Fellowship Meetings
Mark 12:28-34, Mark 10:17-23
"No Impossible With You" by I Am They (Music Video)
In Attendance:
Chris, Dale, David, Frank, Greg, Jack, Julian, Larry, Mike, Ray
(JR)
This morning Mike finished his talk on the 7 Principles for CMF…
Principles 5-7:
“Be a man of prayer and responsibility” - We encourage one another to be men of prayer. we pray daily for others. we give God praise and thanksgiving as we prayerfully seek to discern God’s will for our lives.
“Be a man of humility and love” - we reach out beyond all racial, cultural and denominational barriers, to men and women of all ages and walks of life, demonstrating the power of unity in Christ and the Church.
“Be a man on a mission” - We commit ourselves to changing the world by proclaiming the Gospel through a lifestyle and public witness that embodies Jesus; we build up the ‘Body of Christ’”
Philippians 4:4-9
“Whom Shall I Fear” by Chris Tomlin (Music Video)
For coming off a back-to-back situation from having the Into The Breach conference last week, we were surprised at how many men joined us this morning. And we welcomed six guys who joined us for the first time: Thomas, Robert, Kenny, Steve, John and Michael. It was great to have all of you there!
Chris led us in a discussion on the importance of the Eucharist, and the challenge Catholics face with our belief in the True Presence of Christ. Kenny gave a great analogy about how we receive the Eucharist. He reminded us that when we eat a juicy steak, that meal will either become muscle or fat within us - depending on how well we take care of our bodies. Likewise, we need to take proper care of ourselves when we receive the Eucharist - treating our bodies as the temple God intended - so that Jesus can affect amazing change within us.
For additional material on the Eucharist, please check out the links below…
How The Eucharist Changed My Life (Fr Mike)
The Disciples Doubted the Eucharist - Do You? (Fr Mike)
What Do You Get Out of Mass?
Jesus, and the Jewish Roots of the Eucharist
The Eucharist in Scripture
The Importance of Mass and the Eucharist
John 6:26-66
“Come to the Table” by Sidewalk Prophets (Music Video)
In Attendance:
Anthony, Chris, Chuck, Dale, David, Don, Frank, Greg, Joe, John, Julian, Kenny, Larry, Michael A, Michael C, Richard, Robert, Roger, Steve, Thomas, Tony
(CA)
As always, we enjoyed another wonderful breakfast this morning, and it was a pleasant surprise to be joined by CMF President, Gil Alderete. This month was led by Mike, and we discussed the Seven Principles of CMF. We got through the first three:
Be A Man For Jesus
Be A Man For Others
Be A Man Of Integrity
There was a lot of feedback from the men, and it was a really great discussion. For a review of the full list, please refer to this page: Seven Principles
Romans 7:14-20
“Be Still & Know” by Jordan Smith (Music Video)
In Attendance
Anthony, Chris, Chuck, Dale, David, Don, Gil, Julien, Larry, Michael, Mike, Ray, Roger, Sarge, Tony
(MK)
Smaller gathering this morning, but the men who attended still seemed to get a lot out of the meeting. We first spent some time discussing the Scripture reading from Esther - noting in particular the Jewish use of fasting as part of their regular prayer life. We then spent time discussing how we’re doing so far with this Lent, and how Lent serves not as a temporary period of trying to do good things (pray/fast/give alms), but this is more of a starting-off point for the rest of our year (if we’re not already doing those things regularly).
Esther 4:12-17
“Here I Am” by John Angotti (Music Video)
In Attendance:
Chris, Cody, Dale, Gabriel, L Chu, L Church, Michael, Mike, Roger, Ruben, Sarge
(11)
Cody led us in another wonderful faith gathering of men. Today we discussed all the different places in our lives where we can maybe learn to detach, as these are places/situations that might be keeping us away from God. We might benefit from detaching from certain People, Anger, Vices, our Past, and/or our Pride/Ego. The men really seemed to enjoy talking this out, and we had some great conversations come out of it.
1 Corinthians 2:1-5
“Confidence” by Sanctus Real (Music Video)
In Attendance
Chris, Chuck, Cody, Dale, Don, Frank, Jack, Joe, Larry C, Larry Ch, Michael, Mike, Oscar, Roger, Ruben, Tony
(CS)
Wow…
What an incredible morning of Faith, Food & Fellowship. We were joined this morning by CMF President, Gil Alderete, who was promoting the upcoming Super Saturday Conference. We were also joined by newcomer, Gabriel. Gabriel showed amazing courage as he shared the story of his personal journey, and it was a very powerful story. Frank showed equal courage in sharing his own testimony as well. Hearing the faith journeys of these brothers was a blessing for the rest of the men in the room, and we are grateful to them for their openness.
Isaiah 49:3, 5-6
“When Love Sees You (Jesus)” by Mac Powell (Music Video)
In Attendance:
Brandon, Chuck, Cody, Ed, Frank, Gabriel*, Gil, Greg, Julian, Larry, Michael, Mike, Ray, Roger, Tony…with a special visit by Fr. John
*First visit
(15)
We enjoyed yet another wonderful gathering of men this morning. It was so great to welcome Joe back after a very extended absence, and so kind of Oscar to drop off some delicious tamales even though he couldn’t stay for the breakfast.
This morning we took some time to discuss Matthew’s Gospel of John asking the Disciples to prepare the way for Jesus’ coming, which is exactly what Advent is all about. We also discussed ideas for ways to broaden the reach of Men’s Fellowship within our parish community.
Matthew 3:1-12
“Mary Did You Know?” by Mark Lowry (Music Video)
17
Another wonderful gathering of men this morning. Chris led the men in a good open discussion about many areas of the topic of dealing with adversity.
One adversity that we face is the messaging in the culture. It is against our beliefs – and young people are particularly susceptible to it. Nonetheless, we are called to use our faith, be a light and persevere. There was the realization that a lot of good is happening in the world, but that it usually doesn’t make the news.
Jesus also explained in his Last Supper discourse, that a soul must painfully be pruned in order to produce more fruit (John 15). Some sound advice for dealing with adversity is to by joyful, prayerful and grateful: “Rejoice always. Pray without ceasing. In all circumstances give thanks, for this is the will of God for you in Christ Jesus.” (1 Thes 5:16-18)
2 Corinthians 4:1-18
“Don’t Lose Heart” by Steven Curtis Chapman (Music Video)
16 CA
What a wonderful gathering of men this morning! Our largest gathering of the year, and it was so great to welcome some brand new men to our group.
Cody gave an inspired talk on the difference between being nice and being good, and how being nice isn’t always the best course of action - when it means sacrificing our virtues. The men responded well to the discussion.
James 2:14-26
“Strong Enough” by Matthew West (Music Video)
22 CS
Wow…what a beautiful gathering this morning. Special thanks to Jack & Rosa for opening their home to us for our meeting. And much appreciation to Dale for leading our topic today. The Holy Spirit was definitely with us this morning as Dale led us through a discussion on temptation, the importance of resisting, and the power of renouncing evil in the name of Jesus.
We would like to offer a special shout-out to Greg who celebrated his birthday today, and prayers for Mike & Cheryl who are traveling to celebrate their 30th Wedding Anniversary.
Dale provided several different scripture references that we reflected on, which can be found here: Deliver Us From Evil
“All Creation Worships You” by Tony Melendez (Music Video)
12 DA
This morning was a very well attended meeting, and Jack prepared a wonderful discussion on how we look for, find, and act on the Truth. The men had a lot of thoughts on this - especially concerning the culture we currently live in. It takes great strength to live the Truth in today’s world, but that is exactly what God asks us to do.
It was so wonderful to welcome back Greg after a long time away, and also to welcome Chris and Tom for the first time.
Here is a copy of the handout Jack prepared: Truths
Jack put together several Scripture references that spoke on “Truth”: Scriptures
“The Voice of Truth” by Casting Crowns (Music Video)
19 JR
Once again, we enjoyed a wonderful breakfast gathering with the men. Today’s topic was actually inspired by a Homily given by Fr. Dennis, and we looked at how Jesus summons each of us in preparation of then sending each of us out into the world - to make a difference. Sometimes we are called to make big changes. Sometimes we are called simply to take care of our household. But all of these calls are hugely important, and part of God’s larger plan. The men seemed to really respond well to the discussion, and some very personal stories were beautifully shared.
A special welcome to Oscar who joined us for the first time today, and thank you to Reuben for inviting him to come.
Matthew 10:1, 5-23, 26-39
“I Send You Out” by John Angotti (Music Video)
17 HS
What an amazing gathering this morning. As Chuck pointed out, the Holy Spirit was definitely in the room with us…
We welcomed two brand new men, Andrew and Victor, and you would have thought they’ve been with us the whole time with how quickly they jumped in and shared right along with everyone else. It was also a particular blessing to welcome back Bill White after a very extended absence. Bill turns 90 in a couple of weeks, so it was great to see him again and wish him a Happy Birthday. And it is with a heavy heart that we had to say Goodbye to our brother, John Craine. The Craine family is leaving to start a new life on the East Coast. John will be greatly missed, and we pray for the safe travels of his family.
Deacon Al led us this morning in a talk about the Holy Spirit, and we spent a bit of time talking about one of the particular gifts of the Holy Spirit: “Courage”. Specifically, we looked at how it takes courage to remain true to our faith while living in this very secular world - especially at our places of employment. The entire conversation was great, and had a lot of participation from the men.
Can’t wait to do it all again next month!
Psalm 51
“Undefeated” by Collin Raye (Music Video)
17 AG
Once again we enjoyed a wonderful breakfast gathering with the guys this morning. It was so great to welcome Milton back after an extended period away, and Cody’s friend Matt joined us for the very first time - and was by far the best dressed of us all!
Chris led today’s topic discussion, and we delved in to the good, and bad, habits we all encounter as Catholics. The men had some really great things to share about what makes good habits - and how to attain those habits; as well as what it takes to get rid of bad habits… (Spoiler alert - prayer is involved).
Chris also gave a really powerful demonstration. In the photos below, you'll see images of Chris pouring rice into a cup. To sum up his demonstration...
He poured rice into a cup
The cup of rice stood for our personal will, wants, desires
Then he brought out a handful of pretzel balls, which represented God's will
He tried to place the pretzel balls on top of the rice in the cup, but there wasn't enough room for all of the pretzel balls to fit within in the cup
Next, he removed the pretzel balls, and poured all the rice into a second cup
He then put all the pretzel balls into the cup first, and then poured the same amount of rice back in
IT ALL FIT, even with room to spare
The point of the demonstration was that when we make room for God to be first in our lives, He makes room for the rest. It was a wonderful visual way of showing this truth about God.
For those interested, Chris has also provided a handout: 7 Habits of Highly Effective Catholics
The Second Saturday meeting date seems to be working well for the men. God obviously led us to begin holding our meetings on these mornings. And we’re looking forward to having Grandpa Kellogg return next month!
Luke 12:22-34
“Your Grace Is Enough” by Matt Maher (Music Video)
17 CA
Cody led us this morning in a wonderful discussion on what being a Catholic is really like for our young adults, and the challenges this population of Catholics are facing on a daily basis. We explored the ways we’re missing the mark as a Faith, and realized that one of the biggest failures happening in our Church today is the over-emphasis on “inclusion” which is coming at the expense of the moral and theological teachings of our Faith. (We’ve lost sight of the fact that the Catholic Church is already one of the most inclusive faiths around). Somehow we need to become a positive alternative to the garbage our young adults are being influenced by; and part of being that positive alternative means sticking to our guns as Catholics and not compromising our core beliefs - no matter what the rest of the world is screaming.
(And after an extended time away, it was a special treat to have the Picella boys cooking up waffles for us again!)
Psalm 10
“I Will Fear No More” by The Afters (Music Video)
14 CS
It was so great to see the guys today. We welcomed back a couple of brothers who haven’t been able to join us is a long time, and we were blessed to have a new brother, Chris, join us for the very first time. Today’s discussion topic was based off the book: “Waking The Dead” by John Eldredge. This is a book that Michael C had read and pieced together the information in a presentable format. The focus was on how our hearts are at war with Satan because Satan knows what we can become if our hearts are strong - and he fears that.
(If anyone would like to review the outline Michael used, which includes some of the quotes and reflection questions that were shared, you can view that here: Outline).
Michael also passed around a handout based off material from a second book all about the 7 Deadly Sins by Kevin Vost. You can view a copy that handout here: Seven Deadly Sins
Psalm 42:9-12
“Crazy People” by Casting Crowns (Music Video)
16 MC
We had a really well attended gathering this morning, including appearances by both priests!
Mike came up with a great Scripture for us and we spent quite a bit of time discussing how it affected each of us, and then we went into the main topic, also presented by Mike. We discussed the importance of listening and understanding when we’re engaging with someone else - especially someone we happen to disagree with. Making sure the other person knows you really are listening and understand what they’re trying to explain places them in a position to be less defensive and more willing to listen to your own thoughts. James 1:19 sums it up perfectly: “Be quick to hear, slow to speak, slow to anger.”
Special thanks to Cheryl Kellogg and Rosa Ruehlman for the Valentine decorations! And also to Larry Chu and Larry Church for providing food even though they couldn’t stay.
John 16:21-33
“Way Maker” by Michael W. Smith (Music Video)
15 MK
We had the intention of discussing how to be charitable when communicating with others, but as happens often in our fellowship sessions - the Holy Spirit took over. The men were struck by the featured scripture selection, and in particular we spent a lot of time discussing James 1:23 - “For if anyone is a hearer of the word and not a doer, he is like a man who looks at his own face in a mirror.” It was wonderful to hear the different interpretations of how that passage spoke to the different men, and to hear how some heard that as searching for Jesus when looking at yourself in the mirror; and for others it reminded them how instead of looking at ourselves in a mirror, we should be looking through a window to view what others are doing - so we can find where we need to be of service.
We welcomed a new guy this morning, Frank, and it was awesome how quickly he felt comfortable to contribute his thoughts to the discussion.
James 1:19-27
“Do Something” by Matthew West (Music Video)
11
Second time back home, and it was wonderful. There was a CMF Conference happening today which several of our men attended, so we had a smaller turnout this month…but those who came - including a new brother, Julian - all contributed and had a good time.
John 15:1-10
“How Great is Our God” by Chris Tomlin (Music Video)
