From Comfort Zones to Mission: Transforming Parish Mindsets Through Lifelong Learning

How can we help others shift from a maintenance mindset to a missional one? It starts with prayer and reflection but also requires creating an environment where people feel safe to explore new ideas and take risks. Encouraging continuous learning is key. By embracing new knowledge and experiences, we can deepen our faith and learn to live it out more fully. This journey of growth breaks down silos, builds stronger relationships, and fosters a vibrant, mission-oriented community.

Join me as I sit down with Fr. Dave Belt, Pastor of St. Stephen the Martyr in Omaha, to discuss the transformative power of learning. He shares personal stories, effective team-building practices, and insights on fostering a sense of purpose and mission, Discover how helping others see their efforts as part of something larger and more meaningful can inspire a dynamic, responsive, and Gospel-rooted Church—the Church that God is calling us to be.

[01:05] Meet Father Dave Belt: A Lifelong Educator
[07:46] The Importance of Ongoing Learning
[12:59] Building Trust and Collaboration in Parish Staff
[19:41] Effective Meeting Strategies and Leadership
[25:43] Empowering Second Chair Leaders
[35:06] Embracing the Call to Evangelize
[41:28] From Christendom to Apostolic Mission
[47:01] Canoeing the Mountains: Leadership Lessons
[53:44] Building a Missionary Culture
[56:57] Focusing on the Individual
[59:26] Trusting in the Slow Work of God

Don’t forget to check out Leading from the Second Chair, our episode with Tod Bolsinger, and his book Canoeing the Mountains.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)