The Lego Church Project

Immaculate Conception Catholic Church display report

2008-10-11T17:59:00.003-04:00

Last Sunday I had the chance to take the Lego Church for 2008/2009 down to Lapeer MI for the second of three planned seasonal displays. In this case the project was taken to Immaculate Conception Catholic Church. About a 45 min drive from my parents place in Flushing, MI. Which is where I set up as a second point when I'm coming in from Saginaw.

The display was featured as part of the the monthly KofC breakfast that the parish has each month. Considering the amount of driving that I had to do, this was a very wonderful and rewarding trip. It's displays like this that really remind me of why I enjoy doing this.

First time displays are always a trip and a half. You never know how people are going react to your work. In this case people really got a massive kick out of my project. It was well worth the drive. I also want to thank in addition to the families of Immaculate Conception Catholic Church for treating me very warmly, I also want to thank Mike C, of Michael's Consulting for making the trip with me as well. (like to his site is on the side bar of this blog!)

God was truly alive in this place. I also got some new ideas for my 10th season of the Lego Church Project! I know it's early, but it's never too early to start thinking about what needs to be done for next season. Several ideas are being tossed around right now.

So to my readers.. check out the pictures, what kinds of things should I try and build for next season? Anyway that's all for now.. Till Then.

-

Aircraft Carrier out of Lego

2008-09-21T13:48:00.001-04:00

http://www.villiard.com/porte-avions-lego.html

Wow.. Looking that... that person had a lot of bricks on his hands. Now that's the kind of detail I would love to put into one of my own projects.

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Looking for resources

2008-09-17T02:20:00.002-04:00

I have a 96 Lumina APV that is about to give up the holy ghost at some point. I won't go into the list of problems but the end result is because I'm on SSI, finding a replacement for the Lumina will be almost impossable with out some kind of extra help.

The reason why I need another mini van or a small truck, is simple: So I can contuine to take part in various voulnteer events. These include part time voulenteer help at TCT affliated WAQP in Saginaw, MI as a camera operator. Amateur Radio operator who helps out with the club events for SVARA (www.k8dac.com). As part of the Amature Radio Emegerency Services (ARES). Active member with Saginaw County Citizens Corps. And of course the work I do with the Lego Church Project. Most of these events that I take part in require that I am able to get a ride by myself to these events.

The problem that I have, is that I've been spending the last hour or two trying to see if I can find some services to help me address my needs online. I've run into nothing but brick walls.

So I ask the blog sphere, Do you guys know of any resources Catholic or otherwise that I could look into? Stuff that may not be easily found via Google?

If you know of something and don't want to leave a comment.. you can e-mail me directly at: ZorronX@gmail.com

Till Then.

-

Time to get back into this.

2008-09-15T21:05:00.003-04:00

It sounds like I'm going to be going to Lapeer, MI with the Lego Church Project around Oct 5th. I am still looking for more dates. Also need to figure out how I can get some stuff fixed on my van so I can do even more displays. (if I can find more displays).

More details as I get that set up.

I need to start getting back into updating and maintaining this blog. Now that all the stuff with my uncle is taken care of I think I can start exploring the faith a little bit more and find out what their is to know.

I want to thank everyone who has checked out this blog in the past and I hope to get some more readers as I look out and find stuff that catches my eye. You never know.. I might end up linking to your blog!

Till Then.

-JM

what happened!?

2008-08-24T14:12:00.002-04:00

Ok.. I forgot to update this blog again. I had intended to do so a few weeks ago but we had a family issue that kept distracting me.

I'm going to be contacting a parish next week (I hope) and try and set up another display. Been really discouraged on that front.

So sorry to my readers for putting this on the back burner for a bit. Sadly we did have some life issues that got in the way. A sick family member and a funeral that kinda took up some of my time.

Take care and I will post something else.. later.

-

the weekly news..

2008-07-29T14:23:00.002-04:00

Haven't had much to update with since the last time I posted. Ran into a road block with one site that I was looking into. (A common frustration of mine). So I haven't any real news to report.

This is a common issue with the LCP. I also have been dealing with a few personal issues that have made my blogging very difficult to do the last few weeks. Even my other personal blog has suffered. I'm going start getting back into stuff and commit to making posts every few days or so after next week.

So anyway, keep me in your prayers, and pray that I can find a few sites before St. Helen's at the end of Dec.

Till Then.

-

I have not abandoned this..

2008-07-16T21:30:00.002-04:00

I am sorry for the lack of updates recently. Once again life got busy for me. Mostly with some stuff involving my Amateur Radio stuff. Along with having a friend of mine visit from out of town.

We are reaching the point where there is a but of a lull in activity. I haven't secured any new sites yet. I am still trying for one place out in Lapeer, MI. But that is far from being secure.

Please keep my family in your prayers. We have been dealing with a family medical issue with my uncle. Out of respect for the family I won't go into a lot of details. But it was pretty critical for the first week or so.

As far as the Lego Church goes, I'm still pretty happy on how well the display in Troy, MI went. I'm already gearing up for next season for them.

Anyway I hope all of my fellow readers are going well. I also want to thank everyone who has shown support for my project.

Till Then.

-

History: LCP04

2008-07-07T23:36:00.002-04:00

Once in a while a project just stands out. Since I started doing these public seasons, showing off my own God given talent. Lego Church Project for 2003/2004 is one of those.

What makes LCP04 stand out so much is that I went in a different direction than I have in the past. Most of the time it was to build the biggest church I could with the Lego that I had on hand. This time I went smaller. I also went with a layout that has never been really done since and one that at some point I would like to try again.

The build itself presented several challenges. The main one being setting up the alter. You will notice that the Priests are sitting on the side. That is how it's done over at Mt. Zion Catholic Pastoral Center. The reason for this is because of how big the the back row of windows is. Something I carried over from LCP03. The bell tower itself had lever that you could move that rang the bell. Which was fun when the kids got a chance to see it. The other challenge came when I tried to build the truss system for the roof. I had to create a few long beams to run across at some point to support the main truss system that also was used to support the lights.

As far as displays go.. this was the project that started my trips to St. Helen's For Christmas. This is also the project that was shown in the local news paper "The Saginaw News". I think I did at least four or five displays with this project.

I really didn't want to take this one down. I had such a good run with it. This is one of those rare ones that I consider a personal favorite of mine. This one set the stage for several other projects and might be the source for a few ideas that I'm working on for LCP Season 10.

I hope you have enjoyed this little trip down the history road. I know I have. Till Then.

-

Some more history: LCP03

2008-07-06T00:00:00.002-04:00

It's been a busy last few days. I'm sorry I haven't updated this blog in a while. So I figured I would fire off another round of history of the Lego Church Project.

This post is about the infamous Lego Church Project for 2002/2003.

I've always had trouble with this project. It was the first one in a while that I almost considered it some kind of disappointment. Mainly because some of the ideas I had at the time just simply did not work out as well as I would have hoped.

That being said, however, does not take away from the fact that this project has one of the largest back windows ever in any of my project. A theme that would carry over into the following season.

You have to understand something about my work though. As an artist I tend to be more critical of how I do things. It's not uncommon for me to see something and see all the mistakes that I have done. In the end though, as long as the people enjoy it, that's what counts. LCP03 may have had some issues, but it still is a sound project that has tested the times. I've often gone back to the few pictures I have to gain new ideas for up coming works.

Ya know though, sometimes my memories are faded about some of my works. The little mental notes that remind me of what they were all about. Even with the pictures it's hard to generate full memories on what happened to it.

LCP03 in my opinion is a direct follow up to LCP02. Meaning that various themes and ideas directly carried over from the previous project. Some of the same building styles were used. Not so much a direct copy, but rather LCP02 was the base from which LCP03 was built.

LCP03 was the last of the wider style projects. Meaning that after LCP03, all other works stayed on the work station with no hang overs. Hard to move it though a door. LCP03 was also one of the few that didn't use a bell tower.

Overall it still was a fun project to work on. While my memories of this project are few. I'm just glad I still have them. Take care and we shall chat later. Till Then.

-

What a wonderful time I had.

2008-06-30T19:58:00.002-04:00

Honestly? As far as one of my showings go, I had a lot of fun. It was just a nice day out (even though it rained my entire drive).

It's showings like this that really help my own soul in doing more Lego Churches. The people at St. Anastasia treated me every well. I would write more but sadly I am still worn out from this weekend. Plus, we are also dealing with a medial event in our family. A relative of mine has been in the ICU since Friday.

Even though we had that going on, it still was a joyful time. My thanks to Fr. J.J. Mech for his support and I cannot wait to come back next year!

-

Lego Church display this weekend!!!

2008-06-24T15:38:00.002-04:00

I am excited to announce that this weekend in Troy, MI, I am bringing LCP09 to St. Anastasia Parish! It will be part of their 40th Anniversary! Following the 12:15 mass. I've listed the time as 2pm-6pm, but I'm not sure if I will stay for the full event.

This will be year 2 with St. Anastasia, but year 4 with Fr. J.J. Mech who was at Loretto in Redford, MI. Fr. J.J. is a blast to work with and I know he will be excited as all get out to see what I created this season.

I can't wait. I hope to see you there.

-

A history: LCP02

2008-06-23T13:41:00.003-04:00

The Lego Church Project for 2001/2002 stands out in my mind as one of my personal favorites of the projects that I have built. I undertook this project with a simple notion at the time that I wanted to see how big I could build one of my projects. This also marks one of two times, I have ever gone wider than the usual 26 inches that I try to follow now.

I have vivid memories of spending close to around 80$ at the time on some new doors and some new windows. I had to replace a set of double doors I lost a year or two back. So this project was the perfect chance for that. The project itself was first for several things, inculding the first time I used pictures on the wall. A theme that is repeated for well over several years. LCP09 (the current one) has pictures, but this is the first time they are not made from Lego bricks). This one also had a sound room, and a cry room. LCP02 is also notable for the one thing that it is missing. A bell tower. Back in the early days of my projects, most of the bigger projects had bell towers. Sometimes they even had some kind of plastic rocket stage as a bell inside. However my logic at the time was, because of how big I'm building the project, I didn't have enough room and or have enough parts to put one together. (another reoccouring theme in my work).

Now the overall size did present a problem. Mainly that because of how wide it was, there was a bit of a challenge to get the project to fit though the doors. You had to tilt it a bit to get it though any normal sized door. It was even crazier because at the time of LCP02-LCP05, they were all built in the basement of my parents home. So they also had to go up several steps.

I had a lot of fun working on this project. Because at the time I wanted to see what I could truly do with my own work. I mean you have to figure, I was an adult who didn't fully understand the scope of my own disablites. Mainly because I had (and at times still do) have a hard time grasping the nature of what my issues are. To see me put something together like this was impressive even to my own family. Now the display that I did with this project, is another small story.

Most of the pictures that you see where taken at my fathers work. LCP02 has the honor of lasting from about mid Nov when I finished all the way up to just a week before we started the events of World Youth Day (Toronto), of which I was taking part in. (I will post a story about that some time). Anyway, part of the reason why it lasted for so long, was that it was on display at my fathers work for almost two months. It was a big it over there as there were a lot of children who use to come back and see it.

In the end, LCP02 still is one of my personal favroites because of all that I wanted to do with it. It also set the tone for some of the other projects down the line.

I hope you have enjoyed this little trip down memory lane. I know that I have. Till Then.

-

A history of the Project: LCP01

2008-06-22T13:06:00.002-04:00

It just crossed my mind not too long ago, that I've been spending my time telling everyone about my projects, pointing them to to the various Picasa links and pictures with out really going into the details about what makes each year stand out from the rest.

Oddly enough, as I've taken these projects on the road, often times to just one site a year during the early part of it, that I've in a way, developed my own history of sorts. Because in the end, it is the people who have taken the time to look at my work, to let me know how they feel about it, that has really shaped the direction this is going, and in the end, where I want to take it to.

So off and on for the next week or so, I'm going take a look at each of the past projects. Telling a little bit of the back story behind them and why they stand out to me.

Lego Church Project for 2000/2001 was start of the public displays. But in away it was also almost one of the last projects I ever built.

At that time, now going on close to a decade ago, I was reaching a point where I was wondering if it was time for me to stop doing projects. I mean after all, I was a grown man working with Lego bricks. But it was clear that God had something else in mind because in the end I was given that rare chance to take it to Mt. Zion Catholic Pastoral Center for a weekend display.

I recall driving home one night after I had taken it over to the church, and spending some time in prayer, I had the strong sense that this was not something that I could easily give up. For so many Christmases it had been part of my parent's house. It was something that even at that time, I looked forward to doing. This sense of excitement as to wanting to find out what I was going to do next. Thanks to that first display, I'm sitting here at the computer sharing with you some of my thoughts about how much fun I have taking this project on the road.

So a few notes from the build itself. You will notice in some of the pictures that it appears that I have room for sky lights. This was because at the start of the project I didn't have a proper way of putting lights in. It was not until the roof was finished, that I was in fact, able to find away to put a set of Christmas tree lights inside. The first time I had ever tried to blend Lego and Non Lego stuff. The reason why I was able to begin with, was that this was also the first year I built trusses to support the dome roof.

Anytime you try and so something new, it takes a few years for the development to come far enough that it becomes common place. But those first few years of using the lights and using the trusses were mostly experiments. Should also be noted that the first set of lights I used, lasted till the 04/05 project.

One of the other questions I use to get asked, was who were the kids in the pictures? They were the children of one of the families in the Mt. Zion community who were over to see my work. It was because of that family, that got the ball rolling on doing my displays.

Well, I hope you've enjoyed this little trip down memory lane. I know I have. Till Then.

-

Blog stuff...

2008-06-20T14:03:00.002-04:00

I've been doing some updating to the site links again. I've added web links to the picture I use on the corner of the site, along with changing the one I was using before (2006/2007 project) to the current project picture. I've also managed to add some link to the various parishes I have taken the Lego Church to in the past and will be taking them to in the present. Check out the sites, send them an e-mail to let them know how you found their parish! Keep checking the side bar to see what other goodies I might be adding down the road. If you have a suggestion for something that you would like to see me add.. let me know. Till Then.

-

Westchester display and other feed back

2008-06-19T13:32:00.002-04:00

So I've had the project over at my complex's (Westchester Village North) main office since around June 6th.. and I have to say it has been a fun time. It's nice when you can do a really simple set up to get the feel on how other displays could go in terms of how is it going to work out.

It's in a nice quite spot where I can check on it just about every other day if I do desire. Often times I get to show it to the many people who live in this complex. Seems that we have a healthy amount of Catholics who live here and it shows in their reactions.

So far the biggest comments I'm getting is with the prayer cards I'm using as pictures along the walls. Seems that people are really enjoying seeing them inside hanging up like you would see art work of all kinds. I've been to a few parishes that do indeed have some kind of picture hanging on the walls. Mt. Zion Catholic Pastoral Center in Montrose, MI comes to mind right off the bat.

I'm still trying to get a few sites lined up for the summer. I'm waiting till after July because I know of a few places that are changing priests. I left a call for one place that I went to last season that I'm sure will have me again. But I will fill the readers in on that as those details come to light.

If I can find the places to take this project to, then I know it's going to be a very big hit with the people. But that my fellow readers, is in the hands of God. As for me, I've just been working on a few minor site tweaks. I do want to set up some kind of FAQ at some point. Because I do get some of the same questions over time. If you have a question that you would like to see answered, leave it here and I will make a post if I get enough questions. Till Then.

-

At long last!

2008-06-17T22:38:00.002-04:00

Here for your viewing, I submit the link to the Lego Church Project pictures for 2008/2009!

Took a bit to get them uploaded on to the gallery. But this is for the most part the finished project for this season! Please let me know what you think of this year's one and only, Lego Church Project!

A more creative post later as I am extremely tired from the running I did today. Till Then.

-

working on some pictures

2008-06-14T12:42:00.002-04:00

Going to be heading up to the main office this afternoon to take a few more pictures. Once I get those edited, I can being the slow process of uploading them into the Galleries.

Speaking of which, I do want to point out the infamous Lego Church Project Pictures! This album has pictures of the last eight season of my work. Showing the various churches I have built over the years. You can get a sense of the history. You can also get a bit of an understanding of why I do one year after year.

In fact, if anything, this blog is pretty much an extension of what I started back when I had my pictures over on brickshelf.com. Part of the reason why I do this stuff is I have a simple understanding. Artwork should be shared with the people.

Anyway, I have a few other updates on my van. God truly has provided for me so far. Now I just have to take care of a few things for this up coming season. So please, as always, keep me in your prayers. Anyway, Till Then.

-

sorry for the lack up updates

2008-06-08T19:55:00.003-04:00

Man.. Saginaw has been getting hit with some thunderstorms just about every day for the last few days. So because of that, my internet has not been the most stable around.

The Westchester Village (north) display is still on going. Been doing pretty good with how people are reacting to it. Clearly one of the better projects to move around.

I'm still gearing up for the Lapeer, MI display once I am able to set an date for that event. I need to pray that I am able to get some donations or resources to get my van up and running enough to make a trip like that. It's an older mini van. The SSI does not always help cover repairs. I just got some money to get the front breaks worked on. She still needs a wheel alignment and a new tire to go with it. Both of which I'm going to be trying to figure out how to cover. This is the only transportation I have to get the project to the places I want to take it to.

Are their any Catholic charities that are around that deal with helping people with the upkeep on their cars/trucks/vans? Perhaps in exchange for helping out at their place?

Anyway, I should have a more proper update in the next day or so. Oh. June 15th is the day I'm setting for the grand unveiling with the pictures. With most of them being taken at the current display site. I'm hoping that in the next day or so I can get some pictures of people looking at my work.

I hope you readers are having fun. I know I am. Till Then.

-

on a typical display site..

2008-06-03T17:53:00.002-04:00

Each year, no matter what church I've built, no matter where I take it to, you always end up getting the same set of feelings.

When you take it into a place, often times, the lights are off. No one has had the chance to get things setup so there are very few people around. Their is this quiet sense that lasts well after the project has been set up and the lights are turned on. For a few moments it's just you, the building you are visiting and the project itself. Words cannot fully describe the feelings that you have as you just slowly wait for the people to show up. But during that wait, you look around as everyone else will. Trying to see as much as you can from inside the windows. Every detail that was put into this massive creation of Lego brick. The people are what stand out the most. All sitting in their seats, Fr. Emmit (an on going joke) standing up front, delivering his homily. A clock on the wall that marks the time. A single moment of parish life frozen in time. The eyes wander the walls. They can see that somethings are not perfect. A part out of place, a brick not lined up correctly. The builder is probably a bit more nit picky than he should be. Because in the end imperfection is what gives the builder his creativity. Even the best parishes have a few minor blemishes with in the bricks. It adds that sense of realism to the work.

Such an odd feeling to have when you are sitting alone marveling at the work that was done. As the people start coming into see for themselves what has been bragged about endlessly, it hits you... the work you are in amazement over, is the work of your own two hands. God has given you an amazing talent. This is how you have put that talent to use.

By now the people are in full force. Word has gotten out that this project is indeed something that has to be seen with thy own two eyes. It's an honest toss up who is more excited. The kids or the parents who have been dragged over to see this creation. It's also a toss up who asks the more difficult questions. Even 9 and ten year-olds can pull off some of the hardest questions that.

Their is a feeling that is hard to put into words when you sit off to the side and let people explore your work. More so if these are people who know how you do things. The ones who have seen your projects year after year. Some of them will tell you out right that you have "out done yourself". That's the kind of acceptance that can make even the most vile of days seem worth it.

At some point the show must end for this location. The people are gone. The project is loaded back up into the van waiting for the next site. But their really isn't a weight of sadness. Rather the feeling is more like you've fulfilled your dream. All that remains is waiting for the next showing. Then the process gets to start all over again. What is nice though, is that this process doesn't get old. Even for the places that have seen the work over the years. And that makes it all worth while.

-

Up coming displays.

2008-05-30T14:24:00.002-04:00

I can now officially announce one of the upcoming sites that I'm taking the Lego Church to! I have been given permission by my apartment complex management to set up my project for a few days coming up here in the not too distant future. I don't have a set date as of yet. But it's more or less a simple matter of me bringing the project over to the main building.

Westchester Village North is the complex I've been living in for the last few months. The staff has been very supportive of me coming here. So I am honored for the chance to share my work.

It's going to be nice since it will give me a chance to see what kind of problems I'm going to have in moving this massive project and how many people it will take to lift such a heavy work. (almost 20lbs of Lego brick go into creating one of my works).

I like doing these non parish displays because as I said above, they give me a chance to see what kind of issues I need to look out for.

I've also been given permission to head out to parish out in Lapeer, MI. Keep this one in prayer as I have to figure out the transportation details. Donations would be welcome for this upcoming showing. More on that display as I get closer to the date. Till Then.

-

A minor frustration.

2008-05-30T13:12:00.004-04:00

This post is going to be about one of the minor issues that I have when it comes to doing one of these Lego Churches year after year. It's a source of great frustration for me at times. More so than trying to get donations.

Trying to find sites to display my work. I will admit. It's hard for me to call a parish I have never been to, or approach a pastor at a place that I'm visiting. I may communicate well, but with the disabilities that I have, at times, social interaction is not one of my better strong points. More so when it comes to dealing with people over the phone.

I've run into all kinds of problems when I call various places. Sometimes they will agree for me to bring it out for a season, then you try the following year, they decide it's not something that they want to take part in. Other times they will not even consider the idea. Some of the reasons of course on that vary. The one that I've heard the most is that "something like your work must be very fragile"

The answer is rather simple. No it's not. In fact nothing short of C4 would be able to do any major damage to that project now that it's finished. I mean transporting this is not easy. So it has to be build to withstand that kind of abuse. More so when you have a lot of screaming kids.

Honestly? I'm not 100% sure on how to get the idea across. I mean you can only run into a brick wall so many times before you get extremely frustrated to the point you want to stop. I've crossed that bridge several times in the last few years. Thankfully I have my one site locked in for sure this season.

I guess it goes to the point of, work like this needs to be shared with the people. Pictures are nice, but they by no means, do this work justice. There is so much to see and experience year after year. Part of the reason why I am invited back to St. Helen's is that people want to see what I'm going to do next. Can I out do myself? Most of the time that answer is yes. Often times in one of the more creative ways around.

So anyway, keep me in your prayers. That I am able to find a few parishes willing to let me show off my work. Something to help keep this dream of mine alive. Till Then.

-

A word about some of the links on this blog.

2008-05-28T22:36:00.002-04:00

My blog is a Catholic Blog. Meaning that it is about stuff that is important to me as being part of the Catholic Faith. The Lego Church Project is just one way I connect to it. One of the nice things about the internet is that you can have a chance to explore all kinds of elements and hopefully learn something along the way.

A lot of these fellow Catholic Bloggers have way more talent for writing than me. My only real claim to fame is that I build churches out of Lego. So check them out and perhaps you can have the chance to learn something as well.

I'm hoping my next post will in fact be about the Lego Church Project. But tonight after adding some new blogs to the link list, I just felt that I had to point some stuff out. Till Then.

-JM

sorry for the lack of updates...

2008-05-27T16:23:00.002-04:00

Yeah I'm still alive. Still keeping this blog going. Been having some major internet problems the last few days and I had a few things going on with one of the clubs I belong to.

Still haven't taken any major pictures of the project as of yet. Mostly because I'm still debating about something with the bell towers. More on that in the coming days. So we shall see. Now that the weekend is over I will try and get into posting about every other day unless I start getting a lot of comments or I find something that I can write about in this blog.

I hope all of my readers had a good weekend, Take care and we shall see ya then.

-

roof tiles and other things..

2008-05-21T13:03:00.005-04:00

A word to the readers. Just because The project is in theory completed for this season, does not mean that I will not be updating this blog for a while. Part of the reason why I started this blog is to not only highlight my own work, but to highlight other items with in the Catholic Church that have caught my eye.

Speaking of items that have caught my eye...

I found this poetry contest over at Catholic Fire. It's a shame I didn't know about it until a few days ago. I would have submitted something. Considering that I have a disability that limits my ability to have gainful employment. Though I might see if I have something in my archives that could work out and just submit it on a rare chance.

And now for the roof tiles part of this post.

Even though the project is for the most part finished. I'm debating about making two changes. Change number one is to raise up both towers by at least two rows of brick (give or take) I want them to be just a little bit taller than what they currently are.

The other thing deal with the roof tiles that I have set up. I'm thinking about redoing the set up I have on one of the tiles. I like them. Just don't like how I have the roof tiles set. (mainly the white brick tiles at the end.

Should be taking some pictures later. Depending on a few things. Please keep me in your prayers and that I would find the resources needed to keep my van up and running. If you want more information on how you can help my project. Send me an e-mail to zorronx@yahoo.com

Till Then.

-

A sneek peek..

2008-05-20T21:00:00.004-04:00

This is just the start of a set of pictures I'm going to be taking in the next day or so. I will also post some more stats on this project. This project is by far one of the most massive creations I have ever done. The level of detail rivals some of my other works, while at the same time, presenting a new level of creativity that I am known for.

Their is always a bit of pressure on myself season after season to see if I can find new ways to "out do" myself. What do you, fellow blog readers think?

-

Roof Phase Round 2!

2008-05-20T00:44:00.002-04:00

Well.. managed to get the grid up in about 5 hours of building. It took a lot to get the lights put in to where I want them.

The next phase is pretty much a two parter. Now that I have the final wall line marked out.. I can begin to create the two bell towers. One will have a bell in it. The other one will have some kind of fun set of markings on it. I just haven't decided which side will get what.

Once I get the first part of the towers set.. I can then being to create the nearly 20 some odd panels that will have to cover the grid that I just created.

The plan so far is for the center section at least, is to create six roof panels using yellow brick. The sides will be made up of various flats that I have around. White will be used as a back up. But I will have to wash a large amount of them first. I think some dish soap should do the trick. White plastic does not fare well against the sun.

Based on the test I did tonight.. I should have enough parts to pull this off. As far as yellow brick goes.. I haven't touched any of that yet. Which is a good sign.

Anyway I am getting tired. Might take some pictures tomorrow. Till Then.

-

Roof Phase round 1!

2008-05-19T13:24:00.004-04:00

Well.. it's that time of the project. The one that can be one of the best times.. or one of the most stressful parts of the build. The dreaded Roof Phase.

Pretty much at this point.. all the details are in place. The figures have been seated. The priests have been set. (Once again, I'm using the figure that represents Fr. Emmit from St. Helen's.)

The R.P. will be comprised of several steps. As I outline and explain what I'm doing in those steps, I will give some of the history behind the issues I've had with the roofs in the past.

I'm working on right now the First Phase. What I'm doing is setting up the cross beams that will make up the roof grid. Something that I've used in various forms since the 2006/2007 (lcp07) project. This grid will be more closer to the lcp07 style than last season (2007/2008, lcp08) style.

The fact their will be no massive "dome" roof this season. I may have some smaller domes but over all it's going to be mostly flat panel style.

The beams that I'm working on in the end will make up five rows of brick. The first two rows will get things established. Row three will be the row that the lights are hooked from. Row four will be the white bricks that will support the various drop in panels that I intend to create. Mostly from plates.. but with some bricks. More on that in other posts.

The reason for the panel style is this. Larger projects mean gravity starts to take over. Domes even supported with a trust system do not always work well to keep things lined up. Most of my larger projects have suffered from some form of "parts shift" in one case the shifting from the left side to the right side was well over a half inch. The panels do not really solve the problem perhaps, but look nicer than me trying to get a massive dome to line up correctly.

Well that is all for now. I will make another post when I'm ready to start second part.

-John "JM" Kraemer

a few pictures...

2008-05-16T20:57:00.007-04:00

Well.. These pictures were taken this afternoon before I started my work on the project for today. Showing various shots. Even one picture taken though one of the windows. I decided to select these four to show you. Including one with the Grand Cross I mentioned in a few of my previous posts. I also wanted to give people a sense of just how massive this project is before I fill it mini figures.

One change is going to be made though. The back where I have the image of St. Paul, the windows are going to be brought in a little bit. Mostly because I am planning on doing some kind of bell tower. Anyway I hope you have enjoyed this few pictures that give just a little taste of what I am planning for this season. Take care and God bless my friends.

-

trying to keep it real..

2008-05-15T23:27:00.002-04:00

Have to share this story with you guys because it deals with a store that I have mentioned before here in these pages. A-M Church Supply (Saginaw location). Wens I went over to the supply store to see if I could find a few extra pictures I could add to my infamous project. One of my goals has been to try and make these Lego projects as close to a real parish as I can get. The main fact is that some details cannot be replicated in Lego very easily. I've covered this issue before in previous posts.

I decided that it was high time to add a set of Stations of the Cross. Something that I have never even tried to do before. I was more than overjoyed when I found out A-M had something that would in fact work. Cost me about a buck for two cards.. that had small pictures of each Station. That I had to hand cut out. (a trip and a half). I already knew in advance how they could be placed inside. I had to find some 2x2 flat (no studs) plates. Along with some 1x2 hinged bricks. So once again I was glad that I found some stuff.

The other reason why I was at A-M was to find a picture of a specific saint.

For the record... I have never in the past had a formal name for my projects. Each year is a new build. A chance to start fresh. But I've never had any kind of naming on these works before. As an on going "joke" I would sometimes call them St. John after my name. But sadly that is more generic than it should be.

This year I decided to find a picture of a saint that I am rather fond of.. in this case.. St. Paul. I haven't come up with a full name for this years project. But thankfully now have an idea. Anyway, that's all for now. Till Then.

-

updated the pictures

2008-05-15T21:36:00.003-04:00

This will be a short post. I updated the Protoform gallery this evening showing some of the progress. I'm hoping to get some more pictures taken and up by Sat.

Work is coming along extremely well. The main task for the next few days is working on the benches and debating on if I want to set up the people or not. Though I might see if i can get one of my friends from the complex to help me get people ready to sit down. I will have at least 200 mini figures sitting inside.

Anyway here is the link to the gallery with the updated pictures. Till Then.

-

where have I been?

2008-05-13T16:05:00.003-04:00

My living room right now is full of at least six or seven parts bins. Including the 30gallon and two smaller 10 gallon bins. Needless to say I have been busy.

Ya I know. I was suppose to post some pictures this weekend. Then again since I didn't get any e-mails or comments asking about them, it's honestly hard to say if this blog is in fact being read at all.

A general rule of thumb with me on pictures. I don't always like taking them until I'm finished with the project. Mostly because what you see in earlier pictures may not always stay the same in the finished project. I don't know how many times I've redone the walls that I have or other stuff in this project alone. I am known for changing stuff all the time in all of my work.

Right now the project is at about 47% finished (not counting the roof phase). Tasks on the agenda is finishing up with all the spare red brick I can find. Then switching over to blue. Also need to build all the benches that will hold the nearly 200 mini figures that I will be putting in it. After that I will be slowly setting up for the roof phase which will be at least a four part process.

A project like this, supported by people. I have a small fan base who look forward every year to see what I can create. I am blessed by every single person who has ever hand the chance to tell me how much they enjoy what I do year after year. Thank You.

One of the questions I do get asked from time to time, is do I accept donations. The short and sweet answer is: Yes. If you would like more information on what you can do.. Send me an e-mail at zorronx@gmail.com (att: Lego Church or LCP). One of the biggest ways? Oddly enough if you live in the Bay City, Saginaw, or Flint, Michigan areas.. the best thing that can help me out is talk to your parish leaders. Those who are not aware of the work. Let them know what I do. Give them the link to the blog. Let them see for themselves what God has done for me in my life. I should be finished with LCP09 by around June 15th or so. That is my target. This years season is running from June 15th to around Jan 15th. I have a few weekends that need to be filled.

Anyway that's all for now. Till Then.

-

The Grand Cross and something that caught my eye...

2008-05-09T20:53:00.005-04:00

Greetings. I have been busy at work on the LCP09... (wow odd to hear me say that). I will give a progress report in a little bit. But first..

I saw this over while I was reading The Shrine of the Holy Whapping. It's some sketches and some picture of St. John Neumann Catholic Church in Farragut, Tenn. Have to say that over all I am impressed with building. It's a shame I can't travel much right now but that would be once parish I would have to see in person.

In order to be able to do this project year after year.. I have to take the time to study Catholic buildings in order to get an idea of what I can do. I love the variety that Catholic parishes offer. I've been to many cool places in my life time. Most of them in the greater Michigan area. So seeing this kind of stuff gets me out right excited.

Now on for the progress report.

I'm about at this point.. about 30% finished overall. I've installed all the floors, all the doors have been located. Most of the large windows are in place. The big task for the last few days has been putting in the Grand Cross.

The Grand Cross. It is for me, something that is important. Yellow cross in the center, with a red border, followed up by another border of yellow. It had it's first appearance in the 2004/2005 project. In this case it was part of the main back wall. For the next year.. I got challenged by someone from Live Journal and thus I had to tear down the main all and figure out how to put it in the front. The 07 had it in the front, but just the center part. While last year's project and this current one I'm working on will have it in full force. Once again, in the outside back wall.

Though this year is a bit of a trip considering that my back wall is far wider than past projects. This itself could pose a bit of a challenge.

Anyway not much else to report on. I hope you've enjoyed my little commentary. Till Then.

-

some help needed...

2008-05-08T09:05:00.004-04:00

I'm writing this with a bit of a heavy heart considering that.. well to be honest.. I don't like asking for help.

Here is the thing, I do this project year after year. For the last eight years I've been taking this project on the road. Spreading the word about that though God, everyone has some kind of gift. I know this message first hand because I'm on SSI disability.

In the past with costs were down, taking a trip 30 or 40 miles out wouldn't be all that much of a problem. However recent gas prices have made any extended trips extremely difficult. Along with keeping up on the repairs my older van needs.

This is pretty much a one man show. One of my goals has to been develop a several places that I can bring my Lego Church to. A project like this needs to be shared with the world. But it's hard to fulfill this goal with the resources that I have right now.

So I'm asking the community for help. I'm always looking for Lego. If you have some bricks that your child no longer uses, don't throw them out, you can send them to me.

If you would like to make a monetary donation to help with my expenses, or for more information please send me an e-mail to ZorronX@gmail.com.

I would like to thank the community for your support of my rather fun project.

Till Then.

-

the daily build

2008-05-07T17:16:00.002-04:00

Ok.. it is confirmed that I will be posting some pictures on Friday or Saturday into the Lego Church Picture Galleries.

I've been working at a pretty steady pace since my last blogging. At this time the main floor is pretty much finished up save for the center section leading up to the alter. A rather long section that will go in a more tradition for me with the blue crosses leading up like I've done on the LCP05, 06 and 08 projects. I also put in the floor for the raised entrance.

So.. what do I mean by "putting in the floor"? Well.. in order to cover up the gray and green base plates, I will cover them with what ever plates I have on hand. Mostly being blue and red for the main sections and white for the detailing. The entrance is raised up one row of brick and that has to be covered. Mostly with some kind of design that I have managed to create. A bit of detailing that marks my projects from one another. In this case I broke down the designs into three sections.. East/West and Center. East and West have pretty much a near identical pattern while the Center has it's own format. The only down side is that for the East and West... I used up a large number of 1x1 translucent parts. Most of them being round. Trying to use a brick helper is not easy.

I'm not sure if I'm going to do any more work tonight. My sinuses have been going insane for the last few days. Need to get some rest. So anyway I'm off for a bit. Oh.. and if any of the stray readers could keep me in your prayers tonight.... I don't have any sites lined up till at least October. I would pray that something opens up. More on my frustrations in a future post. Till Then.

-

trucking along..

2008-05-05T23:48:00.002-04:00

I will try to have some more pictures up in the next few days. LCP09 is turning into one of my more faster builds. This one reminds me of the 07 project on so many levels.

Progress is not always measured in how much you've built up the walls, but rather in the various sections you have worked on. Such was the case today. I managed to build a decent looking Tabernacle from scratch. Most of the time I have used various ideas including modifying the fireplace I was using in the LCP05/LCP06 project. Because you can see some stuff from the main door way.. I wanted to make it look a heck of a lot better.

This little project alone took me at least four hours or so. With the majority of time sifting though the 30 gallon bin looking for parts about the size (and or smaller than) of an Accu-Chek test strip. But I am happy with the results. I've also completed the rest of that room's floor. Using mostly no stud flats. In the front area I also managed to get the first part of the covering done on that floor. The main worship area won't be done till I get rest of the walls up.

I still have to find some places to display this project. But I will cover that later on down the road. That's all from me right now. Till Then.

all I need is a good day...

2008-05-04T17:15:00.000-04:00

Oddly enough I have made some progress. But I can tell you right off the bat this is going to be a very complex work. More so than any of my other projects so far.

So here is a quick run down of what I have started on.

I have for the most part decided on my placement of windows and doors. This is a first for me. I never have stuff decided this quickly.

I have the main entrance sub floor installed. I just have to place the flat plates on top of it. Which is the same process for the main floor. I also have a few other sections put in as well. Just only a matter of deciding how I want to tile those.

What is going to make this complex is what I'm doing to the walls this season. I'm going to see if I can put some kind of artwork on the sides. Using the yellow against the red. Should work out nicely. But this means I get to go diving into the massive 30 gallon this week to hunt down for all the little 1x1 bricks.

I will have some more pictures posted later in the week. I know I wasn't suppose to be posting at all this weekend.. but I got hit with one of my more creative moods.

Hey if you read this blog! Let me know! Would love to hear from ya with your thoughts and comments.

Till Then...

A sneek peek...

2008-05-03T21:20:00.001-04:00

Well.. it was bound to happen at some point... Never before has anyone ever seen this stage of building before. No one out side of me has ever seen pictures of this project being started. So here are a few notes on the pictures. Where you see windows and doors, that is by no means the final placement. The white bricks you see are my outline of various sections that I'm mapping out. The alter and the main entrance. Not all the windows have been placed, and in fact, are not even at the proper rows. They are just there to give me an idea of what it is that I need to plan down the road. I say it to you now.. The build for LCP09, has only just started!Till Then...

some progress (so much for a few days)

2008-05-02T15:03:00.002-04:00

Lets begin. One of the things that I really did enjoy was the massive wall I had in the back of the 2004/2005 project. It opened up in to a smaller back room. The problem being is that it wasn't as stable as I would have liked and had to take off part of the roof to fix a segment that broke between two displays I did that season.

So as I'm sitting down working on the new LCP.. I've decided that I'm going to bring about some of that back. I want to create a small back room. Though it's only going to go up about seven rows. (a typical Lego figure is only about five rows high). Then that room will be closed off early. With the remaining wall going up twenty to twenty-five rows I think. Which isn't too bad. That's not counting the rows that will go into creating the roof.

I've almost got the layout set to how I want it. But I need to decide on a few things. Mostly with the sides. I've got the wall right to the edge but I'm thinking I want to add a bit of a space. In fact the more that I think about it that's what I might end up doing.

Not too set on the front entrance. I've almost to that locked down as to how I want to do it. Still playing with a few ideas right now. Once I get that stuff locked down then perhaps I can start some real building.

Anyway, might not hear from me for a day or so. Not feeling the best today... take care and have fun.

-

What do I mean by a layout?

2008-05-01T14:20:00.003-04:00

In the history of the "Massive" scale of projects.. which includes most of the public display ones, the process really hasn't changed all that much.

Pretty much what happens is this: I get my 48x26 inch work board.. (A painted section of plywood.) and then cover it with as a many base plates as I can. The base plates themselves are pretty much plastic mats if you will covered with Lego studs. It allows people to start work on something with out it moving around. They have a little bit more give than the normal plates that will be used in the construction. It should be noted that I have at some points used anywhere from four to seven base plates to give me enough work space.

From there the next step is to get out as many red 1x4 bricks as I can find. Creating one massive rectangle. There I will slowly make changes. Often times completely resetting the over all size. Once I get the starting size that I want, I can then begin to map out the various areas. I can add side rooms, modify the back area as well as the front entrance.

Added to the process starting with the 2006/2007 (lcp07) project I added another step. I decided to create a grid system. To to that I take a small base plate and using 1x2 (square) bricks map out points around it. The idea being is that the roof will have a grid system connected to it. This will allow me to create decent sized drop in segments for the roof. First seen in the 07 project. It was slightly used in the 08 project. But that was because I wanted to use a massive Dome Roofs that I'm known for.

Now as far as the upcoming LCP09 (2008/2009).. I'm going back to the spirit of what I was attempting to do back in on the 07. But more on that as I get into the build some more.

So far on the 09... I have a layout mapped. But I need to let it sit for a few days before I decide if I want to keep that or make some changes. That will not be done tonight. I need to let this sit for a little while.

Anyway hope everyone is enjoying the day. Till then.

the great picture debate...

2008-04-30T14:55:00.002-04:00

http://picasaweb.google.com/ZorronX

With in the history of the many Lego Churches I have build over the years, I have always had some kind of pictures hanging on the walls. These were created using transparent flat 1x1's to create some kind of image. I've done crosses, Fishes, and a few other things over the years. They are created to help add something to the inside.

The main problem that I've had.. (or perhaps complaint) is that as talented as I am with Lego, You need far more space to make a really decent looking image. I mean people have created pictures using various 1x1 bricks and flats. Just that I don't have the resources to pull that kind of stuff off. Now on average I have had anywhere from four or five pictures inside of one of my projects. Last season I only had two.

The ones I still have are starting to show their age. Option number one is to simply replace all of them with newer updated pictures. Once again running into the same issues as I just mentioned. One thing about the Lego Church Project is that most of the time it's about blending the old with the new. So I'm wondering if it's time to do something new.

Last week I had the chance to visit a wonderful store here in Saginaw.. A-M Church Supply. (www.am-church.com) While I was looking around the place I saw some small cards with some very beautiful pictures on them. The cost is not all that bad for someone who is on SSI like me. So I picked up two just to see what the overall size would be. Which in this case would be a bit bigger than what I would be replacing.

Now I will admit upfront, I tend to be a bit of a Lego purist. It's rare that I would even think about bringing in real world elements into a Lego world. That's like watching the old cartoons that splice in old black and white movie footage inside. Just doesn't sit right with me.

But at the same time, I've run into a few problems. It's hard to make decent looking statues and such. Details that I see in the many parishes I've had the honor to visit over the years. That and I want to have realistic stuff inside. There is just so much that I want to do.

I'm going to try the pictures this year. If it doesn't work out then I will switch to something else for the next season.

Hey! Let me know what you think! Drop me a comment or an email. ZorronX@gmail.com!

Till then!

a few things...

2008-04-29T22:55:00.000-04:00

First off I would like to welcome anyone who has found this place via the Saint Blog group. I just want to make it clear that while it doesn't say it as much as it should, the Lego Church Project is indeed Catholic artwork using the talents that God has given me.

So now I'm starting to get into the part where the first round of sorting is almost finished. I think I have about another hour or so left on that. Keep in mind that is just the two main bins that LCP08 ended up in after I took it down back in early March of this year. I have other 30 gallon bin that I haven't even looked at.

Oddly enough, over the years, I have managed to develop a bit of a system that I use when it comes to building these massive Lego creations. The main task is the sorting. Which I've been covering a lot about in the last few posts. Layout will be next. Followed by the build. That in and of itself will be one of the most intense parts of the Lego Church.

I mean you have to realize right off the bat, I'm the one running the entire show. Once in a while I will have a friend stop by to help me sort out parts. But as far as coming up with the layout, the planning of how things are going to be set in, and even the building of the church itself. That is all done by a single soul. I would be lying if I didn't say this can be a real challenge. But I do enjoy the outcome.

Right now, I'm still making up my mind about what kind of building I want to attempt. I have a few styles that I'm looking at. I was going to wait a bit to start planning the layout.. but if I get into a creative burst you never know what could happen.

Anyway that is all for now. Till then..

-JM

More Sorting.. some info...

2008-04-28T20:50:00.000-04:00

Well.. I go though this every year. I take time sorting out the bricks that I happen to need. I'm doing it early so I can get a rough idea of what I have. So what has been done so far is that the four main colors that I use.. (Red, Blue, Yellow and White) have been put into their own containers. In this case three of those said containers are 28lbs buckets. So far I'm about 80% finished with first part of the sorting. Once I get that finished up, I can begin to map the layout. Which I will do with in the next week or so.

The layout process will be a fun one. My work board that I use is only 48x26 inches. It is set up so I can fit though most doors. I've been using the workstation since a few years before the 2000/2001 season (LCP01) . However it's only been since LCP04 that I've made an active attempt to keep the project with in limits of that board. As in nothing hanging over the sides. Makes for an easier transport that way.

You will notice that from time to time, I will refer to projects in several different ways. Most times I will reference something as in LCP04, or even LCP03.. or even stranger just say the 05 project. Now unless you've been following my work for a long time, this doesn't make any clear sense.

Back when I was hosting my pictures on Brickshelf.. which is a mega site for posting Lego works online, I needed to develop a numbering system to help keep track of the various years. Since my display season runs from around Mid August to around Easter, I will often use the year that the project is torn down as the number of the project.

Thus, I've created a bit of a shorthand way if you will, of talking about my work. LCP04, means Lego Church Project 2003/2004. Officially for my own records, last season's project was called LCP08. So, when I start work on this next church, it will be Lego Church Project 2008/2009 or for me at least, LCP09.

Also, I wanted to let the readers know.. if you have a parish website that you think I might want to check out, or another Catholic site, leave a comment and let me know.

Till then.

-JM

Sorting bricks, sharing history....

2008-04-27T15:54:00.004-04:00

Today I have begun the slow process of sorting out the Lego I used from last season's project. This will take me at least a few days or so depending on how much I can get done. All I really do at this point is just throw the colors into their own bins. It allows me to get an idea of what I have to work with. Sorting out parts takes up more of my time than the working on the build.

Speaking of buildings, I've pretty much got a layout set. Not even close to mapping it out. I did some look though Google Images to see some styles of Catholic buildings from around the world. So I think that I'm going to do will in fact work.

To be honest.. doing one of these projects is hard. Considering that I'm not good a math. Have never had any formal training in how to make or design buildings. Everything that you've seen me do in the past is just straight from my own mind.

The Project itself, was just something of a child's dream. While all of my friends where using Lego to build star ships, I was starting to make buildings. Some how I got it in my head that I could do churches. As the years went on, they kept getting bigger and bigger. Of course they were always built around Christmas. Most of the time they were placed right under the tree.. (they were small enough I could do this.)

Almost nine years ago I was reaching a bit of a cross roads. I mean I was honestly thinking that it was time to give up what I was doing. But then God had another idea for me. It was a chance and I put my project in the back of my dad's mini van (I was driving a car at the time) and too it to Mt. Zion Catholic Pastoral Center. That was at the end of the 2000/2001 season. My first public display lasted a full week. In the end, I tore down the project for that season right at the site. Took all of about an hour with an endless amount of children from the parish to help me out.

That was the start of public displays. Since that time I've had the honor of bringing my work to various places here in the Saginaw, Michigan area. I would pray that some day, I would be able to go farther than I would ever hope. What I do is very fun. I get a major kick out of seeing the adults and children swarming around me asking all kinds of questions.

I hope you've had a chance to check out the link to the pictures so you can get a chance to better understand what it is that I'm doing. If you have questions, feel free to ask.

-JM

Here we go!

2008-04-24T16:03:00.002-04:00

Wow. This was something that I didn't expect to happen! Greetings! Welcome to the official Lego Church Project... blog!?

Yes.. you read that right. So the biggest question is.. what the heck is the Lego Church Project?

The LCP is pretty much just that. A church that is built every year out of those Lego building blocks.

http://picasaweb.google.com/ZorronX

See for yourself in the link provided. That will give you a slight idea of what it is that I'm doing.

The other question is: Why am I doing this blog?

I have people who have seen my work. This is just one way for people to see what it is that I do and to keep track of my progress each and every season. My plan so far is to share thoughts and ideas during the build. Along with highlighting various parishes that I happen to run across.

This project is to me, Catholic artwork. Mostly because, well, it's a giant Catholic Parish that I build season after season. Most of them measuring about 45x25 inches.

I'm not going to be too preachy with this blog. I have other outlets to do that. This is mostly to help me share something that to be really honest, I think is one of the neatest things out there right now.

This blog itself will be updated for now, every few days or so. Once I get started on the build for the current season, then it will be more often. For now, enjoy the pictures over on Google. They will give you a better idea of what it is that I'm doing here in Saginaw.

-JM