At the close of the Christmas season, the Gospel invites us to linger with the Magi—mysterious seekers who followed signs and wonders until they encountered Emmanuel, God-with-us. In this reflection, Lyn Pajk explores who the Magi really were, what drew them across deserts and darkness, and how a single encounter with Christ changed the direction of their lives. Through a nostalgic journey back to Christmas traditions of the 1970s—and a heartfelt retelling of The Little Drummer Boy—Lyn reminds us that coming before Jesus doesn’t require perfect gifts or polished hearts. Like Aaron with his simple drum, we bring what we have: our wounds, our hopes, our small offerings of love. As the Magi returned home “by another way,” we are challenged to ask the same question: after Advent and Christmas, how will we go back into ordinary time? Will we choose a path marked by mercy, kindness, forgiveness, and joy? Enjoy this reflection on Epiphany, transformation, and the daily invitation to encounter Christ in one another—and to be changed by him. --- Originally from Ohio, Lyn and her husband Tim moved to Midland in October of 1999 and became part of the Blessed Sacrament family that very first week. With a biology degree from Ohio State and post grad work in secondary science education, she brought 6 years of Middle School Science teaching experience with her to Michigan, as well as two young sons. During her 8 years as a stay-at-home mom, Lyn volunteered as a coach, room parent, catechist, and Cub Scout Den Leader for her now, 3 sons. In 2007 she entered the Saginaw Diocese Lay Ministry program and in 2008 joined the staff of Blessed Sacrament as the Coordinator of Elementary Faith Formation. Five years later she took on the role of Middle School Youth Minister (her favorite job of all time) and finished up her 15-year tenure as a member of the Faith Formation Team as the Coordinator of Adult Formation/Discipleship in addition to being the Team Leader. in 2023 Lyn "retired" from ministry, and she and Tim moved back to Ohio where their parents and their 3 boys all lived. And though she was certain that she wouldn't ever work in ministry again, Lyn is in her second year as DRE at their new parish, St. Victor, in Richfield, Ohio.

Renee Larsen invites us to see the Holy Family not as distant figures, but as a family much like ours—living daily life with love, worry, laughter, and faith. From fleeing danger to raising Jesus in Nazareth, Mary and Joseph show us that holiness is found in ordinary moments and quiet trust in God. As we reflect on their journey, we’re reminded that our own families, too, walk the path of faith and unity in Christ. --- Renee is a Midland native who attended Midland Public Schools, graduating from Midland High School. She holds a Bachelor of Arts degree in Elementary/Middle School Education from Saginaw Valley State University. She retired from teaching middle school and is now a part of the Blessed Sacrament Liturgy Team. When she’s not at work, she’s usually with her dog, Purl, and has a set of knitting needles or a crochet hook in hand busy on one project or another.

Merry Christmas! In this Christmas reflection, Kristyn Russell explores the radical inclusivity of the nativity story. From shepherds on the margins to a spork named Forky, the manger reminds us that God’s love is for everyone—especially those who feel overlooked, broken, or out of place. The birth of Christ is heaven’s open invitation: no fences, no exclusions, just grace and welcome. As we celebrate Christmas, let’s not only come and see, but make room for others—because if the shepherds were welcomed first, then everyone is welcome. Always. --- Kristyn is a Midland native who attended St. Brigid Catholic School before heading to Jefferson and Dow High School. She holds a Master’s degree in Theology from Villanova University and in Strategic Communication from Michigan State University. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Theology with a minor in Communication from Aquinas College. When she’s not at work, she’s usually with her dog, Caspian, kayaking a new river, hiking through the woods, or sitting by a campfire reading a book.

On this Fourth Sunday of Advent, Julie Davis reflects on the love candle and the quiet, steadfast strength of St. Joseph. Chosen by God to be the earthly father of Jesus, Joseph shows us that holiness is found in humility, hard work, and trust in God’s plan. Through personal stories of family and faith, Julie reminds us that love is revealed in ordinary lives lived with extraordinary care. As we prepare for Christmas, let’s follow Joseph’s example—cherish one another, listen for God’s voice, and embrace his direction in our daily lives. --- Julie is a native Midlander and a lifelong member of Blessed Sacrament Parish. BSP played a key role in her faith journey, It was there that she was baptized, received her first communion, was confirmed and married her husband of 45 years, George who is also a lifelong member of Blessed Sacrament. Their two children, Justin and Elizabeth celebrated their sacraments there as well. The children attended Blessed Sacrament Catholic School and their daughter married her husband Gordon at BSP. Their first grandson Gibson attended Blessed Sacrament Catholic School and received his sacraments there as well. Julie and George were blessed with two additional grandchildren Nate and Olive. Julie worked in a professional capacity for the Catholic Church for over 25 years most under the leadership and example of Bishop Ken and so many amazing women and men that gave her a broader understanding of God and our role as leaders in the church and in the world. Julie worked in the Faith Formation Department at Blessed Sacrament, the Education Formation Department at the Diocese of Saginaw, the Education Formation and Pastoral Department at St Helen Parish and the Education Formation Department at St. Brigid Parish. Julie studied Theology in the Undergraduate Program that was offered at the diocese by Siena Heights University and studied Religion and Youth Ministry at Marygrove College in Detroit. She completed certification in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and successfully completed the requirements for the Dominican Center for Religious Development Graduate Program in Spiritual Direction. She currently volunteers in the Christ Renews program.

Corinne Cathcart invites us to walk alongside Mother Teresa in the slums of Calcutta and discover the power of love expressed in simple acts. Through stories of courage, compassion, and perseverance—even in the midst of spiritual darkness—Corinne connects Mother Teresa’s life to Isaiah’s promise of deserts blooming with joy. As we approach Christmas, this episode challenges us to pour great love into small things and create something beautiful for God. If you would like to learn more about the four Teresas, check out this podcast episode! -- Corinne was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, but has been a member of the Blessed Sacrament community for 14 years. She earned a bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University, where she met her husband of over 25 years, and a Master's in Education from the University of Cincinnati. She was a second grade Catholic school teacher in Cincinnati before moving here when her husband started working for Dow Chemical. She loves working with the littles of the Blessed Sacrament family as the Children's Faith Formation Coordinator. When she's not at work, you'll find her with her nose in a book or learning something new!

Jean Thiele shares her personal journey of faith, family, and spiritual growth. From her roots in a family shaped by hardship to her deepening relationship with God through community, ministry, and centering prayer, Jean reminds us that each of us carries a unique story and a divine spark within. Explore how vulnerability, perseverance, and the gifts of the Spirit guide us toward hope, love, and co-creation with God. This is an invitation to ignite the flame of faith and bring hope to others. --- Jean Thiele was born and raised in Iron Mountain Michigan and attended St. Mary and St. Joseph grade school. In 1978, she graduated from Iron Mountain High School. She attended Michigan State University and graduated in 1982 with a bachelor in Nursing and in 1992 with a Masters in Geriatric Nursing. She later received a certificate to become a Lay Minister in the Saginaw Diocese and after 4 years became a Spiritual Director from the Dominican Center in Farmington Hills Michigan. She is a grief facilitator, centering prayer practitioner, and retreat leader. She loves biking with her husband, Scott, golf, and traveling with family and friends. Faith to Jean is service from a trinitarian spirituality, having the freedom to make a choice to co-create with our Loving God.

Mary Shaughnessy invites us to pause amid the holiday rush and rediscover the true meaning of Advent. While the season often feels consumed by shopping lists, decorations, and deadlines, Advent calls us to something deeper—preparing not only for the celebration of Christ’s birth but for His coming again. Through personal stories and powerful imagery, Mary reminds us that life’s most significant moments—birth, death, and meeting Jesus face-to-face—are known only to God. This reflection challenges us to put as much energy into preparing our hearts for eternal life as we do for Christmas Day. With practical encouragement and a prayerful spirit, Mary inspires us to let Christ’s light guide our lives and shine through all we do this season. --- Mary and husband Kevin have been members of Blessed Sacrament for 45 years where they raised their children. Their family now consists of 4 children, each of their spouses and 10 grandchildren!  Mary has been involved in Faith Formation, Christ Renews and Small Faith groups for several years.  She is a commissioned Lay Eccesial Minister and is currently involved in the Hospital Ministry and other Liturgical ministries.  She has been volunteering at the Toni and Trish Home for the terminally ill for the last 17 years as well as serves on the Board of Directors there. She graduated from MSU with a BSN and worked in several areas of nursing.  Go Green!  She and Kevin enjoy traveling at home and abroad in their spare time.

In this powerful reflection for the Feast of Christ the King, Stacey Trapani reads one of Bishop Ken Untener's homilies where he explores how Jesus redefined kingship—not through thrones and triumph, but through humility, suffering, and love. Though instituted in 1925 by Pope Pius XI, this feast invites us to look beyond worldly images of royalty and embrace Jesus as the Good Shepherd, the New Adam, and the one who leads us not by force, but by example. Through vivid contrasts—crowns of thorns, a cross as a throne, and oil instead of swords—we’re reminded that following Christ means walking in his way of life. Every “Amen” we say is a commitment to live with love, even in the face of suffering. On this final Sunday of the Church year, we’re invited to look at the sweep of history and recommit ourselves to Christ at the center of it all. --- Stacey has been a Blessed Sacrament parishioner for more than 35 years. She grew up in Lansing and attended Central Michigan University where she earned a degree in journalism. She has a bachelor’s degree in Journalism from CMU and a master’s in Communications from MSU. For most of her career, Stacey owned Trapani Communications, Inc., in Midland. She recently “retired” to become executive director of Little Books, creators of the Little Black Book and other daily reflections. Stacey is also a commissioned Lay Minister and is in her final year of a three-year Spiritual Director training program. She has been married to Chuck for 39 years and has two daughters both with awesome spouses. She is overjoyed to soon welcome their first grandbaby. --- Kenneth Edward Untener was born in Detroit on Aug. 3, 1937 and was ordained to the priesthood in 1963 for the Archdiocese of Detroit. He served as rector of St. John Provincial Seminary in Plymouth from 1977 until he was ordained as the fourth bishop of Saginaw in November 1980. Described as a “Hungarian Gypsy” by his predecessor, Bishop Untener made headlines when he sold the bishop’s residence shortly after coming to the diocese and moved 69 times from parish rectory to parish rectory, living as a roommate with his diocesan priests and somewhat from the trunk of his car. He took the Diocese of Saginaw global with his legacy of seasonal "Little Books" of prayer for Lent, Easter and Advent/Christmas. First released in 2000, more than 3 million copies are sold annually worldwide, with books making their way into the hands of Catholics as far away as Australia. In addition to the ministry of his vocation – and despite his need for a prosthetic leg after losing part of his leg to a birth deformity – Bishop Untener also had a love for hockey. He was known to sometimes show up at the Nouvel Catholic Central High School team’s early morning practices and challenge goalies.  Saginaw’s spiritual leader for more than 23 years, Bishop Untener died March 27, 2004 from leukemia. 

Corinne Cathcart invites us into a joyful and imaginative reflection on Psalm 98, weaving together scripture, childhood memories, and a call to live out God’s justice in the present moment. From reading her children’s Bible in the front yard to picturing King David dancing before the Ark, Corinne shares how sacred imagination can help us envision God's kingdom on earth. As the liturgical year draws to a close and Advent approaches, this episode challenges us to consider what it means for the Lord to rule the earth with justice—not just in the future, but here and now. Through music, mercy, and movement, we’re called to be instruments of God’s grace and to let our joy shine like rivers clapping and mountains shouting. Let this reflection inspire you to dance like no one’s watching, live with compassion, and dream boldly of heaven on earth.   --- Corinne was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, but has been a member of the Blessed Sacrament community for 14 years.  She earned a bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University, where she met her husband of over 25 years, and a Master's in Education from the University of Cincinnati.  She was a second grade Catholic school teacher in Cincinnati before moving here when her husband started working for Dow Chemical. She loves working with the littles of the Blessed Sacrament family as the Children's Faith Formation Coordinator. When she's not at work, you'll find her with her nose in a book or learning something new!

In this episode, Melissa Kato shares her personal journey of faith—from a teenager committed to caring for her body as a temple of God, to a young adult who slowly drifted away from spiritual nourishment. Life’s busyness, marriage, and motherhood led her to unintentionally starve her spirit. But through intentional choices—returning to Mass, finding a church community, and discovering peace in scripture—Melissa found her way back to a full and joyful spiritual life. Her story is a powerful reminder that caring for our spirit is just as vital as caring for our body, and that our presence at Mass can be a gift to others in ways we may never realize. Join us as Melissa invites us to recognize God’s presence in our lives and become vessels of his grace to those around us. --- Melissa is our Coordinator for High School Youth Ministry and has been a member of Blessed Sacrament Parish since 2008. She married Wayne in 2013, has four grown children and one grandchild.  When she is not at work or with her granddaughter, she is usually at home working in her young orchard, refinishing an old piece of furniture, or playing with her dog-Lucky.

In this All Souls Day reflection, Christine Sellnow shares a deeply personal story of loss, grief, and God's comfort. After the sudden passing of her brother-in-law Danny, Christine found herself overwhelmed by sorrow while serving as a Catholic missionary in Romania. Through a providential encounter with fellow missionaries at a post office, she experienced God’s presence in a profound and unexpected way. Drawing from St. Paul’s words, “Hope does not disappoint,” Christine reminds us that God doesn’t just meet us at the end of our journey—He walks with us through every moment of pain and healing. This episode is a powerful testament to how God proves his love for us in the quiet, ordinary moments, especially when we need him most. --- Christine grew up in farm country in Croswell, MI, but her family moved to Midland in 2001 and became active members at Assumption BVM Parish. She earned her bachelor's degree in Political Science from the University of Notre Dame, with plans on becoming a human rights lawyer. After graduation, Christine spent 14 months in Romania as a Catholic missionary through Con-solatio, and learned first-hand that changing hearts is more transformational in the lives of individuals than changing laws. She has been working in ministry ever since. This is her 8th year serving as the Coordinator of Middle School Youth Ministry at Blessed Sacrament, and she loves finding creative ways to help the students grow in relationship with Jesus Christ. She and her husband, Kevin, have been married for 8 years, and they have two young daughters. 

In this deeply personal and thought-provoking episode, Vicki Briggs revisits the parable of the Pharisee and the tax collector from Luke’s Gospel—not with childhood simplicity, but with the complexity of adult faith. What begins as a familiar call to humility unfolds into a layered reflection on prayer, gratitude, spiritual discipline, and self-righteousness. Through honest questions and spiritual wrestling, she explores how discomfort with scripture can be a gift—an invitation to grow, to love more deeply, and to rely more fully on God’s grace. Join Vicki as she unpacks how this parable challenges us to move beyond rule-following into authentic relationship with God and others. --- Vicki grew up in Corpus Christi, Texas.  She attended Catholic schools before moving to Austin to earn a bachelor's degree in Civil Engineering at the University of Texas.  After graduating, she moved to Houston to work for Exxon Refining at Baytown. There she met Mike Briggs, a native of Midland. Mike returned to Midland to work for Dow Corning, and Vicki followed shortly thereafter. They were married here at Blessed Sacrament and have three children and eight grandchildren. Mike and Vicki lead a Small Faith Group and enjoy being active in our Midland community.

In this heartwarming and humorous episode, Christy Granda shares her journey from after-school yoga sessions to office-wide Planksgiving challenges—and how these physical feats mirror the spiritual strength found in community. Through laughter, sore muscles, and shared motivation, Christy draws a powerful parallel between her coworkers’ support and the biblical story of Moses, Aaron, and Hur during the battle against Amalek. Whether you're holding a plank or holding up a friend, this episode reminds us that we’re not meant to go it alone. -- Christy was born and raised in Bay City. She met her husband on a blind date and they worked briefly together at Dow when she was a co-op and he was a contractor.  Soon after that their work paths diverged as she finished her degree in Elementary Special Education and he continued as a graphic designer.  She worked as a Special Education teacher for 32 years before retiring and immediately jumped into her new role as Adult Faith Formation Coordinator.  When asked about the differences between working with adults and children she might reply "so far, nobody has tried to kick, bite or scream at me."  She and her husband have two adult children and have been members of Blessed Sacrament for the past 20 plus years.  

When Corinne Cathcart and her husband left Ohio for Midland, she wondered if they would ever find the kind of parish family they had always known. Feeling like an outsider brought new perspective to the Gospel story of the lepers—outcasts in their time, yet embraced by Jesus who tears down every barrier. In this episode of Voices, Corinne shares how her journey from Buckeye country to Blessed Sacrament became a reminder that in Christ, no one is an outsider. We are all children of God, called to welcome and include one another. -- Corinne was born and raised in Cincinnati, Ohio, but has been a member of the Blessed Sacrament community for 14 years.  She earned a bachelor's degree from The Ohio State University, where she met her husband of over 25 years, and a Master's in Education from the University of Cincinnati.  She was a second grade Catholic school teacher in Cincinnati before moving here when her husband started working for Dow Chemical. She loves working with the littles of the Blessed Sacrament family as the Children's Faith Formation Coordinator. When she's not at work, you'll find her with her nose in a book or learning something new!

In this episode of Voices, Kristyn Russell explores how a simple observation from a two-year-old can reshape how we see Jesus, faith, and what it means to live humbly. Through a story about babysitting, a playground, and a child’s longing to hug Jesus on the cross, she reminds us that true faith isn’t about degrees or self-righteousness—it’s about love, presence, and walking alongside Christ. Drawing from Luke’s Gospel, this reflection challenges us to let go of superiority and embrace the simple, mustard-seed faith that welcomes the poor, the lonely, and the outcast. Who in your life needs a “hug” this week? --- Kristyn is a Midland native who attended St. Brigid Catholic School before heading to Jefferson and Dow High School. She holds a Master’s degree in Theology from Villanova University and in Strategic Communication from Michigan State University. She earned her Bachelor’s degree in Theology with a minor in Communication from Aquinas College. When she’s not at work, she’s usually with her dog, Caspian, kayaking a new river, hiking through the woods, or sitting by a campfire reading a book.

Kristyn Russell is joined by Leona Jones, operations manager of Little Books, and Fr. Rob Howe to share stories and talk about the legacy of Bishop Ken Untener. Resources Discussed: Little Books Hello My Name is Ken... The Practical Prophet Preaching Better

Kristyn Russell is joined by college students, Hannah (The College of Wooster), John (Calvin University), and Collin (University of Michigan) for a synod listening session. What do these young adults desire in their Church? This podcast follows the same structure that our listening sessions at the parish will follow. You can RSVP for a listening session here. All three young adults were active participants in youth ministry at Blessed Sacrament. They attended NCYC, participated on the Outreach Team, and were members of the Youth 2 Youth retreat team. Collin mentions a video that he did for the Diocese of Saginaw. You can find that here. Hannah was a guest on the podcast back in December. If you missed her episode, you can find it here.

Happy New Year folks! We're back with a brand new episode of the BSPC podcast. On this episode Kristyn Russell is joined by Fr. Rob Howe to talk about the synod: what is it? Why is it important? And why should you participate? This is our moment Church! Let's make sure your voice is heard! For more information about the synod: Blessed Sacrament Synod Information Diocese of Saginaw Pope Francis on the Synod

Kristyn Russell sits down with long-time parishioner, Stacey Trapani, to talk about contemplative prayer. It is nothing to be afraid of! In fact, contemplative prayer is for everyone, not so sure? Listen to the podcast to try your hand at a 5 minute prayer. More reading: Cloud of Unknowing Thomas Merton Thomas Keating

In this episode, Kristyn Russell talks with Hannah Baker, a college junior, about her internship with a nonprofit that works with the immigrant population. The conversation ranges from personal experiences to thoughts on social justice and faith with a lot in between! Love is radical, love is an action, and we are all called to love one another radically. St. Juan Diego, pray for us!