Pulling back the curtain on the podcast, Kristyn Russell turns our attention to one of the most overlooked—and most relatable—parts of Scripture: the Psalms. Through music, memory, and Psalm 40, we explore how praise and lament often live side by side, just like they do in our own hearts. From prayers that sound like “What the heck, God?” to quieter moments of gratitude, this homily reminds us that every honest prayer counts. The psalms don’t ask for polished performances or grand sacrifices; they invite us to listen, to love, and to live lives shaped by obedience and compassion. A reflection on hearing God’s voice, trusting the law written on our hearts, and responding with courage: “Here I am, Lord.”

Psalm Recommendations:

For Joy & Praise

• Psalm 100: "Shout with joy to the Lord, all the earth."
• Psalm 103: Blesses the Lord for His forgiveness, healing, and love.
• Psalm 150: A crescendo of praise using all instruments.

For Hope & Trust

• Psalm 23: "The Lord is my shepherd..."
• Psalm 62: "My soul finds rest in God alone; my salvation comes from him."

For Fear & Anxiety

• Psalm 27: "The Lord is my light and my salvation—whom shall I fear?"
• Psalm 46: "God is our refuge and strength, an ever-present help in trouble."

For Grief & Distress

• Psalm 6: "Have mercy on me, Lord, for I am faint; heal me, Lord, for my bones are in agony."
• Psalm 13: "How long, Lord? Will you forget me forever?"

For Anger & Outrage

• Psalm 137: Expresses righteous anger and longing for justice.
• Psalm 4:4: "Be angry, and do not sin; ponder in your own hearts on your beds, and be silent."

For Loneliness & Abandonment

• Psalm 142: A cry for refuge when no one cares.

For Confession & Repentance

• Psalm 51: A classic prayer for mercy and cleansing.
• Psalm 130:

From rustic camping trips and the long-awaited relief of a hot shower to the sacred waters of the Jordan River, Christy Granda draws a vivid connection between physical cleansing and spiritual transformation. As Jesus enters the waters of baptism—not out of need, but out of love—he transforms ordinary water into a vessel of the Holy Spirit. This reflection invites us to remember our own baptism, to hear God’s voice calling us beloved, and to recognize how deeply we have been washed, renewed, and claimed in Christ. A powerful reminder that baptism is not just a moment from our past, but a living source of grace meant to flow into the world through us.

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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.

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.

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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.

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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.

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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.

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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!

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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.

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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.