the Lego Church Project is that I do take this on the road. My feeling is that this project is a work of God. He is using my talents in an amazing and very creative way. This project isn't something that should be hidden. But something that needs to be shared with others. To show people that even if you have a disability or other challenge that God can and will use your talents in amazing and very creative ways.

One of those challenges for me is that I do not drive. I need help with transport for any display that I want to do. This means that any host site would need to provide transport for the project and in most cases myself so I can be there to over see things. This post is about the types of displays I can do. What kind of set up I need. What my transportation requirements are.

Types of Displays

Most of the time my displays fall into one of two types:

Single event: These are the Bazaars, craft shows, special events or functions. Set up could be the night before with the event happening the next day. Project would go home after the event was finished. I would be present so I can keep and eye on things and answer any questions that people might have.

Multi week/weekend run: Several of my parish displays (Christ the Good Shepherd, St. John XXIII, All Saints Parish) are multi weekend runs. This is where I set up the project up and then check it out once a week. Usually before and after the Mass(es) at the parish. How many weeks/weekend the project stays at the location is at the site's request. Personally I find that two weekends is a decent run. Though it can be longer if needed.

Setup needs

For the displays I need a folding/card table and access to an electrical outlet. Table needs to be medium sized but something that can support something that is about 47x25x25 inches. In most cases I will have my own extension cord. 

Transportation needs

The hardest part of any project season is not the build. It's finding locations to display my work and figuring out how to get the project and me out to the site. So for this season I am asking for help in this part. That way I can do more displays.


Project needs: The project sits on a 48x26in plywood board. Height is about 25 inches give or take. In most cases the project will fit in a normal SUV/mini van/small pickup truck. Just need to make sure the project is protected from sliding off the board. 

As far as moving the project. This project weighs about 40lbs or so. Because of it's size it does require two people to move it. If you have a cart that would also make things easier.


For the builder: Single event displays I will need to be picked up before the event starts and taken to the site. After the event is finished we will need to take the project back to my home location. 

For parish displays I would like to be around for the Saturday and Sunday Morning Mass. So I would need a ride there and back. If your parish has more than one Sunday Mass, need to be there for the earliest service and then be taken home after the last Mass. If your parish has a Sunday evening Mass. I don't need to be present for that. 

If anyone is interested in hosting or can help with transport, just drop me an e-mail to kc8wzm@gmail.com and we can work out the finer details.

-

Important Links!

The Lego Church Project (FB Page)

Twitter: @kc8wzm

EMAIL: kc8wzm@gmail.com

Donations! (PayPal)

What can you do to help?

those who hate us

“There are not one hundred people in the United States who hate The Catholic Church, but there are millions who hate what they wrongly perceive the Catholic Church to be.”
― Fulton J. Sheen

In this life their will always be those who look down on you for what you have chosen to believe. This is not the usual level of disagreement. But rather profound and rather venomous contempt for the very core values that you practice. If anything social media has done much to make such hatred more apparent.

Lately I've had more than a few encounters with some members of various "Christian" groups. With one fellow specifically saying he "hates the Roman Catholic Church". He feels justified in his hate because he claims he use to be Catholic. The ones that I have encountered all use the same one track mind. Quote the Bible chapter and verse and then ignore any counter points that you may have to offer. Even if you offer up a Biblical explanation for the Catholic faith. Lather. Rinse. Repeat. Pretty much the same debate over and over.

I have to openly wonder if these people truly believe on their own that the Catholic faith is evil. Or have they been mislead by some powerful and out right dangerous element that they don't realize. Even those who have left the faith and then go on to attack us. As if doing so just adds more validity to their arguments. No matter what the reasons for their dislike of us. Those who go on the attack have bigger issues than what they believe the Catholic faith to be.

Some time ago I made a decision that I would stop engaging these people unless it could not be avoided. Even then I would not stoop to their level and go on the attack. I will of course point out things that need to be shown. But instead I would rather put my efforts into praying for them. Even the fellow I mentioned above. The reality is that many people attack what they think the Catholic faith is. However what they are attacking is an illusion that they themselves have created. They have allowed their hearts to be corrupted and have decided to twist the Bible to serve their own personal agendas. To justify their hate of anything that does not conform to their world view. These are the people I pray for the most. Because unless you have chosen to walk in the path that is the Catholic Church. To embrace it completely. Then you really have no idea what it means to be Catholic.

-JM

The Mission

I often say that their is a mission with my work. That the building itself is only part of the story.

The entire core idea is about raising awareness for those who have some kind of disability. Such as those that are more invisible like mine. I was born with a mild form of cerebral palsy. Not many people fully understand all the ins and outs connected to it. No matter how you slice it I am unable to work. Instead I focus my efforts on other areas. My feeling is that if God has been kind enough to give me this amazing talent then it is something that I need to share. To show others that even if you have some kind of challenge God can still use your talents. Often those talents are used in amazing and creative ways.

The other focus is showing and giving a reminder of how important the Mass is to the Catholic faith. Our parishes are the backbone of our lives. It is not just a place we meet every weekend. It is a place where we come to celebrate Christ and to rebuild our faith from all the stuff that goes on in a typical week. The Catholic Mass is one of the most amazing and beautiful things one can take part in. Because of the rich history that is contained with in. My project is a snapshot of that parish life. That is played out at parishes all over the world. The project in that respect has become prayer. That more people would come home and that people would be reminded of how important the Mass is. How important is to take a more active role in our parish communities.

This is my mission in this life. This is why I keep doing this year after year. This is why I want to share my work with others. This is The Lego Church Project.

-JM

Season 18 Update

The Season 18 project is coming along decently enough. Fifteen days in and I'm farther along than I expected to be. Things have been going decent enough so far but I have a lot of work between here and now.

This project has been a rather fun mix of old ideas revisit and new ideas yet to be tried. But so far the keeping in line with the vision I had when I started out. Fan of the project will note that I'm using a window design by the alter is a lot like what I did on the Season 13 project. This goes back into the history and was a common feature of previous builds. Something I happened to like. Though it wasn't the plan starting out. The benches are a pretty simple build for the most part. Same style I've used for years. If I could ever get enough parts or a major donation I wouldn't mind upgrading to something that I'm using for the ensemble music group. A lot simpler to build but would require more plates and hinges than what I have on hand. Not even sure what the bricklink prices are on those parts to be honest.

The long read beams were done by mixing plates together. This is done for support because those beams also mark the main area of the church. The beams in this case also support balcony and the bell towers. So far this project has the record for the longest beams ever built. In fact I pretty much wiped out my collection of red plates doing this. Unless I happen to find some extra buried in the one tub I have all the red bricks in.

This project is extremely ambitions. Even with the stuff I've added recently I will probably have a few issues here and there. But I have a much better handle on where the project is going than I did last week. The list of what needs to be done is rather large and may take some time. I don't have a finish date in mind just yet. But this isn't a marathon. Speed building can cause more problems than they solve. I can't wait to finish the project and I can't wait to start doing displays.

If you would like to help me out please check this page: "What can you do to help?" Or consider making a Paypal donation via this link: https://www.paypal.me/LegoChurchProject.  

-JM

Working on the Project

I always get excited when I sit down and start work on a Lego Church Project season. I never know before hand how the project will turn out. What challenges I will face in the process of building. Typical stuff that is probably common with any artist who spends time on his/her craft. Mine just happens to be using a well known brand of building toys.

The project is for me a release. It is a chance to focus all I am on that single moment. To work with my hands in ways that are not all that common. It forces me to think and to look far into the future. I often say that I go in with a "throw and go" kind of view. Meaning that I don't have much of a plan going in. To be honest that is only partly correct. Once the lay out is set you do have to have to have some kind of road map.  A vision where things will go. Giving me a chance to tell a story with my work.

It gives me a chance to confront my own fears and anxiety over life head on. The fear and anxiety that comes with this project is with the bricks themselves. Assuming that I have enough of a specific part to finish my goals. That some issues will develop with the design and I may have to scrap something for another plan. But I've been doing this for a long time. I fight the anxiety and the fear in reminding myself that I know how the previous seasons have gone. I know that if something doesn't go according to plan their is always another way to do something. I'm not sure how it is for other artists. But I know for me that sometimes things happen and you learn. Still that fear is always in the back of my mind.

Still though all the challenges I am telling a story. The bricks and parts are a mix of new and old. Some have faded with age. Some have scratches and dings from years of use. When I work on the project I'm not seeing a new building. I'm seeing a parish community that has been around for a while. That this place has been around for far longer than most realize. This parish community could be mine. It could be yours. It could be in theory any Catholic Church in the world. It is a snap shot of who we are as Catholics. Celebrating the most important part of our faith. Jesus Christ.

About eight days ago I started work on my 18th season. I have no idea where this build will take me. I've been having visions of past visits to Our Lady of Loretto in Redford. Though the layout is not connected to the parish. More along the lines of past visits that I have made. I've done two displays with them in the past and it is one of list of places I would love to go back to. Any place I've been to becomes fuel for my ideas. The build is going well so far. Not quite to the half way point as of this post. I'm not in a rush. This isn't a race for me. I want to build the best project that I am able to.

By the Grace of God, I'm still building.

-JM

Look into History: Season 8

Season 8 (2007-2008): This was a unique project which was based on the idea of a "Look into history." The idea of course was to go back over the past few season and merge together some of the more fun ideas that I had at the time. This also includes the attempt at the dome roof.  More on that in a bit.  

The project itself was one of the more massive works. I think at the time it was one of the first ones to cross the 45 inch length mark. Though the primary worship space is much smaller than some of the newer projects.

The roofs of any of my projects have their challenges. Sometimes things don't always go the way they should. In this case with the Season 8 project. I tried to do too many things and pretty much ran out of bricks. I had decided to use the grid system that I had developed for the Season 7 project. With the theory that I could do a full truss system which would allow me some more stability and to keep the roof from twisting as I built upwards. However I did not fully expect as to how many parts that would take. So as I am working on building up the dome I find out that I have in fact run out of parts. The solution was was rather creative. I took two gray base plates and linked them together. Then added side plates to make up the difference. Doesn't look that bad to be honest. Held up well during transport.

I have found that with in this life their will always be challenges that we have to face. Sometimes the best answers to those challenges happen to also be the most creative. In building these projects over of the years I sometimes find answers to my own challenges. For me it is always a learning experience. One that I do enjoy.

-JM

Showing compassion instead of building walls

As someone who believes in Jesus Christ though the Catholic Faith. I believe that we should show compassion and mercy to those around us. We should not single out anyone because we may not agree with the path they have in this life. I can understand the current agenda in trying to secure our borders. To prevent acts of terrorism. However banning groups of people from entering into our country based on where they are from and what religious path they follow goes against the spirit of what the Founding Fathers intended. I agree that we live in an age where more security checks need to be made. But the majority of the violence that has visited our nation has not come from outside our states. But from inside our country. People born and raised here. The polices being offered are knee-jerk reactions that gives a false sense of security. But they do nothing to seek out and address the underlying issues that our country is facing. Perhaps if we shifted our focus into creating better paths for citizenship, better and more affordable health care and remove the stigma of mental illness. Rather than spending our resources building walls and excluding people we don't agree with. Then perhaps we can move forward with true progress.

-jm

Fighting the Darkness

Their is a lot of darkness in this world. Thankfully with Christ we have a light that can help us though that darkness. Perhaps if we put more of a focus on Him than the chaos that has always been the world. We can find some measure of peace and bring about real change and compassion to this troubled world we live in.

To easy

It is easy for someone like me to say that we should surrender all to Christ. All of our celebrations and our defeats. The challenge is turning words to action. We like to be in control of all things. Every aspect of our lives. With surrender we give up that control for something greater. Something far more profound. The road is not easy. But with Christ as our guide we can overcome the challenges. Surrender to Christ all things. For in all things there is Christ.

Protests

People who feel that violent protests are path to follow. Fail to understand the nature of the problems to begin with. Violence never solves problems. It takes existing issues and makes them worse. But in that same process creates new ones. The reality is message the protesters are trying to send gets lost in the destruction of property.

-

On this Day

As we head into this transfer of presidents we should take the time today, and every day, to pray. That our leaders would have profound wisdom to lead our nation in a path that helps all around us. Not just the select few. That our nation would seek peace instead of violence. That both Republicans and Democrats work together and seek common ground. Instead of working against each other. That all would come to Christ and seek out His Glory in our times when we feel the darkness is too strong to cover come. Amen.

-JM

celebrate

I will celebrate and thank the Lord in all things. I will offer up praise and glory in all struggles. I will lay my anxiety and fear at the foot of the Cross of my Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. No matter where the journey in this life takes me. I will seek shelter from the storms and embrace Christ. Even when it seems that all hope has been lost.

-jm

I surrender

(taken from a post I did on my personal FB page)

I surrender to you O Lord in all things. May your will be done. The hardest thing in our life to do is to give up all to God. Even when we have no idea where the path will take us. When our heart is troubled and our bodies are riled. We cannot do Your work. Because the anxiety created by our challenges creates itself a wall that prevents us from being at peace. Into Your loving arms I see your embrace. So I can be at peace and focus on what needs to be done. Amen.

-jm

What I need to replace.

(update 1/25/17)

In this post I mention that I am looking for donations.

One of the things that I want to do before the Season 18 build is to replace the base plates that I use. These are the foundation of which the entire project rests on. Over the years the plates get used and abused and at some point will wear out completely. Sometimes becoming warped.

Here is the list of base plates I'm looking at replacing.

https://www.bricklink.com/v2/catalog/catalogitem.page?P=4186#T=C

This is probably the most expensive part.  48x48 studs They are about 15$ a pop depending on where you go. That cost alone wouldn't be that bad. However I use three of them. So that comes up to about 45$. 

https://www.bricklink.com/v2/catalog/catalogitem.page?P=3811#T=C

I use four of these 32 x 32 (studs) plates. The goal is to get them in some form of Gray to match the gray 48x48(studs) plates. Current prices on brick link goes to around 9$ a plate. So about 36$ total for the ones I need.

https://www.bricklink.com/v2/catalog/catalogitem.page?P=3857#T=C

I use one 16x32. Once again I need to find these in some shade of gray. Price for this is about 2$ and is the lowest cost item on the list. 

So that's about 83$ right there. Needless to say the base plate changes won't be made this season. Would like to. Just don't have the resources right now for it.

Any other funds will be put to replacing bricks. With a focus on getting Blue, Red, and White. (the white ones get a lot of sun damage).

If you want to help out in some form. Drop me an e-mail at kc8wzm@gmail.com. 

You can make a donation directly:  paypal.me/LegoChurchProject 

-jm

The Chicago Four Attack.

News has been making the rounds of the attack on the young man who has a disability. Carried out by four others and streamed live over FB. I haven't seen video. I haven't seen the comments. But I've heard that not a single person watching the video had any decency to call the police. Or to get FB to take down the video. Has our society has gone that far down hill that watching some one who is clearly defenseless just as normal as watching the evening news? To the point that we would rather let things play out than do anything to help. Worse some people probably even felt that the attack on the guy was justified. Given current political elements we are in. How many of those people were cheering on hoping this young man would be killed. To say that this has bothered me is putting it mildly. I've been trying to wrap my head around on how much evil can happen right in front of our eyes and yet we made the choice to do nothing to stop it. Has our society lost that much compassion for each other? To the point that someone is brutalized and we say "it's not our problem". This story makes me sick. Not just for the attack itself. But for the total lack of help this young man got while this was streaming. Some can argue because of our incoming leadership that such attacks are justified. But violence is never a solution to a problem. Violence only makes an already bad problem worse.

-JM

Donations

On the FAQ post that I use for the Lego Church Project  I mention that I take donations.

Why do I need donations?

LEGO is a good solid brand of a building system. It is made up of many styles of parts. Often using high grade materials. However as things age they do tend to wear out and need to be replaced. My collection of parts spans many decades. Over time I've had to replace parts. Bricks break and crack. Plates/base plates get warped. Window elements break down. Some parts fade and start to turn brown because of the sunlight. The project also creates extra wear and tear because of the transportation to various display locations.

In most cases people who have children who are no longer into LEGO will give me what they have. I can use the stuff to add on to my existing collection and replace worn out or broken parts as needed. I do from time to time accept money donations. This is so I can go on to market sites like BrickLink  and get special parts that I normally can't get though donations.  

I'm on a fixed income thanks to the nature of my disability. I don't always have resources need to replace the parts. So the donations do help ease up some of the cost on my end. I'm not one for asking for help. Goes against my nature.

What will your donations be used for?

Anything I get will be used for the Project. Money donations will be used to buy parts off LEGO or Bricklink. With the the primary goal of replacing existing parts. Some of the donations given might go to cover the cost of gas for some of the transportation as well.

You can donate directly via PayPal to: paypal.me/LegoChurchProject 

If you would like more information on how you can help the Lego Church Project, check out "What can you do to help." Blog post. Or of course send me an e-mail at kc8wzm@gmail.com.

-jm

A power chair and LEGO

I've said this more than a few times over the years. Just about anyone I run into has the chance to be put inside one of my projects. Just ask Fr. Emit.

I see M bring her daughter to mass every so often. The young woman, K, is in a power chair. No matter what kind of day is going on. K always seems to have a bright smile on her face. Bringing joy to those around her.

A few weeks before the photo was taken LEGO had announced that they were releasing some new mini figures. Of note that one was in a wheel chair. As I'm sitting in the choir, I see K and her mom arrive for Mass, some how this struck me more so than usual. You can often times see the struggles in situations like this. Yet here we are at Mass. M and K in the front pew. Seeing this moved me deeply. To the point I spent the entire Mass wondering if I could create a power chair out of LEGO. The intention from the start was to put this in the Season 17 project. It took me an hour or two to come up with the general shape and over all style. The photo is from the early stages. Proof of Concept if you will. But over all I was pleased with the results. The figure sitting is not representing K. I used another figure for her. Once the project is taken down I'll snap a few photos.

What really inspired me is that feeling of joy seeing them arrive. The bright smile that K has when people come up to talk to her. We live in this day and age where those who have a disability are often overlooked. Sadly people don't take the time to try and understand what it is like to live with any kind of challenge. I'm not even sure of the daily struggles K's mom has. But I know she has good family support.

This weekend K had a chance to see the Season 17 project. Later on at a lunch I came over to them to say hello. K told me she really loved the project. I don't recall word for word what she said. By that point I was keeping the tears away. I've had many positive comments for my work over the years. I've gotten some media attention for my work. But K's comments to me. They touched me deeply. A small reminder of why I do this. Why I spend my time year after year. It is to show people that those who have a disability. Like myself. Like K. That even though we have our challenges. God can still use our talents.

-JM

The FAQ

The Official FAQ:

The Project:

Q: What is the Lego Church Project?

A: An annual project where a massive Catholic parish is built out of LEGO bricks.

Q: How long does it take to build?

A: It varies from season to season. But in most cases it takes close to two months. I work on it from as little as an hour to several hours per day. No build ever goes the same way each year.


Q: How many bricks does it take ?

A: I would guess based on how I build it each year. That it has close to 20,000 parts. 

Q: Wow! Look at all the people! How many are inside?

A: I have well over 200 mini-figures inside. 

Q: How much does the project weigh?

A: About 40lbs.

Q: Uh how big is your project?


A: The work station is 48x25 inches. The past few seasons have been around 45x24x24 inches. 

Displays: 

Q: When do you display the project?

A: Once the build is finished I am able to book for displays. In most cases I have the project finished in mid or end of April. Please keep in mind the month of Dec is reserved for the Christ the Good Shepherd display.

Q: What kind of displays do you do?

A: I can do two types of displays depending: 

Single event or weekend: These would be your Bazaars, craft shows or other special event. Bring the project out. Set it up with me being around to answer any questions. 

Multi week/weekend run: Set up the project and leave it for a week or two. Still would need to visit to make sure the project is holding up. Also to have the chance to talk to people.

Q: How do you move the project?

A: The project rests on it's own work station. Which is a large sheet of plywood. 

Q: What kind of setup do you need for a display?

A: All I need is a table such as a card table or narrow table for the project itself. I also need access to an electrical outlet so I can plug in the lights.

Q: I have a location that you can bring the project out too. What help do you need to make that happen?

A: I don't drive. In many cases it is a challenge to get transportation for this project. So I do have to rely on others. If you would like to have me come out I would have to have the site provide me and the project a ride. Along with two people to help move it. The project will fit in most SUV's or mini-vans. Drop me an e-mail at kc8wzm@gmail.com and we can set something up. 

Donations/More information:

Q: I think your project is neat and would like to help out. Do you take donations?

A: Yes. I'm always looking LEGO Bricks/Parts. I also do accept monetary donations so I can purchase specific parts. Donations can be made via pay pal. Contact me via e-mail: kc8wzm@gmail.com to find out how. 

Q: Do you have more information about why you need donations?

A: Yes! Please check out the blog post "Donations" for more detailed info.

Q: Do you have a PayPal link that send donations to?

A: Yes use the following link: paypal.me/LegoChurchProject

Q: How can I contact you for more information?

A: kc8wzm@gmail.com

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Revised 1/18/17. -The Lego Church Project

Humbled

http://www.abc12.com/content/news/Building-faith-with-Lego-churches-403302996.html

Humble. That is the word that comes to mind after this story aired the other night on WJRT. A few days removed and I'm still amazed by the support that I have gotten for my work. What people have said about my talent and my willingness to share that talent with others.

I am blessed by all the support that I have gotten over the years with The Lego Church Project. With out the support on any level. This kind of project would not be possible. I am deeply thankful to God for allowing me this chance in my life.

-jm

Sorry for the lack of updates

I've had some stuff going on the given the Thanksgiving holiday and other things that I've had to put my focus on. The plan is to resume regular blog posts next week. Though I have one other short post planned for this morning.

Till then.

-JM

Thoughts on the Mass

I think one of the most amazing and important elements of the Catholic Faith is the Mass. It is something that truly brings millions of people together every weekend. No matter which parish. No matter which version of the Mass is being said. We all come together to give Glory to God. We celebrate the life and passion of His Son Jesus Christ. It is a unified thread that binds us all to something that is greater than ourselves. For me on a personal level this is something that holds deep meaning for me. I love the Mass. Even on days when my hyper active nature takes over and I find it difficult to stay focused.

When ever you walk into a parish. Even one that you have been going to for most of your life. You realize that each parish has it's own story to tell. That with in these wall exists a rich history of people and personal events that tie us all together. The building is only a small fragment of that history. Because with out the people. Their would be no history. We live in a busy age. We lose our focus on what is important to us. Yet I feel that we should make the time to attend Mass. You look at the parishes today and you don't see the same number of people attending as you did say even twenty years ago. Our lives are that busy that we cannot spend at least one Saturday or Sunday for an hour giving praise to God?

It is my hope and prayer that one day our parishes would be filled and our communities would do well. That what ever keeps people away from Mass would change and that more people would come home to the Catholic faith.

-jm

Fear is the tool of evil.

Fear can easily be the best weapon that the evil one can use against us. The reason is that it can make us act in ways that we otherwise would not do or even consider. It can make us hear things that are not even there. Make us lash out when perhaps a calmer course of action is required. No matter what. Fear can cause us to act and create more problems that it would ever hope to solve.

We live in disturbing times. The world has been simmering with anger and hate for a very long time. Far longer than most people even realize. It has been building ever so slowly. To the point that it flashes over and we don't even understand until it's to late. Such is the way it has been since the dawn of time. But what sets that fire is fear. The evil one uses it very effectively. It is one thing to be concerned about our future. Given recent events those concerns are very much legit. However the actions taken are only furthering evil's hold on our nation. We give into rioting and violence because that is the easy way out. In our own hearts we would rather seek out war than to cry out for peace.

If their was ever a time for prayer for our nation. This would be it. Perhaps if we chose to spend more time in the presence of Christ. Then we would not give into our own personal fears for what tomorrow will bring and lash out with such anger and violence. Prayer is a powerful tool of a follower of Christ. It can break down the walls of fear and anger. Bringing peace to a troubled soul. Prayer can bring about wisdom and guide us to peace which clearly needed right now. In my own life prayer has done great things for me. Even if their results are not fully apparent.

Right now prayers are being said for a quick end to the violent storms hitting our nation. Fear is causing people to lash out in ways good people would not commit to otherwise. All the more reason for us to follow the path of Christ.

-JM

I am still here

I haven't written anything in a while because I've been a little under the weather. That and all the chaos leading up to last night has left me more than a little drained.

To be honest I am tried of all of the anger I have seen. All the vile stuff being posted. Some from people who claim to follow Christ. I've seen families stressed to the point of breaking over stuff that is not always in our control.

For me as the dust settles. I will focus on the things that I need to focus on. Taking my time to collect thoughts on a few posts I have in mind. But need to be in the right frame of mind to write. Given that they are issues that I deal with all the time because of the nature of my challenges.

The last thing I want to mention is that if you the reader proclaims Christ in your heart. That you accept Him as your Lord and Savor. Then we need to take the time each day to pray for our nation. Our nation needs all the prayers it can get.

-jm