Can young adults find their place in a faith community after college? Young adults often face the loss of their college community and the challenge of building new connections. They tend to feel isolated and unsure of how to integrate into a parish. Overcoming this involves actively seeking out parish activities, being open to making friends across different age groups, and finding ways to serve.
\n\nIn this episode, we explore the unique struggles and opportunities for young adults striving to remain connected to their faith after graduation. Today’s guest, Matt Keller, shares his inspiring journey of founding Arch O Young Adults, an apostolate dedicated to helping young adults navigate these transitions. Matt offers practical advice on creating meaningful relationships, staying rooted in prayer, and trusting in the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Whether you're a young adult or someone looking to support this age group, this conversation is full of insights and encouragement.
\n\n[02:50] The Role of Community in Faith Development
\n[06:10] Challenges and Transitions for Young Adults
\n[17:57] Building a Young Adult Ministry
\n[26:19] Creating a Vision for Young Adult Engagement
\n[31:58] Leadership Transitions and Identifying New Leaders
\n[39:10] Engaging Young Adults in Prayer and Community
\n[44:45] Connecting Young Adults to Their Parishes
\n[50:59] Balancing Family Life and Ministry
\n[54:37] Encouragement for Aspiring Leaders
For more, check out archoyoungadults.org or email Matt at archoyoungadults@gmail.com.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Have you ever wondered how to bring the Lord into your work, expanding your prayer life beyond personal devotion? In this episode, we explore missional prayer—prayer that aligns our hearts with the Holy Spirit, focusing on the transformation of our parishes and neighborhoods. It's about moving beyond inward devotion to intentional, outward-facing prayer for mission and evangelization.
\n\nDiscover how coming together as a community to seek God's guidance and power can bring about renewal and fruitfulness in our mission. Learn to pray with a purpose, trusting that God wants to work through us to reach those who don’t yet know Him.
\n\nJoin me as I talk with Hannah Vaughan-Spruce, Executive Director of Divine Renovation UK, who shares her insights on:
\n\n[01:50] Hannah's Faith Journey
\n[06:25] Introduction to Divine Renovation
\n[15:43] Mission Inspired Prayer
\n[28:25] The Role of Prayer in Parish Meetings
\n[31:53] The Importance of Expecting God to Speak
\n[36:14] Unique Features of Missional Prayer
\n[45:33] Implementing Missional Prayer in Parishes
\n[50:04] Building a Culture of Prayer in Parishes
Check out the Genesis Compass!
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Ever wonder if your prayer life is making a difference? Look for the fruits. Are you experiencing more peace, patience, and love in your relationships? Do you feel more attuned to God’s presence and guidance in your daily life? Challenges can also be a signpost—when your prayer life is strong, you’re more likely to face difficulties with grace and clarity. But what about those times when it feels like nothing is happening? Often, God is quietly working in your heart in ways you may not immediately notice.
\n\nIn today’s episode, we’re joined by Nathan Crankfield, Sales Lead at Hallow, to uncover the transformative power of prayer. Nathan shares personal insights and practical tips on recognizing when your prayers are bearing fruit and how to overcome the challenges of staying consistent in prayer. He also highlights how tools like the Hallow app can support your spiritual growth and help you connect with God more deeply. Join us for an inspiring conversation about building a vibrant prayer life, embracing God’s work in your heart, and navigating life’s highs and lows with faith and grace.
\n\n[01:08] Nathan's Background and Faith Journey
\n[07:26] College Life and Spiritual Growth at Mount St. Mary's
\n[16:01] The Importance and Practice of Prayer
\n[33:56] God's Desire for Silence and Conversation
\n[36:51] Recognizing the Fruits of Prayer
\n[39:52] Challenges in Maintaining a Prayer Life
\n[46:21] Balancing Work and Prayer
\n[53:40] The Impact of the Hallow App
Don’t forget to check out Nathan Crankfield on Instagram and his website Seeking Excellence. And if you aren’t using the app yet: Hallow.com.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
I was recently asked, "How do you share your faith without coming across as pushy?" It’s a big question—how can we invite people into a relationship with Jesus without making it feel manipulative? The answer is simple: We love.
\n\nThe core of the Great Commission—"go and make disciples"—is the call to love because God is love. If we let that love shape and transform us, we become agents of love in our communities. This means nurturing our relationship with God first and letting that love overflow into our relationships with others.
\n\nIn this episode, I talk with Peter Andrastek, Senior Consultant at The Evangelical Catholic. We explore how to share our faith through genuine connections and meaningful conversations. It’s about finding a balance: reaching out with urgency, yet having the wisdom to do it gently. Join me as we dive into what it means to be a missionary disciple, sharing the love we've been given in a way that feels authentic and true.
\n\n[03:25] The Importance of Evangelization
\n[09:55] Deprofessionalizing Evangelization
\n[17:41] Building Relationships for Mission
\n[28:35] Understanding and Loving Others
\n[33:21] Balancing Holiness and Mission
\n[45:42] Stories of Evangelization
Also check out:
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Why is it so hard to prioritize evangelization? I want to love God, love my neighbor, and introduce others to Jesus, but life often gets in the way.
\n\nIn today’s Coach’s Corner, I’m here to offer some encouragement. When I focus on what Jesus truly asks of me—giving my heart to him in prayer and helping others draw closer to him—everything else falls into place. Whether you’re feeling overwhelmed or simply looking for inspiration, this episode provides practical advice and encouragement to reignite your missionary spirit and live out your faith more fully.
\n\nDon't forget to check out Pope Francis and the Joy of the Gospel: Rediscovering the Heart of a Disciple
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Being holy is hard, and most of the people I look up to – the saints – lived extraordinary lives. But St. Therese taught us that sanctity is possible through her “little way”. Today, I want to introduce you to another “little way” – that of Servant of God Michelle Duppong. She lived what I like to call “the little way of evangelization” to the point that I almost didn’t hire her as a FOCUS missionary.
\n\nMichelle lived an ordinary life showing that small, intentional acts of love can have a profound impact. Even during her battle with cancer, she remained committed to her mission. Her life exemplified God’s mercy and acceptance, welcoming everyone with open arms and a joyful spirit. In essence, Michelle’s story reminds us that we can find strength and purpose in our everyday actions and inspire others through our faith and love.
\n\n[01:25] Introduction to Our Guest, Mark Bartek
\n[10:58] Spiritual Multiplication and Evangelization
\n[16:53] The Global Impact of Personal Evangelization
\n[22:55] The Little Way of Evangelization
\n[25:17] Spiritual Multiplication and Vision
\n[27:00] Evangelization Beyond College Campuses
\n[29:54] Michelle Duppong’s Personality and Impact
\n[37:16] Lessons from Michelle's Life
\n[45:14] Encouragement for Evangelization
See the movie on Michelle’s life Radiating Joy, or watch the trailer.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Does your parish actively encourage parishioners to engage in the Church’s mission to "go and make disciples" (Matt 28:19)? The Evangelization Formation step of the Clear Path equips disciples by guiding them to work with the Holy Spirit—the primary agent of evangelization—while surrounding them with a supportive community of missionary disciples who uplift and strengthen one another. It also provides practical skills, training in charisms, and tools to help disciples grow in confidence as they share their faith in everyday life.
\n\nIn this episode, my guests, Dcn. MJ Kersenbrock and Jan Kunz, discuss how they are implementing these efforts in the Catholic Parishes of Western Holt and Boyd Counties. They share the challenges and successes they've encountered while fostering a culture of mission. Their stories highlight the importance of perseverance, prayer, and personal relationships, as well as the transformative impact this formation process has had on individuals, who are now empowered to continue the mission, creating a ripple effect in their communities.
\n\n[01:35] Understanding the Evangelization Formation Step
\n[02:31] Challenges and Successes in Evangelization
\n[09:20] Personal Stories and Impact
\n[16:40] The Power of One-on-One Connections
\n[20:32] Skills for Missionary Discipleship
\n[27:51] Sharing Stories of Transformation
\n[31:25] Expansion and Multiplication of Cohorts
\n[37:24] Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles
For more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship, or check out our “cheat-sheet” Clear Path Definitions and Phases. Here's our Options for Evangelization Formation guide.
\n\nAlso, mentioned: Evangelical Catholic
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Most parishes form their people in the faith, but do they truly teach individuals how to pray, help them understand and actively engage with the sacraments, and guide them in making practical, moral changes in the daily lives? Developing the habits of a disciple can be challenging, and it happens most effectively within a community where people support and challenge one another to grow as followers of Jesus.
\n\nIn today’s conversation, Jodi Phillips and Michelle Zuhlke join me to discuss the faith formation step of building a clear path for discipleship. We explore the importance of small groups in fostering spiritual growth, emphasizing the role of personal relationships and mentorship.
\n\n[01:27] Deep Dive into Faith Formation
\n[06:39] Mentorship and Community Impact
\n[09:00] Education vs. Formation
\n[17:53] Living the Faith Together
\n[23:54] Expressions of Faith Formation
\n[31:51] Characteristics of Effective Faith Formation
\n[34:14] Mentorship and Shared Life
\n[41:02] Diagnosing Faith Formation Issues
\n[43:21] Engaging Content for Faith Formation
\n[51:19] Evangelization Formation and Small Groups
For more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship, or check out our “cheat-sheet” Clear Path Definitions and Phases.
\n\nAlso, if you were inspired by Michelle, check out Our Catholic Family.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Does your parish have Alpha, Christ Life, a parish retreat, or some other initiative that creates an opportunity for people to hear about Jesus, reflect on their faith, and take a step towards a real and lasting relationship with him? The Clear Path step Conversion Moment is designed to help individuals encounter Jesus and make a personal decision to follow Him by offering a clear proclamation of the Gospel.
\n\nMy guest, Marlo Monico, shares her experience building and sustaining a Conversion Moment. She shares stories of significant personal transformations and emphasizes the importance of hospitality, community, and continuous invitation in evangelization efforts.
\n\n[01:30] Deep Dive into Conversion Moments
\n[04:51] Building a Clear Path of Discipleship
\n[23:28] Content and Impact of Alpha
\n[28:35] Stories of Transformation
\n[40:00] Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles
\n[46:59] Building Community and Small Groups
\n[52:13] Encouragement and Final Thoughts
For more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship, or check out our “cheat-sheet” Clear Path Definitions and Phases. Also, here our Options for Conversion Moments guide.
\n\nIf you were inspired by Marlo, check out St. Columbkille’s Alpha.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Do you have a way to introduce your non-practicing friends and family members to your faith community that doesn’t involve inviting them to Mass or other gatherings that might make them feel isolated? Does your parish offer a space where you can meet and build trusting relationships with those distant from their faith? The Clear Path step Relational Outreach is designed for just that. My guests, Katie Winkler and Beth Carlson, share their experience at the JPII Newman Center, where they’ve created spaces for authentic friendships to flourish.
\n\nThey discuss the importance of intentionality in outreach, creating welcoming environments, and the role of personal stories and experiences in building genuine connections. Katie and Beth also highlight the challenges and learning opportunities in outreach efforts, emphasizing the need for patience and persistence in forming meaningful relationships.
\n\n[05:46] Creating Welcoming Events
\n[11:24] Training and Preparing Leaders
\n[27:41] Inviting to a Deeper Faith Journey
\n[34:10] Celebrating Effort and Building a Culture of Outreach
\n[38:29] Translating Outreach Lessons to Different Contexts
\n[55:32] The Importance of Personal Prayer in Outreach
For more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship, or check out our “cheat-sheet” Clear Path Definitions and Phases.
\n\nIf you were inspired by Katie and Beth, take a look at JPIIOmaha.org.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Do you believe that God continues to work even when you don’t? In my own life, I’ve struggled with the idea that rest has to be earned, that I can only rest once everything on my to-do list is checked off. But the Christian vision is different.
\n\nGod’s work doesn’t stop when we rest. In fact, our rest is a testament to our trust in His ongoing work. Join me as we explore the beauty of working from rest, drawing examples from Jesus’s life, and discover practical ways to incorporate this principle into your daily routine.
\n\n[01:17] Jesus' Example of Rest
\n[03:36] Practical Steps to Slow Down
\n[05:25] The Four R's of Slowing Down
\n[09:40] Recommended Reading and Conclusion
Check out The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Small groups are vital for parish renewal—you might even be part of one yourself. But is your small group thriving and growing, or is it feeling a bit stagnant? Do you find it challenging to reach beyond the usual participants? And most importantly, are your small groups truly helping people grow in their faith journey?
\n\nToday, I chat with Michael Hall, author of Intentional Accompaniment and a seasoned leader with Catholic Christian Outreach of Canada. Michael has a wealth of experience building and sustaining healthy small group movements, and he’s here to share some of the strategies and mindsets that can transform your small group from a stagnant gathering into a dynamic, missionary force.
\n\nWhether you’re leading a small group, coordinating them for your parish, or simply a passionate member of one, this conversation is full of insights that can help you breathe new life into your small group ministry and make a real impact in your community.
\n\nJoin us as we dive into:
\n\nCheck out CCO!
\nRegister for the Grow a Healthy Small Group Movement workshop.
For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Have you ever been asked for help but then felt like you were just giving unwanted advice? It’s tough to know how to make your words count. On my team, we use an approach called coaching that focuses on active listening to really support and empower the clergy and lay leaders we work with. We’ve also found that this method can make you a better friend.
\n\nToday, I bring you a live coaching session with Fr. Scott Schilmoeller, Vocations Director for the Archdiocese of Omaha. We explore how coaching principles like active listening, asking the right questions, and encouraging growth can transform not only professional roles but also personal friendships. You will also hear Fr. Schilmoeller share his experiences and strategies for promoting vocations. Whether you’re interested in coaching, vocations, or simply becoming a better friend, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to support and uplift those around you more effectively.
\n\n[02:34] Coaching Session Overview
\n[03:45] Identifying Priorities and Vision
\n[06:54] Understanding Vocation Hotspots
\n[14:33] Accompanying and Supporting Leaders
\n[24:07] Encouraging Active Listening
\n[27:24] Creating a Concrete Format
\n[28:07] Naming Next Steps
\n[34:23] Benefits of Coaching
\n[36:17] Distinguishing Coaching from Other Disciplines
\n[43:05] Finding the Right Coach
Resources mentioned in this episode:
\n\n\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Is it okay to set boundaries in ministry work? How do we balance being “all things to all people” (1 Cor 9:22) with the need for personal limits? Today’s guest believes that not only is it okay to establish boundaries—it’s essential.
\n\nJoin me as I sit down with John Gencarelli, Director of Youth and Adult Evangelization at St. Phillip Neri-Blessed Sacrament & Holy Name Parishes in Omaha. John opens up about his experience with burnout and shares how setting boundaries transformed his approach to ministry. By tracking his work hours, taking regular days off, and weaving prayer into his daily routine, John discovered how to protect his well-being while still serving effectively. He also highlights the importance of balancing family time with ministry and how thoughtful planning plays a key role in this. Ultimately, John reminds us that it’s God who saves, not us, and setting boundaries allows us to trust in His plan, ensuring that we serve effectively without burning out.
\n\nTune in and learn to:
\n\nMentioned in this episode: Revive Parishes.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Do you find it hard to maintain enthusiasm for evangelization? You’re not alone. Many of us in ministry face moments of profound fatigue and discouragement. But let me share something with you: the key to reigniting that passion lies in rediscovering the love and hope gifted by God which first called us to this mission.
\nToday, I bring you the wisdom of Fr. John Riccardo, founder of Acts XXIX and The Rescue Project. He discusses how to:
Yes, the challenges are real, but so is the power of God’s plan. Lean into that, and you’ll find your enthusiasm renewed and your mission reinvigorated.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Do you ever feel overwhelmed by trying to be perfect? I mean, Jesus did tell us to “be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Mt. 5:48), and Paul certainly took this seriously as he gladly “spent and consumed himself for souls” (2 Cor 12:15). But sometimes, I think the pursuit of perfection leaves behind God’s plan for our lives. In fact, living a holy life might mean embracing the imperfection around us.
\n\nToday’s guest, Colleen Carroll Campbell, former journalist and presidential speechwriter and author of The Heart of Perfection tells us what she has learned on this topic. Tune in to hear:
\n\nTo hear more from Colleen, go to Colleen-Campbell.com or grab her book The Heart of Perfection.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Theology of the Body has the power to deeply impact how we approach sexual identity and self-worth. As a father, I understand how tough it can be to navigate these complex topics with today’s youth. That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to two amazing missionaries, Marshall and Reese, from The Culture Project.
\n\nIn this episode, they share their personal mission to spread the gospel and promote sexual integrity among young people. We dive into the importance of recognizing human dignity and how to have meaningful conversations with youth about challenging issues like sexual identity and social media. Plus, Marshall and Reese offer practical advice for parents, teachers, and mentors on how to support and guide young people in their faith and moral growth. This episode is packed with hope and encouragement, giving you the tools to better connect with and support the young people in your life.
\n\n[01:06] Meet Marshall and Reese
\n[17:52] Introducing the Culture Project
\n[22:59] How to talk about Human Dignity
\n[24:23] Sharing Personal Stories and Experiences
\n[27:26] Challenges Faced by Young People Today
\n[30:58] Parental Guidance and Conversations
\n[36:46] Encouraging Chastity and Sexual Integrity
Check out The Culture Project! Or schedule them by emailing scheduling@thecultureproject.org.
\n\nAlso, click here to get Feeding the Mouth that Bites You.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Have you ever had a moment that completely turned your life around? In a heartfelt conversation with Dave Nodar, founder of ChristLife, he opened up about that pivotal moment when Jesus’ love washed over him, sparking a deep, personal transformation and setting him ablaze with the desire to spread the Good News.
\n\nTogether, we dive deep into why evangelization isn’t just a task for the few but a calling for all of us. Dave puts it powerfully, saying, “If you’re baptized, no exceptions. It’s not just for missionary orders. This is for all of us. That means all the diocesan clergy and the laity, all of us are called to be missionaries.”
\n\nDave didn’t stop at just words; he brought ChristLife to life to empower parishes to echo the Gospel’s core message loud and clear. ChristLife helps individuals mature in their faith and equips them to share their faith with others.
\n\nTune in to hear:
\n\nCheck out ChristLife as well as our list of recommended Conversion Moments!
\n\nRegister to attend the Alpha Training Lab on August 3.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
How would you transform your parish if you had a proven strategy to reignite faith and build a vibrant community? Today, I’m excited to share a piece of that strategy with you—a way to create a sense of belonging before we expect people to believe or behave like us. It’s all about fostering a communal approach to faith, where everyone feels included and can directly experience the love and power of God.
\n\nIn this episode, Monica Martinez and Rick Grinstead from Alpha in the Catholic Context join us to discuss how to spark interest and engagement in our faith communities. They emphasize the importance of asking questions and truly listening. Plus, they share practical advice and real-life examples from Alpha, a powerful tool for introducing people to the basic tenets of Christianity.
\n\nHighlights from this episode:
\n\nFor more, go to Alpha in the Catholic Context or email Rick and Monica directly.
\n\nCheck out our list of recommended Conversion Moments!
\n\nRegister to attend the Alpha Training Lab on August 3.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Did you know that on average, there’s only one priest for every 2,000 parishioners in our archdiocese? With such a large group to guide, you might wonder how it could be possible for parish leaders to help their people grow in discipleship and move towards sainthood. The Clear Path framework is key to success, but the challenge is greater in our rural communities where a single pastor often handles several parishes.
\n\nTo gain insight on these issues, I sit down with Jake Olson, the evangelization coordinator for Our Catholic Family, a group of parishes in the Northeast corner of Nebraska. Jake describes the clear path as a bowling alley where our ultimate goal (heaven) is like bowling a strike, and the clear path consists of bumpers that keep us aligned towards this goal.
\nTune in to hear Jake’s practical advice and heartfelt experiences. He shows us how small actions and genuine connections can lead to profound spiritual growth and community transformation. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a quiet rural town, these timeless principles of evangelization are universally applicable.
Episode Highlights:
\n\nCheck out Our Catholic Family. And for more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Have you ever heard the universal call to holiness, “Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect,” and instead of feeling inspired, felt discouraged? Holiness is hard, especially when we strive for it alone. When we rely solely on our own strengths, we often fail. But when we pursue holiness within the Body of Christ, leaning on both our community and God, we are much more likely to succeed.
\n\nIn today’s episode, Chance and Lora Unger, founders of Missionaries of the Holy Spirit in the Family, share their insights on making holy practices a regular part of family life. Our conversation highlights the transformative power of continually surrendering to God and incorporating prayer into our daily routines. The Ungers emphasize the importance of a supportive community to foster holiness in our marriages and families. They show us how holiness can begin with simple, practical steps such as daily prayer and small acts of kindness. They encourage us to embrace our daily challenges and transform these experiences through grace and prayer.
\n\nTune in and hear:
\n\nFor more from our guests, check out https://www.mhsfonline.org/ or email them at MHSFonline@gmail.com.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
As we approach the 2nd anniversary of the repeal of Roe v. Wade, the debate about abortion continues to divide us. Have you noticed, maybe even in your own conversations, that traditional pro-life messaging about the baby just isn't hitting home? What if I told you that by understanding the deep emotional and psychological needs of women considering abortion, we could revolutionize our approach and truly help women make life-affirming choices?
\n\nToday, I chat with Megan Drapa, a researcher and education specialist for the Vitae Foundation, about what really influences women contemplating abortion. Megan shares that their research dives into the deep emotional drives behind these decisions, challenging what many of us think. She highlights that many women already see abortion as morally significant but feel driven by fear and a need to protect their identity. Our conversation sheds light on why we need more nuanced, compassionate communication to better support women facing unplanned pregnancies.
\n\nTune in to hear about:
\n\nTo see the research, check out the Vitae Research Institute or email Megan Drapa. Also mentioned in this episode: The Happy Girl’s Guide to Being Whole.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Is it hard to talk about Jesus with the people in your life? As Christians, we believe that spreading the good news of Jesus is essential to our faith, but sometimes, finding the courage or freedom to do so feels insurmountable. But guess what? There is an awesome program created by Christ Community Church, called Reach One More, and it turns big barriers into little speedbumps.
\n\nIn today’s episode, I chat with Pastor Mark Ashton from Christ Community Church and Jenny Wiswell, the Director of Evangelization and Discipleship for St. Gerald's Catholic Church. We div into how Reach One More works wonders for disciples stepping into the mission field. They share personal stories of individuals transformed by the program, emphasizing the importance of conviction, training, and ongoing support in equipping believers for mission. Our conversation highlights the unity between Catholic and Protestant churches in fulfilling the shared mission of spreading the Gospel.
\n\nTune in and hear:
\n\n[07:49] How Reach One More Adapts Evangelism to Modern Challenges
\n[11:00] The Reach One More Training Experience: Insights and Impact
\n[13:26] Deep Dive into Evangelism Skills and Mindset Shifts
\n[24:18] Sharing Success Stories: Real-Life Transformations
\n[28:16] Cross-Denominational Collaboration: A New Era of Unity
\n[37:15] Implementing 'Reach One More': Practical Steps for Parishes
To see the Reach One More program in action, check out St. Gerald's Parish or contact Jenny Wiswell.
\n\nDownload the Reach One More training content.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Why do you help the poor? In a culture where lending a hand to those in need is often seen as a noble thing to do, it's crucial for us as Christians to understand the deeper motivation behind our actions. As believers, we serve the poor out of love—a love that sees Jesus in the faces of those in need.
\n\nTo delve into this profound aspect of service, I invite you to listen to my recent conversation with Jill Lynch, Executive Director of the St. Vincent de Paul Society in Omaha. In this enlightening discussion, Jill shares her insights on recognizing the humanity and inherent worth of homeless individuals, challenging stereotypes and emphasizing the importance of empathy and dignity. Jill sheds light on the obstacles faced by the homeless, from securing identification to accessing transportation, and discusses proactive measures to prevent homelessness among the working poor. Through personal anecdotes, she illustrates the holistic approach of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, offering targeted assistance to those on the brink of homelessness. Above all, Jill emphasizes the profound truth that serving the poor is not just an act of charity, but a way to encounter Christ Himself. By treating each individual with respect and compassion, we fulfill the mission of seeing the face of Jesus in the marginalized.
\n\nIn this episode:
\n\n[10:43] The Mission and Impact of Holy Family Community Center
\n[13:20] Understanding Homelessness and Addiction
\n[18:47] Personal Stories of Transformation and Hope
\n[29:37] Understanding the Economic Divide and Its Impact
\n[32:03] Building Relationships: Neighbors, Not Clients
\n[36:06] Volunteerism and the Power of Personal Engagement
\n[37:19] Addressing Homelessness: Beyond Immediate Needs
\n[49:22] Faith in Action: Seeing Jesus in Every Face
Find out more about Jill's work at SSVPOmaha.org and HolyFamilyOmaha.org.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Wouldn’t it be nice if God performed some undeniable miracle and every person in the world converted? The reality is…he did. Jesus performed numerous miracles, and people still walked away from him (John 6). So, we must look to the ordinary moments. Moments with coworkers, family members, new acquaintances, and friends that may seem mundane at first, but with an openness and attentiveness to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, they become opportunities to share one’s faith or engaging in conversations about spirituality.
\n\nToday, I sit down with Archbishop Lucas to talk about those moments. He emphasizes the Holy Spirit's role in orchestrating these encounters and God's unconditional love for all people, regardless of their background or circumstances.
\n\nTune in to hear about:
\n\n[01:12] Archbishop Lucas Shares Personal Experiences of Faith Sharing
\n[03:10] A Chance Encounter: Witnessing Faith in Unexpected Places
\n[06:32] Diving into the Story of Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch
\n[39:44] The Personal Impact of Faith Sharing and Encouragement for the Easter Season
Want to hear more from Archbishop Lucas? He's been on the show several times!
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Now that we’ve built a clear path, how do we make sure is survives? What comes next?
\n\nIn this sixth and final episode of the series How to Build a Clear Path of Discipleship, Jenny Wiswell and Fr. Marcus Knecht from St. Gerald discuss the phase of expansion. They emphasize the importance of recognizing and responding to the diverse needs of parishioners at different stages of their faith journey. They underscore the importance of discernment, communication, leader recruitment, and staying humble and receptive to feedback.
\n\nHere’s what to expect from this episode:
\n\n[04:14] Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in Expansion
\n[08:38] The Importance of Communication and Flexibility in Expansion
\n[12:42] Harnessing Individual Gifts for Collective Growth
\n[15:23] The Dynamics of Teamwork in Discernment and Expansion
\n[22:45] The Holy Spirit's Guidance in Ministry
\n[26:45] Empowering Parishioners to Lead
Check out St. Gerald's Webpage!
\nFor 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
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
What do you do with ministries that existed before the clear path? By the time you see the fruit of changed lives in your parish, it’s likely that you will ask how you can help your non-clear path ministries serve the community’s mission and goal to make disciples.
\n\nIn this fifth episode of the series How to Build a Clear Path of Discipleship, Nicole Cook and Kristi Preisman from St. Columbkille describe the process of alignment. They began by talking with their ministry leaders to understand roles, strengths, and areas in need of improvement. They determined how each ministry aligned with the overall mission of the parish and identified areas where ministries needed to adjust. Their goal was to ensure that each ministry at St. Columbkille plays a meaningful role in helping people connect with God and take their next steps in their faith journey.
\n\nHere’s what to expect from this episode:
\n\n[14:49] Challenges and Innovations in Aligning Parish Ministries
\n[20:49] Exploring the Parish Pathway and Mission Alignment Tool
\n[21:07] The Role of Volunteers in Parish Ministry Evaluation
\n[21:43] Understanding and Appreciating Ministry Contributions
\n[24:47] The Importance of Data in Shaping Parish Decisions
For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Once you have a clear path built, how do you communicate it to your parishioners? Often, our parishioners are living in the new reality of the clear path, but they don’t yet see the big picture vision for evangelization.
\n\nIn this fourth episode of the series How to Build a Clear Path of Discipleship, Jake Olson and Fr. James Keiter from Our Catholic Family describe how they navigated the phase of communication. They talk about leveraging different communication methods, the significance of personal witness and stories, and the need to communicate the clear path repeatedly to ensure understanding and engagement among parishioners.
\n\nHere’s what to expect from this episode:
\n\n[03:43] The Journey to Communicating a Clear Path
\n[35:00] The Power of Personal Witness and the Clear Path Mantra
\n[37:15] Advice for the Communication Phase
For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Now that you have a plan to transform your parish, how do you get started? Implementing the Clear Path to Discipleship can feel daunting when you start to understand the scope of the change that is necessary.
\n\nIn this third episode of the series How to Build a Clear Path of Discipleship, Jonathan Sanchez-Hidalgo, Director of Evangelization and Discipleship at St. Charles Borromeo shares his experience navigating the complexities of implementing programs within a parish setting. He highlights the importance of community involvement, the need for flexibility and initiative, and the ability to learn from failures.
\n\nHere’s what to expect from this episode:
\n\n[04:09] Challenges and Triumphs of Implementing the Clear Path
\n[15:28] Navigating Setbacks and Finding Grace in Delay
\n[21:17] Learning from Obstacles: A Journey of Adaptation and Growth
\n[22:04] The Importance of Teamwork and Delegation in Retreat Planning
\n[25:34] Finding and Cultivating the Right Help for Ministry Initiatives
\n[28:27] Embracing Failure and Learning in Ministry Development
For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Does your parish’s current list of ministries help your people evangelize? It’s likely the answer is no. Most parish ministries were built during a time where people flocked to church. But the culture has changed, and our ministries need to as well.
\n\nSo today, I bring you the first episode in the series How to Build a Clear Path of Discipleship. Rachel Gifford, Director of Catechesis & Evangelization at St. Mary’s Parish, highlights her parish's journey through the phase of assessment. She shares how they examined existing programs to identify gaps in reaching newcomers and building up disciples for the work of mission. Challenges included resistance to change and feeling overwhelmed, but the parish found support in prayer, coaching, and revisiting their mission. Despite the difficulties, they saw positive outcomes, with new families registering and a renewed sense of faith in the community.
\n\nHere’s what to expect from this episode:
\n[03:50] The Initial Steps: Vision, Mission, and the Assessment Phase
\n[07:41] Navigating Challenges and Building Unity Through Assessment
\n[12:13] The Power of Shared Vision and Language in Transformation
\n[17:31] Practical Steps and Realizations in the Assessment Phase
\n[28:59] Detailed Breakdown of the Clear Path Stages
\n[38:45] Looking Ahead: Next Steps and Advice for Others
For more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship: How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
What does the Lord say about the plans you have for your parish? As you seek renewal for your parish community, are you intentionally asking for the Lord’s input? While many of us are prayerful individuals, praying collectively with a team about the strategy for becoming mission-oriented probably feels like uncharted territory. However, if we want to succeed, we must invite the Lord to be part of the process.
\n\nIn this second episode of the series How to Build a Clear Path of Discipleship, Fr. Damian Zuerlein, Dcn. Doug Lenz, and Ann Lenz from St. Frances Cabrini discuss how as they brough change to their community, they remained open to God's direction and surrendered to His will, even when faced with challenges and uncertainties. Their experiences reflect a deep sense of faith and openness to the Holy Spirit's guidance in their parish life.
\n\nHere’s what to expect from this episode:
\n[06:37] How St. Frances Cabrini embraced Discernment and Renewal
\n[14:35] The Power of Community and Creativity in Faith
\n[18:30] Taking Leaps of Faith: Stories of Discernment and Action
\n[27:04] Navigating Change and Finding Purpose
\n[29:30] The Role of the Holy Spirit in Guiding the Community
\n[38:43] Reflections and Advice for Faith Communities
For more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship: How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Imagine if your parish provided a place for you to build relationships of trust with nonbelievers. Or if it had a ministry that proclaimed the Gospel and fostered conversions. What if your parish taught you how to evangelize and it gave you a space to celebrate and commiserate with others trying to do the same?
\n\nAround here, we’d say that parish had a Clear Path to Discipleship. So how do we get to this ideal? If you want to hear real stories of parishes who have built a clear path, join us for our series "How to Build a Clear Path of Discipleship".
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
If you allow it to, the Eucharist can break you. “But, Jim, why would I want that? Sounds awful.”
\n\nWe all know that the Eucharist is transformative because it unifies us to Christ and his body. But if we truly enter into that Pascal Mystery, it means we also can be “broken and shared” with the world.
\n\nJoin me for this Coach’s Corner where I take a short 4 minutes to encourage you in the mystery that was gifted to us at Easter.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Have you ever avoided prayer because you were angry with God? I get it. Wrestling with our emotions, especially anger, in our relationship with the divine can feel overwhelming. But here's the thing: God can handle our raw, unfiltered emotions.
\n\nToday, I'm diving into a topic that hits close to home: expressing anger to God while keeping our faith intact. Join me as we explore:
\n\nLet's journey together through the complexities of human emotion and faith. Tune in and let's uncover how to authentically connect with God, even when our emotions run high.
\n\nPsalms of Lament:
\n\n\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Is unity between Catholics and Protestants really possible? Just imagine the incredible things we could accomplish if we could learn to collaborate. We could address social issues, promote justice, and serve those in need, all while spreading the message of God's love through evangelization. It's an exciting thought, isn't it?
\nBut, of course, in order for this dream to become a reality, we need to confront our fears and misunderstandings head-on. We need to foster unity within the body of Christ, embracing humility and openness along the way.
That's why I'm thrilled to share an episode of unComfortable with you, a podcast from Christ Community Church in Omaha. I had the honor of joining them for a discussion on ecumenism, and let me tell you, it was eye-opening.
\n\nIn this episode, you'll discover:
\n\nTo hear more from our Christian brothers and sisters, check out unCOMFORTABLE Conversations About Culture & Christianity.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Did you know that only 8% of the people in our church pews can claim that they know the names of their 8 closest neighbors? As Christians, we aught to be on the front lines of the fight against what the Surgeon General calls and “epidemic of loneliness”. Omaha itself, with all its strengths, grapples with mental health issues, people feeling isolated, and disparities in education and opportunities.
\n\nSo, in today's podcast, I sit down with Jed Mullenix, the CEO of Within Reach. He works to unify our local church communities around these issues. Together we can address community needs and spread the love of Jesus. He highlights the significance of pursuing proximity with neighbors, cultivating empathy, and committing to long-term relationships built on genuine care and compassion.
\n\nAs he puts it, "The world needs to know. They need to hear, they need to see, they need to feel and experience the love or the kindness of Jesus. And so, we call the church back to that place of rugged, beautiful, persistent kindness in their lives and in Jesus’ name.”
\n\nIn this episode, you'll learn:
\n\nDon't forget to check out Within Reach! Jed also recommends The Art of Neighboring and The Power of the Cross.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Have you ever found yourself saying sorry for something you didn't actually do? Like when your kid makes a mess in a store, or your team had to run extra laps in high school because of one teammate's mistake? The concept of taking collective responsibility isn’t foreign to us, but sometimes, we struggle with the idea of personally owning up to the mistakes of past generations.
\n\nToday, I'd love to chat with you about the concept of communal repentance. It's about recognizing that even if we didn't directly cause a specific problem, we're all part of the same community and share in the work of seeking forgiveness and renewal together. When we come together and repent as the Body of Christ, we recognize the transformative power of God’s grace to heal relationships, restore communities, and guide them towards a more faithful and righteous path.
\n\nJoin me and:
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
**Love builds a bridge over which truth can pass
\n**How well do you love your neighbor? Love has this amazing power to change hearts and bring people closer to Jesus. Genuine love, expressed through compassionate actions and selfless service, has the ability to break down barriers, dissolve fear, and inspire individuals to open their hearts to the message of the Gospel.
Today, I have the privilege of talking with Dan Burke, the founder and President of the Avila Institute for Spiritual Formation. He shares with me some incredible stories about how people showing him profound love opened him up to encounter Jesus and eventually led to his conversion to Catholicism.
\n\nFor Dan, loving others isn't just an option—it's integral to living out his faith and following Jesus' teachings. He sees love as more than just a feeling or an idea; it's a fundamental part of being a Christian. Dan believes that when we love others with compassion, forgiveness, and selflessness, we're not only reflecting God's love but also inspiring others to open their hearts to the message of the Gospel.
\n\nI can't wait for you to hear Dan's insights on how love can transform lives and lead people closer to Jesus. Join me to learn:
\n\nAlso, check out his work at https://spiritualdirection.com/.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Do you feel like your religious education efforts are stuck in a rut, merely churning out sacramental milestones? Do you wish your families would experience true conversion and stop disappearing after confirmation? I know how difficult it can be to transform our most institutionalize programs, so I sat down with Fr. Tim Donovan, a priest who’s vision is reshaping the landscape of catechesis and cultivating thriving, fruit-bearing communities.
\n\nJoin me for a discussion with Fr. Tim, founder of Faith and Family Life Catholic Ministries, and you will:
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Many of you listen to the EquipCast because you want to feel confident sharing your faith. We try to provide practical tools for this, and so we talk a lot about small groups, prayer, evangelizing adults, etc. But these are just tools, parts of a larger strategy to build flourishing parish communities. So, what does it take to actually transform the culture of a parish, to begin witnessing lives changed and to see more people in the pews? A Clear Path to Discipleship.
\n\nToday, I bring you an episode from the Huntley Leadership Podcast. Ron Huntley, a man who coaches bishops, priests, and ministry leaders all over the world, asked me to be a guest on his podcast to talk about my book: A Clear Path. I want to share this episode with you in order to draw back the veil on some of the big picture work my team and I get to do with your parishes.
\n\nIn today’s episode, you will:
\n\nTo hear more from Ron Huntley, check out the Huntley Leadership Podcast!
\n\nAnd if you want mor information on the book, A Clear Path: How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish, go to https://clearpathbook.com/.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Special Guest: Ron Huntley.
","summary":"Many of you listen to the EquipCast because you want to feel confident sharing your faith. We try to provide practical tools for this, and so we talk a lot about small groups, prayer, evangelizing adults, etc. But these are just tools, parts of a larger strategy to build flourishing parish communities. So, what does it take to actually transform the culture of a parish, to begin witnessing lives changed and to see more people in the pews? A Clear Path to Discipleship. Today, I bring you an episode from the _Huntley Leadership Podcast_. Ron Huntley, a man who coaches bishops, priests, and ministry leaders all over the world, asked me to be a guest on his podcast to talk about my book: A Clear Path. I want to share this episode with you in order to draw back the veil on some of the big picture work my team and I get to do with your parishes.","date_published":"2024-02-06T00:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/60050f3a-cf07-4f82-8ebc-049a9573f743.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":74448651,"duration_in_seconds":3073}]},{"id":"3fe6c93f-a55f-4955-9087-58a7fbb440d1","title":"Episode 136: Discover the Power of Authentic Connection","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/136","content_text":"Have you ever found yourself yearning for deeper connections and genuine togetherness in a world that often feels isolated? Our latest episode is all about uncovering the transformative power of missions in Guatemala. Join us as we explore the significance of presence, beyond just projects, and learn why authentic solidarity is essential in today's culture. \n\nIn this episode, Charlie Petro shares insights on moving beyond surface-level connections to truly listen, connect, and love those around us. Here's a sneak peek into what’s waiting for you:\n\n\nGain practical insights on fostering deep connections and breaking down barriers of isolation.\nUnderstand the importance of authentic solidarity in today's culture and its role in building a connected community.\nDiscover how simple acts, like stepping beyond our comfort zones, can pave the way for a more compassionate and interconnected world.\n\n\nFor more on Ixim and their works check out https://ixim.org/ or email Charlie at cpetro@archomaha.org.\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)","content_html":"Have you ever found yourself yearning for deeper connections and genuine togetherness in a world that often feels isolated? Our latest episode is all about uncovering the transformative power of missions in Guatemala. Join us as we explore the significance of presence, beyond just projects, and learn why authentic solidarity is essential in today's culture.
\n\nIn this episode, Charlie Petro shares insights on moving beyond surface-level connections to truly listen, connect, and love those around us. Here's a sneak peek into what’s waiting for you:
\n\nFor more on Ixim and their works check out https://ixim.org/ or email Charlie at cpetro@archomaha.org.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Have you ever found yourself in the middle of a heated conversation and wondered how it even got there? Or maybe you've hesitated to bring up a sensitive topic, fearing it could spiral into an emotional rollercoaster? In our latest episode, we explore powerful insights on transforming controversial discussions into opportunities for understanding and connection.
\n\nI had the pleasure of chatting with Katherine Burow, Executive Director of the Abortion Dialogue Academy, and she shared powerful insights on fostering empathy, finding common ground, and approaching conversations with the most charitable interpretation of others' perspectives. Katherine shares valuable strategies for effective communication, drawing inspiration from the teachings of Jesus and the mission of the Academy. Whether you're interested in pro-life advocacy or simply improving your communication skills, this conversation provides practical tips to approach challenging dialogues with understanding and compassion.
\n\nHere's a sneak peek into what you'll learn in this episode:
\n\nTune in now to discover how you can navigate difficult conversations with grace and create meaningful connections.
\n\nClick for more information on the Abortion Dialogue Academy and their scholarship program. To book a speaker, email info@abortiondialogueacademy.org.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Do you ever find yourself seeking inspiration from secular books, podcasts, or lectures? I get it. Sometimes, the best guidance comes from unexpected places. But here's the thing, how do you know if what you are learning aligns with our faith?
\n\nI've been pondering this too, and I'm excited to share some practical strategies on how to navigate this delicate balance of acquiring worldly wisdom and staying true to the faith. I call it "plundering the Egyptians". Join me as we talk about how to discern, ask fundamental questions, and align secular wisdom with the teachings and mission of the Church.
\n\nA sneak peek of what we'll explore together:
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
In this time of preparation for Christmas, do you find it hard to slow down? To appreciate the way Jesus comes to us? Small and humble. Well, I certainly do. I love Christmas, but I’ll be honest, I have conflicting emotions. I want salvation to be bright and loud! I want the world to be all better, and I want it to be all better now. And yet, the Lord asks us, especially during this season, to trust in his slow work and maybe to slow down a bit ourselves.
\n\nSo, spend 10 minutes with me today and discover:
\n\nPrayer of Teilhard de Chardin
\nAbove all, trust in the slow work of God. We are quite naturally impatient in everything to reach the end without delay. We should like to skip the intermediate stages. We are impatient of being on the way to something unknown, something new. And yet it is the law of all progress that it is made by passing through some stages of instability—
\nand that it may take a very long time. And so I think it is with you; your ideas mature gradually—let them grow, let them shape themselves, without undue haste. Don’t try to force them on, as though you could be today what time (that is to say, grace and circumstances acting on your own good will) will make of you tomorrow. Only God could say what this new spirit gradually forming within you will be. Give Our Lord the benefit of believing that his hand is leading you, and accept the anxiety of feeling yourself in suspense and incomplete. —Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, SJ (Excerpted from Hearts on Fire.)
For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Have you ever met a contagious Catholic? I'm not talking about cold and flu season here – I mean meeting someone whose faith is so vibrant and inspiring that it makes you want to deepen your own spiritual journey. Well, today, I had the joy of chatting with one such individual. Marcel LeJeune helped create the world’s largest campus ministry at Texas A&M, and he spills his secrets on infusing your faith with contagious enthusiasm. One of his gems from our conversation:
\n\n“Your inadequacies to the task at hand that you want to accomplish are nothing in the hands of a God who is infinitely powerful. All He has is messed up, sinful, insufficient people for the task that he wants to accomplish, and He laughs at us. All He asks is us to give Him a little bit of room and a small yes, and then get out of His way. Because here's the thing. I am neither the most talented, the smartest, certainly not the best looking of any of the people that I know, even in my local community. I'm not the best evangelist. I'm not the best theologian. I'm not the best writer or speaker. I'm not the best person to have a conversation with. I'm not the best listener. I'm not best at any of those things. And yet, God can still do big things through me and you because God is bigger than I am and bigger than you.”
\n\nIn today’s episode:
\n\nTune in and be empowered to share your faith boldly and authentically.
\n\nMore resources from our guest:
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
How important is it to care about what outsiders think of the Catholic Church? Discover the significance of bridging the gap between the Church and those who may feel distant. In this episode, we dive into Mallory Smythe's remarkable journey back to Catholicism, exploring her encounters with saints, the power of personal narratives, and strategies for engaging outsiders in conversations about faith. Mallory's compelling journey, shared in her book, 'Rekindled,' not only offers a shot in the arm for your faith but also provides a roadmap for engaging with others and fostering a deeper connection with the Church.
\n\nAs she beautifully puts it, “[Jesus] changed the lives of the disciples, and his last command was to go out to the world and make disciples…and it's the same thing for us. Like God actually calls us to go into the world and to meet people where they are, not compromising our own beliefs. But reach the hand out, and bring them in, in a way that they can understand and accept.”
\n\nHere's a glimpse of what you'll learn in this episode:
\n\nAlso, check out the resources mentioned in this episode!
\n\n\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Do you feel a desire to share your faith but worry about coming across as pushy or insincere? I get it. When I go into a relationship with the motive to evangelize, it can be hard to feel genuine. That's why I want to share some practical ways with you to engage others naturally, without any hint of proselytizing.
\n\nIn today’s episode, I delve into the distinction between true evangelization and proselytism, drawing insights from Pope Francis. Together, we'll explore the BLESS method – a practical acronym designed to help us engage with others in a way that feels authentic. And here's a reassuring reminder: none of this is about success. Our Heavenly Father loves you just for trying, just for joining your heart to His, which longs for the return of the lost sheep.
\n\nHere's what you'll take away:
\n\nFor more on this topic, check out:
\n\n\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
How much can a simple act of kindness impact someone's life? How can your involvement in community initiatives create meaningful connections? If you've ever felt a calling to connect with those in need, this conversation is for you. It’s a journey of faith, partnership, and service, guiding you to take the first step. Discover the profound stories that emerge when people come together and learn how your simple acts of kindness can make a lasting difference in the lives of others.
\n\nIn this episode, you will:
\n\nJoin this podcast for a journey of faith, compassion, and the transformative power of service. As today’s guest Cindy says, “You don't have to go somewhere to be on a mission trip. You can do it right here in Omaha, right here with your St. Vincent de Paul, right here with your Catholic Church.”
\n\n\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Ever wondered why prayer sometimes feels like you are talking to yourself? Do you ever look around at other leaders in your parish, thinking they've got it all figured out in the prayer department while you're struggling to keep up? Or maybe you just crave a deeper connection with God.
\n\nToday’s guest, Jim Beckman, breaks open the art of prayer. According to Jim, prayer is meant to be a real heart-to-heart with God, an open and honest exchange. As he puts it, “You can't deceive Him. You can't trick Him. You can't hide anything from Him. So why not just give up on that right away and just be who you are.”
\n\nHere's a sneak peek of what’s waiting for you in this episode:
\n\nIf you’d like to take your prayer life up a notch, check out these addition resources:
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
How much does faith play a role in your professional life? Do you ever feel like you separate your “Christian self” from your “work self”? The endeavor to unite our relationship with Jesus with all aspects of life is an ongoing, imperfect, but vital journey to go on.
\n\nToday, I had an incredibly insightful conversation with Lane Grindle, the play-by-play announcer for the Milwaukee Brewers, who shared his approach to balancing his career in sports broadcasting with his faith and family life. Lane underscores the importance of daily prayer, weekly confession, and faith-related conversations with his spouse as essential practices. He openly acknowledges his imperfections and emphasizes the significance of making a consistent effort to nurture his faith over time.
\n\nHere are four key takeaways from this episode:
\n\nLane Grindle's experiences and wisdom will inspire you to explore the intersection of faith and the challenges of a demanding career.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Have you ever found yourself in a situation where your passion and vision are extremely compelling, but you're not the one calling the shots? Sometimes, our leaders might not tick all the boxes when it comes to vision, delegation, or communication, and it can be downright frustrating. But, effective leadership isn't just about titles. No matter where you stand in the hierarchy, you have the power to make a significant impact. Learn how to navigate the delicate balance of influence, patience, and persistence in order to make a difference.
\n\nHere's a sneak peek of today’s Coach’s Corner:
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Do you ever feel like you don't have enough to give? Maybe there's debt to tackle, too many bills this month, or just not much left in the budget. But we know the Lord wants us to be generous! So, how can you increase your charitable giving when it seems there's nothing to spare?
\n\nI had the pleasure of talking with Jonathan and Amanda Teixeira, financial experts who provide education and guidance on managing money from a Catholic perspective. When you manage money through a Catholic lens, it means considering a broader range of values, from ethical investments to personal vocation, allowing you to make better financial choices while deepening your faith.
\n\nExplore with me today the role of generosity in experiencing financial freedom and joy.
\n\nIn this episode, you'll discover:
\n\nJonathan and Amanda offer courses, workshops, and resources through their platform, WalletWin.com, to help individuals and families achieve financial stability, get out of debt, build savings, and grow in generosity while staying true to their Catholic faith. They also run "The Catholic Money Show" podcast and have written a book: How to Attack Debt, Build Savings, and Change the World Through Generosity: A Catholic Guide to Managing Your Money.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Have you ever had a moment that deeply touched your soul, making you feel connected to God and changing your life? We often think of monumental conversion moments, but what if I told you that such transformative encounters could be a part of your daily life—through prayer?
\n\nPrayer is more than just speaking to God; it's about creating a sacred space for genuine conversation. It's about building a relationship with Jesus, allowing Him to speak to us, fostering spiritual growth, and helping us understand ourselves and God's will. Beyond that, prayer lets us receive grace and feel God's immense love. And here's the beautiful part: these encounters aren't just for us; they're meant to be shared, strengthening our faith and enriching our communities.
\n\nToday, I sit down with Fr. Pat McLaughlin for a conversation about the Lampstand Initiative. It's a program designed to transform our prayer lives, bringing us closer to Jesus. But it doesn't stop there. The Lampstand Initiative empowers us to not only deepen our own prayer lives but also to teach others, creating a ripple effect of prayer and evangelization in our communities.
\n\nIn this episode, we explore:
\n\nLearn more about the Lampstand Initiative. Or deepen your own prayer life by picking up one of these books: WRAP Yourself in Scripture and The Parish as a School of Prayer.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Ever felt the exhilaration of God's presence when using your unique spiritual gifts? Can you imagine what it would be like to discover and unleash your charisms for the benefit of your community? It's a journey of openness, spiritual growth, and the grace of God propelling us forward.
\n\nJoin me in an inspiring episode featuring Sherry Weddell, co-founder of the Catherine of Sienna Institute. She sheds light on charisms, reminding us that these divine gifts are meant to be shared, illuminating the lives of others with God's love and mercy. “These are ways that you and I have been empowered by God to be an instrument of His love and His beauty and His mercy and His healing and His provision for other people."
\n\nIn this episode, we delve into the world of spiritual gifts, exploring the transformative power of charisms and their role in shaping our faith.
\n\nGet Ready to:
\n\nIf you're curious to learn more about how charisms can ignite your faith and guide you on a path of intentional discipleship check out The Catherine of Sienna Institute and Sherry’s book, Forming Intentional Disciples.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Have you ever felt alone even when you are in a crowd of people? Do you desire to be known and seen by a community that shares your values? Our parish communities, which should be the place where we find belonging, are often too large to provide the experience of close-knit spiritual family. But, it’s not impossible!
\n\nCome with me as I explore how forming small groups can be a life-giving experience, fostering deeper connections and intentional faith conversations. Drawing inspiration from stories of people living in Congo and experiences right here in our communities, we uncover the incredible impact of sharing struggles, reading scriptures together, and growing in faith collectively.
\n\nIn this episode:
\n\nResources mentioned in this episode:
\n\n\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
In this fast-paced world, who doesn’t feel overwhelmed by busyness? There’s nothing quite so American as the stress we put on (and really, the stress caused by) doing more and thinking bigger. That’s why, today, I want to talk about a transformative insight that I just came up with: Less is More!
\n\nAll joking aside, this is an aphorism that has been thrown around for almost a century now, and yet, it seems that simplifying our lives is easier said than done. So, let’s delve into the beauty of simplicity and how it can enhance all areas of your life. By focusing on what truly matters, we can experience deeper connections with our loved ones, a clearer path to spiritual growth in our parishes, and a more balanced and fulfilling life.
\n\nIn today’s episode, you will:
\n\nTo further explore this concept, I highly recommend The Seven Practices of Effective Ministry, The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry, and Simple Church: Returning to God's Process for Making Disciples.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
How life-giving is the volunteer work that you do for your parish? Is it draining or invigorating? Hopefully, some of you responded, “Invigorating!” But if you find yourself drained by the work of being missional, you are not alone. So many of us say yes to the work because it is good, or necessary, or because “Father asked me to”. Rarely are we asked to first discern our charisms and then to volunteer in a mission field that matches our gifts.
\n\nAnd so, I invited Mandy Busch and Amanda Pfeifer to talk about how they are helping parishioners find fulfillment in their mission. They focus first on helping parishioners to understand their God given gifts (charisms) and to notice where the Lord’s gifts are bearing fruit. In their own words: “This is an essential item you need in your toolbox as an intentional disciple. Knowing what your charisms are and the ways in which the Lord moves in you to do his work, changes everything. Because when it’s his work, it’s not work.”
\n\nIn today’s episode, you will hear how a parish can:
\n\nIf you want to learn about your charisms or to help others do so, check out Siena.org.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
The call to evangelize has been consistent and increasingly urgent from our Church leaders for the past fifty plus years. When you hear that call, have you ever felt like you aren’t enough? Like you don’t have the appropriate strengths or the right leadership qualities to offer?
\n\nWell, you’re not alone. Fr. Mallon, author of Catholic pop-culture phenomenon Divine Renovation, was the pastor at St. Benedict Parish in Hallifax, Nova Scotia. He turned the parish around and created a truly missional community. His strengths were clear and his leadership was bold. So today, I talk to…his successor. Fr. Simon Lobo became pastor of St. Benedict Parish, and it was immediately clear that his gifts and his weaknesses were very different.
\n\nSo how did he succeed without the stereotypical leadership strengths? Today we talk about:
\n\nIf you’d like to read more about his experience, check out Divine Renovation Apprentice and Preaching on Purpose.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Raise your hand if you feel confident that you can help your children develop a personal relationship with Jesus. If I could see you all, I bet there would not be many hands in the air. We know how to teach rote prayers, but helping our children truly connect with Jesus feels a tad outside of a parent’s control.
\n\nThe reality is that the Lord gives us everything that we need to model a real and personal relationship with Jesus. Today’s guest, Becky Deaver, teaches us from her experience as a wife and mother of eight.
\n\nIn this episode, you will learn:
\n\nIf you’d like easy prayer series to do with your family, check out Oremus: A Guide to Catholic Prayer by Fr. Mark Toups.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Why is sharing the source and summit of our faith rarely the first step to take when evangelizing? I want others to know and love Jesus. I know and love Jesus in the Eucharist, so why shouldn’t I jump straight to inviting non-believers to mass or adoration? While the Eucharist isn’t our opening act, we should by no means forget it entirely. The Eucharist is our headliner!
\n\nOn today’s Coach’s Corner, I make the case that the Eucharist is in fact missional. It is missional because it is the source of our life, because we are sent on mission from Eucharistic communities, and because the mass itself commissions us to, “Go out and proclaim the gospel with your lives!”
\n\nJoin me to hear:
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
We are all called to evangelize, but have you ever felt limited, feeling like you don’t have much to give? Perhaps you only have 1-2 free hours a week. Or you are only around “hard cases”, people who seem unlikely to want to talk about faith. Perhaps, you feel like your only sphere of influence is your own parish. But those people don’t need evangelizing…do they?
\n\nThis week, I talk to Greg Doring, a personal friend who used small groups as a tool to reach other men. In this episode, we’ll discuss how to evangelize wherever the Lord plants you and how miraculous things can happen even when you only have a few hours to give.
\n\nIn this episode, Greg talks about how:
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
July 1st is just around the corner, and with that comes a new experience of parish life for every person in the Archdiocese of Omaha. Many of us will experience a reduction in mass times at our parishes, new uses for our parish structures, and interruptions to the routines that many of us hold precious. This disruption can be difficult to process, so today, we welcome Fr. James Keiter, a pastor who has shepherded his people through these changes already.
\n\nFr. Keiter shares his experience of how, again and again, the Lord has provided everything he and his parishioners need to manage their new reality, despite the upheaval. He also provides some surprising advice on how to rediscover the joy of being Catholic while continuing to grow the Church. If you’ve been feeling uncertain about the changes in your parish, this episode is here to offer you a bit of reassurance in the Lord.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Why is sharing our faith with the people closest to us sometimes the most difficult thing to do? We want the people we love to know the person we love: Jesus. However, conversations about faith are often taboo especially if our family or friends are fallen away Catholics. So how do we evangelize those who are closest to our hearts?
\n\nAndre Regnier, a missionary with Catholic Christian Outreach, Canada’s version of FOCUS, brings his years of experience to bear on this question. He will encourage you to have thise faith conversations, and he will give you the tools to do so. His best piece of advice? Never underestimate the importance of a clear and simple invitation to follow Jesus.
\n\nIf you want to learn more about reaching fallen away Catholics, check out:
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Are you completely satisfied with every aspect of your life? Most people dream about changing some aspect of their life, but we’re often held back by the fear and anxiety that come along with doing so. Change often marks the end of something, and so it brings feelings of loss and uncertainty about the future. Not to mention, living in a time of transition between the old and the new can be disorienting. So how do we keep our sense of stability and direction when the world seems to be shifting under our feet?
\n\nToday, I welcome Tod Bolsinger, author and experienced leader, to share his experience navigating through the unknown. He emphasizes the importance of discerning one's mission, not being confined to tradition, and understanding that change is inherently accompanied by resistance and even sabotage. He offers valuable advice, urging leaders to form connections with others, embrace learning, and let go of what holds them back.
\n\nIn today’s episode, you will learn:
\n\nIf you’d like more on this subject, check out Tod’s books, Tempered Resilience and Canoeing the Mountains, or go to his website, AE Sloan Leadership.
\n\nMy favorite quotes from Tod
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Do you feel like the Lord is calling you to something new, but you simply don’t have the space or time in your schedule? Or are the good and restful parts of your life being neglected because you are hanging on to old habits or commitments? Cutting back to the most essential things can be difficult. This is why in today’s Coach’s Corner I focus on the art of pruning—shedding what no longer serves us to make room for growth and abundance.
\n\nBy drawing parallels between the natural world and our lives, I help you recognize the signs of when it's time to prune, discover the wisdom in knowing what to cut, when to cut, and how to cut. And, I’ll give practical tips for navigating this process. Join me as I explore the biblical foundation of pruning, and with the help of the Holy Spirit let’s prune with reckless abandon so as to make way for new life that is healthier and stronger than it’s ever been.
\n\nIn today’s episode, you will hear:
\n\nFor one of my favorite books on this topic, check out Necessary Endings by Dr. Henry Cloud
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
I know so many of you who are listening, like me, are trying to serve the kingdom. But how often do our own health concerns keep us from doing the promptings of the Holy Spirit? Sometimes, I feel weak intellectually, spiritually, and even physically. And when I stop to ponder how my physical health affects my mental/spiritual health and vice versa, I’m not surprised. I mean, God made us integrated beings, body and soul. So, let’s talk about what Jesus wants for our health, and let’s find true freedom to live as God wants us to.
\n\nToday’s guest, Christina Diers, talks about two programs, SoulCore and REFORM, that integrate physical exercise with prayer, specifically the rosary. In SoulCore, the movement is tailored to empathize with the themes of each mystery, creating a unique worship experience engaging all senses. REFORM emphasizes holistic nutrition and physical activity while integrating faith into daily choices. Both the daily practice of praying the rosary, fostering a deeper understanding of the mysteries, and advocating for a lifestyle where faith and health are intertwined, guiding individuals to honor their bodies as sacred gifts from God.
\n\nIn this episode, learn how to:
\n\nDon’t forget to check out SoulCore and REFORM for yourself!
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
This year has brought a lot of ups and downs for the Archdiocese of Omaha. We, like many dioceses, are facing the reality of a declining number of people in our pews and a culture that is less and less Christian. With this desolating reality in mind, I keep coming back in prayer to one major consolation: Jesus is risen! The victory is ours!
\n\nIn this Easter episode, I sit down with Archbishop Lucas for our yearly reflection and ask about his hope. We discuss the significance of Easter, delving into the profound mystery of Jesus's resurrection and its impact on faith and life. The archbishop highlights its role in bolstering hope especially in the face of ongoing changes within the Church. He offers an invitation to embrace the entire Paschal mystery, recognizing that both the cross and the resurrection are integral to the Christian journey.
\n\nIn today’s episode:
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Why wasn’t St. Thomas with the other apostles when Jesus appeared? I used to imagine that he was doing some mundane task like buying groceries. But, if we read the passage carefully, it’s likely he was absent because he didn’t want to be with the other apostles. Jesus could have appeared at any time; if Thomas was only “gone to the store”, he could have waited. Additionally, Thomas’s response to the news of the resurrection is stubborn (and maybe a tad obnoxious) disbelief.
\n\nIn today’s Coach’s Corner, I ask the question: How do we help those in the same place as St. Thomas, the stubbornly disbelieving? Tune in to hear how helping a person belong can also help them to believe. The goal is to make non-believers feel accepted and engaged in the community, creating a path toward embracing faith and living a life of discipleship.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
What keeps you from sharing your faith with others? Not enough time, knowledge, or energy? Perhaps it’s a fear of failure? Or maybe you imagine someone who evangelizes as having a skillset that you don’t. We know Jesus wants us to “go and make disciples”, so it stands to reason that he wants us to go just as we are.
\n\nToday, I talk with Kelly Peklo and Matt Keller, graduates of the Archdiocese Mentorship Program. They share their journey to understand God’s call to evangelize and how they made that call fit into their lives. They talk about learning to pray and to hear the Lord’s voice. And he wasn’t asking them to share their faith like a famous tele-evangelist or door-to-door salesman. He was calling them to use their unique strengths, to share His love with others, by simply being themselves.
\n\nIn this episode, you will be encouraged to:
\n\nAlso, check out the Mentorship Program!
\nFor 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
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Father Flanagan, a Catholic priest, defied the norms of his time, founded Boys Town, and challenged the conventional approach to child care. His dedication and vision led to the creation of a space where children could come to live as a family, receive education, and be guided with love and compassion. The impact of Boys Town reverberated across America and the world, influencing child care systems and emphasizing kindness, equality, and love.
\n\nThis episode not only recounts Father Flanagan's journey but also explores the ethos of Boys Town and its transformative effect on the lives of children. From facing societal opposition and standing up against racial discrimination to advocating for the rights of Japanese Americans during World War II, Father Flanagan exhibited extraordinary compassion and resilience.
\n\nIn today’s episode, you will:
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
St. Frances Cabrini, one of our oldest and most historic parishes, was dying. And if its story followed the usual pattern, it would be closed. Instead, the parish is not only growing, but its people are thriving. How did this community reinvent itself in less than 7 years?
\n\nThe parish leaders embraced a relationship with the Holy Spirit, allowing the him to guide their initiatives. Then, they started small, fostering intentional relationships, recognizing and inviting people to participate, and They now have a culture of invitation. Every parishioner knows they should be reaching out to others, drawing the community together and to the person of Christ.
\n\nIn this episode, you will learn:
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Ever poured your heart into planning an event, only to see the enthusiasm fade away soon after it ends, leaving you wondering what could have been done differently? Let's dive into the art of event planning and execution together, unveiling five simple yet impactful tips to create events that resonate and nurture spiritual growth.
\n\nToday, we'll explore how to:
\n\nLet's unlock the potential of your events and ensure they leave a lasting mark on every participant.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
How do we share the love of Jesus with someone who finds our beliefs contrary to their way of life? Accompaniment can be particularly tricky when we find ourselves called to walk with someone whose behaviors may not align with Church teachings. But we know the transformative power of God’s love and should not keep it to ourselves. So how do you walk the fine line between accompaniment and accommodation with someone like this?
\n\nToday, I talk with Fr. Sean Kilcawley of the Diocese of Lincoln. Over the years, the Lord has called him into ministry with people who struggle with addiction and/or question their identity. He has made a career out of answering the question: What would it be like to make it safe for people to name the difficult things in their hearts? Specifically, we dig into the topic of gender identity, encouraging empathy, love, and understanding when dealing with complex issues related to faith, gender, and identity.
\n\nIn this episode:
\n\nFor more on this topic, check out Fr. Sean Kilcawley's Youtube Channel and the book The Seven Desires of Every Human Heart by Mark and Deborah Laaser.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Ever felt the weight of wanting to share your faith but not knowing where to start? Trust me, I’ve been there. When I first dipped my toes into evangelizing, I stumbled through it, making more than my fair share of blunders. But you know what changed the game for me? Learning to lean on the Holy Spirit and building genuine connections that sparked meaningful conversations about faith.
\n\nNow, let’s be real, most of us aren’t born experts at this stuff. That’s why I’m thrilled to bring you an episode featuring someone who truly gets it: Michael Hall. He’s the brains behind the book “Intentional Accompaniment” and serves as the Interim Director of Program Support for Catholic Christian Outreach in Canada (kind of like FOCUS in the US).
\nMichael walks us through practical tools and techniques for evangelizing in our everyday lives, whether it’s within our parish community or our own families. And the best part? He breaks it down in a way that feels totally doable.
Join us to:
\n\nIf you’ve ever felt hesitant about evangelizing or wondered where to even begin, this episode is tailor-made for you!
\n\nAlso, check out Michael's book or see more resources from Catholic Christian Outreach.
\n\nFor more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Did you know that in July of this year more than 20 parishes in our diocese will cease having Sunday Mass? Maybe one of these parishes is your own. The cessation of Sunday Mass will be one of the hardest events for faithful Catholics to process. It feels like the death of a loved one. However, this is not the first time God's people have had to deal with their worship in a particular place coming to an end. I’d like to offer lessons from the past. Why is this happening and what should our response be?
\n\nReferences:
\nVatican document on Pastoral Planning
A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Did you know that since 1990 more than 400 new Catholic schools have opened in the United States? Unfortunately, during that same period there's been a net loss of more than 760 Catholic schools. We now have fewer total students in Catholic schools in the United States then we did in 1930 despite the fact that the Catholic population has tripled since then.
\n\nI got a chance to sit down with Archbishop J. Michael Miller, CSB. He served as the secretary for the Congregation for Catholic Education in Rome, and so we discuss what the Church teaches about our Catholic schools. We go over the history of how participation in our schools has decreased, the importance of a partnership with parents, and the five essential marks of Catholic schools.
\n\nCatholic schools have a beautiful mission to evangelize, so for anyone who loves schools and loves the mission of the Church, this episode is for you!
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
By now, you’ve probably heard about the Journey of Faith. This is the archdiocese’s name for pastoral planning, the process by which a diocese tries to properly allocate its resources when faced with changing demographics, population shifts, and the decreasing availability of priests. That all sounds very clinical, but at the heart of it, we know that the people of our diocese will experience loss.
\n\nSo today, I bring you Kathy Slusarski. She is a born and raised Nebraskan, widow, and grandmother of 11, and Kathy has been through pastoral planning three times. This could have left her hardened and bitter, but instead, she views her Catholic faith as something that transcends the physical location of a church and is confident that Jesus is with them no matter where they worship. She has found hope through her faith and community and by embracing the transformative power of Jesus.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
I’ve told you before that I’m convinced small faith sharing groups will bring renewal to our Church. One of my favorite ways to get small groups started in a parish is through Live Lent Together.
\n\nThis initiative of the Archdiocese of Omaha allows people who are new to the work of evangelization to take a first step into mission. I’ve also seen it bear great fruit in the lives of participants.
\n\nToday, I bring you three stories of Live Lent Together small groups and the fruit of shared faith.
\n\nP.S. Want to check out a training to see if Live Lent Together is right for you? Go to ArchOmaha.org/Lent
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
In the world of evangelization, there is a lot of talk about how to reach families because the young family is often the most underserved demographic of our parishes. But how do we catch them when parents are so often busy with work, their children’s extracurricular activities, and all the craziness that just comes with growing a family?
\n\nThe answer: Begin with moms.
\n\nOver the years, my lovely wife, Kim, and I have found ourselves ministering to mothers. This has taught us that the heart of family is the mother, and she is often staving for connection and community. So today, we tell you stories of connecting with the young, busy moms and how that has led to evangelizing the family.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Have you ever noticed that the unique story of one person can highlight a universal truth about humanity? I often ponder how the Lord uses the story of someone who is seemingly different from myself to teach me that we’re not so different after all.
\n\nToday, I talk with Kathy Miklas about her work at QLI, a world-class rehabilitation center in Omaha. She shares with us her story of staring a faith sharing group with her clients and of how, through listening, she has come to the conviction that there are gifts in everyone that need to be shared.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
I’m trying something new. My team and I have the privilege of working with leaders in parishes as they discern how to move their parish culture toward mission. This has brought a multitude of topics to my attention that could be aired on the EquipCast. And so, today, I bring you the Coach’s Corner where we break down important topics to help equip you and your team for mission in your church, in your family, and in your ministry.
\n\nThis episode’s topic might not immediately scream “equipping disciples”, but it is the foundation of everything we do. Tune in for a 10 minute episode on Getting the Most Out of Mass.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
If you’ve had a chance to check out the Journey of Faith, you know there are many reasons we’ve entered a season of restructuring in our diocese. One of these reasons is that by 2033, we will have approximately 81 priests, and currently, there are 136 parishes. If we want to keep our priests from the inevitable burnout, something needs to change.
\n\nBut, what is the average layperson to do?
\n\nToday I speak with Katie Keller, the local coordinator for the Seven Sisters Apostolate. This is a group of women committed to one day a week praying for a particular priest.
\n\nNow, if you are not a woman or don’t feel particularly called to this ministry, I’d still encourage you to listen to the episode. My guest imparts many bits of wisdom around prayer, such as:
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Whatever your ministry, whatever your background, I’m confident that today’s episode is for you. I’m confident because it is about the Gospel, and I’ve seen first-hand the power of the good news of Jesus.
\n\nIt revolutionizes lives, marriages, and ministries.
\n\nSo, whether you are involved in a parish ministry, a ministry of mercy, or just the daily ministry to your own family, I encourage you to tune in. This episode will help you share the core gospel message in a clear and explicit way as well as to overcome the common obstacles which hold us back from proclaiming Jesus to those we serve.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
The victory is ours; through Jesus, the battle is won! (1 Corinthians 15:57)
\n\nI know this to be true, but does it ever feel like the battle for your own heart and mind is on-going?
\n\nToday, I talk with Jessica Navin about what’s really at the root of spiritual warfare, or the enemy’s attempt to steal our faith. She provides practical tips for noticing the trajectory of our thoughts and using scripture to defend ourselves. And while there is no silver bullet, she shows how easy it can be to let the Lord’s victory be ours when we learn to cooperate with his plan.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
JPII once said in a homily “As the family goes…so goes the whole world in which we live.” As I continue to beat the drum for missional communities, I’d like to go deeper and look at the foundation of these communities: the family.
\n\nDid you know that 85-90% of Catholics in the pews on Sunday are from intact families? If we want to fight the current diminishment of the Church, we must pay attention to this trend.
\n\nToday, my guest, J.P. De Gance, tells us about his ministry, Communio. They help parishes diagnose the relationship health of their members and to come up with a plan that meets the felt need of the people. As the statistic implies, healthy relationship are the key to drawing people back to the gospel.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
The conversation today might at first feel like a niche topic. I talk to Fr. Tom Fangman about how he learned to let go and start working with an administrative assistant. Now, if you aren’t a pastor or a CEO, you might ask, “How can this possibly apply to me?”
\n\nThe reality is we all, at times, try to hold on to control when we don’t need to. The surrender necessary to let go as well as the ability to learn to trust another individual is a lesson for everyone. It’s often even a conversion of heart, and Fr. Tom Fangman paints a picture of conversion that is inspiring.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
In a post-Roe world, the ministries that support mothers and children are more necessary than ever. In Omaha, we have a few homes for pregnant women, and today, I’d like to highlight one: Mater Filius.
\n\nJulie Mainelli and Stacy Floersch tell us stories that exemplify the power of prayer, teamwork, and a ministry of presence. They are a witness of a Church that embodies love. And even though you may not be called to care for women and children the way these ladies have, I’m confident that their example is reproducible in any ministry.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
As you know, the culture has been rapidly changing around us, and as a result, the Church is diminishing in size. If we want our parishes to flourish again, we must heed the call to become missional communities. The Archbishop has started the Journey of Faith for this very reason.
\n\nHowever, if you have ever experienced change before, then you know it’s not all butterflies and rainbows. Even happy changes (moving off to college, getting married, etc.) come with moments of grief. In fact, it’s important to grieve the change.
\n\nToday, Fr. Kevin Vogel joins me to discuss how to grieve well while on this Journey of Faith.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
We’ve all had the experience of drinking from a firehose of information. At seminars or retreats where this happens, I often hear people say things like, “It’s overwhelming…but all the information is good!” And it’s true, all the information is good. But, how much of it sticks?
\n\nToday, we are finishing our series on The 7 Practices of Effective Ministry with the adage “teach less for more”. Tune in today to hear from, Jen Moser, our Leadership Formation Specialist. Over the years, she has learned to hone the curriculum of the Mentorship Program so that participants walk away with the most important information.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Our lives are busy. If you are like me, every day, there are demands on your time. I have obligations as a father, as a full-time employee, and as a faithful parishioner. If I say yes to every good idea that comes my way, then I won’t have time for the most important things. So, how does one choose?
\n\nToday, I pull another teammate in front of the microphone to talk about how to “narrow the focus”. The overabundance of good things to say yes to is not just a problem in our daily lives, it also shows up in ministry work and parishes. The good (saying yes to every good thing) often becomes the enemy of the great (prioritizing one thing so that it can really flourish). Tune in to hear from Andy Dejka about pruning so that the most important things can flourish.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Is it important to "win" at ministry work? Should we set goals, run after them, and measure them? It's probably no surprise that my answer to this is a resounding "YES!"
\n\nToday, I pull Whitney, the producer, in front of the microphone to talk about what she calls her "extreme need for clarity". Her drive for clarity makes our team goals sharper and our wins easier to achieve. And, yes, winning is not everything, but when we do clarify what winning looks like, our team is more effective at the real work: bringing souls to Jesus.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
What is the Lord doing for you in prayer?
\n\nAs many of us know, life comes with suffering. Our daily struggles can so easily rattle us and disrupt our peace. This, then, creeps into the way we interact with God.
\n\nToday, I bring you the story of Jill Ruskamp. She has built a personal manifesto around her prayer, collecting moments of inspiration, scripture passages, words from God, and key memories. Not only does it bring her peace in the middle of suffering, but it has also become a great tool for evangelization. As we learn our own stories more deeply, we develop a more profound respect for the stories of others.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
The culture is changing around us, and the things that used to grow the parish community no longer do. If we want to continue drawing others to Jesus, we must change the way we walk with people in the secular world. For most of us (dare I say ALL of us), this means venturing into the unknown.
\n\nWe are in uncharted territory and must figure out our way forward. Making this shift towards becoming a missional community means opening ourselves to the newness that God desires for us. It involves changing our habits, our processes, and even our expectations of what is possible.
\n\nMany of us are good at leading others to places that we've already been. But, how do you lead when you've never been to that place yourself? I'm going to walk you through five principles for leading into the unknown.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
","summary":"The culture is changing around us, and the things that used to grow the parish community no longer do. If we want to continue drawing others to Jesus, we must change the way we walk with people in the secular world. For most of us (dare I say ALL of us), this means venturing into the unknown. We are in uncharted territory and must figure out our way forward. Making this shift towards becoming a missional community means opening ourselves to the newness that God desires for us. It involves changing our habits, our processes, and even our expectations of what is possible. Many of us are good at leading others to places that we've already been. But, how do you lead when you've never been to that place yourself? I'm going to walk you through five principles for leading into the unknown. \r\n","date_published":"2022-08-30T04:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/13e42810-f0bc-46af-adf3-d2d2281983e8.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":15335207,"duration_in_seconds":952}]},{"id":"576411a4-1ec3-4a4d-b82c-846f4e000202","title":"Episode 95: The Impact of Live Lent Together","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/95","content_text":"I know…I know! Talking about Lent in August feels like it should be in one of those “It’s too early for Christmas” memes. You guys know, I get really excited about the impact small groups can have on a parish, so I just couldn’t wait to share this story with you! Sacred Heart, a parish in Omaha, was able to use their Live Lent Together initiative to both bring parish leaders together and to reach the peripheries. After listening, I hope you consider growing Live Lent Together at your parish.\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)","content_html":"I know…I know! Talking about Lent in August feels like it should be in one of those “It’s too early for Christmas” memes. You guys know, I get really excited about the impact small groups can have on a parish, so I just couldn’t wait to share this story with you! Sacred Heart, a parish in Omaha, was able to use their Live Lent Together initiative to both bring parish leaders together and to reach the peripheries. After listening, I hope you consider growing Live Lent Together at your parish.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
The buzz phrase "Meet people where they are!" has been around for a while now. Pope Francis often concretizes this in a call to go out and be with those who are suffering. While many of us are no stranger to caring for the physical needs of others, we know that the spiritual poverty of the United States is where the greatest need lies. So, how do we meet people where they are when the need is intangible?
\n\nOne tool that my team, The Parish Support Team, has found to be very useful is the Thresholds of Conversion and Discipleship. These Thresholds give us a common language for evangelization and help us to identify where people are at on their spiritual journey.
\n\nJoin me for the conversation!
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
This week I talk to a friend in the Diocese of Houma Thibodaux. If you couldn't tell by the hard to pronounce spelling, that's in Louisiana. There, they also have a Parish Support Team tasked with helping pastors and parishes become missional communities. I've looked to them for more than a year now as an example for my team. One of the most surprising things we've learned? How to pray more intentionally about the work that we do.
\n\nTune in to hear some really practical advice for hearing the voice of the Lord.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
As much as I would like them to, our episodes on stewardship do not do as well as our episodes on evangelization. We are so used to thinking about stewardship as just giving money to keep the lights of our parish on. While this kind of generosity is good, a cultivating a Culture of Generosity takes so much more.
\n\nIn fact, we know, through parables such as the rich man and Lazarus, that generosity is one of the keys to sanctity.
\n\nSo, I encourage you to give today's episode a chance. Dave Baranowski from the Archdiocese of St. Louis talks about how to gather and form leaders for generosity, and I promise, it's more than a pitch for money!
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
The end to abortion is here! ...Legally...at the federal level.
\n\nWhile we should celebrate a major victory in the fight against abortion, the work has really just begun. If we want to end abortion, not just make it illegal, then we have to change minds and hearts. Today's guest, Katherine Burow, tells us "A lot of people are pro-choice because they've never heard a compelling secular argument."
\n\nKatherines work as the Executive Director of the Abortion Dialogue Academy is to end abortion by changing the culture. They spend much of their time on Nebraska college campuses changing hearts on the topic of abortion through the use of a 7 minute argument.
\n\nShe shares some of her wisdom with us today.
\n\nWant to hear more from Katherine? Check out her podcast Pro-Life in 7 Minutes.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Let's talk about productivity. There is this lie that is a two-edged sword in the Christian world. For some, getting tasks done does not come naturally, and so it can rob them of the peace that comes with a relationship with God. On the other hand, we often deeply feel the urgency that comes with a call from God causing us to "over produce" or to work ourselves to the bone in order to "achieve" His will.
\n\nNeither is good.
\n\nGrowing in skills of execution can help us be productive without falling into either lie. Thus, I want to offer you an 8-minute skill demo. Nothing too deep, just some tips from one of the executors on my team.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
","summary":"Let's talk about productivity. There is this lie that is a two-edged sword in the Christian world. For some, getting tasks done does not come naturally, and so it can rob them of the peace that comes with a relationship with God. On the other hand, we often deeply feel the urgency that comes with a call from God causing us to \"over produce\" or to work ourselves to the bone in order to \"achieve\" His will. Neither is good. Growing in skills of execution can help us be productive without falling into either lie. Thus, I want to offer you an 8-minute skill demo. Nothing too deep, just some tips from one of the executors on my team.","date_published":"2022-06-21T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/d8b1f92e-a51a-4a26-87e0-20d4d3b19955.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":7526466,"duration_in_seconds":468}]},{"id":"ecb35994-d161-4a3c-8d34-8c0cf1257aac","title":"Episode 90: Myth Busting: Clear Path of Discipleship","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/90","content_text":"The Archdiocese's Big Goal, each parish in the Archdiocese of Omaha will be a missional community, has three characteristics: collaborative leadership, a clear path to discipleship, and a culture of generosity. I believe we can't talk about these enough.\n\nSo today, I have another episode on the clear path to discipleship for you. In many ways, the clear path isn't a new idea; it's just a new expression of something that is as old as the Church. Thus, people don't respond negatively to it, but I have encountered quite a few misconceptions that seem to trip people up. They think the clear path is just the newest buzzword, a quick fix that puts people on an assembly line and cuts all ministries out of a parish. \n\nIf you've thought these things (or if you know someone else who has), let me mythbust for you!\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)","content_html":"The Archdiocese's Big Goal, each parish in the Archdiocese of Omaha will be a missional community, has three characteristics: collaborative leadership, a clear path to discipleship, and a culture of generosity. I believe we can't talk about these enough.
\n\nSo today, I have another episode on the clear path to discipleship for you. In many ways, the clear path isn't a new idea; it's just a new expression of something that is as old as the Church. Thus, people don't respond negatively to it, but I have encountered quite a few misconceptions that seem to trip people up. They think the clear path is just the newest buzzword, a quick fix that puts people on an assembly line and cuts all ministries out of a parish.
\n\nIf you've thought these things (or if you know someone else who has), let me mythbust for you!
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
With the Journey of Faith underway, the words “flourishing” and “missional community” have become buzzwords in our diocese. Many good people have been asking, “Wait…ARE we a missional community? What does it even mean for an entire parish to be missional?”
\n\nWe have a definition: an outward looking group of disciples, under the care of a pastor, sent by Jesus to make disciples.
\n\nHowever, a definition is only a starting point for understanding, so today, I bring you You Might Be a Missional Community If… Calvin Mueller and I discuss some indicators of a missional community so that you might know if you are or not.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Making the shift towards becoming a missional community, whether that's in a parish or a ministry, often means taking steps into the unknown. It means opening ourselves to new the things that God desires for us, and as silly as it might sound, good meetings are important to discerning the steps to following his will.
\n\nBut, have you ever had the experience of going to a meeting, having good discussion, getting through the entire agenda only to discover that you didn't actually talk about the most important topics.
\n\nToday, I'm going to teach you how to set a real time agenda to help ensure you and your team have the most productive meetings.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
As the archdiocese goes through the pastoral planning process called Journey of Faith, I'm sure you've heard some of the statistics. One of the most striking is: Since 2003, Mass attendance in the archdiocese has declined by 42%. This is more than a number; it's souls.
\n\nWho comes to mind when you think about that reality? A friend? Neighbor? Siblings or children?
\n\nWe all have someone who has left the Catholic faith, and I hazard to guess that this causes all of us some grief. We want to know why people walk away, and where they go. We want some way to talk to them and to, hopefully, bring them back.
\n\nToday's conversation is about just that.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
I’ve got a program this is going to change hearts and transform lives! It builds relationships, causes conversions, and could be a real blessing to your parish, BUT there’s a catch…
\n\nProgram’s aren’t silver bullets, and they can’t survive in a vacuum.
\n\nA program that works has:
\n\nAll this may seem like a lot, but today’s episode provides some easy first steps for fostering good programs that flourish.
\n\n(Note: No actual program is being promoted in this episode. We simply hope to impart some wisdom around using programs in a way that they will truly thrive at your parish.)
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
One thing the pandemic taught me is that people are starving for friendship. It is unfortunately easy to go through life making surface level connections with people but not to form the deep bonds of true friendship. We can be surrounded by people and yet feel so very alone.
\n\nAnd so, today I bring you Austin Casselberry, a person that I like to call a “prophet of friendship”. He offers wisdom on how to intentionally cultivate friendships with true depth.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
He is risen! He is risen indeed! Are you convinced that Jesus’s death and resurrection can have a profound impact on your life and on the lives of others? If yes, are you comfortable and confident sharing that good news with others?
\n\nJesus has changed my life, and I want others to have that same experience. However, it took me a long time to feel comfortable sharing the gospel, and it took a lot of practice to share it well.
\n\nHow do I reflect on the work Jesus is doing in my life and share it in a way that is intentional but not forced? Jen Moser, breaks down the answer in 13 minutes.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
","summary":"He is risen! He is risen indeed! Are you convinced that Jesus’s death and resurrection can have a profound impact on your life and on the lives of others? If yes, are you comfortable and confident sharing that good news with others? Jesus has changed my life, and I want others to have that same experience. However, it took me a long time to feel comfortable sharing the gospel, and it took a lot of practice to share it well. How do I reflect on the work Jesus is doing in my life and share it in a way that is intentional but not forced? \r\nJen Moser, breaks down the answer in 13 minutes.\r\n","date_published":"2022-04-26T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/fdc11c51-1261-4a9c-bd61-84cec6f2e7b1.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":12085541,"duration_in_seconds":811}]},{"id":"9f05a2b8-af47-4933-bae9-8a6cecc18f54","title":"Episode 85: Happy Easter!","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/85","content_text":"“We are an Easter people, and Alleluia is our song!” This season is meant to have a lasting effect on our lives, so today, I invite you to pause and reflect. Archbishop Lucas gives his insights on the resurrection and his desire for each of us to experience the grace of Easter personally.\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)","content_html":"“We are an Easter people, and Alleluia is our song!” This season is meant to have a lasting effect on our lives, so today, I invite you to pause and reflect. Archbishop Lucas gives his insights on the resurrection and his desire for each of us to experience the grace of Easter personally.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
As disciples, we are called to "give back" or to steward the gifts that we have been given by God. I'd be very surprised if this was a new concept to any of you.
\n\nHowever, an area where most of us are less comfortable is development. Asking a person directly for money is a difficult conversation without the right perspective and tools.
\n\nToday's guest, Chris Kuetemeyer, is a professional in the world of development and a former FOCUS missionary. He understands that to ask for money, he needs to first invite people into the mission of the Church. When he sits down with a donor, he invites them to be a partner in a ministry. The donor may not be doing the physical work, but they are responsible for that work even happening. This inclusion makes all the difference.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Danny Leger, cofounder of Hope of the Poor, walks us through how to talk to the homeless.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
","summary":"Danny Leger, cofounder of Hope of the Poor, walks us through how to talk to the homeless.","date_published":"2022-03-29T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/bddd6ff7-cf3a-45a1-becc-744a9fa5e359.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":10493646,"duration_in_seconds":524}]},{"id":"7110d19c-e697-43d0-8538-dce010153357","title":"Episode 83: Make Change Easier to Experience","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/83","content_text":"If I were to sit you down and say, “You are about to experience a big life change”, what would be your first reaction? Does the word “change” invoke dread or excitement?\n\nNo matter who you are, a priest, a parish staff member, or an engaged parishioner, you know that bringing about change can be very difficult. Deciding on and implementing a new program is often the easy part. Helping parishioners shift their attitudes and habits is where it gets tricky.\n\nSo, if you’ve ever experienced change and it didn’t go so well, then this episode is for you! Kay Doyle is an expert at change management, and she applies her wisdom to parish life.\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)","content_html":"If I were to sit you down and say, “You are about to experience a big life change”, what would be your first reaction? Does the word “change” invoke dread or excitement?
\n\nNo matter who you are, a priest, a parish staff member, or an engaged parishioner, you know that bringing about change can be very difficult. Deciding on and implementing a new program is often the easy part. Helping parishioners shift their attitudes and habits is where it gets tricky.
\n\nSo, if you’ve ever experienced change and it didn’t go so well, then this episode is for you! Kay Doyle is an expert at change management, and she applies her wisdom to parish life.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
As a director at the Archdiocese, I'm given free stuff all the time. Typically, we're talking sample materials for the latest evangelization or catechetical program. I pass these along to one of my staff to review, and if it's good, I might see it again.
\n\nA few months ago, I received a box that looked beautiful like it came out of a pottery barn catalog, and it said "Mend" on the top. I walked it down to Jodi Phillip's office (our Catechetical Specialist) fully intending to hand it off. But when I realized that it was brimming with hands-on activities that could help me teach my son about the sacrament of reconciliation...I took it home.
\n\nTransmitting the faith to our children is so difficult with the culture actively working against us, and this box give me some tools to have intentional conversations with my family.
\n\nI tell you this today because Faith and Family Life Catholic Ministries provide more than boxes for the sacraments. They really understand what it means to accompany families, and they want to help parishes do this well. They are more devoted to the process of catechesis than they are to a particular program. And so, whether you work for a parish or you are parent wanting a great resource for your children/grandchildren, I invite you to check them out!
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Do you know your parish's vision statement? If you are like me, your answer might be, "Uh...it's in the bulletin?"
\n\nAnd if you've been around the Church long enough and you've seen various ineffective vision statements, you might think that they are just corporate jargon. (And they very much can be!)
\n\nBut Proverbs 29:18 says "Where there is no vision, the people perish." And Jesus himself left us with a vision statement, "Go and make disciples!" (Matt 28:19)
\n\nSo what do we mean by vision? And how can we make sure that it's not just more of the same jargon?
\n\nJoin me for the answers!
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
One of my favorite parts of the Archdiocesan Vision is the call to Live Mercy. I've had friends from Hope of the Poor on the show before, and their stories about their work in Mexico are inspiring. But today, I want to bring it closer to home.
\n\nLeast of My Brethren serves the homeless in the Omaha & Council Bluffs metro. This ministry was started by parishioners of St. Patrick's Parish in Gretna, and when they talked about their work with the community, it grew exponentially. They now find homes for 400 homeless people a year; that's 8 people a week. And they have 75-100 volunteers a month, mostly from local parishes.
\n\nWhile the growth is amazing, the stories of the relationships they build are even better. This group is a real testament to the fact that love works; compassion changes lives.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Today, I get to sit down with staff from the Diocese of Wichita, a diocese known for its stewardship. A long time ago, they realized that Time, Talent, and Treasure had become synonymous with church chores and duty. But as Audrey tells us, "We don't want something FROM you; we want something FOR you."
\n\nSpecifically, we want you to have a relationship with Jesus and to grow in your faith. Stewardship is only meaningful when it comes from the heart of a disciple because only then it is the fruit of gratitude which comes from knowing Jesus.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
By now, you probably know that I love small groups! I've even gone so far as to claim that small groups will be one of the major things that bring renewal to our Church.
\n\nSo today, I want to pause for a moment with Kendra Meuret. She went from being in a small group simply because she was longing for friendship. to leading a small group because she recognized other people needed what she had found.
\n\nHere experience is ordinary, and so hopefully, will inspire those of you who just want to take a first step toward being a Missionary Disciple.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
JPII once said that "Ecclesial movements…represent one of the most significant fruits of that springtime in the Church which was foretold by the Second Vatican Council." When you think of these movement, you might think of FOCUS or Communion and Liberation.
\n\nBut one of the Archdiocese's best kept secrets is the ecclesial movements that are making disciples in our spanish speaking communities. They are beautiful examples of disciples evangelizing their communities.
\n\nToday, I talk to Mirna Chich-Price, who spoke at the 2021 Pastoral Conference, about her experience with Jovenes Para Cristo (Youth for Christ).
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
This week, we celebrate one of the richest traditions in the Archdiocese of Omaha, our Catholic Schools. And we do it by ...sending our children to class in their pajamas.
\n\nBut really, while the celebrations may at times seem a bit silly, Catholic Schools are more often than not the primary expression of the parish's mission to make disciples. Unfortunately, the fact that the parish and the school share this mission is often forgotten. Or worse, the burden to catechize is misplaced, and schools are blamed when children grow up and do not remain faithful.
\n\nWhile catechizing parents (and through parents, children) is the role of the parish, schools can be an powerful partner in this work.
\n\nToday, I talk to Vickie Kauffold, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, as she discusses ways that schools can support their parishes in the mission to make disciples.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Do you ever feel like a stranger in your own parish community? The larger our parishes grow, the harder it can be to feel known.
\n\nIf our goal is to continue to bring people to Jesus, and thus, to grow our parishes, we have to start asking, "What's next? What does my parish provide for people after they encounter Jesus?"
\n\nThere are many things that a growing disciples needs to encourage them in the faith, but I think the one we forget most often is fellowship (Acts 2:42).
\n\nSo, today I introduce to you Nazareth Groups, a monthly small group community that provides a home within the larger parish community.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
If you have been listening to the EquipCast for a while, you know that the Clear Path to Discipleship is one of the Key Characteristics of a Missional Church. Even though I've talked about this characteristic a lot, I still find that there are misconceptions about it.
\n\nSo I ask Andy Dejka, one of the Coaches on the Parish Support Team, to break it down in 10 minutes. (Well, actually it took him 13, but I promise the extra 3 minutes are worth it!)
Special Guest: Andy Dejka.
","summary":"If you have been listening to the EquipCast for a while, you know that the Clear Path to Discipleship is one of the Key Characteristics of a Missional Church. Even though I've talked about this characteristic a lot, I still find that there are misconceptions about it.\r\n\r\nSo I ask Andy Dejka, one of the Coaches on the Parish Support Team, to break it down in 10 minutes. (Well, actually it took him 13, but I promise the extra 3 minutes are worth it!)","date_published":"2022-01-18T06:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/7ded0c15-779e-439d-81ab-e77a718738d7.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":13358832,"duration_in_seconds":791}]},{"id":"e5e5ba8c-1d55-4bf4-8a57-4ea5e961a28d","title":"Episode 74: Grow as You Go!","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/74","content_text":"Adam Ybarra was far from the prefect evangelist when, as a newly initiated FOCUS missionary, he inherited Curtis Martin's bible study group. In fact, much of his personal story involves being \"under construction\" while still being an instrument for the Lord.\n\nToday, I set out to talk with Adam about the Habit of Invitation, but what I got instead was so much more.\n\nWhile he does walk us through the do's and don'ts of inviting other people to the faith, what Adam really tells us is: It's okay to grow as you go.\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)","content_html":"Adam Ybarra was far from the prefect evangelist when, as a newly initiated FOCUS missionary, he inherited Curtis Martin's bible study group. In fact, much of his personal story involves being "under construction" while still being an instrument for the Lord.
\n\nToday, I set out to talk with Adam about the Habit of Invitation, but what I got instead was so much more.
\n\nWhile he does walk us through the do's and don'ts of inviting other people to the faith, what Adam really tells us is: It's okay to grow as you go.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
If the title of our podcast, the EquipCast, wasn’t obvious enough, I think it is incredibly important to equip lay people as leaders for mission. But have you ever tried to teach someone a new skill and had them fall flat on their face? You may even have thought that person had great potential only to be disappointed. Oftentimes, it’s not the lack of potential or enthusiasm that was a fault. It’s the lack of accompaniment. Today’s Skill Demo teaches the Method of Mentorship.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
","summary":"If the title of our podcast, the EquipCast, wasn’t obvious enough, I think it is incredibly important to equip lay people as leaders for mission. But have you ever tried to teach someone a new skill and had them fall flat on their face? You may even have thought that person had great potential only to be disappointed. Oftentimes, it’s not the lack of potential or enthusiasm that was a fault. It’s the lack of accompaniment. Today’s Skill Demo teaches the Method of Mentorship.","date_published":"2021-12-14T06:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/510b6075-5472-47f6-8e28-57cde8f2870c.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":9161466,"duration_in_seconds":572}]},{"id":"3b0d6530-c3d3-498e-ae31-834656363170","title":"Episode 73: Occasions for Invitation","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/73","content_text":"It's not popular to be Christian. And I don't know about you, but sometimes that makes it hard for me to be vulnerable. Sharing my beliefs and inviting others into my very Christian life takes some holy boldness...some courage.\n\nSo, today is our third deep-dive into one of the habits form the 2021 Pastoral Conference: Invitation. Pat Dempsey walks us through the ways he finds occasions for invitation.\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)","content_html":"It's not popular to be Christian. And I don't know about you, but sometimes that makes it hard for me to be vulnerable. Sharing my beliefs and inviting others into my very Christian life takes some holy boldness...some courage.
\n\nSo, today is our third deep-dive into one of the habits form the 2021 Pastoral Conference: Invitation. Pat Dempsey walks us through the ways he finds occasions for invitation.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
I feel like God is constantly calling me to a deeper level of reliance on Him. As I seek to grow as a missionary disciple, so often, I think "I don't know what I'm doing!"
\n\nAnd so, what does a missionary disciple do when they want to do the will of God but they don't feel entirely ready? Pray!
\n\nBe in conversation with Jesus.
\n\nAgain, I want to bring you into a deeper conversation with one of our guests from the 2021 Pastoral Conference. Jessi Kary provides examples of how a missionary disciple prays, and just gives some really practical advice!
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Recently, the Archbishop hosted the 2021 Pastoral Conference. There he commissioned us, the people that he shepherds, to live out four habits of discipleship: Prayer, Compassion, Friendship, and Invitation.
\n\nToday, I want to do a deep-dive with you on one of those habits: Friendship. What can a ministry of Friendship look like? Does it have to be complicated, or can it be simple, clear, and easy?
\n\nContinue the Conversation to hear from about one of the friendships highlighted at the Pastoral Conference.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
I don't know if you have ever had the chance to visit St. Benedict the Moor. It's a very unassuming parish in North Omaha, but it has the distinct honor of being the only Black Catholic parish in all of Nebraska.
\n\nWhen I visited with my family, we were perhaps the only white people in the room, and so it was obvious that we were new. The welcome that we were given was incredible. We were immediately made to feel right at home.
\n\nNow, I ask you to reverse the situation. What does a black person think about when visiting a predominantly white parish? Their experience of these communities, whether good or bad, will always be imbued with the context that is race relations in America. And so, the deep question is really: What can we do to help race relations in the Archdiocese of Omaha?
\n\nMy guests today give some insight into their experience, and they offer a very simple answer to the question above...
\n\nPray, be friendly and come visit! 9am Sundays at St. Benedict the Moor.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
","summary":"I don't know if you have ever had the chance to visit St. Benedict the Moor. It's a very unassuming parish in North Omaha, but it has the distinct honor of being the only Black Catholic parish in all of Nebraska. When I visited with my family, we were perhaps the only white people in the room, and so it was obvious that we were new. The welcome that we were given was incredible. We were immediately made to feel right at home. Now, I ask you to reverse the situation. What does a black person think about when visiting a predominantly white parish? Their experience of these communities, whether good or bad, will always be imbued with the context that is race relations in America. And so, the deep question is really: What can we do to help race relations in the Archdiocese of Omaha? My guests today give some insight into their experience, and they offer a very simple answer to the question above... Pray, be friendly and come visit! 9am Sundays at St. Benedict the Moor.","date_published":"2021-11-09T06:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/6061ba17-1677-4d85-b7bd-32ef895a03f8.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":34467696,"duration_in_seconds":2601}]},{"id":"c3e68960-f679-4aaf-a03a-e80cf7e8b5bd","title":"Episode 69: The Art of Small Groups","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/69","content_text":"I've noticed a trend over the past few years. People who are hungry for a vibrant parish community are consistently discerning themselves into small groups.\n\nThere really is something about a small group that helps people to encounter the Lord in a powerful way and to connect with parishioners on a deeper level. \n\nThe Holy Spirit is moving His Church toward renewal, and I'm willing to bet that small groups will have a large part in it!\n\nTune in to hear some really practical advice on small groups.\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)","content_html":"I've noticed a trend over the past few years. People who are hungry for a vibrant parish community are consistently discerning themselves into small groups.
\n\nThere really is something about a small group that helps people to encounter the Lord in a powerful way and to connect with parishioners on a deeper level.
\n\nThe Holy Spirit is moving His Church toward renewal, and I'm willing to bet that small groups will have a large part in it!
\n\nTune in to hear some really practical advice on small groups.
\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
In a previous EquipCast episode, we talked about the difference between having a ministry and an apostolate, between working for the Church and living out your own personal call to holiness. Today, I bring you an example of someone who has learned to integrate her faith with her profession.
\n\nTeresa Kenney works as a Women's Health Practitioner, and she is known for her holistic approach to this often unexplored area of medicine. So, what does a woman's fertility have to do with evangelization?
\n\nTune in to hear how Teresa is able to bring her faith and Catholic Church's teachings into the secular world.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
A Skill Demo about how to meet new people might seem like a incredibly simple subject to tackle. Most of us probably feel like we this one in the bag. But did you know that the average American has not made a new friend in the last five years? And so, now is the moment for Catholics to step into that gap. As we seek to build missional communities, one of the best ways to start is by building relationships.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
","summary":"A Skill Demo about how to meet new people might seem like a incredibly simple subject to tackle. Most of us probably feel like we this one in the bag. But did you know that the average American has not made a new friend in the last five years? And so, now is the moment for Catholics to step into that gap. As we seek to build missional communities, one of the best ways to start is by building relationships.","date_published":"2021-09-28T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/826273e1-cdfb-4c15-80a9-90eeeeb84cf0.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":9695907,"duration_in_seconds":605}]},{"id":"8492a4a7-580d-463a-af1e-da8a394864d5","title":"Episode 67: Parish Renewal (Part 2)","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/67","content_text":"Last week, my guest, Tim Glemkowski, author of Made for Mission, talked to us about the importance of parish renewal. This week, he gets into the nitty-gritty.\n\nHe talks practically about building a Clear Path to Discipleship in parishes, setting goals, leadership culture, and organizational health. \n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)","content_html":"Last week, my guest, Tim Glemkowski, author of Made for Mission, talked to us about the importance of parish renewal. This week, he gets into the nitty-gritty.
\n\nHe talks practically about building a Clear Path to Discipleship in parishes, setting goals, leadership culture, and organizational health.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
I’m sure you know… I talk A LOT about how Jesus calls us to be missionary disciples.
\n\nAnd I’m also sure you know… parish renewal is HARD.
\n\nSo today, I talk with a friend, Tim Glemkowski, who’s book, Made for Mission, is one of the most practical guides to helping parish leaders wade through this process of renewal.
\n\nI liked what he had to offer so much that we made this into two episodes! So, once you are done here, check out part 2.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
I have something to confess. I used to be a (bad) meeting addict. If you know me, you know that I love being around people, communicating with them. So, you'd think meetings led by me would be great!
\n\nI'd like to think they are now, but I had to learn a few things first. So, if you've ever been in a meeting that was too long, boring, got in the way of you doing "the real work", or felt generally unimportant, then this episode is for you!
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Today I talk to one of my old friends from my time in FOCUS. We've had experience evangelizing in many different contexts, and we agree. The most difficult place to evangelize... is in your own heart.
\n\nIt can be scary to delve into our emotions and to hold our brokenness out to the Lord for healing. But, if we do this, then we can truly serve others from a place of love and relationship with Jesus.
\n\nSo join me in a conversation with Matt Simmons, a man who truly understands that the best expression of faith is to lay our hearts before the Lord and trust that He can heal them.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Students encounter the Lord at conferences like Steubenville, in adoration, or in retreat settings, but then, they are thrust back into the regular cadence of a secular life. Continuing to live out their faith without a community of support can be very difficult. And so, Skutt Catholic adopted discipleship groups, small groups led by adults who accompany these students.
\n\nToday I talk to Quinlan Couri as she describes these groups and how she builds up the leaders, both student and adult.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
How do you start your day? Like many of you, I try to start mine in prayer and with the Lord in scripture. But teaching our children to do the same can be difficult.
\n\nToday, I talk to Cheryl Drozd, a teacher who helps her students start every day in prayer and reading the scriptures. And, she says that the results are explosive: "God is working through me. It's His word and His Holy Spirit working. So, it's just a matter of trusting and letting God do His thing."
\n\nFriends, the Word of God is alive, constantly new and reaching into our hearts. It's a vehicle for God to communicate himself. So it's not surprising that children love it so easily.
\n\nEven if you feel like "I don't know the Bible well enough to teach", just open the scriptures and let God speak!
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
The rate of culture change in the last 20 years has been swift. This has created a gap in how well adults are able to relate to the youngest in our communities. And unfortunately, this inability to understand and walk with the youth has also led to many leaving the Church.
\n\nIn fact, the median age that a youth leaves the faith is...13.
\n\nSo how do we accompany Gen Z?
\n\nToday, my guest, Jodi Phillips, offers a model for youth ministry that advocates discipleship.
\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
This is the first time in a many years that no priests were ordained in our diocese, and it's during times like these that people throw around the phrase "vocations crisis".
\n\nI'm sure the idea that there is a vocations crisis will come as no surprise to you, but I think the solutions that we propose in this episode will.
\n\nToday, I talk to Fr. Roza, our Vocations Director, and he suggests that the ultimate solution lies in reviving the faith of the laity.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Growing as a missional community often means taking steps into the unknown. It means opening ourselves to the newness that God desires for us, and this often includes changing our habits, our processes, or even our expectations of what's possible. But sometimes, in our planning efforts, we don't actually make space for the only one who really knows what's going on and what needs to be done in our parishes. This week, Andy Dejka leads us through one of my favorite tools for discernment, the Discernment Rosary.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
","summary":"Growing as a missional community often means taking steps into the unknown. It means opening ourselves to the newness that God desires for us, and this often includes changing our habits, our processes, or even our expectations of what's possible. But sometimes, in our planning efforts, we don't actually make space for the only one who really knows what's going on and what needs to be done in our parishes. This week, Andy Dejka leads us through one of my favorite tools for discernment, the Discernment Rosary.\r\n","date_published":"2021-06-29T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/24dc10b3-4932-4362-9d3d-d1de71ce8c8c.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":7292596,"duration_in_seconds":455}]},{"id":"4e7d8f68-7a0c-453e-9f23-c7f7d88c7a76","title":"Episode 59: Freedom for Captives","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/59","content_text":"Imagine if you were defined by the worst thing you ever did, the worst moment of your life. Jesus came to preach freedom to captives. He offers mercy, healing, and miracles to those who just reach out in faith. For most of us, this means freedom from sin.\n\nBut my guest on the EquipCast today preaches freedom to literal prisons. Through Alpha, men in our local prison who have never experienced love in their life, are for the first time receiving love with no strings attached.\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)Special Guest: Jodi Meyer.","content_html":"Imagine if you were defined by the worst thing you ever did, the worst moment of your life. Jesus came to preach freedom to captives. He offers mercy, healing, and miracles to those who just reach out in faith. For most of us, this means freedom from sin.
\n\nBut my guest on the EquipCast today preaches freedom to literal prisons. Through Alpha, men in our local prison who have never experienced love in their life, are for the first time receiving love with no strings attached.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Special Guest: Jodi Meyer.
","summary":"Imagine if you were defined by the worst thing you ever did, the worst moment of your life. Jesus came to preach freedom to captives. He offers mercy, healing, and miracles to those who just reach out in faith. For most of us, this means freedom from sin. But my guest on the EquipCast today preaches freedom to literal prisons. Through Alpha, men in our local prison who have never experienced love in their life, are for the first time receiving love with no strings attached. Witness it for yourself.","date_published":"2021-06-22T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/4e7d8f68-7a0c-453e-9f23-c7f7d88c7a76.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":85479384,"duration_in_seconds":3558}]},{"id":"c3db8b9d-e3d1-4e12-9393-610a2662403e","title":"Episode 58: Man on Mission","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/58","content_text":"We talk a lot on this podcast about evangelization and mission. I can cast vision all day long, but the reality is…actually going on mission is scary. \n\nHow do I recognize the people in my life that are ready to hear the Good News of Jesus?\n\nHow do I get over the fear of stepping outside of my comfort zone to share my faith?\n\nThere’s no one answer that will work for every person. But today, I want to hold up for you the story a parishioner in this Archdiocese. Michael Doerneman is unassuming, and so is his story. But I think there are powerful lessons to be learned. \n\nTune in to hear the simple story of a man on mission.\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)","content_html":"We talk a lot on this podcast about evangelization and mission. I can cast vision all day long, but the reality is…actually going on mission is scary.
\n\nHow do I recognize the people in my life that are ready to hear the Good News of Jesus?
\n\nHow do I get over the fear of stepping outside of my comfort zone to share my faith?
\n\nThere’s no one answer that will work for every person. But today, I want to hold up for you the story a parishioner in this Archdiocese. Michael Doerneman is unassuming, and so is his story. But I think there are powerful lessons to be learned.
\n\nTune in to hear the simple story of a man on mission.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
When you imagine yourself Living Mercy, what comes to mind first? Do you think of the saints who gave up everything for a life of poverty or service to the sick? Does that seem impossible or very far from reach?
\n\nToday, I talk to Dcn. Omar Gutierrez about Catholic Social Teaching and the lay person’s role to live ordinary mercy. He tells us, “All teachings of the Church [on this subject] start and end in the same spot: Jesus. Know him so that you can love him and so that you can be with him now and forever.”
\n\nThe daily care for those in need starts with caring for those whom the Lord puts in our pathway.
\n\nBut what does this look like practically, and how do we get started?
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
On a scale of 1-10, how missional would you say your parish is?
\n\nIn October 2020, the Archbishop launched the Big Goal that “Each parish in the Archdiocese of Omaha would become missional by the end of 6 years”. Implicit in that goal is the recognition that none of us are there yet.
\n\nSo, I invite each of you to ask, “Is my community dying, declining, swelling, or growing?”
\n\nWhile these categories sound depressing, an honest conversation about where we are at is designed to help us receive the grace of pastoral conversion and to be invited deeper into the mission of the Church.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Special Guest: Calvin Mueller.
","summary":"On a scale of 1-10, how missional would you say your parish is? In October 2020, the Archbishop launched the Big Goal that “Each parish in the Archdiocese of Omaha would become missional by the end of 6 years”. Implicit in that goal is the recognition that none of us are there yet. So, I invite each of you to ask, “Is my community dying, declining, swelling, or growing?” While these categories sound depressing, an honest conversation about where we are at is designed to help us receive the grace of pastoral conversion and to be invited deeper into the mission of the Church.\r\n","date_published":"2021-06-01T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/20fe86fb-0030-4427-a7ad-39f644192df8.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":87072684,"duration_in_seconds":3624}]},{"id":"459bda7c-0ab6-4a0f-bc71-211a1eb0b320","title":"Skill Demo 3 - How to Address Performance Issues","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/sd3","content_text":"We are back with our monthly Skill Demo! This time, Chris Sommers, Director of Human Resources, gives us practical advice on how to handle performance issues. I know many of you are not managers, but much of her advice is still applicable to those situations where we have to give feedback to a volunteer, friend, or family member. \n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha","content_html":"We are back with our monthly Skill Demo! This time, Chris Sommers, Director of Human Resources, gives us practical advice on how to handle performance issues. I know many of you are not managers, but much of her advice is still applicable to those situations where we have to give feedback to a volunteer, friend, or family member.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
","summary":"We are back with our monthly Skill Demo! This time, Chris Sommers, Director of Human Resources, gives us practical advice on how to handle performance issues. I know many of you are not managers, but much of her advice is still applicable to those situations where we have to give feedback to a volunteer, friend, or family member. \r\n","date_published":"2021-05-25T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/459bda7c-0ab6-4a0f-bc71-211a1eb0b320.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":16983816,"duration_in_seconds":1061}]},{"id":"a739f078-2630-46fc-847c-ccae5c320322","title":"Episode 55: Dads Who Evangelize","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/55","content_text":"Have you ever struggled to pass on your faith to your children?\n\nI know I'm not alone when I say that talking about the faith in an age appropriate way to my children is hard. When they are young, just getting the threenages to sit still at mass is difficult. And when they are older...well...nothing I do impresses the teenagers.\n\nWhile I'm not an expert in religious education, I am a father. So I invited other passionate fathers to join me in a conversation about evangelizing our own children.\n\nHere's some of what we discussed:\n\n\nHow to create the space for children to express their feelings, thoughts, and doubts surrounding the faith\nSpecific examples of how we live the Church's call to evangelize our children\nHow to help our children participate as we witness to/evangelize those outside of our immediate family\nTips for doing these things in your life\n\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)Special Guests: Andy Dejka and Calvin Mueller.","content_html":"Have you ever struggled to pass on your faith to your children?
\n\nI know I'm not alone when I say that talking about the faith in an age appropriate way to my children is hard. When they are young, just getting the threenages to sit still at mass is difficult. And when they are older...well...nothing I do impresses the teenagers.
\n\nWhile I'm not an expert in religious education, I am a father. So I invited other passionate fathers to join me in a conversation about evangelizing our own children.
\n\nHere's some of what we discussed:
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Special Guests: Andy Dejka and Calvin Mueller.
","summary":"Have you ever struggled to pass on your faith to your children? I know I'm not alone when I say that talking about the faith in an age appropriate way to my children is hard. When they are young, just getting the threenages to sit still at mass is difficult. And when they are older...well...nothing I do impresses the teenagers. While I'm not an expert in religious education, I am a father. So I invited other passionate fathers to join me in a conversation about evangelizing our own children.","date_published":"2021-05-18T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/a739f078-2630-46fc-847c-ccae5c320322.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":92971597,"duration_in_seconds":3868}]},{"id":"53f91e10-0c0a-40d3-8a8a-f3f17d5ae6c5","title":"Episode 54: How do you discern God's will as a group?","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/54","content_text":"Sometimes the idea of discerning God’s will can daunting. Sifting through the emotions, desires, and the high and low points of each day, and then listening for God’s voice in the midst of it all, can at times be an intimidating task. Now add to this task of discernment, the dynamics of a team. When you have multiple people who bring their thoughts and feelings to the table, discernment can get messy. Today, Fr. Paul Hoesing gives some tips and tricks on how to discern as a team.\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)","content_html":"Sometimes the idea of discerning God’s will can daunting. Sifting through the emotions, desires, and the high and low points of each day, and then listening for God’s voice in the midst of it all, can at times be an intimidating task. Now add to this task of discernment, the dynamics of a team. When you have multiple people who bring their thoughts and feelings to the table, discernment can get messy. Today, Fr. Paul Hoesing gives some tips and tricks on how to discern as a team.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Preparation for the sacrament of marriage used to happen at the dinner table. The best preparation came from the family that you grew up in. Unfortunately, with the changes in our culture, including the very high divorce rate, couples often receive this sacrament without ever seeing a healthy marriage relationship. Today's marriage prep process, while trying to provide what couples are lacking, has regrettably become a check-list, hoops to jump through in order to get to the altar. Rachael Tvrdy walks us through the gaps and offers a vision for marriage prep that drops the divorce rate of couples who go through it to 5% and increases the parish's rate of retaining their couples after marriage to 70-90%.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
A very real obstacle to changing culture and building a missional church is my own ability to stay organized. I can set all of the lofty goals that I want, but if I never revisit them, I am very likely to never achieve them.
\n\nIn this month's Skill Demo, I outline my favorite method of staying organized, the Weekly Review. It's a time where you can gather all of your thoughts and processes, review the past week, and get ready for the next one.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
","summary":"A very real obstacle to changing culture and building a missional church is my own ability to stay organized. I can set all of the lofty goals that I want, but if I never revisit them, I am very likely to never achieve them. In this month's Skill Demo, I outline my favorite method of staying organized, the Weekly Review. It's a time where you can gather all of your thoughts and processes, review the past week, and get ready for the next one.","date_published":"2021-04-27T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/8442d5e7-c0ac-419b-82fd-5f1bc77ff5b3.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":12491591,"duration_in_seconds":780}]},{"id":"078a7814-f9cb-4127-a822-986685e37c8f","title":"Episode 52: Embrace Your Age","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/52","content_text":"Have you noticed? Talking to your neighbor about faith has gotten harder over the past few decades. For our grandparents, it was enough that they taught daily devotions to their children by example. And our experience of education, the law, government, and art supported our beliefs. Now, the culture is in direct opposition to our faith.\n\nWe find ourselves, to quote Pope Francis, in a \"change of age\".\n\nSo how do we \"mind the gap\". How do we transition well into this new age?\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)","content_html":"Have you noticed? Talking to your neighbor about faith has gotten harder over the past few decades. For our grandparents, it was enough that they taught daily devotions to their children by example. And our experience of education, the law, government, and art supported our beliefs. Now, the culture is in direct opposition to our faith.
\n\nWe find ourselves, to quote Pope Francis, in a "change of age".
\n\nSo how do we "mind the gap". How do we transition well into this new age?
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
“And he gave some as apostles, others as prophets, others as evangelists, others as pastors and teachers, to equip the holy ones for the work of ministry, for building up the body of Christ” (Eph 4:11-12) Today, I invited an old friend and biblical scholar to unpack the meaning or this verse. Here are just a few of his gems of wisdom:
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Happy Easter! I pray that you receive all the graces God has on offer during this season.
\n\nAs St. Paul says, "if Christ has not been raised, then our preaching is in vain and your faith is in vain". And so, I want Easter to have lasting meaning to each of our lives. Thus today, I give you a moment to pause and reflect.
\n\nFor this EquipCast, we invited Fr. Taylor Leffler to reflect on the resurrection, the road to Emmaus, and what all this means for our life.
\n\nMay it be as fruitful for you as it was a joy for me to record.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
This episode is a Skill Demo, videoed and produced for our Equip website. We've cut and posted it here on our podcast, but if you'd like to see the presenter’s delightful face or access the resources, head over to Equip.Archomaha.org.
\n\nBeth Carlson takes us through a practical demonstration of how to lead group lectio using ARRR.
","summary":"This episode is a Skill Demo, videoed and produced for our Equip website. We've cut and posted it here on our podcast, but if you'd like to see the presenter’s delightful face or access the resources, head over to Equip.Archomaha.org. Beth Carlson takes us through a practical demonstration of how to lead group lectio using ARRR.\r\n","date_published":"2021-03-23T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/70f5d1c4-cd4c-466a-9d9f-71b9dd0cad85.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":8012968,"duration_in_seconds":478}]},{"id":"2853cddc-e705-4afb-af54-61edcd22c0cc","title":"Episode 49: Creating a Culture of Generosity","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/49","content_text":"When I hear the word stewardship, I think of money...and I bet most of you do as well. But stewardship is more than fundraising and fundraisers. A good steward connections people with the mission and ministries of the Church. \n\nToday, I talk with our Stewardship and Development Office, and they challenge us to stop selling magazines and start selling the mission. Fundraisers are transactional, but when a parish raises money, it should be transformational because good stewardship can lead to deeper conversion.\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)Special Guest: Shannan Brommer.","content_html":"When I hear the word stewardship, I think of money...and I bet most of you do as well. But stewardship is more than fundraising and fundraisers. A good steward connections people with the mission and ministries of the Church.
\n\nToday, I talk with our Stewardship and Development Office, and they challenge us to stop selling magazines and start selling the mission. Fundraisers are transactional, but when a parish raises money, it should be transformational because good stewardship can lead to deeper conversion.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Special Guest: Shannan Brommer.
","summary":"When I hear the word stewardship, I think of money...and I bet most of you do as well. But stewardship is more than fundraising and fundraisers. A good steward connections people with the mission and ministries of the Church. Today, I talk with our Stewardship and Development Office, and they challenge us to stop selling magazines and start selling the mission. Fundraisers are transactional, but when a parish raises money, it should be transformational because good stewardship can lead to deeper conversion.","date_published":"2021-03-16T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/2853cddc-e705-4afb-af54-61edcd22c0cc.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":69248566,"duration_in_seconds":2884}]},{"id":"f31f4573-2af9-4e43-9a81-2f895662af58","title":"Episode 48: Who is my neighbor?","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/48","content_text":"How well do you know your neighbors? Do you want them to know Jesus and be his disciples?\n\nThe Thresholds of Evangelization give us a mental framework to approach our neighbors and to engage them in conversations about faith, but at the level they are comfortable with.\n\nToday, I want to share with you a conversation that I had with some old friends. Aaron and Brooke Keller have committed themselves to not only making friends with their neighbors but to bringing Jesus into the lives of their neighbors.\n\nAnd, I promise, they aren’t weird!\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)","content_html":"How well do you know your neighbors? Do you want them to know Jesus and be his disciples?
\n\nThe Thresholds of Evangelization give us a mental framework to approach our neighbors and to engage them in conversations about faith, but at the level they are comfortable with.
\n\nToday, I want to share with you a conversation that I had with some old friends. Aaron and Brooke Keller have committed themselves to not only making friends with their neighbors but to bringing Jesus into the lives of their neighbors.
\n\nAnd, I promise, they aren’t weird!
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Have you ever been on a mission trip? Chances are, if you have, that you went to a different state or even a different country.
\n\nOn today’s EquipCast, I talk with Hope of the Poor. While they do have a ministry to the poor in Mexico, their mission is first to evangelize. Yes, they bring Jesus to the poor that they serve, but more than that, they also help the Americans that they bring to Mexico to see Jesus in the distressing disguise of the poor.
\n\nThe goal is then to help these same Americans find a mission field in their own backyard.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
I've been on many teams throughout my career with FOCUS and at the Archdiocese. One thing I've learned is that for a team to be truly collaborative, it must have prayer as a foundation.
\n\nThis foundation of prayer not only leads to greater trust among team members, it also keeps our team goals focused on God's mission for us. Effective team prayer offers the opportunity for teams to grow and discern together.
\n\nToday's podcast offers 5 principles for effective team prayer.
Special Guest: Andy Dejka.
","summary":"I've been on many teams throughout my career with FOCUS and at the Archdiocese. One thing I've learned is that for a team to be truly collaborative, it must have prayer as a foundation. This foundation of prayer not only leads to greater trust among team members, it also keeps our team goals focused on God's mission for us. Effective team prayer offers the opportunity for teams to grow and discern together. Today's podcast offers 5 principles for effective team prayer.","date_published":"2021-02-23T06:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/f1da6f36-11ab-4d4a-977a-b1f6a8f0ceb9.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":53957104,"duration_in_seconds":3349}]},{"id":"14c1ccd6-d769-4a13-a1ed-3841c8a18c2c","title":"45: Ministry or Apostolate?","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/45","content_text":"Have you ever wondered about the difference between a ministry and an apostolate? Until recently, I hadn’t. These words seem like synonyms, and talking about their differences feels a bit like quibbling or semantics.\n\nHowever, because we’ve forgotten the difference, most of the energy in our parishes goes toward building up ministries. But without the apostolate of the laity, the Church becomes a country club, only concerned with serving its members.\n\nSo what is an apostolate? And how does remembering help the lay faithful evangelize?\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)","content_html":"Have you ever wondered about the difference between a ministry and an apostolate? Until recently, I hadn’t. These words seem like synonyms, and talking about their differences feels a bit like quibbling or semantics.
\n\nHowever, because we’ve forgotten the difference, most of the energy in our parishes goes toward building up ministries. But without the apostolate of the laity, the Church becomes a country club, only concerned with serving its members.
\n\nSo what is an apostolate? And how does remembering help the lay faithful evangelize?
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Do you meet resistance when you talk about your pro-life beliefs? Do you find it hard to understand why anyone would be in favor of abortion? The truth about abortion seems so obvious, and yet, so many of our family and friends don’t agree with us. The fact is since the passing of Roe vs. Wade, our American culture has changed considerably, and we must be willing to reframe the debate in order to reach people.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Special Guest: Whitney Bradley.
","summary":"Do you meet resistance when you talk about your pro-life beliefs? Do you find it hard to understand why anyone would be in favor of abortion? The truth about abortion seems so obvious, and yet, so many of our family and friends don’t agree with us. The fact is since the passing of Roe vs. Wade, our American culture has changed considerably, and we must be willing to reframe the debate in order to reach people.","date_published":"2021-02-02T06:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/8c3a72a5-dfa2-4729-9ae3-42bd12e8fca9.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":51202790,"duration_in_seconds":3169}]},{"id":"2b3339f5-ed80-4b71-8039-c3642667daa3","title":"Episode 43: The Power of Small Groups","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/43","content_text":"Have you ever had something important happen in your life and had no one to share it with? Did you know that the average American hasn’t made a friend in the last five years? \n\nAs Catholics, we know that community is integral to the faith, and yet, so many in the Body of Christ feel disconnected and alone. \n\nI’d like to propose a solution: small groups. \n\nSmall groups give us the opportunity to enter into life with individuals and to form relationships. They allow us to live and grow in the faith in a way that is otherwise impossible when we do not have a consistent and intentional way of journeying together. \n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)Special Guest: Calvin Mueller.","content_html":"Have you ever had something important happen in your life and had no one to share it with? Did you know that the average American hasn’t made a friend in the last five years?
\n\nAs Catholics, we know that community is integral to the faith, and yet, so many in the Body of Christ feel disconnected and alone.
\n\nI’d like to propose a solution: small groups.
\n\nSmall groups give us the opportunity to enter into life with individuals and to form relationships. They allow us to live and grow in the faith in a way that is otherwise impossible when we do not have a consistent and intentional way of journeying together.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Special Guest: Calvin Mueller.
","summary":"Have you ever had something important happen in your life and had no one to share it with? Did you know that the average American hasn’t made a friend in the last five years? As Catholics, we know that community is integral to the faith, and yet, so many in the Body of Christ feel disconnected and alone. I’d like to propose a solution: small groups. Small groups give us the opportunity to enter into life with individuals and to form relationships. They allow us to live and grow in the faith in a way that is otherwise impossible when we do not have a consistent and intentional way of journeying together. ","date_published":"2021-01-26T06:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/2b3339f5-ed80-4b71-8039-c3642667daa3.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":39865409,"duration_in_seconds":2491}]},{"id":"1859ec71-2091-439c-8b84-1c5210349390","title":"Episode 42: How to Evangelize in Our Culture - Prioritize People","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/42","content_text":"Part 2 of our talk with Michael Gormley. This time he talks about the parish as a school of discipleship and how all evangelization must prioritize people.\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)Special Guest: Michael Gormley.","content_html":"Part 2 of our talk with Michael Gormley. This time he talks about the parish as a school of discipleship and how all evangelization must prioritize people.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Special Guest: Michael Gormley.
","summary":"Part 2 of our talk with Michael Gormley. This time he talks about the parish as a school of discipleship and how all evangelization must prioritize people.","date_published":"2021-01-19T06:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/1859ec71-2091-439c-8b84-1c5210349390.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":43812616,"duration_in_seconds":2738}]},{"id":"4b3f6140-0fcd-430f-9ee9-9a9932c89776","title":"Episode 41: The Necessity of Adult Evangelization","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/41","content_text":"Michael Gormley of Catching Foxes fame gives us his thoughts on adult evangelization and how parishes should prioritize the kerygma.\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)Special Guests: Jodi Meyer and Michael Gormley.","content_html":"Michael Gormley of Catching Foxes fame gives us his thoughts on adult evangelization and how parishes should prioritize the kerygma.
\n\nA Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
\nEditor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)
Special Guests: Jodi Meyer and Michael Gormley.
","summary":"Michael Gormley of Catching Foxes fame gives us his thoughts on adult evangelization and how parishes should prioritize the kerygma.","date_published":"2021-01-12T06:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/4b3f6140-0fcd-430f-9ee9-9a9932c89776.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":46484769,"duration_in_seconds":2881}]},{"id":"44821fcf-2ff2-4cd7-87c1-0a541ee2f5ab","title":"A Practical Example of Outreach","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/3g","content_text":"Jim and Fr. Lorig discuss an outsider friendly event, an opportunity for parishioners to introduce those they care about to the idea of faith without jumping straight to bringing them to mass. Hopefully, the lessons learned can inspire something similar in your own parishes and ministries.","content_html":"Jim and Fr. Lorig discuss an outsider friendly event, an opportunity for parishioners to introduce those they care about to the idea of faith without jumping straight to bringing them to mass. Hopefully, the lessons learned can inspire something similar in your own parishes and ministries.
","summary":"Jim and Fr. Lorig discuss an outsider friendly event, an opportunity for parishioners to introduce those they care about to the idea of faith without jumping straight to bringing them to mass. Hopefully, the lessons learned can inspire something similar in your own parishes and ministries.","date_published":"2020-12-15T06:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/44821fcf-2ff2-4cd7-87c1-0a541ee2f5ab.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":15928175,"duration_in_seconds":1131}]},{"id":"73cfef87-c0ed-4b64-b0f9-fc5950f39aa5","title":"Episode 40: The Risen Christ In Me Sees the Suffering Christ in You","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/40","content_text":"With Thanksgiving upon us, I wanted to give you the chance to reflect on the ways gratitude can lead us to \"live mercy\". In today's episode, I sit down with Dcn. Tim McNeil, the Chancellor for the Archdiocese, as he talks about how knowing Jesus requires us to respond. \"I have met this person named Jesus, and he has changed me. I’m so aware of what He has done for my life that I cannot help but share Him with others. This gratitude is the heart of evangelization. The Lord has saved me, and now the risen Christ in me longs to meet the suffering Christ in you.\"Special Guest: Dcn. Tim McNeil.","content_html":"With Thanksgiving upon us, I wanted to give you the chance to reflect on the ways gratitude can lead us to "live mercy". In today's episode, I sit down with Dcn. Tim McNeil, the Chancellor for the Archdiocese, as he talks about how knowing Jesus requires us to respond. "I have met this person named Jesus, and he has changed me. I’m so aware of what He has done for my life that I cannot help but share Him with others. This gratitude is the heart of evangelization. The Lord has saved me, and now the risen Christ in me longs to meet the suffering Christ in you."
Special Guest: Dcn. Tim McNeil.
","summary":"With Thanksgiving upon us, I wanted to give you the chance to reflect on the ways gratitude can lead us to \"live mercy\". In today's episode, I sit down with Dcn. Tim McNeil, the Chancellor for the Archdiocese, as he talks about how knowing Jesus requires us to respond. \"I have met this person named Jesus, and he has changed me. I’m so aware of what He has done for my life that I cannot help but share Him with others. This gratitude is the heart of evangelization. The Lord has saved me, and now the risen Christ in me longs to meet the suffering Christ in you.\"","date_published":"2020-11-24T06:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/73cfef87-c0ed-4b64-b0f9-fc5950f39aa5.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":48063305,"duration_in_seconds":2980}]},{"id":"9c712d3a-5eb7-49af-947b-e91ce0b263c0","title":"Unity through Conflict Resolution","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/39","content_text":"A few years ago, the Archbishop’s Listening Sessions revealed that most of his people desired unity for the Archdiocese. This was so beautiful to hear because we know that unity is always the desire of God’s heart. One of Jesus’s last prayers on earth was “Father, I pray that they may all be one as you an I are one…so that the world may know that you sent me.” (John 17:21) This means that our unity as Christians is either the secret sauce that attracts the world or repels it. But unity at the local level really rests on the ability of each and every one of us to process through disagreement and conflict person to person. So what is the one thing that resolves most conflicts? Communication. In today’s conversation, we give a few scripture passages for you to mediate on as well as advice from the book Crucial Conversations.","content_html":"A few years ago, the Archbishop’s Listening Sessions revealed that most of his people desired unity for the Archdiocese. This was so beautiful to hear because we know that unity is always the desire of God’s heart. One of Jesus’s last prayers on earth was “Father, I pray that they may all be one as you an I are one…so that the world may know that you sent me.” (John 17:21) This means that our unity as Christians is either the secret sauce that attracts the world or repels it. But unity at the local level really rests on the ability of each and every one of us to process through disagreement and conflict person to person. So what is the one thing that resolves most conflicts? Communication. In today’s conversation, we give a few scripture passages for you to mediate on as well as advice from the book Crucial Conversations.
","summary":"A few years ago, the Archbishop’s Listening Sessions revealed that most of his people desired unity for the Archdiocese. This was so beautiful to hear because we know that unity is always the desire of God’s heart. One of Jesus’s last prayers on earth was “Father, I pray that they may all be one as you an I are one…so that the world may know that you sent me.” (John 17:21) This means that our unity as Christians is either the secret sauce that attracts the world or repels it. But unity at the local level really rests on the ability of each and every one of us to process through disagreement and conflict person to person. So what is the one thing that resolves most conflicts? Communication. In today’s conversation, we give a few scripture passages for you to mediate on as well as advice from the book Crucial Conversations.","date_published":"2020-11-17T06:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/9c712d3a-5eb7-49af-947b-e91ce0b263c0.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":33331380,"duration_in_seconds":2458}]},{"id":"300bdfc5-fbe3-4ef8-855d-294f37266d00","title":"Episode 38: Begin Again: Helping Other Leaders Join You on the Journey","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/38","content_text":"As a leader, have you ever had this experience: The Lord places something important on your heart and you are ready to run the race for Him, but no one around you has developed the personal vision and conviction to run with you? Often, we grow and develop personally and then are surprised when no one else has. This process can take years for ourselves, and yet we expect it to take moments for others. So, how do you accompany people down the same pathways you were led without it taking the same amount of time?","content_html":"As a leader, have you ever had this experience: The Lord places something important on your heart and you are ready to run the race for Him, but no one around you has developed the personal vision and conviction to run with you? Often, we grow and develop personally and then are surprised when no one else has. This process can take years for ourselves, and yet we expect it to take moments for others. So, how do you accompany people down the same pathways you were led without it taking the same amount of time?
","summary":"As a leader, have you ever had this experience: The Lord places something important on your heart and you are ready to run the race for Him, but no one around you has developed the personal vision and conviction to run with you? Often, we grow and develop personally and then are surprised when no one else has. This process can take years for ourselves, and yet we expect it to take moments for others. So, how do you accompany people down the same pathways you were led without it taking the same amount of time?","date_published":"2020-11-10T06:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/300bdfc5-fbe3-4ef8-855d-294f37266d00.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":29579014,"duration_in_seconds":2199}]},{"id":"5e87c43c-3970-455b-8e6b-3ee9f47610f6","title":"Episode 37: Demographic Trends in ArchOmaha","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/37","content_text":"Did you know that the leading edge of the baby boomers will turn 75 next year? If the majority of our population is now retired and in their twilight years, what does this mean for our parishes? Did you know that 1/3 of the population experiences a bout of poverty in a 3 year period? This means, even parishes in affluent parts of town have people in their pews facing poverty. What does this mean for the way we live mercy? This week, a local demographer, David Drozd, walks us through some of the natural consequences to the demographic changes that are happening in our communities.Special Guest: David Drozd.","content_html":"Did you know that the leading edge of the baby boomers will turn 75 next year? If the majority of our population is now retired and in their twilight years, what does this mean for our parishes? Did you know that 1/3 of the population experiences a bout of poverty in a 3 year period? This means, even parishes in affluent parts of town have people in their pews facing poverty. What does this mean for the way we live mercy? This week, a local demographer, David Drozd, walks us through some of the natural consequences to the demographic changes that are happening in our communities.
Special Guest: David Drozd.
","summary":"Did you know that the leading edge of the baby boomers will turn 75 next year? If the majority of our population is now retired and in their twilight years, what does this mean for our parishes? Did you know that 1/3 of the population experiences a bout of poverty in a 3 year period? This means, even parishes in affluent parts of town have people in their pews facing poverty. What does this mean for the way we live mercy? This week, a local demographer, David Drozd, walks us through some of the natural consequences to the demographic changes that are happening in our communities.","date_published":"2020-11-03T06:00:00.000-06:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/5e87c43c-3970-455b-8e6b-3ee9f47610f6.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":42923020,"duration_in_seconds":3257}]},{"id":"5474e9dc-f149-4a5f-b031-2151e1ebcfef","title":"Episode 36: The Key Characteristics of a Missional Community","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/36","content_text":"This week, we went more in-depth on The Big Goal by asking Fr. Scott Hastings to break down the 3 Key Characteristics of a Missional Community: Collaborative Leadership, a Clear Path to Discipleship, and a Culture of Generosity.Special Guest: Fr. Scott Hastings.","content_html":"This week, we went more in-depth on The Big Goal by asking Fr. Scott Hastings to break down the 3 Key Characteristics of a Missional Community: Collaborative Leadership, a Clear Path to Discipleship, and a Culture of Generosity.
Special Guest: Fr. Scott Hastings.
","summary":"This week, we went more in-depth on The Big Goal by asking Fr. Scott Hastings to break down the 3 Key Characteristics of a Missional Community: Collaborative Leadership, a Clear Path to Discipleship, and a Culture of Generosity.","date_published":"2020-10-27T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/5474e9dc-f149-4a5f-b031-2151e1ebcfef.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":58079617,"duration_in_seconds":3655}]},{"id":"07dddb98-12d5-40f0-b655-1f96750bafc5","title":"Episode 35: Archbishop Lucas on The Big Goal","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/35","content_text":"Two years ago we rolled out the Vision and Priorities for the Archdiocese of Omaha. One Church: Encountering Jesus, Equipping Disciples, and Living Mercy. In the words of Archbishop Lucas, “The vision is not a project so much as a hope, of the kind of church we can be, the people that we are called to be in Jesus Christ and in our time.” Then, with COVID came the opportunity and grace to pause and reflect on the Vision and to renew our efforts. With this time, came clarity, and now, we are rolling out The Big Goal. Within 6 years, each of our parishes in the Archdiocese will become missional communities. Tune in to hear Archbishop Lucas unpack the \"why\" behind The Big Goal.Special Guest: Archbishop Lucas.","content_html":"Two years ago we rolled out the Vision and Priorities for the Archdiocese of Omaha. One Church: Encountering Jesus, Equipping Disciples, and Living Mercy. In the words of Archbishop Lucas, “The vision is not a project so much as a hope, of the kind of church we can be, the people that we are called to be in Jesus Christ and in our time.” Then, with COVID came the opportunity and grace to pause and reflect on the Vision and to renew our efforts. With this time, came clarity, and now, we are rolling out The Big Goal. Within 6 years, each of our parishes in the Archdiocese will become missional communities. Tune in to hear Archbishop Lucas unpack the "why" behind The Big Goal.
Special Guest: Archbishop Lucas.
","summary":"Two years ago we rolled out the Vision and Priorities for the Archdiocese of Omaha. One Church: Encountering Jesus, Equipping Disciples, and Living Mercy. In the words of Archbishop Lucas, “The vision is not a project so much as a hope, of the kind of church we can be, the people that we are called to be in Jesus Christ and in our time.” Then, with COVID came the opportunity and grace to pause and reflect on the Vision and to renew our efforts. With this time, came clarity, and now, we are rolling out The Big Goal. Within 6 years, each of our parishes in the Archdiocese will become missional communities. Tune in to hear Archbishop Lucas unpack the \"why\" behind The Big Goal.","date_published":"2020-10-21T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/07dddb98-12d5-40f0-b655-1f96750bafc5.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":63004738,"duration_in_seconds":3804}]},{"id":"9863bb4f-7591-4066-b79c-76d35ac5052b","title":"Episode 34: Finding Your Vision","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/34","content_text":"Do you have an ache in your heart? Do you see something in your family, your finances, your ministry, etc. that should be different? What do you envision that it could be? Cultivating a vision of a preferred future is part of the Christian Life. In Acts of the Apostles, Peter’s first public proclamation of the Kerygma includes words from the prophet Joel,” I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions”. But not all of us have Fr. Lorig’s talent for painting a picture of what should be. So how do we develop our own clear picture of the future? Continue the conversation to hear our insights.","content_html":"Do you have an ache in your heart? Do you see something in your family, your finances, your ministry, etc. that should be different? What do you envision that it could be? Cultivating a vision of a preferred future is part of the Christian Life. In Acts of the Apostles, Peter’s first public proclamation of the Kerygma includes words from the prophet Joel,” I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions”. But not all of us have Fr. Lorig’s talent for painting a picture of what should be. So how do we develop our own clear picture of the future? Continue the conversation to hear our insights.
","summary":"Do you have an ache in your heart? Do you see something in your family, your finances, your ministry, etc. that should be different? What do you envision that it could be? Cultivating a vision of a preferred future is part of the Christian Life. In Acts of the Apostles, Peter’s first public proclamation of the Kerygma includes words from the prophet Joel,” I will pour out my Spirit upon all flesh, and your sons and your daughters shall prophesy, and your young men shall see visions”. But not all of us have Fr. Lorig’s talent for painting a picture of what should be. So how do we develop our own clear picture of the future? Continue the conversation to hear our insights.","date_published":"2020-10-13T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/9863bb4f-7591-4066-b79c-76d35ac5052b.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":48658087,"duration_in_seconds":3246}]},{"id":"2482dc3a-d238-42c3-b9c8-1603549a0331","title":"The Virtues of a Missional Leader","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/33","content_text":"On the EquipCast, I spend a lot of time emphasizing the leadership skills of a missionary disciple. But this week, we spoke to Fr. Kizito, a missionary from Nigeria to our own diocese, and he reminded us that one basic skill of a missionary leader is the ability to grow in virtue. \n\nHow do I make disciples? By first being a disciple. \n\nSo let us sit at the feet of one of Jesus's own ministers and learn about the virtues he believes are key to mission.Special Guest: Fr. Kizito Okhuoya.","content_html":"On the EquipCast, I spend a lot of time emphasizing the leadership skills of a missionary disciple. But this week, we spoke to Fr. Kizito, a missionary from Nigeria to our own diocese, and he reminded us that one basic skill of a missionary leader is the ability to grow in virtue.
\n\nHow do I make disciples? By first being a disciple.
\n\nSo let us sit at the feet of one of Jesus's own ministers and learn about the virtues he believes are key to mission.
Special Guest: Fr. Kizito Okhuoya.
","summary":"On the EquipCast, I spend a lot of time emphasizing the leadership skills of a missionary disciple. But this week, we spoke to Fr. Kizito, a missionary from Nigeria to our own diocese, and he reminded us that one basic skill of a missionary leader is the ability to grow in virtue.\r\n\r\nHow do I make disciples? By first being a disciple. \r\n\r\nSo let us sit at the feet of one of Jesus's own ministers and learn about the virtues he believes are key to mission.","date_published":"2020-10-06T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/2482dc3a-d238-42c3-b9c8-1603549a0331.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":46975573,"duration_in_seconds":3036}]},{"id":"1012cc6e-d55d-47a3-81d4-a656c63816eb","title":"Episode 32: Missional Amnesia","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/32","content_text":"Have you ever used a Catholic buzz word like missionary disciple or missional church and received blank looks in return? It’s a surprising experience, but the reality is many Catholics still don’t know what the word missional means. It used to be that missionaries were the people who traveled to Africa, and the Church in America grew because Catholics had big families. Our biggest problem used to be caring for all of the people who came to the Church’s doorstep, but now, we find ourselves trying to proclaim the Gospel to a world that doesn’t know much about who Jesus is or what the Church is really about. Many of us even know a family member or friend who has walked away from the faith, but it’s often difficult for us to believe that this is part of a larger cultural trend. However, the reality is that the city of Omaha is among the top 30 most secular or “post-Christian” cities in the US. Collectively, we have missional amnesia. We’ve forgotten that we are called to go and make disciples. We lack an imagination around what a missional church looks likes because, until recently, we haven’t had to be one. So, what do you say to someone who asks what a missional church is? Tune in to hear Fr. Lorig and Jim Jansen's musings on this topic.","content_html":"Have you ever used a Catholic buzz word like missionary disciple or missional church and received blank looks in return? It’s a surprising experience, but the reality is many Catholics still don’t know what the word missional means. It used to be that missionaries were the people who traveled to Africa, and the Church in America grew because Catholics had big families. Our biggest problem used to be caring for all of the people who came to the Church’s doorstep, but now, we find ourselves trying to proclaim the Gospel to a world that doesn’t know much about who Jesus is or what the Church is really about. Many of us even know a family member or friend who has walked away from the faith, but it’s often difficult for us to believe that this is part of a larger cultural trend. However, the reality is that the city of Omaha is among the top 30 most secular or “post-Christian” cities in the US. Collectively, we have missional amnesia. We’ve forgotten that we are called to go and make disciples. We lack an imagination around what a missional church looks likes because, until recently, we haven’t had to be one. So, what do you say to someone who asks what a missional church is? Tune in to hear Fr. Lorig and Jim Jansen's musings on this topic.
","summary":"Have you ever used a Catholic buzz word like missionary disciple or missional church and received blank looks in return? It’s a surprising experience, but the reality is many Catholics still don’t know what the word missional means. It used to be that missionaries were the people who traveled to Africa, and the Church in America grew because Catholics had big families. Our biggest problem used to be caring for all of the people who came to the Church’s doorstep, but now, we find ourselves trying to proclaim the Gospel to a world that doesn’t know much about who Jesus is or what the Church is really about. Many of us even know a family member or friend who has walked away from the faith, but it’s often difficult for us to believe that this is part of a larger cultural trend. However, the reality is that the city of Omaha is among the top 30 most secular or “post-Christian” cities in the US. Collectively, we have missional amnesia. We’ve forgotten that we are called to go and make disciples. We lack an imagination around what a missional church looks likes because, until recently, we haven’t had to be one. So, what do you say to someone who asks what a missional church is? Tune in to hear Fr. Lorig and Jim Jansen's musings on this topic.","date_published":"2020-09-29T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/1012cc6e-d55d-47a3-81d4-a656c63816eb.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":44217746,"duration_in_seconds":2922}]},{"id":"282aaec8-c0fc-4e7e-9a22-1d8fce95d6e6","title":"Episode 31: The Golden Question","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/31","content_text":"How do you practice the “everyday preaching” that Pope Francis calls us to without being weird? I’ve grappled with this question throughout my life. At one point, I would have been offended at the thought that I was one of those people who walked around talking to others about Jesus. Offended because I had in mind the awkward Christian and the Bible Thumper. Now, I love proclaiming the Good News to those around me, but I know it takes a few relational pre-requisites before another person will receive me and the message well. Continue the conversation with us as we discuss these pre-requisites.","content_html":"How do you practice the “everyday preaching” that Pope Francis calls us to without being weird? I’ve grappled with this question throughout my life. At one point, I would have been offended at the thought that I was one of those people who walked around talking to others about Jesus. Offended because I had in mind the awkward Christian and the Bible Thumper. Now, I love proclaiming the Good News to those around me, but I know it takes a few relational pre-requisites before another person will receive me and the message well. Continue the conversation with us as we discuss these pre-requisites.
","summary":"How do you practice the “everyday preaching” that Pope Francis calls us to without being weird? I’ve grappled with this question throughout my life. At one point, I would have been offended at the thought that I was one of those people who walked around talking to others about Jesus. Offended because I had in mind the awkward Christian and the Bible Thumper. Now, I love proclaiming the Good News to those around me, but I know it takes a few relational pre-requisites before another person will receive me and the message well. Continue the conversation with us as we discuss these pre-requisites.","date_published":"2020-09-22T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/282aaec8-c0fc-4e7e-9a22-1d8fce95d6e6.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":47442107,"duration_in_seconds":3033}]},{"id":"ddfdce3a-8997-4987-b163-3d4c14428f9c","title":"The Clear Path to Discipleship: Steps 3 & 4","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/30","content_text":"We spend a lot of time on the EquipCast talking about reaching the lost and that parishes must be outward focused in order to grow. But I hear from many of you, \"What about the already converted? We can't leave them behind either!\" Steps 3 & 4 of the Clear Path to Discipleship focus on just that. How do we help disciples grow in their relationship with God, and how do we prepare them for mission?Special Guest: Andy Dejka.","content_html":"We spend a lot of time on the EquipCast talking about reaching the lost and that parishes must be outward focused in order to grow. But I hear from many of you, "What about the already converted? We can't leave them behind either!" Steps 3 & 4 of the Clear Path to Discipleship focus on just that. How do we help disciples grow in their relationship with God, and how do we prepare them for mission?
Special Guest: Andy Dejka.
","summary":"We spend a lot of time on the EquipCast talking about reaching the lost and that parishes must be outward focused in order to grow. But I hear from many of you, \"What about the already converted? We can't leave them behind either!\" Steps 3 & 4 of the Clear Path to Discipleship focus on just that. How do we help disciples grow in their relationship with God, and how do we prepare them for mission?","date_published":"2020-09-15T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/ddfdce3a-8997-4987-b163-3d4c14428f9c.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":46951642,"duration_in_seconds":3216}]},{"id":"89a4e161-02b3-49e5-a98c-28d96805468e","title":"These Dry Bones Will Rise","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/29","content_text":"As a leader in your parish, it is easy to get bogged down with the day-to-day work of maintaining the parish. But if you have a heart like Fr. Lorig, you want to “major in the mission” instead of the maintenance.\n\nIf you are a lay leader, you have to win the heart of your pastor in order to do this. And if you are a pastor, you feel the weight of the daily tasks as well as the people trying to influence you.\n\nToday, Ron Huntley, brings the energy and wisdom to dispel some of this discouragement. He tells us about his time at St. Benedict’s Parish in Halifax, Nova Scotia as well as his work with Divine Renovation.Special Guest: Ron Huntley.","content_html":"As a leader in your parish, it is easy to get bogged down with the day-to-day work of maintaining the parish. But if you have a heart like Fr. Lorig, you want to “major in the mission” instead of the maintenance.
\n\nIf you are a lay leader, you have to win the heart of your pastor in order to do this. And if you are a pastor, you feel the weight of the daily tasks as well as the people trying to influence you.
\n\nToday, Ron Huntley, brings the energy and wisdom to dispel some of this discouragement. He tells us about his time at St. Benedict’s Parish in Halifax, Nova Scotia as well as his work with Divine Renovation.
Special Guest: Ron Huntley.
","summary":"As a leader in your parish, it is easy to get bogged down with the day-to-day work of maintaining the parish. But if you have a heart like Fr. Lorig, you want to “major in the mission” instead of the maintenance. If you are a lay leader, you have to win the heart of your pastor in order to do this. And if you are a pastor, you feel the weight of the daily tasks as well as the people trying to influence you. Today, Ron Huntley, brings the energy and wisdom to dispel some of this discouragement. He tells us about his time at St. Benedict’s Parish in Halifax, Nova Scotia as well as his work with Divine Renovation.","date_published":"2020-09-08T08:30:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/89a4e161-02b3-49e5-a98c-28d96805468e.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":47632629,"duration_in_seconds":3356}]},{"id":"2269b16e-1f01-4e21-a2c4-99ce045ab585","title":"Episode 28: The Clear Path to Discipleship: Step 1","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/28","content_text":"We all know that there is no silver bullet, no one program that will completely renew our parishes.Even the best programs fail if our parishioners don’t know what’s next. Parishioners will simply hop from program to program if we don’t tell them the process that will lead to growth in their relationship with God. We call this a clear path to discipleship. When a person enters a parish, do they know what steps to take in order to grow in their relationship with God? Today, Andy Dejka tells us that the first step on the clear path is Relational Outreach. Relational Outreach is the efforts of a parish to meet people who don't yet have a relationship with Christ and to build trust and arouse wonder at way that we live as Christians. That is, witnessing to the love of Jesus.Special Guest: Andy Dejka.","content_html":"We all know that there is no silver bullet, no one program that will completely renew our parishes.Even the best programs fail if our parishioners don’t know what’s next. Parishioners will simply hop from program to program if we don’t tell them the process that will lead to growth in their relationship with God. We call this a clear path to discipleship. When a person enters a parish, do they know what steps to take in order to grow in their relationship with God? Today, Andy Dejka tells us that the first step on the clear path is Relational Outreach. Relational Outreach is the efforts of a parish to meet people who don't yet have a relationship with Christ and to build trust and arouse wonder at way that we live as Christians. That is, witnessing to the love of Jesus.
Special Guest: Andy Dejka.
","summary":"We all know that there is no silver bullet, no one program that will completely renew our parishes. Even the best programs fail if our parishioners don’t know what’s next. Parishioners will simply hop from program to program if we don’t tell them the process that will lead to growth in their relationship with God. We call this a clear path to discipleship. When a person enters a parish, do they know what steps to take in order to grow in their relationship with God? Today, Andy Dejka tells us that the first step on the clear path is Relational Outreach. Relational Outreach is the efforts of a parish to meet people who don't yet have a relationship with Christ and to build trust and arouse wonder at way that we live as Christians. That is, witnessing to the love of Jesus.","date_published":"2020-09-01T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/2269b16e-1f01-4e21-a2c4-99ce045ab585.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":34125773,"duration_in_seconds":2720}]},{"id":"1ff04f11-0730-45e2-ba5d-4a0e27925d85","title":"Episode 27: The Amazing Parish","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/27","content_text":"How long do you think it takes to change the culture of a parish? While we know that change ultimately takes time, it’s often easy to look for a “silver bullet”, a program or curriculum that will suddenly make all the difference. But we know that behind every program is the people running it, and it’s the people that create culture. So today, Fr. Lorig and I sat down with Kevin Cotter from the Amazing Parish, and he told us about how they help parishes build a healthy culture that allows the pastor and his people to flourish. Special Guest: Kevin Cotter.","content_html":"How long do you think it takes to change the culture of a parish? While we know that change ultimately takes time, it’s often easy to look for a “silver bullet”, a program or curriculum that will suddenly make all the difference. But we know that behind every program is the people running it, and it’s the people that create culture. So today, Fr. Lorig and I sat down with Kevin Cotter from the Amazing Parish, and he told us about how they help parishes build a healthy culture that allows the pastor and his people to flourish.
Special Guest: Kevin Cotter.
","summary":"How long do you think it takes to change the culture of a parish? While we know that change ultimately takes time, it’s often easy to look for a “silver bullet”, a program or curriculum that will suddenly make all the difference. But we know that behind every program is the people running it, and it’s the people that create culture. So today, Fr. Lorig and I sat down with Kevin Cotter from the Amazing Parish, and he told us about how they help parishes build a healthy culture that allows the pastor and his people to flourish. ","date_published":"2020-08-25T09:15:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/1ff04f11-0730-45e2-ba5d-4a0e27925d85.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":44484717,"duration_in_seconds":3069}]},{"id":"199f1fb9-0b2d-4bae-aebc-cd8028d5493c","title":"Episode 26: Step Out of the Boat (Jeff Cavins Part 2)","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/26","content_text":"I experienced a second conversion when I was a FOCUS missionary. I loved making friends and developing a relationship. And I loved the more catechetical moments where I was able to teach someone about the faith or teach them how to pray the rosary, but talking about Jesus and what he had done for my life…that made me uncomfortable because it didn’t fit with the culture I was trying to reach. However, I was convicted by the writings of JPII when he says that the proclamation of Jesus Christ and the salvation that he offers all people is the “hinge on which all evangelization turns.” Today, I was renewed in this conviction by the words of Jeff Cavins. He tells us, “The proclamation of the gospel is about going into a hurting world and telling them the truth about life.” This may seem daunting at first, but Continue the Conversation and hear how Jeff makes it so very simple to do!Special Guests: Jeff Cavins and Jen Moser.","content_html":"I experienced a second conversion when I was a FOCUS missionary. I loved making friends and developing a relationship. And I loved the more catechetical moments where I was able to teach someone about the faith or teach them how to pray the rosary, but talking about Jesus and what he had done for my life…that made me uncomfortable because it didn’t fit with the culture I was trying to reach. However, I was convicted by the writings of JPII when he says that the proclamation of Jesus Christ and the salvation that he offers all people is the “hinge on which all evangelization turns.” Today, I was renewed in this conviction by the words of Jeff Cavins. He tells us, “The proclamation of the gospel is about going into a hurting world and telling them the truth about life.” This may seem daunting at first, but Continue the Conversation and hear how Jeff makes it so very simple to do!
Special Guests: Jeff Cavins and Jen Moser.
","summary":"I experienced a second conversion when I was a FOCUS missionary. I loved making friends and developing a relationship. And I loved the more catechetical moments where I was able to teach someone about the faith or teach them how to pray the rosary, but talking about Jesus and what he had done for my life…that made me uncomfortable because it didn’t fit with the culture I was trying to reach. However, I was convicted by the writings of JPII when he says that the proclamation of Jesus Christ and the salvation that he offers all people is the “hinge on which all evangelization turns.” Today, I was renewed in this conviction by the words of Jeff Cavins. He tells us, “The proclamation of the gospel is about going into a hurting world and telling them the truth about life.” This may seem daunting at first, but Continue the Conversation and hear how Jeff makes it so very simple to do!","date_published":"2020-08-18T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/199f1fb9-0b2d-4bae-aebc-cd8028d5493c.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":30818198,"duration_in_seconds":1949}]},{"id":"0491fcf5-989c-4302-88ff-98b5f243b8b1","title":"Episode 25: The Activated Disciple (Jeff Cavins Part 1)","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/25","content_text":"I had the privilege of sitting down with Jeff Cavins to talk about his latest book, the Activated Disciple. And while he shared so many important truths, I feel like he really shared a bit of himself. Every insight comes with a story from his own life. Continue the conversations with us as we talk about everything from his conversion story to having a posse of saints.Special Guests: Jeff Cavins and Jen Moser.","content_html":"I had the privilege of sitting down with Jeff Cavins to talk about his latest book, the Activated Disciple. And while he shared so many important truths, I feel like he really shared a bit of himself. Every insight comes with a story from his own life. Continue the conversations with us as we talk about everything from his conversion story to having a posse of saints.
Special Guests: Jeff Cavins and Jen Moser.
","summary":"I had the privilege of sitting down with Jeff Cavins to talk about his latest book, the Activated Disciple. And while he shared so many important truths, I feel like he really shared a bit of himself. Every insight comes with a story from his own life. Continue the conversations with us as we talk about everything from his conversion story to having a posse of saints.","date_published":"2020-08-11T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/0491fcf5-989c-4302-88ff-98b5f243b8b1.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":47705585,"duration_in_seconds":3047}]},{"id":"549e9428-dfee-4574-bfce-457b8b586628","title":"Episode 24: Alpha Nebraska","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/24","content_text":"I was blessed to encounter Jesus in a deeper way in college, but not all people, and certainly, not all cradle Catholics have had this opportunity. So today, we talk with Jodi Meyer, Network Director for Alpha Nebraska. Alpha is a program whose purpose is to propose anew the core of our faith, the Gospel message. If its content were to be summed up into an elevator speech, it would be this: God loves you. He sent His son to die for you, and this truth brings meaning and purpose and hope and joy for your life…and that matters. And, this is a gift so big we have to share it with others. Alpha’s goal is to invite people back to a decision point and to decide for Christ. But, there are so many other aspects to this program that make it work. Continue the conversation with us!Special Guest: Jodi Meyer.","content_html":"I was blessed to encounter Jesus in a deeper way in college, but not all people, and certainly, not all cradle Catholics have had this opportunity. So today, we talk with Jodi Meyer, Network Director for Alpha Nebraska. Alpha is a program whose purpose is to propose anew the core of our faith, the Gospel message. If its content were to be summed up into an elevator speech, it would be this: God loves you. He sent His son to die for you, and this truth brings meaning and purpose and hope and joy for your life…and that matters. And, this is a gift so big we have to share it with others. Alpha’s goal is to invite people back to a decision point and to decide for Christ. But, there are so many other aspects to this program that make it work. Continue the conversation with us!
Special Guest: Jodi Meyer.
","summary":" I was blessed to encounter Jesus in a deeper way in college, but not all people, and certainly, not all cradle Catholics have had this opportunity. So today, we talk with Jodi Meyer, Network Director for Alpha Nebraska. Alpha is a program whose purpose is to propose anew the core of our faith, the Gospel message. If its content were to be summed up into an elevator speech, it would be this: God loves you. He sent His son to die for you, and this truth brings meaning and purpose and hope and joy for your life…and that matters. And, this is a gift so big we have to share it with others. Alpha’s goal is to invite people back to a decision point and to decide for Christ. But, there are so many other aspects to this program that make it work. Continue the conversation with us!","date_published":"2020-08-04T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/549e9428-dfee-4574-bfce-457b8b586628.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":33005958,"duration_in_seconds":2455}]},{"id":"d71734ab-5992-4e97-87c2-531ec43c5ab0","title":"Episode 23: Leadership Lane","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/23","content_text":"Fr. Lorig and Fr. Dan Andrew both possess GallupStrengths that make them very natural leaders. They love to dream about the future and to figure out how to help people move into that new vision. But is leadership something your just born with, or is it something even these two had to learn about and grow into? They would say that it's definitely that latter. Listen as Fr. Lorig and Fr. Andrews muse on all things leadership.Special Guest: Fr. Dan Andrews.","content_html":"Fr. Lorig and Fr. Dan Andrew both possess GallupStrengths that make them very natural leaders. They love to dream about the future and to figure out how to help people move into that new vision. But is leadership something your just born with, or is it something even these two had to learn about and grow into? They would say that it's definitely that latter. Listen as Fr. Lorig and Fr. Andrews muse on all things leadership.
Special Guest: Fr. Dan Andrews.
","summary":"Fr. Lorig and Fr. Dan Andrew both possess GallupStrengths that make them very natural leaders. They love to dream about the future and to figure out how to help people move into that new vision. But is leadership something your just born with, or is it something even these two had to learn about and grow into? They would say that it's definitely that latter. Listen as Fr. Lorig and Fr. Andrews muse on all things leadership.","date_published":"2020-07-28T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/d71734ab-5992-4e97-87c2-531ec43c5ab0.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":33629177,"duration_in_seconds":2602}]},{"id":"61f69390-1938-441f-8192-f002229cbff0","title":"Episode 22: A Pastor's Conversion","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/22","content_text":"Moving a parish from maintenance to mission is easier said than done. You can have all the best programs and all the best people on staff, but the key ingredient will always be the pastor. We know our pastors truly desire that their parishes to thrive, but before a pastor can change the culture of a parish, he will have to consider the culture of his heart. This week, Fr. Lorig sat down with Fr. Damien Cook, and they discussed Fr. Cook’s process of continued conversion, the things he’s pondered and the lessons he’s learned in the last few years of his priesthood.Special Guest: Fr. Damien Cook.","content_html":"Moving a parish from maintenance to mission is easier said than done. You can have all the best programs and all the best people on staff, but the key ingredient will always be the pastor. We know our pastors truly desire that their parishes to thrive, but before a pastor can change the culture of a parish, he will have to consider the culture of his heart. This week, Fr. Lorig sat down with Fr. Damien Cook, and they discussed Fr. Cook’s process of continued conversion, the things he’s pondered and the lessons he’s learned in the last few years of his priesthood.
Special Guest: Fr. Damien Cook.
","summary":"Moving a parish from maintenance to mission is easier said than done. You can have all the best programs and all the best people on staff, but the key ingredient will always be the pastor. We know our pastors truly desire that their parishes to thrive, but before a pastor can change the culture of a parish, he will have to consider the culture of his heart. This week, Fr. Lorig sat down with Fr. Damien Cook, and they discussed Fr. Cook’s process of continued conversion, the things he’s pondered and the lessons he’s learned in the last few years of his priesthood.","date_published":"2020-07-21T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/61f69390-1938-441f-8192-f002229cbff0.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":35977764,"duration_in_seconds":3075}]},{"id":"53acd174-3b4b-4b05-836f-d3d86ed2f99a","title":"Episode 21: The First 180 Days - A Pastor Plans His Transition","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/21","content_text":"Have you ever heard the old adage: A pastor should never change anything in his first year…except his socks and underwear? Well, we think you can’t wait that long to make changes! 40 percent of executives hired at the senior level are pushed out, fail, or quit within 18 months. (“Rise of a headhunter” Financial Times, March 30, 2009 ) So if you can’t wait to make changes, you should manage the transition.","content_html":"Have you ever heard the old adage: A pastor should never change anything in his first year…except his socks and underwear? Well, we think you can’t wait that long to make changes! 40 percent of executives hired at the senior level are pushed out, fail, or quit within 18 months. (“Rise of a headhunter” Financial Times, March 30, 2009 ) So if you can’t wait to make changes, you should manage the transition.
","summary":"Have you ever heard the old adage: A pastor should never change anything in his first year…except his socks and underwear? Well, we think you can’t wait that long to make changes! 40 percent of executives hired at the senior level are pushed out, fail, or quit within 18 months. (“Rise of a headhunter” Financial Times, March 30, 2009 ) So if you can’t wait to make changes, you should manage the transition.","date_published":"2020-07-14T06:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/53acd174-3b4b-4b05-836f-d3d86ed2f99a.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":36436140,"duration_in_seconds":2692}]},{"id":"d2510645-c4d6-40fa-93fc-80cb80c09991","title":"Episode 20: Redoing Religious Education - A Family First Approach","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/20","content_text":"Imagine with me a parish where Religious Education is no longer simply content found in a book, a subject to be picked up once a week on Wednesdays. Imagine instead a parish where Religious Education is centered around the formation of each person’s faith life.\n\nGone would be the days of begging for catechists and of struggling to engage tired students. Gone would be the days of sacramental “graduations” where families disappear after confirmation. And gone would be the days of the pastor introducing children that he doesn’t know to the Archbishop.\n\nI know that these fruits (and many many others) follow, because I had the joy of sitting down with Fr. Loseke and Jackie Schuler from St. Charles Borromeo. Over the past few years, they have transformed the way their parish does Religious Education, and by doing so, they have transformed the lives of their parish families.Special Guests: Fr. Jeff Loseke and Jackie Schuler.","content_html":"Imagine with me a parish where Religious Education is no longer simply content found in a book, a subject to be picked up once a week on Wednesdays. Imagine instead a parish where Religious Education is centered around the formation of each person’s faith life.
\n\nGone would be the days of begging for catechists and of struggling to engage tired students. Gone would be the days of sacramental “graduations” where families disappear after confirmation. And gone would be the days of the pastor introducing children that he doesn’t know to the Archbishop.
\n\nI know that these fruits (and many many others) follow, because I had the joy of sitting down with Fr. Loseke and Jackie Schuler from St. Charles Borromeo. Over the past few years, they have transformed the way their parish does Religious Education, and by doing so, they have transformed the lives of their parish families.
Special Guests: Fr. Jeff Loseke and Jackie Schuler.
","summary":"Imagine with me a parish where Religious Education is no longer simply content found in a book, a subject to be picked up once a week on Wednesdays. Imagine instead a parish where Religious Education is centered around the formation of each person’s faith life.\r\n\r\nGone would be the days of begging for catechists and of struggling to engage tired students. Gone would be the days of sacramental “graduations” where families disappear after confirmation. And gone would be the days of the pastor introducing children that he doesn’t know to the Archbishop.\r\n\r\nI know that these fruits (and many many others) follow, because I had the joy of sitting down with Fr. Loseke and Jackie Schuler from St. Charles Borromeo. Over the past few years, they have transformed the way their parish does Religious Education, and by doing so, they have transformed the lives of their parish families.","date_published":"2020-06-29T11:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/d2510645-c4d6-40fa-93fc-80cb80c09991.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":43274141,"duration_in_seconds":3232}]},{"id":"7a8f9b02-0601-4f1b-a5a3-9cee64e427b1","title":"Episode 19: The Clear Path to Discipleship: Step 2 (Start Your Engines: The Driving Force of Conversions)","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/19","content_text":"Have you heard a compelling presentation of the gospel that transformed your life? The power of our own conversions has led us to the belief that every parish needs a Conversion Engine. Join Andy Dejka and I (Jim Jansen) as we tell a little of our own stories and converse about questions such as: Why do we need a specific program or ministry for conversion if evangelization is everyone’s job? And, If our parish does decide to adopt a Conversion Engine, what should it look like?Special Guest: Andy Dejka.","content_html":"Have you heard a compelling presentation of the gospel that transformed your life? The power of our own conversions has led us to the belief that every parish needs a Conversion Engine. Join Andy Dejka and I (Jim Jansen) as we tell a little of our own stories and converse about questions such as: Why do we need a specific program or ministry for conversion if evangelization is everyone’s job? And, If our parish does decide to adopt a Conversion Engine, what should it look like?
Special Guest: Andy Dejka.
","summary":"Have you heard a compelling presentation of the gospel that transformed your life? The power of our own conversions has led us to the belief that every parish needs a Conversion Engine. Join Andy Dejka and I (Jim Jansen) as we tell a little of our own stories and converse about questions such as: Why do we need a specific program or ministry for conversion if evangelization is everyone’s job? And, If our parish does decide to adopt a Conversion Engine, what should it look like?\r\n","date_published":"2020-06-23T09:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/7a8f9b02-0601-4f1b-a5a3-9cee64e427b1.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":39321299,"duration_in_seconds":3434}]},{"id":"c42c58dd-bb4e-4147-9f11-6714d4a3a848","title":"Episode 18: New Era, Old Strategies: Engagement Tips from the Apostles","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/18","content_text":"Pope Francis once said, “We are not living in an era of change but a change of era”. We think that this new era looks a lot like the Apostolic Age. Jen Moser takes us through the parallels, and offers some strategies based on the actions of the Apostles themselves.Special Guest: Jen Moser.","content_html":"Pope Francis once said, “We are not living in an era of change but a change of era”. We think that this new era looks a lot like the Apostolic Age. Jen Moser takes us through the parallels, and offers some strategies based on the actions of the Apostles themselves.
Special Guest: Jen Moser.
","summary":"Pope Francis once said, “We are not living in an era of change but a change of era”. We think that this new era looks a lot like the Apostolic Age. Jen Moser takes us through the parallels, and offers some strategies based on the actions of the Apostles themselves.","date_published":"2020-06-15T15:30:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/c42c58dd-bb4e-4147-9f11-6714d4a3a848.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":48511774,"duration_in_seconds":3131}]},{"id":"1ad42bb6-6631-40fb-8a34-e59f5e5aa764","title":"Episode 17: School Tuition - Are Catholic Schools Worth the Cost?","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/17","content_text":"Dr. Ashton, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, and Fr. Jeff Lorig are known for their impassioned conversations...about school tuition. Yes, school tuition. While not the most obviously interesting topic, it leads us to much larger questions. For example, if I pay all of this money for my child to go to a Catholic School, what am I actually paying for? What is the real mission of Catholic Schools? Join the debate and help us answer the question, \"Are Catholic Schools worth the cost?\"","content_html":"Dr. Ashton, Superintendent of Catholic Schools, and Fr. Jeff Lorig are known for their impassioned conversations...about school tuition. Yes, school tuition. While not the most obviously interesting topic, it leads us to much larger questions. For example, if I pay all of this money for my child to go to a Catholic School, what am I actually paying for? What is the real mission of Catholic Schools? Join the debate and help us answer the question, "Are Catholic Schools worth the cost?"
","summary":"","date_published":"2020-06-08T14:30:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/1ad42bb6-6631-40fb-8a34-e59f5e5aa764.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":36819072,"duration_in_seconds":3267}]},{"id":"b4e9d6e4-a691-49a2-8bfd-7bab610dab08","title":"Episode 16: Not a 'How to' but a 'Who through' - The Holy Spirit on Mission","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/16","content_text":"We are living in a unique moment in Church history, the transition into a post-Christendom era. It is disorienting and new. While the mission of the Church has not shifted, the way we fulfill the mission to bring the Gospel to the world must change. We need the Holy Spirit to be the inspiration and guide. Pause with Jim Jansen and Fr. Lorig to reflect on the Holy Spirit and to pray that He moves in our lives.","content_html":"We are living in a unique moment in Church history, the transition into a post-Christendom era. It is disorienting and new. While the mission of the Church has not shifted, the way we fulfill the mission to bring the Gospel to the world must change. We need the Holy Spirit to be the inspiration and guide. Pause with Jim Jansen and Fr. Lorig to reflect on the Holy Spirit and to pray that He moves in our lives.
","summary":"We are living in a unique moment in Church history, the transition into a post-Christendom era. It is disorienting and new. While the mission of the Church has not shifted, the way we fulfill the mission to bring the Gospel to the world must change. We need the Holy Spirit to be the inspiration and guide. Pause with Jim Jansen and Fr. Lorig to reflect on the Holy Spirit and to pray that He moves in our lives.","date_published":"2020-06-01T09:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/b4e9d6e4-a691-49a2-8bfd-7bab610dab08.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":62732806,"duration_in_seconds":3285}]},{"id":"41ade064-51d6-497a-9156-350e75eeb4b2","title":"Episode 15: Digital Church","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/15","content_text":"One thing is for sure, the digital church is not going away. Many have tasted its potential and while our buildings begin to open up, our online churches should not be shutting down. For those who want to take full advantage of the potential that digital church offers, it will require more strategy, more thought, and more planning than merely pointing a camera at your in-person events and services. Fr. Lorig and Jim Jansen offer answers to questions like \"Which metrics matter?\" and \"How do we reach the unchurched online?\"","content_html":"One thing is for sure, the digital church is not going away. Many have tasted its potential and while our buildings begin to open up, our online churches should not be shutting down. For those who want to take full advantage of the potential that digital church offers, it will require more strategy, more thought, and more planning than merely pointing a camera at your in-person events and services. Fr. Lorig and Jim Jansen offer answers to questions like "Which metrics matter?" and "How do we reach the unchurched online?"
","summary":"One thing is for sure, the digital church is not going away. Many have tasted its potential and while our buildings begin to open up, our online churches should not be shutting down. For those who want to take full advantage of the potential that digital church offers, it will require more strategy, more thought, and more planning than merely pointing a camera at your in-person events and services. Fr. Lorig and Jim Jansen offer answers to questions like \"Which metrics matter?\" and \"How do we reach the unchurched online?\"","date_published":"2020-05-26T11:30:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/41ade064-51d6-497a-9156-350e75eeb4b2.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":57845701,"duration_in_seconds":2974}]},{"id":"25f5759f-57ec-4da7-abb5-41cbf5ed6cd3","title":"Episode 14: Church Money - Raising Givers","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/14","content_text":"As a young associate, Fr. Lorig asked Fr. (now Bishop) Hanefeldt, “As a priest, am I supposed to tithe?” Fr. Hanefeldt responded, “You know? The more I give, the more I receive.” While he didn’t directly answer the question, he got to the heart of the issue. Money influences our relationship with God, and it’s in a competition with Him for our hearts. Most of us in ministry hate to touch the topic of money, but if we want to raise disciples, we have to also start raising givers. Jim Jansen and Fr. Lorig discus what he is going to do differently after reading the book ChurchMoney: Rebuilding the Way We Fund Our Mission.","content_html":"As a young associate, Fr. Lorig asked Fr. (now Bishop) Hanefeldt, “As a priest, am I supposed to tithe?” Fr. Hanefeldt responded, “You know? The more I give, the more I receive.” While he didn’t directly answer the question, he got to the heart of the issue. Money influences our relationship with God, and it’s in a competition with Him for our hearts. Most of us in ministry hate to touch the topic of money, but if we want to raise disciples, we have to also start raising givers. Jim Jansen and Fr. Lorig discus what he is going to do differently after reading the book ChurchMoney: Rebuilding the Way We Fund Our Mission.
","summary":"As a young associate, Fr. Lorig asked Fr. (now Bishop) Hanefeldt, “As a priest, am I supposed to tithe?” Fr. Hanefeldt responded, “You know? The more I give, the more I receive.” While he didn’t directly answer the question, he got to the heart of the issue. Money influences our relationship with God, and it’s in a competition with Him for our hearts. Most of us in ministry hate to touch the topic of money, but if we want to raise disciples, we have to also start raising givers. Jim Jansen and Fr. Lorig discus what he is going to do differently after reading the book _ChurchMoney: Rebuilding the Way We Fund Our Mission._","date_published":"2020-05-18T09:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/25f5759f-57ec-4da7-abb5-41cbf5ed6cd3.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":46252296,"duration_in_seconds":2884}]},{"id":"31933118-1356-4aa0-aec1-2bfe622a6084","title":"Episode 13: 5 Myths of Evangelization","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/13","content_text":"Evangelization has been a buzzword in the Church for the past few decades, but many of us still don’t know what it means. It conjures up images of knocking on doors and standing on street corners. We know it’s necessary to do. After all, weren’t we commissioned to “Go and make disciples of the nations”? But, for some reason it’s hard to begin.\n\nIn today's EquipCast, Fr. Lorig and Jim Jansen discuss the hang-ups that many of us have when it comes to evangelization, and they leave us with a few tips to get started.","content_html":"Evangelization has been a buzzword in the Church for the past few decades, but many of us still don’t know what it means. It conjures up images of knocking on doors and standing on street corners. We know it’s necessary to do. After all, weren’t we commissioned to “Go and make disciples of the nations”? But, for some reason it’s hard to begin.
\n\nIn today's EquipCast, Fr. Lorig and Jim Jansen discuss the hang-ups that many of us have when it comes to evangelization, and they leave us with a few tips to get started.
","summary":"Evangelization has been a buzzword in the Church for the past few decades, but many of us still don’t know what it means. It conjures up images of knocking on doors and standing on street corners. We know it’s necessary to do. After all, weren’t we commissioned to “Go and make disciples of the nations”? But, for some reason it’s hard to begin.\r\n\r\nIn today's EquipCast, Fr. Lorig and Jim Jansen discuss the hang-ups that many of us have when it comes to evangelization, and they leave us with a few tips to get started.","date_published":"2020-05-11T08:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/31933118-1356-4aa0-aec1-2bfe622a6084.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":57086424,"duration_in_seconds":3552}]},{"id":"30fc901b-8a78-4363-921b-afa7d1904ae9","title":"Episode 12: The Ideal Parishioner","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/12","content_text":"Sometimes the consumer culture of the United States creeps into our parish life. When this happens, the ideal parishioner becomes the loyal customer who shows up to all the events or the person who “does their time” volunteering. Fr. Lorig and Jim Jansen suggest that the ideal parishioner is instead the person who comes alive because they are engaged in the mission of the Church. The ideal parishioner thrives because they say yes only to the things that give them life. Tune in for some tips on discernment and for ways to draw others into the mission.","content_html":"Sometimes the consumer culture of the United States creeps into our parish life. When this happens, the ideal parishioner becomes the loyal customer who shows up to all the events or the person who “does their time” volunteering. Fr. Lorig and Jim Jansen suggest that the ideal parishioner is instead the person who comes alive because they are engaged in the mission of the Church. The ideal parishioner thrives because they say yes only to the things that give them life. Tune in for some tips on discernment and for ways to draw others into the mission.
","summary":"Sometimes the consumer culture of the United States creeps into our parish life. When this happens, the ideal parishioner becomes the loyal customer who shows up to all the events or the person who “does their time” volunteering. Fr. Lorig and Jim Jansen suggest that the ideal parishioner is instead the person who comes alive because they are engaged in the mission of the Church. The ideal parishioner thrives because they say yes only to the things that give them life. Tune in for some tips on discernment and for ways to draw others into the mission.","date_published":"2020-05-04T13:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/30fc901b-8a78-4363-921b-afa7d1904ae9.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":43360027,"duration_in_seconds":2761}]},{"id":"75100be5-7321-45b3-a2cf-c79e4c6665a8","title":"Discipleship - What it looks like in real life.","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/jim-at-sls2020","content_text":"Whenever Jesus calls someone to be a disiple, he doesn't stop at \"follow me\", he says, \"and I will make you fishers of men.\" We cannot separate the call to be a disciple and the call to be a missionary. But how does one create missionary disciples? Jim Jansen spoke at SEEK 2020 unpacking the everyday experience of forming others for mission.","content_html":"Whenever Jesus calls someone to be a disiple, he doesn't stop at "follow me", he says, "and I will make you fishers of men." We cannot separate the call to be a disciple and the call to be a missionary. But how does one create missionary disciples? Jim Jansen spoke at SEEK 2020 unpacking the everyday experience of forming others for mission.
","summary":"Whenever Jesus calls someone to be a disiple, he doesn't stop at \"follow me\", he says, \"and I will make you fishers of men.\" We cannot separate the call to be a disciple and the call to be a missionary. But how does one create missionary disciples? Jim Jansen spoke at SEEK 2020 unpacking the everyday experience of forming others for mission.\r\n","date_published":"2020-04-22T17:15:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/75100be5-7321-45b3-a2cf-c79e4c6665a8.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":30834036,"duration_in_seconds":1247}]},{"id":"088f60ec-9e73-4b2f-bcd3-f6e842b8cb11","title":"Episode 11: Don't Be a Hero. Be a Hero Maker!","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/11","content_text":"Doing leadership doesn’t mean doing everything, and delegation doesn’t mean giving away tasks. Leadership means giving your superpowers to someone else.","content_html":"Doing leadership doesn’t mean doing everything, and delegation doesn’t mean giving away tasks. Leadership means giving your superpowers to someone else.
","summary":"Doing leadership doesn't mean doing everything, and delegation doesn't mean giving away tasks. Leadership means giving your superpowers to someone else.","date_published":"2020-04-21T09:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/088f60ec-9e73-4b2f-bcd3-f6e842b8cb11.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":51937200,"duration_in_seconds":3282}]},{"id":"6217b26e-caf8-4d8b-9001-16481e49a396","title":"Episode 10: Why Best Practices aren't the Best","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/10","content_text":"Everyone is crazy about best practices. Conventional wisdom says if you want to be successful at anything, particularly in ministry, you need to implement best practices, but they don’t always lead to success. Join Jim Jansen, Director of the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis, as he shares his insights on the topic of best practices.","content_html":"Everyone is crazy about best practices. Conventional wisdom says if you want to be successful at anything, particularly in ministry, you need to implement best practices, but they don’t always lead to success. Join Jim Jansen, Director of the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis, as he shares his insights on the topic of best practices.
","summary":"Everyone is crazy about best practices. Conventional wisdom says if you want to be successful at anything, particularly in ministry, you need to implement best practices, but they don't always lead to success. Join Jim Jansen, Director of the Office of Evangelization and Catechesis, as he shares his insights on the topic of best practices.","date_published":"2020-04-20T11:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/6217b26e-caf8-4d8b-9001-16481e49a396.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":42978866,"duration_in_seconds":2809}]},{"id":"4a3d8b0a-9419-4df6-ba41-8ef31e18fad6","title":"Episode 9: Post Virus Hopes","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/9","content_text":"Most of us realize that everything we’re going through now will probably have long term effects on the culture and the Church. What hopes do you have for the Church when this is all over? Join Fr. Jeff Lorig and Jim Jansen share their insights and dreams for the Church that could be.","content_html":"Most of us realize that everything we’re going through now will probably have long term effects on the culture and the Church. What hopes do you have for the Church when this is all over? Join Fr. Jeff Lorig and Jim Jansen share their insights and dreams for the Church that could be.
","summary":"Most of us realize that everything we're going through now will probably have long term effects on the culture and the Church. What hopes do you have for the Church when this is all over? Join Fr. Jeff Lorig and Jim Jansen share their insights and dreams for the Church that could be.","date_published":"2020-04-20T11:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/4a3d8b0a-9419-4df6-ba41-8ef31e18fad6.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":46405711,"duration_in_seconds":2964}]},{"id":"3f6a62fa-8963-4a03-8e4a-7f556fab7541","title":"Episode 8: What’s On Your Heart","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/8","content_text":"On the Wednesday after schools shut down due to the Coronavirus, Christine French was in a continuous stream of webinars and on-line meetings. She felt anxious and busy, and she knew this was not what the Lord was calling her to. Hear from Christine about how she paused and listened to the voice of God.\n\n“Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; one thing is needful. Mary has chosen the good portion, which shall not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41b-42)Special Guest: Christine French.","content_html":"On the Wednesday after schools shut down due to the Coronavirus, Christine French was in a continuous stream of webinars and on-line meetings. She felt anxious and busy, and she knew this was not what the Lord was calling her to. Hear from Christine about how she paused and listened to the voice of God.
\n\n“Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things; one thing is needful. Mary has chosen the good portion, which shall not be taken away from her.” (Luke 10:41b-42)
Special Guest: Christine French.
","summary":"On the Wednesday after schools shut down due to the Coronavirus, Christine French was in a continuous stream of webinars and on-line meetings. She felt anxious and busy, and she knew this was not what the Lord was calling her to. Hear from Christine about how she paused and listened to the voice of God.\r\n","date_published":"2020-04-06T12:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/3f6a62fa-8963-4a03-8e4a-7f556fab7541.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":31939123,"duration_in_seconds":1955}]},{"id":"16526612-afd1-406e-a166-06a848c0568b","title":"Episode 7: In the Life of the Parish - How St. Gerald Parish is Continuing Its Mission","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/7","content_text":"In the midst of the pandemic, what does Church life look like? Mark Nelson shares the lessons that he has learned working at St. Gerald’s and serving on their Servant Leadership Team.Special Guest: Mark Nelson.","content_html":"In the midst of the pandemic, what does Church life look like? Mark Nelson shares the lessons that he has learned working at St. Gerald’s and serving on their Servant Leadership Team.
Special Guest: Mark Nelson.
","summary":"In the midst of the pandemic, what does Church life look like? Mark Nelson shares the lessons that he has learned working at St. Gerald’s and serving on their Servant Leadership Team.\r\n\r\n","date_published":"2020-04-06T09:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/16526612-afd1-406e-a166-06a848c0568b.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":35582103,"duration_in_seconds":2181}]},{"id":"42e4e4a2-f0b5-48b7-a53b-a25a2fb35461","title":"Episode 6: Why Accompaniment is More Necessary than Ever","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/6","content_text":"Accompaniment is the current buzzword that many speak about passionately. Jen and Jim unpack the word. Then, they challenge us to 1) intentionally and consistently journey with a number of people, and 2) equip others to do the same.\n\n“…to equip the saints for the work of ministry for building up the body of Christ until we all attain to the unity of faith and…full maturity in Christ…” Ephesians 4:12-13Special Guests: Jen Moser and Jim Jansen.","content_html":"Accompaniment is the current buzzword that many speak about passionately. Jen and Jim unpack the word. Then, they challenge us to 1) intentionally and consistently journey with a number of people, and 2) equip others to do the same.
\n\n“…to equip the saints for the work of ministry for building up the body of Christ until we all attain to the unity of faith and…full maturity in Christ…” Ephesians 4:12-13
Special Guests: Jen Moser and Jim Jansen.
","summary":"Accompaniment is the current buzzword that many speak about passionately. Jen and Jim unpack the word. Then, they challenge us to 1) intentionally and consistently journey with a number of people, and 2) equip others to do the same.","date_published":"2020-04-03T15:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/42e4e4a2-f0b5-48b7-a53b-a25a2fb35461.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mp3","size_in_bytes":30683239,"duration_in_seconds":2044}]},{"id":"ee6abea6-04ba-47f2-bec0-5196da6cd111","title":"Episode 5: Funding the Mission with Tact and Grace","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/5","content_text":"Without a Sunday collection, parishes are wondering how to ask for money in order to keep the lights on and pay the staff. Shannan’s advice, “It’s not actually about paying the bills. It’s about vision, hope and transformation.” Make a connection, tell your story, build relationships, and invite people into the mission!Special Guest: Shannan Brommer.","content_html":"Without a Sunday collection, parishes are wondering how to ask for money in order to keep the lights on and pay the staff. Shannan’s advice, “It’s not actually about paying the bills. It’s about vision, hope and transformation.” Make a connection, tell your story, build relationships, and invite people into the mission!
Special Guest: Shannan Brommer.
","summary":"Without a Sunday collection, parishes are wondering how to ask for money in order to keep the lights on and pay the staff. Shannan’s advice, “It’s not actually about paying the bills. It’s about vision, hope and transformation.” Make a connection, tell your story, build relationships, and invite people into the mission!","date_published":"2020-04-03T15:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/ee6abea6-04ba-47f2-bec0-5196da6cd111.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":36942867,"duration_in_seconds":2270}]},{"id":"fcc3fa50-04b5-4f68-8e5d-f631876896ed","title":"Episode 4: Getting the Most out of Your Communications","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/4","content_text":"In a world where it is as easy to switch parishes as it is to switch the channel or click another link, Blair Bonczynski and David Hazen give their advice on how to rise above the noise and make a real connection with your parishioners. The secret? You don’t need to be an expert, you just need to get out there and try!Special Guests: Blair Bonczynski and David Hazen.","content_html":"In a world where it is as easy to switch parishes as it is to switch the channel or click another link, Blair Bonczynski and David Hazen give their advice on how to rise above the noise and make a real connection with your parishioners. The secret? You don’t need to be an expert, you just need to get out there and try!
Special Guests: Blair Bonczynski and David Hazen.
","summary":"In a world where it is as easy to switch parishes as it is to switch the channel or click another link, Blair Bonczynski and David Hazen give their advice on how to rise above the noise and make a real connection with your parishioners. The secret? You don’t need to be an expert, you just need to get out there and try!\r\n","date_published":"2020-04-03T15:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/fcc3fa50-04b5-4f68-8e5d-f631876896ed.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":30265702,"duration_in_seconds":1883}]},{"id":"543a78ff-79de-46ac-a3eb-1778da6ec201","title":"Episode 3: Where Church Happens","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/3","content_text":"We’ve always said, “It’s not about the building.” So if it’s not about building, then where does church happen? And where can it happen now? Join Calvin Mueller and Andy Dejka for Friday’s EquipCast as they discuss building a culture of community in small groups during the pandemic crisis and beyond.\n\nMembers of our Evangelization team here in the Archdiocese of Omaha, Andy and Calvin are both former FOCUS Missionaries who have extensive experience translating those missionary values into parish life.Special Guests: Andy Dejka and Calvin Mueller.","content_html":"We’ve always said, “It’s not about the building.” So if it’s not about building, then where does church happen? And where can it happen now? Join Calvin Mueller and Andy Dejka for Friday’s EquipCast as they discuss building a culture of community in small groups during the pandemic crisis and beyond.
\n\nMembers of our Evangelization team here in the Archdiocese of Omaha, Andy and Calvin are both former FOCUS Missionaries who have extensive experience translating those missionary values into parish life.
Special Guests: Andy Dejka and Calvin Mueller.
","summary":"We’ve always said, “It’s not about the building.” So if it’s not about building, then where does church happen? And where can it happen now? Join Calvin Mueller and Andy Dejka for Friday’s EquipCast as they discuss building a culture of community in small groups during the pandemic crisis and beyond.","date_published":"2020-04-03T14:00:00.000-05:00","attachments":[{"url":"https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/2ac6479b-62cb-4adc-8a98-24d6a156cc99/543a78ff-79de-46ac-a3eb-1778da6ec201.mp3","mime_type":"audio/mpeg","size_in_bytes":49274926,"duration_in_seconds":3075}]},{"id":"64cdbd93-b860-444d-88ac-20ca672227b2","title":"Episode 2: Faithful Families","url":"https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/2","content_text":"On today’s Equip Cast, Craig Dyke and Jim Jansen will explain how you can help families stay faithful and perhaps even grow more faithful during this time. Sports and busyness are no longer barriers for families to engage in the Church. Therefore, as pastoral leaders we’ll need to be intentional about about helping our families be more intentional.\n\nCraig and Jim are both fathers of relatively large families. They’ll be able to offer theological insights on family and evangelization as well as their own personal insights on keeping their families faithful beyond the Sunday Mass.Special Guests: Craig Dyke and Jim Jansen.Links:Can you teach children to pray like saints? — Several years ago, my brother-in-law decided to take his son to their parish church for a father/son outing with a lesson on relational prayer. As they walked into the church, he had grand plans about what and how he would teach his son. His four-year-old, however, was incessantly chatting and would not focus on the prayer lesson. My brother-in-law became impatient and frustrated, but then he noticed that his son was telling him about his day. His son was relating everything about his day – thoughts, feelings, desires, details – to his father who was distracted with his own desire for the day.","content_html":"On today’s Equip Cast, Craig Dyke and Jim Jansen will explain how you can help families stay faithful and perhaps even grow more faithful during this time. Sports and busyness are no longer barriers for families to engage in the Church. Therefore, as pastoral leaders we’ll need to be intentional about about helping our families be more intentional.
\n\nCraig and Jim are both fathers of relatively large families. They’ll be able to offer theological insights on family and evangelization as well as their own personal insights on keeping their families faithful beyond the Sunday Mass.
Special Guests: Craig Dyke and Jim Jansen.
Links: