In this episode, I interview John Kramer, also known as J.M. Kramer, a master Lego builder and faithful Catholic from Saginaw, Michigan. John shares his journey of using his talent in building intricate Lego churches to evangelize, to share his Catholic faith, and bring awareness to the intersection of faith and disability. Despite living with cerebral palsy and other health challenges, John discusses how he turns his struggles into strengths, creating inspiring Lego church displays and engaging in discussions about faith and disability, and trust and surrender to God. He also touches on his writing projects, such as his Substack newsletter 'Praying at the Bricks,' and emphasizes the importance of using one's unique talents to serve God and others.

The conversation highlights John's resilience, creativity, and deep faith, showcasing how he navigates life's challenges while staying true to his mission of evangelization. John is very deep but very real.

There are a lot of nuggets of wisdom in this conversation, and I hope you enjoy listening to it.

John's Substack: https://prayingbricks.substack.com
Follow him on Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/LegoChurchProject

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Spiritual maturity and immaturity are real conditions. I fear many in the Church are trapped in spiritual immaturity, and may sadly even be content with it. I hope to encourage listeners to be better than that. Starting things off with an article on NC Register about British Catholics fearing the rumored cancelation of the Traditional Latin Mass, I get into the theme of spiritual maturity contrasted with spiritual immaturity from a scriptural and historical Catholic perspective. The discussion begins with an analysis of the culture surrounding the Traditional Latin Mass, critiquing the subculture without opposing the TLM Mass itself. The episode also explores the difference between 'milk' and 'solid food' in Catholic teachings, using examples such as simplified teachings from Fulton Sheen and the contrast between the Traditional Latin Mass and Novus Ordo Mass. The evolving teachings on the death penalty are highlighted as an instance of the Church's complex and layered guidance.

Article Read in this episode:
"Agatha Christie Letter 2.0: The Traditional Latin Mass as a Cultural, as Well as Liturgical, Treasure"

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The Importance of Keeping Watch: A Reflection for Catholics In this X Spaces session I emphasizes the need for vigilance within the Catholic faith by reflecting on Mark 13:32-37. I discuss the distractions that have pulled me away from crucial work and the pervasive sense of self-importance seen in some among the Church faithful today. Drawing parallels to the Master commanding his servants to remain watchful, I question how we are truly keeping watch for Christ's return amidst theological nitpicking and divisive behaviors.

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Get the full episode on Locals. Free memberships are very welcome to sign up (!!), but this series is only available to paid members for $5/month) In this clip I get into Aquinas' reflections on existence, exploring the concepts of generation, being, and contingency. Using a personal childhood story and the example of a tree's growth, we examine how objects come into existence and discuss the nuances between generation and being.

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In this episode I discuss the significance of the Mass and address the troubling trend of making an idol of the liturgy. The episode explores the rumors and implications of the Vatican potentially banning the traditional Latin Mass and examines the balance between reverence and worship within Catholic practice. I share insights into the traditional and Novus Ordo Masses, the authority of the Vatican (can they ban the TLM?), and the consequences of making the Mass or the faith itself the object of worship rather than God.

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I address a heartfelt comment from a TikTok follower that really resonates with me. This person is struggling with feeling abandoned by God and is asking how we cooperate with God's grace. I share some practical advice about putting in a good day, being prayerful, and understanding how God uses our failures for His providence. I also share a personal story from my time in infantry school to illustrate perseverance through failure and how it can lead to mastery and strength. Additionally, I discuss the dark periods of spiritual desolation and how they can paradoxically be a time of growth and sensitivity to God's teachings. This episode is packed with my reflections on spiritual struggle and growth, how God's grace works in our lives, and the importance of continually applying our will in the face of doubt and hardship. Join me on this challenging yet rewarding journey of faith, and don't forget, you owe me a Hail Mary!

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Starting with a segment of 'The Pulse,' I talk about Germans baring more than their souls, Kentucky fried heresy, and Pope Francis’ ‘salty tongue.’ .

Then I offer my thoughts on the series “The Chosen” and how they contrast with some criticisms of the series. Finally, I get into the resurgence of the cultural climate that gave rise to the Arian heresy, how we’re seeing it today, and how it apply to modern-day Catholicity. I emphasize the importance of spiritual health and proper theological methodology in comprehending and adhering to Church teachings—and xall Truth.

Here's my Bio Link mentioned in the episode. You'll find all links to my social networks, latest work, other important links, and extra features. --> https://linktr.ee/catholicadventurer

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This is an update, a teaser, a bonus segment, and commentary all rolled into one. I include a segment from a recent Locals Members live stream and offer some additional commentary on the substance of that stream. The on-demand version of that live stream is available to both free and paid members of my Locals community. If you like what you get from my podcast feed, join me on Locals for even more great content.

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