9-13 Reflection

This was posted as a reflection tonight on FB. A reaction to something I saw on twitter.

The Catholic church has been taking a beating lately. More so than even in 2002 when the first scandal broke. It is hard and heart breaking to see the news that keeps coming. I am of the honest opinion that the storm will get worse before it can get better. Faith in leadership is shaken. People want accountability from those leaders. It is hard to want to evangelize about the faith when it seems that the news keeps getting worse and worse. However in order for healing to take place the infection must be purged out. A process that can at times be very painful. But a process that needs to happen. We cannot grow as Catholics with out it.

We who are the laity must do what we can to hold firm to the faith. Above all else that faith is in Jesus Christ. It is though the Eucharist that gives us life as Christ told to us in the Gospel of John. It will not be an easy road a head. More questions exist than their are answers. The answers we have gotten trouble us deeply. Leaders that we count on to guide is as shepherds have in many ways failed us. However despite the crisis at hand. Life moves on. The work of the Church goes on. For all the bad things. Way more good is going on. It is up to us to make sure that those good things are highlighted. That we can help and encourage one another.

I consider myself a "Catholic Evangelist". I share the Catholic faith via the Lego Church Project. I raise awareness for those of us who face disabilities. But The Project is also a prayer for those who need one. To pray for those who have been shaken in their faith. A prayer for healing. A prayer for justice. A prayer for compassion and mercy. Things that we need now more than ever. We will ride out the storm like we always do. We will be stronger for it. The reason why I remain Catholic is very simple: John 6: 68-69: Simon Peter answered him, "Master, to whom shall we go? You have the words of eternal life. We have come to believe and are convinced that you are the Holy One of God."

-Till Next Time

How can I remain Catholic?

The question that I often get asked when ever news of another scandal in the church comes to light is "How can you remain Catholic?" It is as if the very notion of being part of this faith would be a challenge for me on any level given the darkness knocking on our door. The answer for me is very easy: Because I believe in Jesus Christ. I believe in the teachings of the faith. The Mass is an important part of my life and with out the Eucharist I would not have life with in me. I would be cut off from a pure way to recharge my spiritual batteries. The problem is that their is a lot of good that goes on with in the Catholic faith. But it is often over shadowed by those who have become corrupted. Still not all Priests are the evil creatures the media and other anti-Catholics would have you believe. When you look at the history of the current scandal those reports and details go back to almost one-hundred years. It is overwhelmingly heart breaking to know such evil exists in this world and that those who we look up to are the ones committing it. To say that their is anger is way more than fair. Their should be anger. I don't know of any Catholic in the world who does not want our leadership held accountable for their actions. Those who committed such evil and those who did their best to either turn a blind eye or cover it up out right. To be remove if the allegations are proven to be true beyond a shadow of a doubt. What some many not realize is that this is not the first time our faith has been tested. Though out the history of the Catholic Church their have been many crisis that have come up. Many of us were rocked with the scandal in Boston that came to light over fifteen years ago. Yet though these events the Catholic Church has remained. Storms are always going to happen. But leaving the faith over those storms allows the evil to go on unchecked. We must remain firm to Christ even when the ship is being tossed in the rough waters. We must embrace the very fact that the Son of God gave up his very LIFE for us. The least that we can do is stand firm and hold those in leadership accountable for their actions. The more of us who decide to walk away. The less of us their are to stand firm. We are the Salt of the Earth. We are the Light of the World. Stand firm in our faith and we will shine brighter than the darkness that seeks to consume us.

-JM

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The Empty Church: Who Do I Ask?

One of the more challenging problems that people who have a disability face is often being unable to attend Mass due to transportation issues. Bus services is not universal in all areas of the country. Some buses do not run on Sat or Sunday. Or if they do it is not always at a time that allows for Mass. Cab services like Uber and Lyft are another option. But may not be practical for someone who is on a very fixed income. While some non-Catholic churches have their own shuttle service. Parishes creating their own may be out of reach due to issues with insurance and liability costs. Which leaves the only option is to ask someone from the parish for a ride.

For some their is a moderate level of embarrassment in asking for a ride. Their is often a fear of rejection or feeling that we are being an inconvenience. This becomes more of an issue if someone has mobility issues. Another issue to look at is some also face social anxiety. The idea of asking someone they may not know for help is difficult. Unless a person has well established connections with in the parish. The options of who to seek rides from are limited. We simply do not know who to ask for a ride. Who would be willing to help us out.

It is an area of concern that can be looked at more closely with in the parish. To truly be a welcoming community then perhaps we should take the time and effort to help those who have a deep desire to attend Mass. Even if it is something simple as the parish office having a list of volunteers willing to give out rides to those who ask. Taking those with disabilities into consideration. Just because a person is unable to drive or have their own connections to transpiration should a person be excluded from going to Mass. The solutions to the problem can be simple. Still we need to make it easier to answer the questions of "Who do I ask?" and "Can I get a ride?"

-JM

Looking Past

It seems to me that in this current "modern age" their is a major misconception when it comes to those of us who are labeled as having some kind of disability. It is as if the word conveys something far more negative than we often realize. More so when speaking about people who have challenges in this life that are different from our own. The biggest common element in all of this is the idea that people who have a disability do not lead fulfilling lives. That by having some kind of challenge we missing out on all life has to offer us. An over judgmental and at times harsh view where the person sees the challenges someone faces instead of seeing the person as a true human being. They also do not see the struggles that we some times face. Yet our lives are by no means full of agony and suffering.

In my own life I have see this first hand. Even with in the Catholic Church. When people see me they often see a rather giant of a fellow who has a hard time walking. Who is socially awkward and a bit of a chatter box. They do not know the battles that I have to face from time to time. With the balance issues with the Cerebral Palsy. They also do not fully know that I often deal with severe anxiety. Sometimes that itself is due to the on going severe tinnitus. However even with all the challenges that I face daily. I cannot say that I don't lead a decent life. I have many things going for me. Such as being licence as a Amateur (HAM) Radio operator since 2003. My call sign being KC8WZM. Most also don't realize that also sing in the parish choir and have a pretty decent voice. Of course I am known by many as "The Lego Guy" because of my work with The Lego Church Project.

What is important for me that despite my own challenges I do live a pretty decent life. Granted it is far from perfect. But if you were to ask any one you would find that they also have their own challenges. Even if they don't necessarily consider it a disability. I for one would rather be defined for who I am as a person. For a long time ago I made a choice to do what I can to rise above what I face and let my work speak for me. For the most part I have been successful. It is not a matter of taking pride about this. But rather an understanding that above all else I am a child of God. That I have a deep love and passion for the Catholic Faith. Perhaps we should start opening up our hearts and seeing people for who they are. Not for the challenges they face.

-JM

The Empty Church: A Shepherd's Worry

On the Feast of Corpus Christi Fr. Ron of Christ the Good Shepherd opened up his homily with something a little bit different. In his eyes it was not so much of a homily than it was a reflection. It was a look into the heart of a priest about the state of the parishes in the Saginaw Diocese and in many ways the entire Catholic faith as a whole. It was at times sorrowful and a nearly heart breaking reflection on the state of the parishes and the too few priests who are able to serve. Many of them already serving more than one parish community as it is. Fr. Ron was giving us a head up that down the road. Probably sooner than later our Mass time that we have had for ages would probably be changing. He talked about the parishes Pastoral Council and their efforts to evangelize to the surrounding neighborhoods in an effort to try and bring more people to Mass. But also expressed sorrow at the too few people answering the call to vocations. Mind you this was by no means a lesson in self pity. This was not a “woe is me” kind of view. But rather it was shepherd who was probably way more frustrated at the state of things than he has ever let on. For almost ten minuets he poured out his heart to the congregation. For that moment we felt as he felt. It was not necessarily Fathers intention to pass his personal anxieties on to us. However it was probably way more needed than he realized.

Fr. Ron's reflection bothered me heart and soul. For many years I have, with the Lego Church Project, put a deep focus on the importance of the Mass. I use the project to share the faith and to try and evangelize on how important the Mass should be. My Projects are always filled with as many mini-figures as I can because it is not a reflection of the past but rather a reflection of how things need to be. That if we do not make the Mass more than a priority in our lives then we could very well lose our ability to be able to attend and miss out on so much. Fathers words are a reminder that such a reality may very well happen given the state of things in many dioceses.

The answers to the problems at hand will not be easy to find. Mainly because there is no single root cause for what we are dealing with. It is not a simple matter of men and women answering the call to vocations. Or even people attending Mass again. While those would indeed help with the matters at hand they would only be a band-aid over much bigger issues. The reality is that we have lost our way. We do this when we allow the distractions of the world to remove us from the path of Christ. This happens when we don't make an active effort to spend quality time in prayer. Either by ourselves or as a family. Prayer becomes something to do in times of crisis rather than something we do to open up our hearts to the will of God. We tend to water down the importance of our faith by allowing ourselves to embrace the sins of the world. This becomes more of a problem when the “laws of the land” says such sins are OK. We tend to make too many compromises and in the end we put God on the back burner and no longer take our Catholic faith seriously. Such issues remove us from the Body of Christ and the community that becomes the core of our faith.

Homilies like Fr. Ron's show us the passion that our Priests have for the faith and their concerns for the future. It is also a wake up call to us as parishioners. A reminder that we also have ownership in the fate of our communities. Our personal goals should always live for Christ the best the we are able to. We do this by living our lives the best that we can. Making sure that we do not let these distractions take us away from God and by extension the Mass itself. From there our ability to reach out and evangelize will begin to plant the seeds that can help restore our parishes. We should always use our talents to the best of our abilities and to make use of those to help show people how important our faith really is. If we can start from with in our own hearts then perhaps we can open up the hearts of others to come home to the Catholic faith. Even in this current age of so many distractions.

Till Next Time 

-JM

Excuse me while I laugh.

Their are times when I'm way to easily amused. More so when it comes to how people react to me while I'm out on a bike/trike. Today is one of those times.

So Kat and I went up to McDonald's not far from my apartment for lunch. She walked and I took the trike. I had my helmet and sunglasses as well. During our time at the restaurant we had a group of young men show up. They looked like the came from one of the schools in the area. Probably Michigan Lutheran Seminary. They are the only place like that in area that I know of. Didn't think much of it. During the return trip I got a little farther ahead of Kat and was inside the complex. I stopped for a moment trying to decide if I was going to loop back to see where she was at. From behind me I hear "There he is!" and a few moments later I see a car pull up and pass me on the road inside the complex. Sure enough it was the same guy we saw at McDonald's. They didn't stay long and did a turn around and came back the way they came. You have to wonder what was going though those kids heads as they saw me on the trike. I'm 454lbs. I know I look odd while on I'm the trike. I could have cared less if they were ridiculing me. Or found it funny to see someone of my size moving at a pretty good speed. Fact is the trike has been slowly helping me with my walking. Those kids don't know the battles I've had to deal with lately. If they realized that on my old bike I use to put five to ten miles they might turn a whiter shade of pale. Either way I found their reactions kind of amusing. They probably saw me as some kind of side show oddity. But come on people. This is not the first time I've been heckled while on the ride. Sure as heck won't be the last. If they are that shallow in personality so be it. I can get a little bit of a chuckle at their reaction. Anyway if you don't mind I'm going to end the blog post here and go finish laughing to get it out of my system. Because right now I'm just too easily amused.

-JM

The Review: Catechism of the Seven Sacraments

So recently I found out about an amazing book that is coming out on April 4th and talks about about the faith using LEGO style parts.

"Catechism of the Seven Sacraments" is by Kevin and Mary O'Neill. It tells the story of the Seven Sacraments of the Catholic faith by using LEGO. The reader walks along with Fulton as he explains to his friend the history of the Sacraments page by page. Going into the history with amazing illustration using some impressive building tricks.

This book is very much geared to children. However even I as an adult loved the simple but effective explanations given along with the Biblical history and connections. Each chapter moves very smoothly from one section to the next. Everything is very clear cut. Each of the Sacraments is explained in vivid detail. Sharing with us the importance if each one and the direct links to the Bible itself. What is also important is that every term used is explained at the end of the book with an expansive glossary. Their is no questions left unanswered.

The brick work is also extremely impressive. Each scene jumps off the page with amazing detail. You can easily spend more than a few hours trying to figure out how the scenes were built. While the book does use both LEGO and off brand that should not be a distraction given what the goal of the book is. It really was the only way for them to be able to pull such an amazing idea. You feel drawn into the story and at the end get a better understanding of the Catholic faith.

This is a book that is good for any age. It contains a lot of useful information. I found myself learning a lot along the way. Catechism of the Seven Sacraments goes on sale April 4th and is $34.95. Can be ordered directly from StoryTel Foundation.  The Lego Church Project/Praying at the brick was given permission to review a PDF copy.

If you can please check this book when it comes out. You will truly enjoy it. Till Next Time! -JM

A diocese in crisis.

This post was adapted from a FB post that I wrote earlier today. It has been rewritten and expanded from the original content. 

With in the last few weeks. Two major cases of sexual misconduct have come to light in the Saginaw Diocese of which I live in. To say the news is a shock is putting it mildly. As we go about our daily lives we realize that at some point we must face a storm darker than what ever we have faced. One that will test our own resolve to remain true to what we believe in.  Any time someone with in our religious leadership is accused of a crime. It is extremely hurtful to us as a community. Trust is shattered in the blink of an eye. Even if that person is not guilty of the crimes that they have been accused of. That sigma that those accusations carry will remain. The court of public opinion is easily angered and they will want vengeance that instant. Never mind if the person is truly guilty or innocent. That same court will also go after that religious institution. They see that religion as the source of the evil. Even though that is clearly not the case.

When accusations are proven true. They do far more damage to the religious community than those on the outside realize. The damage runs deep and creates fissures and fractures that most cannot see. It plants seeds of doubt. Often times making us question why we follow this religious path. Makes us question why we even stay. Does staying mean we are turning a blind eye? Or by staying are we making a silent stand and making it clear that want action. True change that those seek will not come from the outside.  It does not come from those who chose to leave. But rather it comes from with in. From those of us who have chosen to remain faithful. That change comes from standing firm and not being afraid to speak out when the time is called. If a religious leader is accused of a crime we allow the law to do their job. We let the courts decide their fate. We offer up our prayers to the victims and that God's justice be delivered fairly. We always show mercy and compassion when it is needed. Above all else we use this storm as a way to build up our faith and not allow it to break us down.

My heart has been troubled by the news coming out of the Saginaw Diocese. I have anger that such actions have taken place in our region. However I temper my feelings. I do not presume guilt or innocence of anyone. Instead I will allow the law to do their job and do what I can not to rush to judgement. Despite the grim news this will not change my opinion of the Catholic Church. My faith has always been rooted deeply in Christ. In these times of crisis we need people to step up and not walk away from the faith. As I've prayed on this issue lately I am reminded of a phrase I use: "Surrender to Christ all things." It serves for me as a constant reminder that we are in the hands of God. That during the most difficult storms Christ walks with us. Even when we cannot see the road in front of us.

I want to make something extremely clear: I do not condone evil acts committed by our religious leaders. If they are guilty of the crimes that they have been accused then they must be held accountable. I do not condone any in leadership in either turning a blind eye or trying to cover up those crimes. If they have done so. Let them be held accountable for their actions. I will however stand firm in my faith. For that is what Christ has called me to do. Please pray for the Saginaw Diocese. Keep them in your prayers. The storm that we are facing now. Has only just begun. 

Till Next Time.

-JM

Look Into History: Season 13

Season 13 (2012-2013): This Project was a very interesting build. I was trying to capture some of the feelings of the older seasons. With the massive window so people could look inside and see just about everything. From a pure technical stand point this was the first time I had nearly the full sides with secondary sections. This created the extra challenge of making sure I had all the support pillars in place to help support the upper sections of wall. Unlike last season were the tower was planned as an after thought. The bell tower on this was planned out from the start. 

A few fun things happens with this season. Our Sunday Visitor ran an amazing story on me. Was also the first display at Knights of Columbus Council 4232. A council I would later join as a result of that display. 

It was a rather fun build over all and one of the projects that stand out as a good example of what I do. 

-JM

Look Into History: Season 12

Season 12 (2011-2012): Season 12 came about during a challenging time in my life. I developed a rare neurological condition called "Visual Snow" late in 2010. At the time I did not know much about it. Or how it would effect me down the road. One of my worries was how it would effect my work on The Project. Season 12 was my first project since this condition developed.

This Project is one of my favorites. But it is also one of the most goofiest ones I've built. It goes into some fun directions that worked out well for the time. This was my first attempt having the project off to one side of the board. Which allowed for a bigger "wing" section. Any time you attempt something for the first time. Their are bound to be extra challenges with it. Just because of the over all nature of this layout a few things had to be taken into consideration. One of the biggest issues is with the bell tower itself. One of my personal rules after Season 8: The Project must have a bell tower. When I designed Season 12 I pretty much forgot to add one. The solution was to create a tower that fit into the roof tile section. The tower is big and heavy. But given the unique nature of the build it works.

Considering all that I was dealing with at the time. I have to say I'm really glad the project turned out as well as it did. Gave some good starting points for future seasons.

-JM

Look Into History: Season 11

Season 11 (2010-2011): This Project was a fun build. I had decided to simply reuse the same basic foot print for that I had used on Season 10. However what came from that is something very different from what I was expecting.  I pretty much went all out on this project. I had decided early on what kind of window set up I wanted to do. What added to the challenge of the build was the secret doors that could open up on the sides. Getting them too look like the rest of the section with out making it obvious that I had done something fun. (I did not want the little kids to realize this and open up the walls). But it was very slow building. I had to build each section row by row and had to work on all three window segments all at once. The project wasn't as tall so their wasn't any worry about the gaps being able to support the weight of the roof.

One of the bigger change for that year was the change to the Grand Cross. Replacing the solid yellow Cross with yellow 1x2x2 windows. This worked out for a while and added a neat change to the project's over all look. This also the first season where I added the Roman Numbers to mark the season. This came about because I wanted something to fill the space because on the other side their is a Tabernacle in the center. In fact this idea would be reused later in another season. The numbers have been used in every project sense. However the location has always been depending on the nature of the build.

The roof tiles get a mention because till Season 18 they were the main feature. They were redesigned from scratch after Season 10. I wanted something that captured the feel of the old dome roofs. It was something that I missed about the project and to be honest would have loved to revisit at some point down the road. But the tiles were built up and they worked out rather well for what I needed them for. It served a purpose and did a good job of it.

Season 11 was an amazing build. Some of the ideas carried over into other Seasons. Or in some ways revisited years later. It is the nature of The Project for ideas to be given a second or third look. To see how I can improve on things. Which is always a fun journey.

-JM

Look Into History: Season 10

Season 10 (2009-2010):  It is still hard to believe at that point I have reached ten years of The Project. For me this was a rather fun season. Filled with a lot of ideas and some fun experiments that worked out decently enough. At this point the project was still focused on using what I had on hand. Thus the lack of windows in the back section. This was also the first project to have the Grand Cross used both on the wall and on the floor (of the main entrance).

However this project does feature some design elements that will become staples of later works. In this case the use of the current "Grid" system. The first real use of having the project "centered to the board" which allows me to have two side wings on either side. The roof also used a combo of custom built tiles and base plates giving the roof that neat flat top style.

Over all this was a very good project that held up rather well. Always fun going back into the history of what I have done. Sometimes it can give me direction as to where I want to go.

-JM

Cutting Words

The other day someone got onto my case because I "play with a children's toy". The person felt that I was trying to make myself out to be more important than I am. This isn't the first time I've run into such criticism. Even when you know where it is coming from, in this case a profound lack of understanding, it still cuts into you. My self-esteem hasn't been the world's greatest. This fellow's comments sure as heck did me no favors.

LEGO is the building medium that I use. I've always considered myself an artist who uses what he has on hand. I take what is in effect a blank canvas and create something from my own mind. Just so happens that what I build is in 3D format. Not unlike a 3D printer creating something layer by layer. It is a way for me to express myself in a creative way. In that respect I'm not all that unique. Their are many Adult Fans of Lego. (AFOL). Some of them create stuff that I could never even begin to understand. I don't want to minimize what I do or even my skill level. But their are truly some amazing builders out there. Brothers Brick is a good resource to check out to learn more.

However what separates me from the typical adult fan is what I do with those bricks. I build Catholic Parishes. Rather large and fully detailed parishes. Usually around 47x24x25 (inches). That's about the size of long coffee table or even a kitchen table. Pictures I've posted don't do this justice on any level. These the projects are a massive undertaking. The fact that I can build something like this with in about four to eight weeks is a challenge on it's own. Then I take that project on the road to a few locations in the region and show this to the public. Often times a Catholic Church or other like minded events. I'm also doing this solo. I'm not connected with any LEGO User Groups. The project is built on my own. The only help I really get is with transportation and set up for the displays. With out the kindness of people helping me out my displays would not happen.

Which brings us to the "profound lack of understanding" when it comes to what I do. What makes my work even more of a challenge. I have a mild case of cerebral palsy. This effects me in a lot of ways. Some of it even in the aspect of social interactions. I am extremely hyperactive on a good day. Which makes my attention span very limited. I also don't move around as well as I would like. My balance is not the greatest as it is. So moving around even in my apartment can be tricky. So the fact that I can even sit down and have enough patience to work on the Project. Often times for more than a few hours in a row is rather amazing. The fact that I have the dedication to do this for a full nineteen years and still have the same love that I did when I did my first display? Impressive. I really don't do this for myself. The goal about my artwork has always been sharing and showing that even if you have a disability or challenge that God can and will use your talents. Doing so in amazing and creative ways. That has always been my core message. No matter what else I do during the season. It always comes back to that. God has given me this amazing gift that many people around the world enjoy. I am blessed to be able to share it with others. All the media attention I have gotten in the last few years is just part of that. In this case it isn't so much about me but rather what I am doing and why. Giving hope to those who struggle with challenges even I cannot begin to understand.

The reality for me is that I often struggle with accepting the fact that I have a disability. The world around me doesn't help with this struggle. Many people are often looked down on because they don't fit what society declares as "normal". What is even more depressing is that some people don't fully realize when they make a comment "your artwork is trash and your not important" that those words do hurt. It's not constructive criticism but rather harmful to someone who's self-esteem has already taken a beating. More so when these kinds of comments come from people of the same faith. Those kinds of comments cut deep into the soul. We should be doing what we can do build people up and be encouraging as we can. Not make less than subtle jabs that minimize the value of someone. It is just a total lack of understanding and compassion. We should do more to encourage those around us. To fuel the creative fires of our talents. No matter what path we take with that. If it is for the Glory of God then we should be very supportive. It is one thing to offer up constructive criticism. To help make someone better. But it is something else to be out right mean and extremely judgmental. When that artist has a disability or other struggle such as anxiety or depression that harsh judgement can weaken someone's resolve and make them feel down right worthless.

That is what happens to me. For a bit of time I feel worthless and degraded. It is a very raw feeling when someone puts you down. Even when you have come to expect this from some people. Perhaps we should put more of a focus on trying to build people up. Instead of breaking them apart. Even if we disagree with what they are doing.

Thanks for reading. Till Next Time.

-JM

Look Into History: Season 9

Season 9 (2008-2009): When I look back on the history of my work this one was really the starting point of a style I used for a good number of years. The first full "flat roof". First use of custom built "roof tiles". Along with my first attempt at a double bell tower. You will notice that grid isn't the normal one that I use now days. The center section is wider than the edges because of the way I set the grid up. At the time I was still experimenting with things. Over the course of seasons changes take time to fully be realized from the initial concept. This was a starting point that opened up a lot of ideas. Some that get revisited years down the road.

While Seasons 1-5 were built in Flushing, MI. Seasons 6-8, were built at my first apartment in Saginaw. Season 9 was the first one to be built at my second (and still current) apartment. I had a lot more space to work. Along with a secondary location to take the project when finished.

I think any time I do a project I often wonder what would I do differently. But to be rather honest each work still stands on it's own. Mistakes in the build happen. Sometimes I catch them. Sometimes I don't. But with every building you notice that something is out of place or a vision not fully realized. Season 9 has a few issues. But that is the nice thing about The Project is that for me it is very much a learning experience. A chance to tell that story that often times needs to be told.

Thanks for reading. Till Next Time.

-JM

Season 19: "The Second Prayer"

This year Season 19 is dedicated to three important causes: Prayer for Vocations. Prayer for disability awareness. Prayer for The most innocent.

Today we focus on Prayer for Disability Awareness: We all face challenges in our lives. Some of us face disabilities or other chronic challenges. They effect how we interact with the world around us. How others interact with us.

Lord, help us to show compassion and empathy to those around us. That we would seek a better understanding of the challenges that are faced by those who have some kind of disability or other struggle. Amen.

Till Next Time

-JM

Season 19 "The First Prayer"

This year Season 19 is dedicated to three important causes: Prayer for Vocations. Prayer for disability awareness. Prayer for The most innocent.

Today we focus on Prayer For Vocations: Answering the call to Holy Orders is not an easy one. The number of active priests has dropped off a lot over the years. What you see in this picture is a reflection and a prayer that more would open up their hearts and answer God's call. The Three Priests: One who represents one who is actively serving. One who represents the senior priests who still help out when they can. The last one is one who has just been ordained.

Lord open our hearts that we may answer the call to serve the faith in any way that we are able to. Amen.

Till Next Time

-JM

End of Season 18 reflections

This was hard one to take down. Not from a building stand point. But rather an emotional one. It is always bitter sweet when I take one of the Projects down. A lot of memories tend to flood the heart. This has been an amazing season. I've gone to a few brand new places. Revisited a few. I've done more displays than ever before. I've reached out to people. Had NBC25/FOX66 out at Mt. Zion. In the process I've gotten the time to study the life of Fr Solanus Casey. No matter what I do from here on out. Season 18 will always have Solanus legacy connected to it. He had a personal connection to both of my Grandmothers. So for him to be beatified during the season. It is a deeply humbling experience.

As far as Season 19 goes. I don't have a start date. We have some major renovations to all the apartments in the complex I live in that will be starting hopefully soon. The downside is that throws the date of the build into a bit of flux. I won't have a rough start time locked in until I get a better idea of when my building is going to be worked on. Given everything that they are planning. I don't want to be in the middle of a build. So please keep that in prayer. That God would grant me wisdom on how to proceed.

Thanks to everyone who has given me support for what I do. I am as always deeply humbled by your generosity. Take care and God Bless!

Till Next Time

-JM

Prayer and The Project

Posted on The Lego Church Project FB Page 1-6-18. Also this is Blog Post 100.

With The Project their is always a level of prayer involved. Prayers for the building of the Season. That am able to tell the kind of story that needs to be told. That I am able to be creative as I can while building something solid. For the passion and love I have Christ shines though. Prayers for the displays. That I can find good locations to show case my work. Along with prayers for the transportation to make them happen. Prayers for opportunities to share the work that I am doing. The message of why I am doing this. Though blog posts, social media, and other unique opportunities.

I also pray for our parishes. That more people would come back to the Mass. That our communities would be thriving and active once again. I pray for our Priests and others who help run the parishes. That God would give them deep wisdom. I also pray for vocations to religious life. That those who hear would answer God's call.

Prayer is the binder that holds everything that I do together. With out it such things would not even be possible. As we are about to end Season 18. Please pray for the direction of Season 19. I also would like to thank everyone for your support of what I do. Means a lot to me. God Bless! 

Till Next Time

-JM

Oh Good! Your still here! If you can please Check out "Donations Revisited"! Thank you!

Saints and Challenges

You look at the lives of the Saints. Especially the ones who faced major challenges in their lives. You have to wonder how they were able to face them and still live in a way that even now we use as examples of following the path of Christ. These men and women lived difficult lives and in some cases faced great rejection for the challenges they had. Others were limited as to what they could do. Yet they still are an inspiration to us. Many of them used their suffering to give glory to Christ in all things. It cannot have been an easy life for them. Reading about them draws us into their stories and perhaps renews our strength for when we face our own challenges and struggles. To be reminded that for many of these Saints. Even in their darkest hour. They always had praise for God in their hearts and souls. Lord give me the inner strength to face my challenges head on. To not be discouraged by what limits me. But to be encourage so I can be a light for others. Help me to be strong when I am at my weakest. So can I can give all Glory where all Glory is due. Amen.

Till Next Time

-JM

Christmas Eve 2014 Message

This post was originally written back in 2014 for the Lego Church Project FB page and was shared Christmas Eve of that year. It has the same themes as the last two Christmas Related posts. As I've been rereading it. I am reminded of how powerful the message remains. That is why I've decided to add it to the blog. God Bless and Merry Christmas! -JM

Christmas Eve is here. Soon we will be celebrating with our family and friends. Some of us will have company coming over. Others will be the ones traveling to visit. All Christians across this nation bound by a common thread: The celebration of the birth of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

But as we gather with our friends and family. Let us take a moment to stop and reflect of the kind of world we live in. Why it is an important time to keep everyone in prayer these days. Our world is filled with chaos. Violence in our streets and across the world. Terrorist groups that seek the destruction of any ideal they oppose. Countries threatening harm to other nations that would stand up for basic human rights and dignity.

In some places with in the world Christians must celebrate in secret. They live in a place where they do not share the same freedoms as you or I have. Their is a constant threat of violence or even death. All because they believe in Jesus Christ.

Much closer to home many families are struggling to make ends meet. They can hardly put food on the table. Let alone gifts under the tree. Some have lost family members around this time. Making the holidays much more difficult time. An elderly neighbor who cannot go out because they have no where to go. Or because they have no one around them. Their are many places where people will be spending time in nursing homes or even hospitals.

Christmas is not only just a time to celebrate the birth of Jesus Christ. More importantly it is a time for prayer. For those who are suffering. For those who are struggling. That the violence in this world would end. That those who commit such acts would realize that violence does not solve problems. It makes things even worse.

Christmas is also a reminder that we have the power to turn prayer into action. By giving of ourselves. Helping those around us any chance we get. We can do what God has asked each and every one of us. As we celebrate Christmas, let us look into our hearts, to see what we can do to answer that important call. That perhaps this Christmas we can be the answer to someone's prayer. Which would be the biggest present of all...

Donations Revisited

Support for the Project

The Lego Church Project FB Page

With out the help of others this project would not be where it is at. Thanks to the donations I've received I've been able to do a lot more than I otherwise would. I'm deeply humbled by the kindness and generosity of others. Because of that with the Season 18 project I've been able to obtain new bricks to replace worn out parts. New parts for added details. Base plates and other items to help with the project. I've also been able to provide gas money for transportation.

I get asked all the time if I take donations. I'm on disability. My income is extremely fixed and the cost of living goes up. LEGO is not cheap. Even on the used market. Which is why I accept donations either in direct cash via PayPal or people sending me LEGO directly.

So here is the current wishlist of LEGO and non LEGO items I can use for the project:

Point and Shoot Digital Camera: This is something that I need to replace. Both the cameras are getting worn out and the quality of images is not that good for the LEGO. Cellphone Cameras are nice but don't work as well as I would like.

Sport Style Video Camera: This is more wishful thinking. I would like to shoot some decent video of me working on the project along with going to some of the display locations. I found when using the point/shoot and cell phone cameras the audio quality was horrible. The idea is to create some videos I can post to youtube.

LEGO (link goes to bricklink): I'm always looking to replace existing parts. Almost 20 years of The Project and those parts get put under a lot of stress with the transport. Stuff breaks. Plus I have some "clone" brick which needs to be sorted out and pitched. The poor quality bricks make building a challenge since they don't share LEGO high level of quality.

You can see the full Amazon Wish List and get an idea of what else I'm looking it.

If you have LEGO that you are looking to part with drop me an email to kc8wzm@gmail.com and I will give you my address. Be more than happy to take it off of your hands.

For Money Donations go here: https://www.paypal.me/LegoChurchProject

The "Support for the Project" Goes into a bit more detail about why I need donations along with other suggestions on other ways you can help.

I could also use some major Prayers. Season 18 had seven displays. The most I've ever done with any of my showings. So please pray that some doors open up and locations with transportation can be secured. Would love to get some locations locked in early so I can really build up this season. The Project is as Passion of mine. A gift that needs to be shared with others. A big thank you to everyone who supports me and helps me out. I am forever grateful.

Till Next Time!

-JM


Revised 1-2-18 (near rewrite)

Project Post 12/23

(cross posted from The Lego Church Project FB page)


Christmas is a joyful time. A time to spend with family and our friends. However not everyone is able to see the joy of the season. Sometimes the holidays have nothing more than painful memories. Their are many in this world who are homeless, home bound, or out right alone in this world. They have no one to help them in their time of need. Their are many who are spending the time in the hospitals. Dealing with medical challenges that we cannot even begin to understand.

As we spend time with our loved ones over the course of the next few days. Take a moment of your time to pray for those who are in need. Pray for those who struggle with this season. For those who have no one in their lives. That the Lord would offer them some comfort in their isolation. That as we approach Christmas Eve that we would be joyful at the birth of Our Savior. At the same time be humble in remembering all who are in desperate need. God Bless and Merry Christmas.

-JM

Reflection 12/21

(Cross posted from the Lego Church Project Page).

Christmas is a special time of the year. We spend our days gearing up to spend time with family and friends. For me Christmas is about celebrating the birth of Our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ. Such a small child was given the power to change the fate of the world.

But Christmas for me is also a prayer. For peace in our troubled world. An end to violence on all levels. For the poor. Those who are troubled with issues of money and of spirit. For those in jails and in prisons. That they would find redemption though Christ. A prayer for the lonely and home bound. A prayer for those who are in nursing homes and hospitals. That Christ with be with them always. Of course a prayer for those who are living with disabilities or other health challenges. That though our suffering Christ would open our hearts to a deeper understanding of the faith. For healing of our minds and bodies.

Christmas is a time where all who proclaim Christ should open their hearts to the will of God and do more to help those around them. To avoid sending the message of God's wrath and condemnation. Instead putting our focus into God's love, compassion, and above all else God's unending mercy.

Merry Christmas to you all.

-JM

Poetry 2

A long time ago I use to write all the time. Their was a fun challenge in taping into my very soul to see what I could find....


The Endless Noise
JM Kraemer

In the stillness of the night,
we long to hear the silence

For in the emptiness around,
such things as quiet do not exist.

A place that can bring peace,
fails to do so in our lives.

Stalked we are always,
By the noise only we can hear.

To hold out hope that someday,
we are freed from this eternal enemy,

This sound that seeks ever slowly,
constantly trying to consume us.

Their is an agony in what we hear,
for us it is a silent cry of despair

Facing a battle head long,
yet knowing for now winning will not be.

A struggle that is daily in our lives,
to be able to enjoy the simple things.

While most enjoy being in a quiet room,
for us it is like being trapped in hell.

Grim is the reality of the fate we always see,
With no real escape from this struggle.

In the stillness of the night,
we long to hear the silence.

In the stillness of the night,
we long for our freedom to do so.

For while you enjoy your quiet,
All that we will ever hear is the endless noise.

Fr Solanus

With in the last few years it is not uncommon for me to dedicate a project to someone who has an open cause for Sainthood. This is done by including a picture or statue that is placed somewhere inside the project. Over they years I have featured Saint John Paul II, Fr. Michael J. McGivney, Fr. Patrick Peyton. I didn't do one for Season 17. Not fully sure why. Wasn't even planning on doing it for Season 18. However God had something else in mind. If I am going to include someone it is done in the early stages so I can make the picture more visible. I want people to see the image clearly so they can get an idea of who I have included. By the time I had the project half way built. It normally would have been "too late" with out some kind of major redesign.

Ever have something placed on your heart in such a profound way that it cannot be easily dismissed or ignored? That was the moment I had when I called the monastery down in Detroit. I suspect the people answering the phones had no idea who I was or why I was asking for a "wallet sized photo". You mention "Lego Church" or "Lego Church Project" and your bound to get a lot of confusing looks. But once again God clearly had an idea in mind. They sent me some pamphlets and sure enough. One of the images once cut and sized would work. The image was a bit larger than normal. But it fit into the frame I built with out much trouble. I decided on the location. Even with the image/frame being bigger than I would have preferred. It still worked! Even with the walls, not even finished, from a distance you could look in the back and see who it was. Also even being over sided it comes across as a bigger than life painting when next to one of the mini-figures. I can't even begin to describe my emotions when they announced that Fr Solanus was going to be beatified. Mind you the Season 18 project build was finished by that point. Clearly God had a plan in place.

Their is a deep connection between Fr Solanus and my family. My late Grandmother, Margret, was a strong supporter of his and knew him in life. I knew about him before most people did. After she passed I got one of the small prayer cards with a small cutting of cloth that had been touched to his tomb. It remains in my wallet and is always with me. So in some ways I have taken up her devotion. It is a cause that I am drawn to more so than others. This past Sat was the Mass for Fr Solanus. I was unable to attend. But that is not what God had planned for me. What I do know is that this has been one of the busiest seasons of the project in a very long time. I firmly believe that Fr Solanus had a direct hand in that.

Soon the Season 18 project will be nothing more than a memory and will be taken down in Jan. Such is the nature of the project. A full life cycle from start to finish. However in this case that will not be the end of Season 18's impact. The image and the frame will be pulled out and a small stand will be constructed that the frame can sit in. That will go on to a shelf where I keep the statue of Saint John Paul II that was used in Season 14. A humbling reminder of the blessings of Christ and away of saying thank you to Fr Solanus for hearing my prayers.

Till Next Time.

-JM

Important display Part 1

I am often humbled by the response I get when it comes to The Project. With each passing year it is something that I always take to heart. The freedom to be able to create something that people enjoy. The Christ the Good Shepherd display (St Helen) is the most important of any display.

The reason for this is because this is my home parish. It is a place where I grew up. I have a lot of history with this place and it is a church that I am proud to be a member of. It is also a celebration of Christmas and the chance to share my love of the faith with others during the season. It is why I try and encourage as many people as I can to come out to this display.

It also the conclusion of the current season and in some respect the prelude to the next build. After this showing their will be no more Season 18. Each year stand on it's own as a testament to the deep Passion I have for the Catholic faith. I pray that you would come out and see this passion during the final display of Season 18. What makes this display even more special is the history. This will be the 15th project I have brought over. So you have the invitation to come on out starting in Dec to see this project and to see a wonderful parish as well. 

Till Next Time

-JM

With each year...

With each year that passes by. I am often surprised by my own ability to create the Lego Church Project. Their is a level of patience that is required. Something that I'm not known for having. Yet sitting down at the bricks can be rather fun. I guess you could say it's organized chaos in motion. If you've ever seen any of the galleries or see me work on the project in person you can tell what that is like.

On a typical day I'm working on at least five or six sections at once. Sometimes going back over and making major changes as I'm building. Of course their is a healthy level of fear involved that I fight with. Will it hold up to the end and will I have enough parts to complete it are the common ones. But it is that fear that drives me even harder. To know that I have a lot of experience so even when something doesn't go according to plan I can still go with the flow.

Keep in mind though I'm doing this because I enjoy it. I find the challenge helps me. I enjoy people's reactions. The joy they get out of seeing what I am doing. I enjoy sharing my story. This project is a yearly gift to the community. Something that needs to be shared with others. Not locked away somewhere. I pray that I always remain humble and thankful to those who support me in what I am doing. It is the fuel that fires the engines of creativity. Allowing me to do what I do best.

Advent is coming up fast. The Season 18 project will be at Christ the Good Shepherd here in Saginaw. This is the last display with this season and for me one of the most important ones. The end of the journey and the prelude to the next. This year however is special. This will be my 15th project that I have brought to this parish in a row. A long standing Christmas tradition. One that I hope and pray you will share with me. You are invited to come out to see what I am doing. To see what God has done in my life. By helping me to build faith. One brick at a time.

Till Next Time.

-jm

Reflection 11-5

Another evening goes by and another attack takes place. Another moment for the various groups to fire up their banter and demand extreme change. Been following stuff unfolding on twitter and to be honest it didn't take long for the anti-religious groups to jump down on those of us who posted public prayers. Those who are anti-guns to demand radical changes to the existing laws. With some feeling that guns are the only problem. I can understand their frustration. It is easier to blame the weapon of choice instead of the darker truth that we are afraid to admit to ourselves: No new laws would have changed anything. The attack in New York proved that point. Evil will use what ever tools it can find to strike in our hearts. Doesn't always have to be a weapon in a conventional sense.

Perhaps the issues at play are not so much about the choice of the weapon. But rather the spiritual bankruptcy we have these days. Perhaps we have opened up the doors in our hearts to a darker evil and have not even fully realized it. In our daily lives. We blow off our commitment to Church because we don't see the benefits of it. We let petty disagreements distract us from Christ and we avoid going to Church because of it. We don't make time for God, for prayer, because things are going good in our lives. Think of it this way. When we have Christ in our life. When we embrace him fully. Evil cannot destroy our spirit. When we go out of our way to push Christ aside. Forcing prayer our of the public circle. Removing Crosses and such. We allow evil to enter into our hearts. Before we can change the nation. We must first change ourselves. To look deeply into our own hearts and realize that above all else we must seek Christ. To find that peace so we can give that light to those who need it most. People want to knock prayer. But doing that won't solve the problems. Showing mercy and compassion even when you disagree with them. Can open up the doors of peace with in us. So that we as a society can become better. To live as Christ would have us live. Though the road is by no means easy one.

Till next time.

-JM

A small favor to ask

My friends I need a small favor. This Sunday Oct 22nd I'm going to be at the Mt. Zion Catholic Community in Flushing, MI for a Lego Church Project display. This is a bit of a home coming for me given that it has been years since I've brought one of my projects out. This is the place where the project that became Season 1 was displayed at. Way before the media attention.

What I'm asking is to share the word about this display. I would love to see a bigger than normal turn out for this display. The Mt. Zion Catholic Community has been a big supporter of my work and it is well worth taking the time to check them out. I have been praying for a good turnout. Their is a good chance I will also be there the following weekend (Oct 29th). But these displays cannot be pulled off with out people coming out and seeing for themselves what God is doing in my life. But it is more than that with this display. It's also a chance to see the Mt. Zion community as well. They have had their own journey in this world and their story is an amazing one. Check out the links provided and see what God is doing for us. If you need more info drop me an e-mail at kc8wzm@gmail.com. -JM

Mt. Zion Catholic Community

Support For the Project

The Mt. Zion display

The Season 18 project is coming out to the Mt. Zion Catholic Community over in Flushing, MI starting Oct 18th. Mass is Sunday at 10:30am. The Community Center is located 8228 N McKinley Rd, Flushing, Michigan 48433.

The display is one that is more personal to me than most. It's a place I don't get to visit often. But it is the first place I ever took one of my projects to. If your in the area PLEASE stop on out and check out the community and the project. Would love to see a lot of people turn out to see on of my projects in person. The pictures are nice. But they don't do this justice. Share the blog post. Get the word out. Would really mean a lot to me.

Till Next Time

-JM

Prayer

I've been wanting to write this blog post for a while. Given how important I feel prayer is in the Catholic life. With the recent events it has opened up the mind and given me the freedom to do so.

Their are many in this world who would tell you that prayer is worthless. They would scream it from the roof tops if they could about how useless it is. They believe that they are empty words that do nothing for anyone. But to me prayer is something more. Those who openly proclaim Jesus Christ as their Savior and redeemer believe in something far greater than themselves. They accept that their is more to life than their own desires and wants. They commit themselves to following the teachings and doing their best hold fast to the message and Good News of Christ. We are not perfect. Which is why God sent His Only Son for us. For me prayer give me a deeper focus on what goes on around me. Seeking deep and profound wisdom in the best and worse times of our lives. A spiritual tool against the forces that would seek to destroy us from with in. It is seeking an understanding that we cannot always get from the world around us. More so when fear and anxiety seek to derail us. It is not about providing "magic answers" but rather clarity from a spiritual perspective. Personally I use prayer daily in my walk with Christ. It guides me. Shows me paths that in my own mind I might not always see. It can also give me a sense of peace. Even when I feel like the walls are caving in around me. I feel better over all when I take the time to pray. Not just when things are going bad. But even when times are decent. That is the nature of being a follower of Christ. We live in very troubling times. Events are unfolding that shake is to the core of who we are. This is why we pray. For Peace in our own hearts. Compassion for those around us. Even when they show hatred. Strength to handle things in our lives. The Wisdom to do the right thing. The Courage to face our darkest fears. Because Christ is the light that shines in the darkness. We who are His followers carry that light in our hearts. Surrender to Christ All Things. Even when we are mocked for what we believe. 

Till Next Time

-JM

Reflection for Oct 2nd

  The events of the day have me troubled to no end. Following the social feeds on both facebook and twitter is a lesson in frustration. Everyone seems to have a radical opinion of what needs to be done to stop the violence in our society. We know something has to be done. But we are divided as to what path we should take. The answers are not as simple as some would have you believe. Such things never are. History has taught us much but in the end we sometimes tend to glaze over it to suite our own personal agendas. We should as a nation be shocked and outraged at the violence we have seen unfold. But we should also be reminded that this is a constant cycle where lives are taken every day due to gun violence. Every major city has some kind of issue going on. It is so common place that the only times it gets our attention is when a large number of lives are lost at once. Such as the events in Las Vegas. We have become desensitized to the issues at hand and refuse to hold leadership accountable for the failings that allow the daily violence to continue.  Still it is hard to make sense of the senseless nature of this recent attack. One that shakes me to my core. We have had many chances to look into the issues at play and yet nothing gets done. Until we take a hard look at the issues at hand nothing will.

  Lately, more so given these troubling times, I have felt this deep welling inside my own soul to recite the Rosary every day. More so than  have at any time in my life. A gentle tug in my heart that this is something that I should be doing. But it is also a feeling that has gotten stronger inside me. It is more than a request from Our Most Holy Mother. It is a plea to all who call themselves Catholic. It is our Mother's cry to bring peace in our hearts. A cry to her faithful to honor the faith as we should. A reminder that While Christ is the light of the world. Mary, Our most Blessed Mother, is the Lantern. It is a request from Her that we can no longer ignore and should encourage to all who call themselves Catholic. 

I'm sure at some point I will write more on this. But my heart is too troubled right now. So I close out this reflection with the Prayer of St. Francis:

Make me a channel of your peace. 

Where there is hatred let me bring your love. 

Where there is injury, your pardon, Lord 

And where there's doubt, true faith in you.

Oh, Master grant that I may never seek

So much to be consoled as to console 

To be understood as to understand 

To be loved as to love with all my soul.

Make me a channel of your peace

Where there's despair in life, let me bring hope 

Where there is darkness, only light 

And where there's sadness, ever joy.

Make me a channel of your peace

It is in pardoning that we are pardoned 

In giving to all men that we receive 

And in dying that we're born to eternal life.

 

Till Next Time

-JM