How do I connect with a CTR Small Group?
When it comes to concretely living our faith and truly “being” church; the body of Christ, the “rubber-hits-the-road” in the connections and relationships formed through small groups. Whether its a MOMS group, book studies, RCIA, our Youth Group, an old FIRE group, Scripture Study, or just a group of parishioners, friends and/or neighbors who enjoy and find strength in getting together every now and then to share their stories about faith and life; THIS is the kind of “house church” that most resembles our early church roots. We go to each other’s family funerals, weddings, baptisms….we are there for one another when we lose a job, struggle with our children, care for our aging parents. Our Education Commission hopes to invite, help launch new and nurture existing on-going Small Groups within our larger parish community.
FAQ’s: How to Join a CTR Small Group?
You can sign-up for our Lenten Small Group session by visiting our website at www.ctredeemer.org/bring-a-friend-lenten-book-discussion and following the prompts. Signing up is as easy as filling out the form with your name, email address and hitting submit. We'll take care of the rest.
When are Small Groups starting?
Our Lenten small groups gather in February & March. We are calling our Lenten small group session our CTR “Bring-a-Friend Lenten Book Discussion” (see last week’s bulletin or CCQ#65 at http://crazycatholicquestions.blogspot.com/2016/01/crazy-catholic-question-65-bring-friend.html) and we will be discussing the remarkable book The Church of Mercy by Pope Francis. Copies will be sold for 2 for $10 (60% off what you pay on Amazon!) or $6 for an individual copy after Masses beginning Jan. 30th. Your Small Group Facilitator will contact you about the start date & location. We will offer another sign up in summer & another in the fall.
How many weeks are Small Groups meeting for?
Our small communities meet for 5 or 6 weeks during Lent (February & March), Summer (July & August) and Fall (October & November).
I'm not a member at the Christ the Redeemer. Is it ok if I join a small group? Absolutely. Everyone is welcome. Without exception.
The small group I signed up for isn't really a good fit for me. Is it ok if I try another one?
Yes, please email Lisa Brown, our Director of Religious Education & Family Ministry at dre@ctredeemer.org if you'd like help finding another small group that hopefully is a better fit.
Can I go to more than one small group?
Yes, if you actually have time to attend more than one small group. Most people find that they have the best experience if they attend one small group consistently, rather than several small groups occasionally.
I'm interested in leading/facilitating a small group. What should I do?
We are always looking for new people to lead small groups. We provide great training and support to help you have a positive experience as you lead. Please contact Steve Marks, our CTR deacon, at deacon.steve.marks@gmail.com about next steps.
I’m interested in hosting a small group in my home, but not serving as the leader/facilitator. How do I sign up for that?
Thank you for your hospitality! Please contact Lisa Brown at dre@ctredeemer.org to sign up.
Sunday, January 31, 2016
Saturday, January 30, 2016
Crazy Catholic Question #66: Nametags
How do I get a CTR nametag?
Next weekend in Fr. Joe’s “State of the Parish” address he will reintroduce an idea started last year; requesting that each and every CTR member (including the kiddos) purchase permanent, reusable, magnetic nametags and wear them each time we come to CTR for Mass or any other event so that we may grow deeper in our relationships and common union with one another.
Here are a few compelling reasons to wear a nametag…
To order your CTR nametag ($6.50 each)
1. go to: www.naagtag.com/christtheredeemer
2. When prompted, choose "Option 1" (indicating its NOT a rush order)
3. Choose "Customer Pick-Up" as the method of shipping (ignore the Salt Lake Area only restriction).
Paypal/Credit Cards accepted. After Feb. 10th there will be an extra $4.50 in shipping cost per nametag. If you have any questions call Kirby Bayles at 1800-242-6224 or email
sales@naagtag.com.
Next weekend in Fr. Joe’s “State of the Parish” address he will reintroduce an idea started last year; requesting that each and every CTR member (including the kiddos) purchase permanent, reusable, magnetic nametags and wear them each time we come to CTR for Mass or any other event so that we may grow deeper in our relationships and common union with one another.
Here are a few compelling reasons to wear a nametag…
- Nobody remembers everybody in the church. As our church grows, that task becomes even more difficult. Nametags allow us to admit that struggle while providing a way to overcome it.
- Nametags invite conversation. Knowing another person’s name breaks down one barrier to conversations. It’s simply easier to talk with others when you are on a first-name basis.
- Nametags save embarrassment. We’ve probably all called someone by the wrong name, only to realize it later (or perhaps even within the same conversation). This is embarrassing for both parties.
- Nametags are an inexpensive way to promote outward focus. Using nametags is one way to say, “We expect God to send us guests, and we want to be ready for them.”
To order your CTR nametag ($6.50 each)
1. go to: www.naagtag.com/christtheredeemer
2. When prompted, choose "Option 1" (indicating its NOT a rush order)
3. Choose "Customer Pick-Up" as the method of shipping (ignore the Salt Lake Area only restriction).
Paypal/Credit Cards accepted. After Feb. 10th there will be an extra $4.50 in shipping cost per nametag. If you have any questions call Kirby Bayles at 1800-242-6224 or email
sales@naagtag.com.
Tuesday, January 12, 2016
Crazy Catholic Question #65: Bring-a-Friend Lenten Book Study
What is our CTR “Bring-a-Friend” Lenten Book Discussion?
Virtually everyone you meet these days has a friend, neighbor and/or relative who hasn’t darkened the door of a church for possibly years and YET has expressed a great admiration for Pope Francis.
Pope Francis has a compelling way of teaching with his actions as well as with his remarkably simple yet extraordinarily deep and meaningful way of talking and writing about our Christian faith; our unity as the body of Christ and the dream of Jesus for our world.
It is our hope to capitalize on this “Francis-Effect” and encourage and “tool-up” our CTR parishioners to invite those who are perhaps not-so-regular churchgoers read, reconnect, and share about Pope Francis’ remarkable vision of all our church could be.
Beginning Jan. 30 we will be selling the masterfully edited Loyola Press book The Church of Mercy by Pope Francis for $5 a copy (60% off Amazon!). We invite you to buy a copy for a friend…or a few friends! And if you feel the time is right and God is calling, invite your friend(s) to join us for our 5-week Lenten parish book study. Ash Weds is Feb. 10th. The book studies will begin the following week and run through Holy Week, early this year, Easter is March 27th.
Beginning Jan. 30 thru Feb. 14 you can sign-up for our “Bring-a-Friend” book study by visiting our website at www.ctredeemer.org/bring-a-friend-lenten-book-discussion and following the prompts. Signing up is as easy as filling out the form with your name, email address and phone number and hitting submit. We'll take care of the rest. Not a computer person? You can also sign-up with pen and paper after Masses.
Would you like to serve as a leader/facilitator for this book discussion? We have a terrific discussion guide that makes it easy as could be! Contact Deacon Steve Marks at deacon@ctredeemer.org about next steps. Would you like to host a book discussion group in your home? (not lead, just host) Contact Lisa Brown, Director of Religious Education & the Office of Family Ministry at dre@ctredeemer.org. Visit our website for further info and details.
Send your "Crazy Catholic Questions" to Lisa Brown at dre@ctredeemer.org or read past columns at: http://crazycatholicquestions.blogspot.com. To sign-up visit www.ctredeemer.org.
Would you like to serve as a leader/facilitator for this book discussion? We have a terrific discussion guide that makes it easy as could be! Contact Deacon Steve Marks at deacon@ctredeemer.org about next steps. Would you like to host a book discussion group in your home? (not lead, just host) Contact Lisa Brown, Director of Religious Education & the Office of Family Ministry at dre@ctredeemer.org. Visit our website for further info and details.
Send your "Crazy Catholic Questions" to Lisa Brown at dre@ctredeemer.org or read past columns at: http://crazycatholicquestions.blogspot.com. To sign-up visit www.ctredeemer.org.
Sunday, January 10, 2016
Crazy Catholic Question #64: Box City
What is Box City? A reflection written by Youth Group Teen Rachel Kociba:
Box city is a unique event that is held every two years here at CTR that aims to raise awareness about homelessness. High school teens sleep outside in boxes to gain some understanding of what homeless people go through each night. Since I am a Freshman, it was my first time participating. The experience I had during Box City was one like no other, and one I will never forget. My eyes were definitely opened to the way many people live.
Before the event, I was nervous. I was definitely out of my comfort zone. But the teens and adult volunteers were all very welcoming, and Mrs. Andridge was especially great at coordinating this event for all of us teens.
A man who had previously been homeless came to talk with us. I was taken aback by all the personal difficulties he had experienced. He had to give his first son up for adoption because he couldn’t support him. He knew he couldn’t go on living homeless. Over time, he made major improvements, from getting a job, to buying his first place to live, and then having another son. At the end of his visit he played a beautiful song on the piano for us. I couldn’t help but notice that the notes of the song and the themes of it went along with his life--the ups and downs. He has been writing it since he was very young, and continues to add to it as a life story in a song.
We then learned some of the reasons why people become homeless and what life is like being a person without a home. These facts were organized in a fun Jeopardy-like game; a clever way to get familiar with a topic like homelessness that is not always easy to talk about.
We talked about how people from certain backgrounds are more likely to become homeless. For example, a foster child or an adopted child, or people who only have one parent or parents who are not supportive, are more likely to end up homeless because they are missing strong family ties. Teens who turn to drugs are also more prone to struggle with homelessness.
After a light meal, we headed outside. There was frost covering the grass. Everyone brought a box, tarps, tape and some newspapers to make their box as warm as they could. I was lucky that I had packed layers of clothing to wear and warm blankets too. The boxes covered the front lawn of the church, and there was a bonfire where the adults stayed all night. We prayed around the fire for those who don’t have as much and aren’t as fortunate as us.
Then we headed into our boxes to gear up for the cold night ahead. I couldn’t even sit up straight in my box. I snuggled into my sleeping bag with a heavy blanket on top and finally fell asleep. The night seemed really long, but it was worth all that I gained from it.
In the morning, it was bright and beautiful out. Everyone was ready to get into the warm, welcoming church. After a much needed hot breakfast, we attended 9AM Mass, all sitting together. We all definitely bonded from the experience we had.
This experience made me especially thankful for all that I have--a warm home, clothes, food every day and other necessities that I often take for granted. It was good to pray for those who don’t have these everyday needs and its good to know that our help in donating food or volunteering at a soup kitchen can go a long way!
Box city is a unique event that is held every two years here at CTR that aims to raise awareness about homelessness. High school teens sleep outside in boxes to gain some understanding of what homeless people go through each night. Since I am a Freshman, it was my first time participating. The experience I had during Box City was one like no other, and one I will never forget. My eyes were definitely opened to the way many people live.
Before the event, I was nervous. I was definitely out of my comfort zone. But the teens and adult volunteers were all very welcoming, and Mrs. Andridge was especially great at coordinating this event for all of us teens.
A man who had previously been homeless came to talk with us. I was taken aback by all the personal difficulties he had experienced. He had to give his first son up for adoption because he couldn’t support him. He knew he couldn’t go on living homeless. Over time, he made major improvements, from getting a job, to buying his first place to live, and then having another son. At the end of his visit he played a beautiful song on the piano for us. I couldn’t help but notice that the notes of the song and the themes of it went along with his life--the ups and downs. He has been writing it since he was very young, and continues to add to it as a life story in a song.
We then learned some of the reasons why people become homeless and what life is like being a person without a home. These facts were organized in a fun Jeopardy-like game; a clever way to get familiar with a topic like homelessness that is not always easy to talk about.
We talked about how people from certain backgrounds are more likely to become homeless. For example, a foster child or an adopted child, or people who only have one parent or parents who are not supportive, are more likely to end up homeless because they are missing strong family ties. Teens who turn to drugs are also more prone to struggle with homelessness.
After a light meal, we headed outside. There was frost covering the grass. Everyone brought a box, tarps, tape and some newspapers to make their box as warm as they could. I was lucky that I had packed layers of clothing to wear and warm blankets too. The boxes covered the front lawn of the church, and there was a bonfire where the adults stayed all night. We prayed around the fire for those who don’t have as much and aren’t as fortunate as us.
Then we headed into our boxes to gear up for the cold night ahead. I couldn’t even sit up straight in my box. I snuggled into my sleeping bag with a heavy blanket on top and finally fell asleep. The night seemed really long, but it was worth all that I gained from it.
In the morning, it was bright and beautiful out. Everyone was ready to get into the warm, welcoming church. After a much needed hot breakfast, we attended 9AM Mass, all sitting together. We all definitely bonded from the experience we had.
This experience made me especially thankful for all that I have--a warm home, clothes, food every day and other necessities that I often take for granted. It was good to pray for those who don’t have these everyday needs and its good to know that our help in donating food or volunteering at a soup kitchen can go a long way!
Sunday, January 3, 2016
Crazy Catholic Question #63: Healing Touch
Does God feel?
There are two images of God that we strain to reconcile. The first is from our Greek philosophical roots in which creation has a strong dualism. What pertains to the spirit is higher in value and closer to the divine, while what pertains to matter and our bodies drags the spirit down into the messiness of earth. Thought and reason are valued much higher than our bodies and emotions, which are subject to change, and ultimately death. God is pure Spirit - “above the fray” so to speak, beyond all emotion. This God is perfect in an unimaginable way, unchanging, and cannot be affected by the world and cannot suffer.
In contrast, the Hebrew tradition (Jesus’ tradition) paints a much different image of God. Creation is decidedly NOT dualistic. There is no separation of Body and Spirit - we are one unified whole (hence Jesus’ bodily resurrection). Body and spirit are inseparable and emotion is every bit as spiritually valuable as reason. God freely chooses to become active in history and is passionately related to what is going on.
The very essence of God is LOVE that is involved; compassion embodied and discernable with and among us. The ideal for us, then who are made in this divine image is to be engaged and moved by all the joys and turmoils of life. Here, the real opposite to being “God-like” is to be indifferent or aloof…above it all.
In the Hebrew tradition, to be moved by suffering and to relate to those in need with compassion is how we become conformed to God’s image. For example, when Jesus saw Simon’s sick mother in law he approached her, grasped her hand, and helped her up. It does not say that “Jesus healed her fever”, he simply saw her, went to her, took her hand and helped her up and then, almost as an after thought, it says the fever left her.
We, as the body of Christ, are asked to care for one another in the same way. When we see another suffering, we are asked to come near, even when it is out of our comfort zone, or we are busy, or we have some heavy doubts that we can be of any help at all. We grow in the image and likeness of God when we take the other’s hand, in friendship, solidarity, and kindness and help each other up.
Fr. Ron Rolheiser tells a story about a woman who, in the midst of great suffering and despair, wanders into her church. Alone, she closes her eyes and fervently prays, “God, I am in great pain and I need to know that you care. I know I’m not supposed to ask for miracles or signs, but I’m at the end of my rope. Please, I beg of you, give me a sign of your presence.” After a long while, she suddenly feels a hand on her shoulder! And for a moment her stomach flips and she is paralyzed! Could it be God is actually giving her the sign she asked for? Slowly she turns and opens her eyes and sees behind her one of her friends. As their eyes meet, the woman can’t hide her disappointment. Her friend says, “I didn’t mean to disturb you, but you seem very upset, can I help?” The woman explains about her prayer and how she thought her friend was God touching her on the shoulder and her friend asks “But, what hand did you think God would use?” As St. Theresa of Avila writes “Christ has no body now on earth but yours….”
Send your "Crazy Catholic Questions" to Lisa Brown at dre@ctredeemer.org or read past columns at: http://crazycatholicquestions.blogspot.com.
There are two images of God that we strain to reconcile. The first is from our Greek philosophical roots in which creation has a strong dualism. What pertains to the spirit is higher in value and closer to the divine, while what pertains to matter and our bodies drags the spirit down into the messiness of earth. Thought and reason are valued much higher than our bodies and emotions, which are subject to change, and ultimately death. God is pure Spirit - “above the fray” so to speak, beyond all emotion. This God is perfect in an unimaginable way, unchanging, and cannot be affected by the world and cannot suffer.
In contrast, the Hebrew tradition (Jesus’ tradition) paints a much different image of God. Creation is decidedly NOT dualistic. There is no separation of Body and Spirit - we are one unified whole (hence Jesus’ bodily resurrection). Body and spirit are inseparable and emotion is every bit as spiritually valuable as reason. God freely chooses to become active in history and is passionately related to what is going on.
The very essence of God is LOVE that is involved; compassion embodied and discernable with and among us. The ideal for us, then who are made in this divine image is to be engaged and moved by all the joys and turmoils of life. Here, the real opposite to being “God-like” is to be indifferent or aloof…above it all.
In the Hebrew tradition, to be moved by suffering and to relate to those in need with compassion is how we become conformed to God’s image. For example, when Jesus saw Simon’s sick mother in law he approached her, grasped her hand, and helped her up. It does not say that “Jesus healed her fever”, he simply saw her, went to her, took her hand and helped her up and then, almost as an after thought, it says the fever left her.
We, as the body of Christ, are asked to care for one another in the same way. When we see another suffering, we are asked to come near, even when it is out of our comfort zone, or we are busy, or we have some heavy doubts that we can be of any help at all. We grow in the image and likeness of God when we take the other’s hand, in friendship, solidarity, and kindness and help each other up.
Fr. Ron Rolheiser tells a story about a woman who, in the midst of great suffering and despair, wanders into her church. Alone, she closes her eyes and fervently prays, “God, I am in great pain and I need to know that you care. I know I’m not supposed to ask for miracles or signs, but I’m at the end of my rope. Please, I beg of you, give me a sign of your presence.” After a long while, she suddenly feels a hand on her shoulder! And for a moment her stomach flips and she is paralyzed! Could it be God is actually giving her the sign she asked for? Slowly she turns and opens her eyes and sees behind her one of her friends. As their eyes meet, the woman can’t hide her disappointment. Her friend says, “I didn’t mean to disturb you, but you seem very upset, can I help?” The woman explains about her prayer and how she thought her friend was God touching her on the shoulder and her friend asks “But, what hand did you think God would use?” As St. Theresa of Avila writes “Christ has no body now on earth but yours….”
Send your "Crazy Catholic Questions" to Lisa Brown at dre@ctredeemer.org or read past columns at: http://crazycatholicquestions.blogspot.com.
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