Presentation to invite young, old, families to 'Lighten Up!'

By KATIE LEFEBVRE, Globe staff reporter
August 30, 2007

A funny, faith-filled presentation, "Lighten Up!" Ministries, is coming to St. Michael Church in Sioux City.

Doug Brummel and his cast of characters will present a celebration of faith and family at exactly 6:47 p.m. Sept. 11 and 12. Each night will be a different presentation.

"It is a whole community celebration. This is a family event. Anyone and everyone should come and hear this," said Jessica La Fleur Malm, director of youth and young adult ministry. "We are targeting this specifically for young adults from the diocesan perspective. It is great, entertaining. It gets serious and you are laughing all in one."

Brummel is a nationally-known comedian and storyteller. He travels the United States entertaining and evangelizing to people of all ages through his "Lighten Up!" parish family missions/renewals, whole community theater events and keynote presentations at regional and national conferences. He has presented at more than 700 churches in nearly every state in the country.

He represents fictitious characters that touch upon many faith issues that connect with everyday life. The characters are Estelle, the "purple" lady; Andrew, college student; Hoover, handyman; Sister Simon, teacher; Timmy, little boy; Rob, busy man; and Joe, old man.

"They are all different people," said La Fleur. "Each one has a certain perspective and something to share about faith. It is really moving."

The characters know how to "lighten up" and not take themselves too seriously as they share their idiosyncrasies, joys, sorrows, as well as wit and wisdom about their faith and family life. Many of the stories and insights the characters represent have been influenced by stories people have shared with Brummel throughout his life.

Family members of St. Michel's pastoral minister, Sister Jean Ann Rausch, FSPA, recommended Brummel's presentation to her.

Parishioners indicated that they wanted something unique at the parish that would not cost them to attend. This presentation will allow parishioners to learn about their faith in a unique way.

St. Michael's and the diocesan youth and young adult ministry office are collaborating to sponsor the event. It is for everyone and admission is free. A freewill offering will be taken.

La Fleur saw Brummel's presentation when she was working in Cedar Rapids. She said they had a positive response there - religious education students, youth ministry students and catechists from the city.

"When I heard they were talking about bringing him in, I said, 'Let's collaborate because this guy can speak to young adults,'" said La Fleur. "He has diverse characters. There is the young person to the older person and the middle person. That is exactly how young adults are. We are kind of in limbo. We are adults, but we aren't experienced adults."

The young adults can relate to a lot of what the cast of characters brings out.