Praying At The Bricks

Twitter: @kc8wzm

EMAIL: kc8wzm@gmail.com

How can we have Joy?

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Thu, 20 Aug 2026 12:40:12 GMT

Season 25 Display at St. Helen parish in Saginaw, MI

Important Info:

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Of Little Faith

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Tue, 11 Aug 2026 12:51:12 GMT

Season 25 at a display in Standish, MI

“Why are you terrified, O you of little faith?” Matthew 8: 26

Once in a while a passage or verse in the Bible stands out so much that it strikes you harder than expected. The verse above is an example of one that got my attention. It is passage where Peter is sinking after trying to walk on water and he cries out to Christ to save him.

This verse got to me more so than normal. Lot of things in my life I’m dealing with these days. Which brings it’s own set of unrelenting fears and doubts. Situations and levels of the unknown that trouble me heart and soul. While I’ve shared much in this journey. Many more elements I’ve kept under my hat for various reasons.

Lot of those worries and fears come down to my own advancing age. I’m crossing in to my fifties, God willing. Constantly aware of how time is moving at a varying pace to it’s natural conclusion. A time which Christ tells us in Matthew 25: 13 “Therefore, stay awake, for you know neither the day nor the hour.” Not to mention that my parents are also getting on in years and contenting with a major list of health issues and concerns.

This ties into the reference to the verse above as I’m worried (terrified) as to how I will deal with things down the road. I want to have some important local supports put in place. Elements that are needed due to the very nature of the disabilities my girlfriend and I face. Resources that can help both of us move forward down the road. Helping to make sure that our needs are met. Which also includes my sacramental needs by being able to attend Mass in person.

These are the moments where I feel more like Peter as he’s sinking into the sea. Rather than Peter who is the Rock. I find comfort though in that feeling. Knowing that this is OK. The answers will come just not in my time or in a way that I would expect. I know in my heart that God is very much with us and will extend His hand when the time is right. Just like Christ did to Peter. Often in such fashion that their is no denial of how things are playing out. Even if the unknowns are far to great for me to process.

Matthew 8: 26 is a reminder of my own weaknesses and how much I must trust and rely on God though Christ in all things that go on in my life. It’s the only way I can remain hopeful in the challenges that exist around me. This includes the family health issues, my own health challenges, dealing with various Government agencies, or even the issues related to the low attendance at my home parish. That above all else I must place my complete and total trust in God. Not allowing myself to give into the negative and grim nature of what I see. That despite it, that bad ending that I feel, may not even come. Or may not even be the end of the chapter let alone the story.

Many times in the course of our life. The Lord will use scripture to get our attention. A reminder of what is important. I’ve had this happen more than a few times. May the Holy Spirit guide all of us. May we all have a solid faith in Christ.-

Important Info:

Twitter: @kc8wzm

Contact: kc8wzm@gmail.com

Strength to Endure

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Mon, 10 Aug 2026 12:44:35 GMT

From Season 21

At various points in my own life. I have found that following the Lord fully and completely (by taking part in the sacraments of the church) has given me strength to endure more than I could ever fully expect or understand. A total surrender and embrace of God’s plan. No matter what storms are happening around me.

The journey of life that we are not is not meant to be a long one. We are travelers spending our lives preparing for the eternal road ahead. Making the most of what God has given us. Putting Christ first in all of those things. Otherwise we give into the demands and temptations of the world. With our reward being eternal ruin and disappointment.

Some will argue, given the current state of the world, that we are indeed living in the end times. Perhaps some elements do point to that truth. Yet Christ makes it clear that we do not no the day nor the hour. We can spend our waking moments looking for signs of His return. Wasting the gifts that God has given us. Or we can embrace and follow Christ wherever He may lead us.

I’ve learned much in this life. That at the end of the day the storms in life will batter us in ways that seem almost too much to understand. We reach the point where it seems like we area about to break. Yet I’ve also discovered that I have far more strength to endure than I give myself credit for.

We will always reach new limits that we didn’t know were possible. Still picking up our Cross and following Christ completely is the key to answering the challenges that we face. Strength to endure even the most dangerous of storms. -

Important Info:

Twitter: @kc8wzm

Contact: kc8wzm@gmail.com

Issue 66: Where is our Faith?

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Mon, 27 Jul 2026 12:31:16 GMT

This is issue is going to be a little on the small side. I haven’t had much in the way of Project News. So for my lead article I’m sharing one of the older ones you might not have seen. In fact it relates to a topic that has been on my mind since the early days of The Project: The lack of attendance at many parishes.

Where is Our Faith? by JM Kraemer

“Where is our faith?”

It is a question that I ask myself all the time. One that comes up often in my personal prayer. It started during the course of the pandemic. When our ability to receive the sacraments was restricted. It has kept coming up with every Mass I have taken part in ever since.

Given the state of the world is it not a big surprise that I would be wondering this. The world keeps moving in a direction that runs directly counter to what God has asked of us. With no real revival in sight. Our parishes for the most part have suffered because of this. The empty pews on Sat and Sunday are indication of a problem. We no longer have faith in Christ. We no longer believe that God is ever present in our lives. That we no longer have the desire to take part in the life of the church.

The parishes seem to know that a problem exists. However the desire to commit to solid action is limited. It is also not consistent. We have access to tools that we can use to evangelize and yet not everyone has a desire to do so. We seem to be silently resigned to our fate. That nothing can be done to change the course of the direction our parishes as headed into. It is an element of a deeper spiritual problem that exists in our society. Something that each parish needs to navigate in order to thrive in a world where people no longer believes that Christ is our Savior.

As I sit in pray on this issue my heart becomes troubled. I worry for the fate our parishes and the fact that our pews are so empty. We cannot expect much from the parish when no one is around to help in parish life. Ministries tend to suffer. Often with a silent frustration that few people see. The needs of the many become great. But the resources to help no longer exist.

It will take a major act of God to bring more people back to the church. This much I understand. A time when people will realize that God is very much needed and the closer we draw to Him. The better our world becomes. Until that time I will set in the pew and ask myself that same question. “Where is our faith?”

Visit to Ann Arbor?

If you are in Ann Arbor or surrounding areas. Their is a possibility I may be visiting a parish down that way in mid September. Details have yet to be finalized. Once that happens I will share that info.

A few more parishes?

Would like to secure two or three more parish displays before my display in November over in Midland. Please keep in mind. Any parish would have to provide transport for me and The Project from Saginaw Township. I don't drive. If you would like more info please let me know. If you have a parish in mind? Have the leadership contact me.

Looking to be a guest

I enjoy a good conversation. Over the years I’ve had a chance to visit many programs to talk about faith, disability, and The Project. Looking to book a few more shows. More so as we head into Advent so I can promote the display I’m doing at my home parish. If you know of a program looking for a guest please let me know!

Building the Church

The Sacred Heart Sisters at John Paul II Manor of Cresson, PA are current raising funds to help make some improvements and repairs to the grounds after some storms rolled though the area. This includes sidewalks, brush removal, and repair or adding new fencing.

If you have any further questions:

Sr Mary Joseph Calore, SSCJ

John Paul II Manor

856 Cambria Street

Cresson, PA 16630

Donate! (Paypal)

Closing Thoughts

The reality is that many parishes are struggling to keep the doors open. The more people attend. The greater the ability of the church to do what the Lord calls on us to do. It is part of my own daily prayers for the parishes that are struggling. To move around and remove the roadblocks that prevent us from growing.

Important Info:

Twitter: @kc8wzm

EMAIL: kc8wzm@gmail.com

You could not keep watch?

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Fri, 24 Jul 2026 14:07:45 GMT

“So you could not keep watch with me for one hour?” Matthew 26:40

If the question asked by Christ to his apostles, while they were in Gethsemane, were to be asked today as it relates to the Mass. The empty seats would suggest that the answer would probably be “no, I cannot keep watch with you, even for an hour.”

A grim reality is that the world is even more busier now than ever before. Our obligations to the world have taken up the majority of our time. Along with endless distractions that remove us from the path that God calls us. In the end it seems that our desire to fulfill our weekly obligation falls by the way side. The importance of attending Mass becomes more of an occasion than something with consistency.

With each passing moment our lives become tied up in the chaos and desires of the world. Something that the evil one craves to see play out. To have God placed at the lowest level in our lives. We become so bogged down that we neglect what should be an important part in the life of being Catholic. We lose sight of what our desires should be. Instead of what they currently are.

Even worse we develop this worldly sense of apathy. It suggest to us that the Mass is something we take part in only “when we feel like it” instead taking part in our responsibility to honor and serve God. Not to mention the endless distractions that remove in us the desire and passion to follow Christ fully.

In the endless chaos of the world. Attending Mass is something that we should make top priority in our lives. To be present in person if we are able to do so. It is becoming ever more clear that parishes cannot survive in the current environment. With many diocese facing tough decisions that will cause parishes to shut down and communities shattered.

To say that this would be a major, and negative, domino effect is an understatement. Without people and families attending Mass. The parishes will no longer have the resources to keep going. Vocations will dry up. With few priests being around to take on needs of the church that become far too great. Forcing communities that have existed for generations to crumble. Which in turn causes community resources that rely on those parishes to be directly effected and making an already rough time even worse.

This isn’t an exaggeration. News reports across the country show that many dioceses are facing major challenges. Both with a lack of attendance and lack of vocations. Even the Archdiocese of Detroit is facing a time when they may close at least ninety parishes. This has even been felt in the diocese of Saginaw, MI. Which went though the process as well. With even more parishes in consideration to be closed down the road if this downward slide continues.

You would think that with such grim reality knocking on our door. It would be enough to lose hope in all of this. To embrace the doom and to give up. However by looking at the history of the church as a whole. Hope may still be found in the most unexpected of places. Starting with taking time to pray for the needs of our parishes and our dioceses. Along with being a beacon of encouragement to those who may be struggling with their faith. With prayer as our personal foundation we may yet be able to change the tides into a more positive direction. Though the road itself is a very difficult one to navigate.

We need to reawaken our desire to serve God fully. Starting with making the Mass top priority. Attending every weekend, unless, something legitimate prevents us. To stop making excuses and justifications as to why we cannot, or will not, go. Offering encouragement and a reminder of why the Mass is an important commitment in our lives. Helping those who desire to attend in person, but don’t always have the resources, to do so.

Lastly. We should also consider seeking the intercession of the patron(s) of which our parishes are named after. How many times in our lives have we done this? We call on the Angels and Saints all the time. This would be one such time to do so.

That way when we are asked: “Can you spend an hour with me?” the answer itself should be an easy “Yes”. -

Important Info:

Twitter: @kc8wzm

Contact: kc8wzm@gmail.com

Life Unexpected

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Mon, 20 Jul 2026 14:07:40 GMT

Available for iOS and Android

Excuse me while I laugh..

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Tue, 07 Jul 2026 12:26:38 GMT

I’m way to easily amused by the reactions of people. Mainly as it related to me and the nature of the challenges I face. Sometimes I have an interaction with a person or a group that just leaves me laughing. Not because it’s funny. But because of how humans tend to be.

Years ago my girlfriend and I were coming back from getting lunch at a place near by. She was walking and I was on the trike. At this time I had my helmet and heavy grade sunglasses on. Did I mention that I look like a giant when I’m riding because at the time I was probably close to 450lbs?

Now when we were at the restaurant, a typical fast food place, a group of young men showed up. Looks like they came from one of the private schools in the area. At the time I didn’t really think much of it. Just a group of kids getting lunch and going on with their day.

During the trip back. I was going a bit farther than the girlfriend due to the nature of the trike and it’s ability to coast at a decent speed. I had reached the fence line of the apartment complex and had stopped for a moment to see where she was at. Trying to decide if I was going to loop around to find her. Out of the blue behind me I hear someone yell out “There he is!” and a few moments after I see that same group from the restaurant pull up into the complex.

The kids didn’t stay long. They turned around and came back the way they came. Have to wonder what was going through those kid’s heads as they saw me on the trike. I’m not a small fellow. Even at that time. I look goofy as all get out when I’m on the trike. To be fair I’m not one to give much into the reactions of others. Not worried if people mock me or ridicule me for what I do. Or even find great humor in the giant moving at a decent speed on his own. Fact is that I’ve used the trike a lot to move around the complex and in the neighborhood. It’s allowed me to stay active to a decent degree and has saved my knees from having to be worked on.

We don’t know someone’s story. We don’t know the battles they face when no one is around. Those kids had no idea of the challenges I was (and still am) dealing with at that time. If they realized that my rides can sometimes last up to five mile or more on a round trip. They probably would have turned a whiter shade of pale.

At the end of the day I didn’t find any ill intent in those kid’s actions. I think they were more surprised at the oddity of what they were seeing. For that I can’t blame them. To be fair that was probably the more milder interaction I’ve had with people over the years when I’ve been on the ride.

This was not the first time I’ve been heckled. Sure won’t be the last time either. Some people just tend to be shallow in personality. I can at least take some amusement in the human nature of it. As I’m reliving the memory of the past. Excuse me while I go laugh for a few moments. Right now I’m just too easily amused. -

Important Info:

Twitter: @kc8wzm

Contact: kc8wzm@gmail.com

Issue 65: After The Display

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Sat, 27 Jun 2026 12:13:59 GMT

Display at Our Lady of Peace, Bay City, MI

After The Display

It has been an eventful weekend. I’ve been busy visiting a parish with The Lego Church Project. Right now it is after the last Mass and I’m sitting waiting for my ride. A few moments to reflect on what has happened and what might happen down the road.

These displays are always intense. Even for the shorter visits. As an introvert at heart, and one with major sensory issues. It can be overwhelming to interact with all of the people. At times The Project is crowded by young and old. The endless questions and excitement that is reflected in their eyes and in their voices. During this time people come up and are completely amazed by what they see. They become even more amazed when they learn about how long it took to build one of my Projects. Or how it compares to previous builds.

I do a lot of talking and a lot of sharing at these displays. Sometimes I’m even allowed to offer a presentation. Standing in front of the congregation and sharing my mission. I have this usual speech I give which includes my mission statement. “I’m showing no matter what challenge or disability you face, God can still use your talents, often in amazing and creative ways.” Many times I will add something new to the mix. “It is my hope (and prayer) that when you see what God is doing in my life. That you may be inspired to explore how you can use your talents to help build the Kingdom!”

Each parish and location I visit. The reaction is almost always the same. A time of pure joy and amazement to see this giant church built with LEGO. Surprise at the story of the builder who is just trying to do the Lord’s work. Everyone see something inside that is a reflection of their own lives. They see those with disabilities. The little Easter Eggs that I include. Such as R2D2 or the fact that I have members of the choir from Christ The Good Shepherd included.

All of this with the displays never gets old. Even when I’m sharing the same information over again. Answering the same questions. Or talking about the same topics. During the display I also point out elements of the build. Showing people what goes into putting this all together. I love seeing the joy reflected in the people I interact with. Responding to what the Lord is doing in my life.

With the events of the day finished. I am by myself for those few moments. I will be dealing with a high level of fatigue that will last for a few days. Taking some time to fully recover. I don’t mind it. Humans have limitations and this happens to be mine. The rewards I gain from sharing the Lord’s work with those I encounter are far more important than how I feel after. When the chance opens up. I get to share something that have a passion for. A mission that I’ve been doing for a very long time. It is a small price to pay for this chance to go out and share the talents God has given me. -

A Fun Time

I’ve had a lot of fun doing the displays the last few weekends. Getting to meet new people and saying hello to those who have been following my ministry for some time. Everything went by very well. My thanks to Fr. Pete (Holy Spirit) Fr. Jose (All Saints) and Fr. Nate (Our Lady of Peace) for allowing me to share the talents the God has given me.

Where to next?

That remains to be seen. Of course I have the displays lined up in Nov and Dec (Assumption Parish in Midland and the annual Christmas display at Christ The Good Shepherd (CTGS). I still have a lot of weekends free that I could do a display. Even on short notice. If you know of a parish that might be a good fit. As well as providing the transportation from Saginaw Township, MI. Have them contact me.

If I book any displays before the next newsletter I will post them to SubStack Notes, FB, and Twitter.

Looking to be a guest!

One of the other things I enjoy doing is being a guest on radio programs and podcasts. Something that I’ve done a lot of over the years. (Just ask Matt Swaim and William Hemsworth). If you know of a program looking for a guest? Send them my way. I’m always up for a conversation.

Closing Thoughts

I love doing displays. I get to visit some amazing parish communities though out the year. I see how each parish is unique. With the love of the Mass showing in all that they do. It makes me appreciate what my home parish is doing.

Important Info:

Twitter: @kc8wzm

EMAIL: kc8wzm@gmail.com

Life Unexpected

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Fri, 19 Jun 2026 19:02:25 GMT

Available for iOS and Android

After The Display

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Tue, 16 Jun 2026 12:27:43 GMT

Season 27 Display at Our Lady of Peace in Bay City, MI.

Important Info:

Twitter: @kc8wzm

Contact: kc8wzm@gmail.com

Issue 64: A Busy Time

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Thu, 28 May 2026 17:41:46 GMT

Season 27 at Holy Spirit Parish

Sometimes the Lord tells tells you that you will be very busy. To prove this point I’m doing a record five weekends in a row of displays. Starting before this issue came out at Holy Spirit. Then a two weekend run at All Saints and another two at Our Lady of Peace. Both in Bay City, MI. I’ll have a little bit more info later in the issue.

The displays are a lot of fun. They can also be challenging for me as you get to find out how well you built the church. More so since this one only took about three weeks. Which is a record even I wasn’t sure could be done. Over the next month I will get to see how things play out.

A prayer request and help

Praying I can secure rides to two of the Saturday vigil Masses during this display run. Mainly for June 6th and for June 13th. Both in Bay City. Those are weekends when The Project get transferred to the next location. While most times no issues exist. Just like to make sure. If anyone can help please let me know. As for my Sundays? I have those secure.

Four Years of Praying At The Bricks

Four years ago this month I started this newsletter to keep friends and family updated as to what was going on with the disability focused ministry I run. Over the course of the last sixty-four issues I’ve shared the joys and challenges that come with doing The Lego Church Project.

While I sometimes wonder what I can put in to each issue. I find a level of joy in knowing that I’m sharing the gifts and talents that God has given me. Both with the builds and the ministry that goes into it.

Holy Spirit Parish: First display

The first display of the season took place on May 23rd/24th at Holy Spirit parish in Shields, MI. This was a full parish display which also had an ice cream social. My thanks to Jeff who helped with the rides. My thanks to Fr. Pete who who allowed me to share the talents the Lord has given me with others.

Return to All Saints/Our Lady of Peace

May 30th/31st I will be at the St. Boniface campus of All Saints parish in Bay City, MI. The following weekend, June 6th/7th I will be at the St. James campus. This is always a fun display and hope to see some people stop out.

After All Saints I will be visiting Our Lady of Peace which is also in Bay City, MI. June 13th/14th, and June 20th/21st.

All Saints Parish

Our Lady of Peace

Other Displays

As of this writing, at the end of the season, I have Assumption Parish and Christ The Good Shepherd parishes booked. Those dates are locked in and more details will be shared later.

Currently in planning is a display in Ann Arbor, MI for mid September. I also have one other parish that is in consideration. Just working out details and confirm a date.

I am still looking for other parishes to host me and my work. If you know of a location that would be a good fit. Please have them reach out.

Rockin For God

Earlier this month I had a chance to sit down and be interviewed by Lisa Marie Nicole on her show. This was a fun interview despite some minor camera issues on my end.

Closing Thoughts

It is important to be active in parish life. Even if all we are doing is praying for our parishes. If one is feeling lead to move in a direction. To take on a role in the parish. Don’t be afraid to step up. The help is always needed. If you are unsure just ask leadership. I can assure you volunteers are always needed.

Important Info:

Twitter: @kc8wzm

EMAIL: kc8wzm@gmail.com

Life Unexpected

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Fri, 08 May 2026 15:02:48 GMT

Available for iOS and Android

Issue 63: Praying for our Parishes

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Thu, 30 Apr 2026 11:21:01 GMT

Season 25

I see the numbers when it relates to parish attendance across the board. Many places are struggling with membership. The lower attendance means less money for the parish overall. It also means fewer people willing to take part in the life of the parish.

I worry about how much things could affect me down the road. Parishes closing could mean that some of us will not have a way to get to Mass because no one is around or able to help. As many of us don’t drive this become a major worry and fear. If the one place, we call our spiritual home closes.

It is my desire to see all of our parishes thrive again. To see them full of life and taking an active role in our local communities. Instead of seeing so many pews that are empty.

What can the average person do to change this? We make prayer the foundation. Everything flows from that simple element. We pray for those who have left the Catholic faith. Praying that they find a way to return home. We pray that leadership does not give into the negativity and that the Holy Spirit would give them a renewed sense of hope.

We can also pray for new paths to evangelize. We are called to make disciples of all the nations. Sometimes that means stepping out of our own comfort zone. Other times it means being living examples of what it means to be Catholic.

As it relates to me and my home parish. For some time now I’ve made an effort to pray for my parish. Like many our numbers are down. I pray for our Priests and Deacon. I pray for leaders in the parish that they would have the desire to see our parish grow in faith.

Sometimes it seems that reality is against us. Yet I am often reminded of how even one person praying can change the course of things. That God will help us gain what we seek as it relates to the church.

One the things that I do every morning is ask for the intercession of our patrons Christ The Good Shepherd, St. Helen, and St. Andrew for these intentions:

For better attendance. Stability of the finances. That roadblocks to our growth be removed. That those who have a negative heart be given a sense of hope, purpose, and renewal. That our parish is given the chance to grow.

It may seem like an impossible dream. Yet The Lord has shown us many times that the impossible can happen. The questions that remains: Are you willing to join me in this prayer? Or am I the only one praying? -

Pageturning Live!

Recently my friend Thomas Salerno wanted to do a live stream and try out doing interviews. We covered a lot of topics. From Prayer, The Project, and even a few Transformers. It’s an hour or so long. But it was a good conversation!

Upcoming Displays

I have two displays coming up in May. Please keep an eye on Substack Notes and the Project FB page for further information as we get close to the events.

Holy Spirit Parish

On Memorial Day weekend The Project pays a visit to Holy Spirit parish in Shields, MI.

Holy Spirit Parish

All Saints Parish

The Project makes a return to All Saints Parish in Bay City, MI. On May 31st I will be at the St. Boniface campus. The following weekend June 6th/7th I will be at St. James campus.

All Saints Parish

Looking for Displays

I’m still looking for parishes to visit with Season 27. I live in Saginaw Township, MI and I do not drive. So, any parish that would like to have me out would have to provide the needed transportation. Though keep in mind: Due to the nature of what I’m doing and the reasons behind it. I do not charge to come out for a display.

Building The Church

It is important in the life of the church that we help one another. To that end I will sometimes share donation drives that are going on for parishes or religious orders in need.

St. Louis de Montfort:

St. Louis de Montfort Parish/School in Fishers, IN is doing a capital campaign to raise money to build a new church and chapel. If you would like more information or to consider donating please check out the link.

Campaign info

Sister Servants:

Sister Servants Of The Most Sacred Heart Of Jesus had a major fire in Covenant/Retreat house located Portage, PA on March 25. While no one was hurt or injured. The building damage was extensive. Funds being raised will go to help make the much needed repairs.

Fire donations

Sacred Heart:

On April 11th the Carmelites of the Sacred Heart in Alhambra, California also suffered a devastating fire that destroyed one of their retreat houses. They are also seeing donation to help rebuild.

Fire donations

Article on the Fire

John Paul II Parish:

John Paul II Parish in Saginaw, MI is still undergoing some major renovations to the church. Which includes some major updates to the interior spaces. The Capital Campaign is still ongoin to help raise funds for this building effort.

If you would like more info or would like to donate, please see the links below.

Renovation details

Donate (Check “Capital Campaign” and “One Time payment”)

Closing thoughts

I have learned that prayer is the foundation that our faith and trust in Christ should be built on. If we are not spending some time each day in prayer. Then we tend to give into the negativity of the world and lose sight of the path God has for us.

Important Info:

Twitter: @kc8wzm

EMAIL: kc8wzm@gmail.com

Pageturning LIVE! with JM Kraemer

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Wed, 22 Apr 2026 16:45:49 GMT

Available for iOS and Android

Fate of the City, Faith of the Church

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Fri, 03 Apr 2026 12:40:01 GMT

Season 22 during the All Saints Display in Bay City, MI

The fellow takes a long walk along the streets in the city that he calls home. As he moves about along these gritty sidewalks his heart is greatly troubled by what he sees these days. In years past their was a time when this city was full of life and promise. A hope existed for a decent future. Where industry flourished and jobs were plentiful.

What he sees these days makes him wonder if that dream will ever be seen any time soon. Industry pulling up stakes. Which leaves few jobs for the many people that live here. The buildings and homes that once looked amazing and well kept have become more like ruins of a time lost to history. Broken down, crumbling, and looking like they have not been taken care of in a very long time. While still walking. The fellow sees the streets and some are filled with various types of trash and debris. It is clear that not many people have been taking of things. Leaving this place into a slow path of decay.

Another thing that the fellow notices is the lack of police. In ages past they would be very much present. Protecting and serving the community. A quiet reminder that while they were around. The city was safe to a degree. Crime still happened. But the police answered the call. However these days it is rare to see the police out at all. In fact, during this walk, the fellow didn’t see any.

It is no wonder that people are leaving the city in droves to try and escape the blight around them. Nor is it hard to understand the reasons why. No hope can be found while one lives in a city that has long since existed past it’s prime. Though it is a strange turn of events. As more people flee, the city, becomes worse and filled with more blight. The houses that once were amazing have become ruined. The lawns once well kept are washed in a faded gray. Nothing has vibrant color anymore. Just a hallow emptiness. People have given up. He thinks grimly to himself.

He knows where some of the problems for the current state of affairs. A direct connection between the decline of following Christ fully and no longer caring about the world around them. The moral fabric of society eroding every second along with an overwhelming sense of apathy. Such things reflected in the ruined and decayed buildings that he walks by. The houses that either need to be repaired, rebuilt, or just torn down. The empty lots where business and industry once existed. Now over grown with weeds and thorns. Anyone who sees this daily would easily give up. Easier to find a new place to start over than to try and make things work here.

Waking though this city. The fellow understands that the same kind of issues are present in the parishes he visits. Where people have given up hope that things can get better. Instead of living the faith they only serve to exist until the decay takes the final toll. They are afraid of bringing life into the parish. Afraid to make the needed changes to allow new growth to form. Content to do things the same way. Even when it no longer works. Even worse are those who are so comfortable in the decline they do not want the parish to grow at all. People can be resistant to change. Even when it is needed for the growth in the parish. Scared to allow new ideas and new people take on important roles and responsibilities.

Heartbreaking is the word that comes to mind as he slowly walks. His time being spent reflecting on what he sees at the moment. Where is our faith? He asks out loud. Where is our trust in God? Instead of standing up and fighting for what we know to be important. We are content to run to the fastest exit and try and find a new spiritual home. Even when we know the same problems will follow us to the new place. As it has in cities across country. A scene that is played out time and time again. With no real end in sight.

Those who do have a desire to change the direction of things are few. They cannot take on the responsibilities alone. They need more help and more people willing to make the same kind of commitment. To keep the fires of hope burning in the hearts of those who believe. To keep praying without end for a better sense of direction and that new growth can be obtained. Not just for the parish. But also for the neighborhoods around.

Some days these prayers can be more difficult. To keep holding on to hope when everyone else around you has given up. To pray without end even when you know that you are the only one praying. The fellow asks himself the same question: Is this worth fighting for? Can we move past the fears in our own heart. Looking past the ruin and decay that we see. Can we truly replace the apathy with a sense of hope and purpose.

For the fellow the answer is yes. Though it is by no means an easy thing to say. Plants and trees grow slowly. Same with building hope. Only the Holy Spirit can change the lives of those who have given up. From the eyes of the humans it seems almost like an impossible task. However God has proven time and again that such things can happen if one believes. Fascinating that the fate of the city is directly tied to the faith of the parish. When the parish grows it can become a beacon of hope for those in need. The light of Christ present that repels the darkness of our own hearts. Even with the understanding of getting to that point will not be easy.

As he begins the end of his current walk. The fellow stops by one of his favorite places. The massive stone building that has seen much in it’s existence. A testament to the people of another time where faith existed with no limits. He sits on the cold steps and spends his time praying. For the needs of his parish. The needs of his community. For those who have given up. For those who desire to keep moving forward. That new life can be brought forth for the parish and the neighborhood the parish serves.

He slowly gets up to finish his walk and to make his way home. Behind him the building remains as a silent witness to the world around him. He turns briefly to take it all in. As he sees The Old Church.

Important Info:

Twitter: @kc8wzm

Contact: kc8wzm@gmail.com

Not wanting to Embrace

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Tue, 31 Mar 2026 14:43:05 GMT

Season 24 of The Lego Church Project

Unless there is a Good Friday in your life, there can be no Easter Sunday. -Bishop Fulton J. Sheen

The words of Bishop Sheen still ring very true today since the time he first said then. It speaks of a reality that many of us face in this walk with Christ. We often, at times, want to embrace the resurrection of our Savior Jesus Christ. Yet we find ourselves not wanting to endure, or even learn about, what it took for Him to get there. It is like starting to read a massive novel but jumping to the last few chapters of the book.

Many do not want to embrace the suffering, agony, or the pain that Christ endured for the salvation of the world. They want to take the easy road. To minimize what it took for Christ to be nailed to the Cross. For many they want the journey to be an easy stroll through the park. The truth and fact is that journey is suppose to be challenging, and at times, difficult is hard to accept. Our faith in Christ should challenge us daily. It is in this challenge that we hope for our own eternal salvation. We do this by picking up our own cross.

To embrace that cross, we must have our own moments. The times when we feel like we are in the same garden having our own agony. Moments in our live when it feels like the world is scourging us at every turn. The challenges in life that feel like we are wearing our own crown of thorns. Along with the many crosses that we carry along the way.

By fully understanding the Passion and following that same road can we truly accept what Christ went though for our salvation. Many in this life want to take the easy road. They want the salvation and resurrection of Christ. But they do not want to embrace the Passion to get there. Yet without following the Passion we cannot hope to enjoy Easter Sunday.

Important Info:

Twitter: @kc8wzm

Contact: kc8wzm@gmail.com

Issue 62: The Two Roads

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Sat, 28 Mar 2026 14:06:48 GMT

Assumption Parish in Midland, MI during the Season 24 display.

The Two Roads:

As some of you know I am, by nature, a very spiritual person. I have a level of trust and understanding on how the Holy Spirit can guide us should we allow that to happen. It is part of this constant and amazing walk with Christ that I have. Even when the road is most difficult. At times it seems that road splits into many directions.

In fact when we take the time to walk with Christ. We often see two roads that we can travel at the same time. One is the reality of the world around us. Though, that can at times, lead us down some very pessimistic and negative paths. Often framed under this notion and thin veil of what we would call reality of the moment. Logic and reason shows us the direction that cannot or will not change. Drawing to a conclusion that removes any hope that things can change and move into a better direction.

The other road is what Lord will call us to follow. Allowing us to put those issues in to deep prayer. Giving us wisdom to see past the negative and to not lose hope in the face of what we see in front of us. That God could very well change the direction of things. Even if doing so defies any sense of logic that we may have. It can be a challenge to accept this. Because sometimes it seems that both roads, while moving together, can feel like they are in fact moving in opposite directions.

Sometimes traveling on these roads can lead to internal conflicts. Our human understanding is limited as to which path we will be on at any given moment. Prayer allows us to see more clearly what the Lord intents for us. We know from the history of the Church and in our own lives that God will do great things for us. If we are willing to put our trust in Him. If we are willing to not give up hope and fall prey to our own grim and pessimistic understanding of things playing out in our lives.

This life presents us with many challenges. Some stuff we simply cannot avoid. Doors will open and close all the time for us. Yet even with all we know. The worse thing that we can do is to give up hope. To develop this feeling that God cannot or will not change things for the better. Even when logic tells us such things cannot be done. To fall prey to the world that doesn’t want us to see what God is willing to do for us.

When we walk with Christ. The two roads exist. Yet though prayer and seeking the Holy Spirit we can light our lamps to see where we are going. -

William Hemsworth interview:

Earlier this month I had a chance to catch up with William Hemsworth. A fun interview that covered some decent ground. Out of the programs I’ve been on. William is the host who has done the most interviews with me so far.

Looking for a few shows:

Speaking of programs and podcasts. I’m still looking to fill my calendar with interviews this season. If you know of a show that is looking for guests. Please send them my way. I’m always up for a conversation.

Looking for a few parishes to visit:

I’m still looking for parishes to bring Season 27 out to. I would like to get a display booked before the All Saints display at the end of May. I have yet to take this project on the road. (see the last note). I live in Saginaw Township, MI and I do not drive. So, any parish that would like to have me out would have to provide the needed transportation. Though keep in mind: Due to the nature of what I’m doing and the reasons behind it. I do not charge to come out for a display.

An Apology:

On Feb 28th I was scheduled to be at Lakeside Assembly of God to take part in a LEGO themed event as I had last year. However about thirty minuets before I was suppose to be picked up. I was informed of a transportation issue that was beyond my control. I was unable to attend with The Project as planned. I wanted to apologize to those who may have stopped out expecting to see me there.

Closing thoughts:

The worse thing that we can do in this life is to give up hope that things can change for the better. Storms will always be a part of our lives. It is important for us not to lose sight of this. To know that God is always with us. No matter what we face.

Important Info:

Twitter: @kc8wzm

EMAIL: kc8wzm@gmail.com

The Two Roads

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Wed, 25 Mar 2026 13:19:47 GMT

When we walk with Christ. The two roads exist. Yet though prayer and seeking the Holy Spirit we can light our lamps to see where we are going. -

Important Info:

Twitter: @kc8wzm

Contact: kc8wzm@gmail.com

The Music Director

JM Kraemer/Lego Church Project — Sat, 21 Mar 2026 13:42:17 GMT

It is a typical Sunday morning at The Old Church. It is early and The Fellow has finished up his morning business. Sitting in one of the pews taking a few moments in prayer before things get too busy with Mass. It doesn’t take long before someone else makes his appearance. The Music Director.

He is a man of many talents and just as many responsibilities in the life of the church. Part organist. Part choir director. The one who has to decide which music is to be used. Making sure it fits with the readings for the Mass. Taking on a bit of a musical juggling act. Finding a balance between what is acceptable and traditional as far as the hymns being used. As well as making sure to pick a few that the congregation will enjoy singing.

The Music Director moves about the church and starts to get the members of the choir ready to sing for the morning. Getting everyone involved on the same page. Both in terms of rhythm and in one, unified, voice. It can be a difficult task in the parish. The Music Director understands that some may not always agree with the selection of songs.

However each hymn has a purpose and a place. Music is vital to the Mass. It helps connect things. The Fellow is always impressed and amazed as to what the director is able to do each and every weekend. As well as taking on the responsibilities of being the organist. Taking hours of time each week to practice and prepare. More that what most people will ever realize.

Off in the background The Fellow sees the Piano Player arriving and getting his morning selection of music ready to play. With the sounds of the piano it means that it won’t be too long before Mass will begin. The Music Director takes his time to make sure everything is ready. The last bit of preparation.

Not long after the Piano Player finishes. The Music Director takes his place along with the members of the choir. He starts with the antiphons and then the opening song starts to play. The Fellow joins his voice in song as The Mass begins. Here at The Old Church. -

Important Info:

Twitter: @kc8wzm