Saint John the Baptist

It always feels odd to go to church on a Saturday. It makes it automatically feel like a Sunday, since well, that IS the normal day. We picked a Saturday mass so we could have dinner together at the Surfside Inn before it closed. One of the aspects of Mass Chaos I've enjoyed most has been the fellowship. We have welcomed more people into our group, and it has been a pleasure to see who will come out with us.

We went this week to Saint John the Baptist (215 N 13th St, Fort Calhoun)

One thing I know I need to work on is figuring out how to take better group shots when we don't manage to get someone to take our picture. I end up having to prop the camera up in a random place and contend with timing our shots right. This was not one of them. Still, was fun. :)

Our group for the week (left to right): Joe, Frank, Eric, Lindsay, Frank, Brianne and Teri.

The gospel this week is from Luke 17:5-10. It is one of those times where a question we ask Jesus is probably one we should ask ourselves. The apostles want Jesus to "Increase our faith." (Luke 17:5). Is faith something that needs to laid out to work? Well, that's a rhetorical question since Jesus answers that for us with the story he tells about the servant.

"Who among you would say to your servant
who has just come in from plowing or tending sheep in the field,
'Come here immediately and take your place at table'?
Would he not rather say to him,
'Prepare something for me to eat.
Put on your apron and wait on me while I eat and drink.
You may eat and drink when I am finished'?
Is he grateful to that servant because he did what was commanded?
So should it be with you.
When you have done all you have been commanded,
say, 'We are unprofitable servants;
we have done what we were obliged to do.'" (Luke 17:7-10)

I think this is an important lesson to remember, since it is an easy trap to fall in with faith. Why do we do X thing? Because we are told to do so. What do we gain from not trying to put our own understanding into that question of why? Well, we gain something for following the letter of the law, but our personal faith does not grow. And isn't it our personal faith that we want to be growing?

Saint Margaret Mary

Well, I suppose you've been wondering why I haven't been blogging. I guess I've taken somewhat of a hiatus from posting. I do have some back-blogs to post, but I felt it was more important to put the most recent one up before another week passed and this one would be really late too.

If I'm telling you how I am, I think lately it's been rather crazy. I'm getting over a cold I got as a result from dancing all last weekend. I'm on an antibiotic, and I'm waiting for it to do its work on me. I feel like I'm struggling with a lot of things lately, and I always feel glad when I go to church and feel like God is sending a message my way.

This week we went to Saint Maragaret Mary (123 N 61st St)

It was an evening mass, so I was unable to take pictures outside.

Our group for the week:

Joe on the bottom, then Left to Right: Frank. Ron, Patrick, Teri, Eric, Jen, Lindsay, Brianne, and Frank

This week's Gospel was from Luke 16:19-31 and is the story of Lazarus and the rich man. I know I mentioned at the start of the blog that I am glad when I feel like God is sending the message directly to me. I think it's a good reminder that God sees our struggles and intents, and we should strive for the good things now even though we may not see a reward in this life. The rich man wants to warn his brothers after he sees where his path lead him, but at that time it is already too late. Why should we wait until then to do good?

Saint Leo the Great / Saints Peter and Paul

Well, prepare yourself for a double blog. This is not because I forgot to blog or anything like that, but because we were double booked for this weekend and went to mass Saturday and Sunday. I'm not having the best weekend personally, but it only showed me how nice it is to have fellowship. I am thankful for all my friends and even more thankful to God for putting these people in my life and shaping them in His image.

Saint Leo the Great (1920 N 102nd St)

I forgot to take an external shot again, well, not exactly forgot, but I didn't remember until after we were done playing kickball and I couldn't get a good one without better light. Instead I took this picture to highlight how open and bright the church felt inside.

A co-worker told me to look for this, and I wasn't disappointed. Super neat!

The Altar while it still was lit.
Our Group for the week:

Left to Right: Eric, Patrick, Jen, Frank and Joe

Saint Leo's Yacht Club (website). We joined the Yacht club (Youth Adult Coming Home Together) for their kick-off event last night. It's for group for the young adults to have the ability to "work, play and pray" together, and I enjoyed my first experience with the group. It was more of a play night, as we went outside to get some kickball in after eating dinner together. If you are interested in joining their next event, you can e-mail John for more information or check them out on facebook.

The group shot from the Saint Leo's Yacht Club event

Saints Peter and Paul (5912 S 36 St)

Thanks to Julia for reminding me to take this.

We were told that this Jesus came in 3 pieces from ...er somewhere in Europe.

Also Interesting was that there used to be a screen to hide the organ

Eric was very concerned about taking a picture using Ron's tripod. It resulted in one of my favorite group shots of the tour so far.

I enjoyed the light coming in from the top.

The group shot for the day:

Left to right: Kevin, Joe, Frank, Julia, Eric, Brianne, and Ron

This Week's Gospel:
It is a parable from Luke (14:1, 7-14), where Jesus tells us that as guests we should not over-think our importance as guests, and when we are hosts that we shouldn't look to what we gain for inviting people.

The best part about parables is that the ideas are wrapped up with stories. I always feel like hearing stories from people is one of the best ways to get an idea across. It allows you to step into the story and see how you would feel about the idea.

When I step into this parable, I always feel humbled. This is Jesus not only telling us to be humble, but IS Himself. If there was ever a person who could just pull out the holier than thou card, it'd be Him. The thing is, it makes sense. It is easy for us to think that we are the center of the universe, and we would deserve that top spot. But is that where you really are? I also agree that it does make you feel rather fantastic to find you are given that upgrade in seats.

In the second half of the parable, it discusses being a good host and giving that which you cannot be repaid for. I think this is a harder concept to employ. Not that it is difficult to think of ways which we can be in this situation, but it can be harder to give and not let ourselves be exalted.

So, we are challenged to be humble in multiple ways. I hope that I can be forgiven for the ways which I haven't been humble or humbled lately.

Saint Columbkille

Lately I have to admit I'm starting to get a bit stressed out. I currently have a temporary job that's winding down, which means I'm on the hunt for a new position. Part of what I was hoping to gain by taking part in this endeavour is a some discernment on what to do next. I am the kind of person that likes to have a plan in place so I can focus myself towards that goal. This position has been challenging in a lot of different ways, so in that sense I've been focused on solving those issues. Though, it doesn't help much for planning for the future. I try to put together the talents I've seen myself show in these past months, and I wonder where God wants me to put them to use. If you're the praying kind, I wouldn't mind a little shoutout for this. If you're the more practical kind, I wouldn't mind a little advice either. :)

Today we went to Saint Columbkille (200 East Sixth Street, Papillion). It has been a church of note for us, since both myself and Brianne managed to go there on different weeks thinking it was the church we were supposed to go to. It is also of note since I also forgot to take a picture outside.

I thought the statue at the altar was really eye-catching.

Group shot!

Left to Right: Top: Patrick, Eric, Brianne, Frank, Frank
Bottom: Jen, Kat, Kit, Teri, Katie, and Joe

The Gospel for this week was from Luke (10:25-37). It was the parable of the good Samaritan. It is one of those passages from the Bible that even if you never really read the Bible, you're at least familiar with it. I won't beat you over the head with that aspect. What I like about Jesus is he answers a question with a story. If you know me at all, I am much the same way. It's not always the most efficient way to do things, but it gives you something just being told an answer doesn't: context and a frame to wrap that in. If Jesus just said, "Hey buddy, just love everybody...duh!" I think we would scratch our head over it a little more, or at the very least feel like it is an impossible task. Within the frame of the story, loving our neighbors comes down one moment, one decision. And it's up to us to see that we have that opportunity when we interact with others.

Also of note was the speaker at the end of the mass, Shannon Zurcher. She is serving as a missionary for FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students) at the University of Illinois at Chicago, my alma mater.
I enjoyed my time spiritually while I was there. I took a break from the regular campus groups, since I had just finished out my second year as a Bible study leader for InterVarsity and needed a bit of a recharge when I transferred in. The Newman Center was a great place for me: I arranged my schedule so I could attend daily mass there, and it was a great place to study too (not during mass, of course).

When I think back on those days, it amazes me how much of my faith was solidified. It was my choice to be confirmed, but it wasn't until I was out there on my own and I found myself still drawn back to the church that I knew this was for me. I had help along the way from people like Shannon, knowledgeable yet still not so far from the people she reaches out to. She didn't ask me to write any of this, but I'm sure she'd love your support. You can contact her at szurcher@focusonline.org to find out how you can help her out. She did mention she'd be out of the country for a few weeks, so she might not get back to you right away, but I'm sure she'll get back to you.

-Frank

Up next week: July 18 - "Unofficial" Mass Chaos at Saint Mary's Parish (West Point, NE) @ 10am
If you'd like more information on what we're doing, there's the related information on the left side, or you can find us on Facebook.

Blessed Sacrament

So, I have to admit that I wasn't quite ready for the response that I have received since the article in the Catholic Voice came out. There were the unsurprising things like my mom wanting a copy of it. Then there was finding the article posted up at work, which was a surprise. And people starting to recognize us when we're at mass. When you start a project like this, it's not like your goal is to get noticed, though having a blog maybe points you in the other direction.

This week's church was Blessed Sacrament (3020 Curtis Ave.)

Our group for the week.

Left to Right: Bottom: Eric, Brianne, and Joe Middle: Ron, Frank, Lindsay and Frank

This was my first Saturday mass in a while. I have to admit that going to Saturday mass reminds me more of when I used to go to daily mass. Less people, less distractions. It gives you more a chance to reflect on everything rather than be swept up in fellowship.

The Gospel (Luke 9:51-62) is one of those unsettling passages to me. It's that reminder that despite all we say our faith is, we must prepare to back it up with action. You might wonder what makes me unsettled about something as easy as that, but it is a challenge to think about leaving everything behind for the Lord. We grow up and are encouraged to leave our mark, to be someone who stands out, to have ones who love us... but there comes a time where we can try to hold on to all those things and let them be our anchor to this world... or we can take actions that will lead us to the next. I know what I want my choice to be, I just hope I am strong enough when the time comes.

As they were proceeding on their journey someone said to him,
“I will follow you wherever you go.”
Jesus answered him,
“Foxes have dens and birds of the sky have nests,
but the Son of Man has nowhere to rest his head.”

And to another he said, “Follow me.”

But he replied, “Lord, let me go first and bury my father.”

But he answered him, “Let the dead bury their dead.

But you, go and proclaim the kingdom of God.”

And another said, “I will follow you, Lord,

but first let me say farewell to my family at home.”

To him Jesus said, “No one who sets a hand to the plow

and looks to what was left behind is fit for the kingdom of God.”

Saint Robert Bellarmine

So, this week I was reminded that sometimes double checking never hurts. I think I've been distracted lately, and more just willing to go with the flow. So, when my brother said he knew where we were going, I did not go through my normal habit of loading it up on my phone. We were already cutting it close anyway, and well, it was one less thing for me.

We arrive there and enter the mass in progress. The strange thing is that we're already at the middle of the mass, and I was fairly sure we were only two or three minutes late. So, I look at my phone finally to see that we were at the wrong church. Needless to say, our two or three minutes late took us about to the point where we entered the mass at Saint Robert Bellarmine about the same point as that first mass (due to some wandering thanks to the strange route my phone picked).

Well, like I was saying, we went to Saint Robert Bellarmine (11802 Pacific St)

I really liked the hanging above the altar.

Our group for the week, minus Joe since he was manning the cameras and didn't get back in time

Left to Right: Patrick, Teri, Eric, Brianne, Me.

I've already painted the somewhat incomplete picture that was available to me. We were unable to sit with the rest of our Mass Chaos friends, but the friendly usher found space in the row behind them.

This week's Gospel (Luke 9:18-24) is one of those challenging passages. Not really challenging in terms of getting the point, more in terms of doing it. After discussing who He is and what will happen to Him to his disciples, Jesus follows it up with this:

“If anyone wishes to come after me, he must deny himself

and take up his cross daily and follow me.

For whoever wishes to save his life will lose it,

but whoever loses his life for my sake will save it.”

This is no easy task. This is not go to church every Sunday. This is not don't forget to double check which church you should be at. This is an every day struggle we must remind ourselves that we face as followers of Jesus, and those little things should be the result of wanting to put ourselves in the right place. By denying ourselves and taking up our cross we allow Jesus to be a part of our lives. And in doing so we gain life with Him. Pretty good deal if you ask me.

-Frank

Sacred Heart

I have to say that I do feel blessed for having the opportunity to have this group of friends, new and old. I came into Sunday feeling a bit uninspired, and luckily for us all... I did not leave that way ;)

We journeyed to Sacred Heart (2207 Wirt St)

The altar was pretty neat (top). There were a few nice surprises like the oldest altar in Nebraska (lower left), and a loft with a great view.

Our group:

Left to Right (top) Jen, Marcus, Joe, (middle) Eric, Brianne, Frank, (top) Teri, Ron, Patrick

I did mention that I did feel a bit inspired, and I will say that if you go to Sacred Heart and leave feeling the same... I would say that something is wrong with you. It isn't quite the same mass you may be used to, but I enjoyed it. The music was a bit up tempo, the parishioners were extra friendly, and Father Tom made it a complete experience.

The most surprising part of the mass was that our group was recognized during the mass. We received our first blessing. I found it a bit odd. I think sometimes I forget this isn't just some random dare that I'm taking on with friends, but also something that's being shared with others. I still wish I had a better idea though what exactly I'm trying to share with all of you, I guess for now I'm hoping that there's some takeaway you find.

The gospel for this week was the story of the fish and loaves. We've all heard it before. The point made during the homily that made me think was taking into account the balance of how much you get for how much you take. Jesus fed the multitude from a small amount. He didn't say, "Let's count everyone up and make sure I'm passing enough to you." He gave what he had without reservation, and it was more than enough for everyone there. I will admit that hearing this kind of hit me in the gut. I wasn't really giving much, and was getting even less before that moment, but hearing about the inspiring things that Jesus did made me realize that maybe I should put a little more effort into getting myself right. I put more energy in, and I felt like I got much more out of the rest of mass. Hopefully I can keep that up.

Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton

I am feeling fortunate for this week for Mass Chaos. I did not think I would be able to attend with everyone since I'm normally at work during the time that was set, but for various reasons I was able to get the day off. It has been strange that I have missed going with the group to the last few places. I was on vacation last weekend visiting my best friend in Wisconsin, and I was unable to attend evening mass with everyone on Ascension Thursday. So, it was a welcome surprise in two ways.

This week found us at Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton (5419 North 114th St)I enjoyed the signs out front and in the church.

The altar had a very open and flowing feel to it as well.

The group shot for the week:Left to Right: (Top) Eric, Frank, Brianne, Andy, Vesper, (Bottom) Ben and Joe

We seemed to have stumbled into the teen mass when we came to Saint Elizabeth Ann Seaton. I'm not sure if that was the plan or not, but I enjoyed it. It reminded me of my high school days. After confirmation, I really felt moved to become a more active member of the church. I participated in small ways at first, until my junior and senior year where I found myself a youth ministry leader. Being actively involved at that point in my life was a really positive catalyst to my faith. It showed me that I could be spiritual, still be searching, have fun, and that church could not only be a place where I worship, but also be a place where I have fellowship. I haven't really felt that connected since I graduated college and left my college church. I feel like I've regained some of that through this group, but being older I feel like I'm looking for a different kind of connection than when I was younger.

Today's Gospel (John 16:12-15) is a reminder to me that there is no end to getting to know Jesus.

Jesus said to his disciples:

"I have much more to tell you, but you cannot bear it now.

But when he comes, the Spirit of truth,

he will guide you to all truth."

He's given a road map to us all about where our faith can take us, and the truth is our guide to Him. I appreciate that faith is a journey, and I look forward to all the truths that I find on my way.

Saint Patrick

I am tired. That's your warning this may not be the best blog ever. For some reason I couldn't manage to get to bed until 5 this morning, and then I woke up at 8 to get ready for church. Instead of getting ready though, I rolled over and fell back asleep. Luckily my brother woke me up with enough time to still get ready. I can't tell if my inability to sleep is linked to stress or if my body is just getting adjusted to my work schedule (I currently work 3:30 to Midnight), but I'm definitely grumpy right now.

Today's stop was at Saint Patrick (508 Angus St.)
One of the things I noticed was the definite feel of lots of space.
Another unique feel was that a lot of light that came through the stained glass
Someone wanted to see this particular stained glass windows, so here that is. I did not notice that there was that kid in the picture too until just now.
And I thought the lighting around Jesus was pretty neat
We decided that we'd do something different and pose with Saint Patrick rather than the normal shot in front of the altar.

Left to right: Frank, Marcus, Teri, Brianne, Andy, Jennifer, Eric, and Joe

I'm still working on my photography skills for your and my enjoyment of this experience. If anyone can recommend any good books I'd be interested. I really enjoy taking pictures since I feel like part of sharing this experience is being able to capture my viewpoint. I'm definitely a person that likes to set the mood and make it as full an experience as possible.

Today's Gospel (John 17:20-26) as do all the readings for today (Acts 7:55-60, Revelation 22:12-14, 16-17, 20) talk about prayer. The thing that really strikes me is the way Jesus prays. It is such an awesome prayer that I'm just going to paste it in and add in my comments.

Holy Father, I pray not only for them,

but also for those who will believe in me through their word,

so that they may all be one,

as you, Father, are in me and I in you,

that they also may be in us,

that the world may believe that you sent me.

He not only thinks of the here and now, but the future too.

And I have given them the glory you gave me,

so that they may be one, as we are one,

I in them and you in me,

that they may be brought to perfection as one,

that the world may know that you sent me,

and that you loved them even as you loved me

And He goes even further to make the connections.

Father, they are your gift to me.

I wish that where I am they also may be with me,

that they may see my glory that you gave me,

because you loved me before the foundation of the world.

Righteous Father, the world also does not know you,

but I know you, and they know that you sent me.

I made known to them your name and I will make it known,

that the love with which you loved me

may be in them and I in them

And the best part? (as if the rest of this wasn't already good for us) Jesus felt like we were a gift to Him. The Father passed his love to Jesus who passes His love to us so that we can know them BOTH. That's the way I want to feel about everyone I meet...that my relationships are gifts given to me by the Father's love, so that we all may be together.

This upcoming week will be different for me, as I will be out of town this weekend. I will still be attending mass wherever the plan is to go, but I will likely be going in the middle of the week in the morning or afternoon. If you are available and would like to attend, send me a message. If you would like to the join the regular group, you can find out more information by e-mailing us or joining our facebook group and getting the updates there.

-Frank