Episode 216

Are You Managing Programs or Making Disciples? | Solving the Parish Puzzle with Christina Semmens

September 8th, 2026

59 mins 26 secs

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parish strategy holistic formation parish communication volunteer coaching accompaniment solving the parish puzzle christina semmens parish tools parish renewal new evangelization ministry jim jansen everyday evangelization evangelization discipleship diocesan directors clear path to discipleship church leadership church growth catholic anchor consulting

About this Episode

Parish renewal can feel like trying to assemble a massive puzzle without having the picture on the box to reference. Bringing your parish back to life isn't about running another program. It's an act of loving accompaniment, and Jesus is already in the work with us. Christina Semmens joins me today to talk about how putting the right leadership pieces in place creates a simple, relational way to wake up our parish communities and make disciples who thrive.

Episode Timeline:

[00:00] – Introduction
[00:02] – Christina’s Journey from Military Leadership to Parish Renewal
[00:10] – What Discipleship Culture Actually Looks Like in a Parish
[00:15] – Moving Beyond Event-Based Evangelization
[00:19] – Customized CPR and Holistic Formation
[00:25] – Waking Up the Walking Dead in Our Pews
[00:28] – Best Practices vs. Quick-Fix Silver Bullets
[00:34] – Eliminating Communication Blind Spots & Building Two-Way Dialogue
[00:44] – A 4-Step Apprenticeship Model for Coaching Leaders
[00:52] – Practical Steps to Begin When You Feel Overwhelmed

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