web01.fireside.fm Mon, 27 Apr 2026 19:35:51 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) EquipCast - Episodes Tagged with “Building Community” https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/tags/building%20community Tue, 02 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Sharing your Catholic faith with family and friends can sometimes feel daunting. Where do I start? How do I make an impact? Welcome to EquipCast, a weekly podcast from the Archdiocese of Omaha. We want to support your faith journey and equip you with the tools to express your faith authentically in your everyday life. Each week, we’ll discuss practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world. Each episode is filled with encouragement and inspiration so you can make an impact and make disciples in your own faith community. For more information and to stay connected with us, head to equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. en-us episodic Encouragement and inspiration for sharing your catholic faith Archdiocese of Omaha Sharing your Catholic faith with family and friends can sometimes feel daunting. Where do I start? How do I make an impact? Welcome to EquipCast, a weekly podcast from the Archdiocese of Omaha. We want to support your faith journey and equip you with the tools to express your faith authentically in your everyday life. Each week, we’ll discuss practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world. Each episode is filled with encouragement and inspiration so you can make an impact and make disciples in your own faith community. For more information and to stay connected with us, head to equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. no Archdiocese, Catholic Church, evangelization, evangelism, disciple Archdiocese of Omaha whitney.a.bradley@gmail.com Episode 191: Real Christian Unity: How to Have Ecumenical Conversations with More Mercy Apostolate https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/191 711bf3ba-7fe9-47b2-88e8-37e350f3365f Tue, 02 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 191 Real Christian Unity: How to Have Ecumenical Conversations with More Mercy Apostolate full Archdiocese of Omaha Can real friendship heal division in the Church? When I sit with John 17, I’m struck that He was praying for a unity that’s visible, relational, and compelling—a unity that makes the world stop and notice that He was sent by the Father. That kind of unity shows up in real friendships, in shared service, in conversations where we seek truth together—not to win an argument, but to love each other well and grow together, even when we don’t see eye to eye. It’s messy, but it’s also where the Lord does His best work. In this episode of EquipCast, I sit down with Max Chapman and Jeremiah Zimmerman from the More Mercy apostolate to talk about what this looks like in real life. Max shares how praying with John 17 sparked a deep desire in him to build bridges with Christians from other traditions. What started as simple conversations turned into friendships that not only challenged him but also strengthened his Catholic faith. You’ll hear why unity isn’t just an ideal for theologians—it’s something we’re all called to live, one relationship at a time. 1:04:02 no Can real friendship heal division in the Church? When I sit with John 17, I’m struck that He was praying for a unity that’s visible, relational, and compelling—a unity that makes the world stop and notice that He was sent by the Father. That kind of unity shows up in real friendships, in shared service, in conversations where we seek truth together—not to win an argument, but to love each other well and grow together, even when we don’t see eye to eye. It’s messy, but it’s also where the Lord does His best work. In this episode of EquipCast, I sit down with Max Chapman and Jeremiah Zimmerman from the More Mercy apostolate to talk about what this looks like in real life. Max shares how praying with John 17 sparked a deep desire in him to build bridges with Christians from other traditions. What started as simple conversations turned into friendships that not only challenged him but also strengthened his Catholic faith. You’ll hear why unity isn’t just an ideal for theologians—it’s something we’re all called to live, one relationship at a time. [01:36] Meet Max Chapman and Jeremiah Zimmerman [02:46] Max's Journey: From Football to Faith [06:20] Jeremiah's Path: From Baseball to Theology [12:50] The Vision for Ecumenical Unity [22:01] Challenges and Joys of Ecumenical Ministry [31:39] Unity in Diversity: Different Catholic Ethnicities [34:37] Practical Steps for Ecumenism [37:19] Building Friendships Across Denominations [41:02] Challenges and Joys of Ecumenical Work [46:33] Mobilizing Lay Faithful for Ecumenism [53:28] Encouragement and Final Thoughts Don’t forget to check out More Mercy (https://moremercylincoln.org/)! For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com) Catholic podcast, relational outreach, parish ministry, evangelization strategies, missionary disciples, outreach discernment, building community, intentional hospitality, parish leadership, neighborhood ministry, small group outreach, faith formation, Archdiocese of Omaha, EquipCast, outreach planning, church engagement, pre-evangelization, parish renewal, outreach events, spiritual accompaniment Can real friendship heal division in the Church?

When I sit with John 17, I’m struck that He was praying for a unity that’s visible, relational, and compelling—a unity that makes the world stop and notice that He was sent by the Father. That kind of unity shows up in real friendships, in shared service, in conversations where we seek truth together—not to win an argument, but to love each other well and grow together, even when we don’t see eye to eye. It’s messy, but it’s also where the Lord does His best work.

In this episode of EquipCast, I sit down with Max Chapman and Jeremiah Zimmerman from the More Mercy apostolate to talk about what this looks like in real life. Max shares how praying with John 17 sparked a deep desire in him to build bridges with Christians from other traditions. What started as simple conversations turned into friendships that not only challenged him but also strengthened his Catholic faith. You’ll hear why unity isn’t just an ideal for theologians—it’s something we’re all called to live, one relationship at a time.

[01:36] Meet Max Chapman and Jeremiah Zimmerman
[02:46] Max's Journey: From Football to Faith
[06:20] Jeremiah's Path: From Baseball to Theology
[12:50] The Vision for Ecumenical Unity
[22:01] Challenges and Joys of Ecumenical Ministry
[31:39] Unity in Diversity: Different Catholic Ethnicities
[34:37] Practical Steps for Ecumenism
[37:19] Building Friendships Across Denominations
[41:02] Challenges and Joys of Ecumenical Work
[46:33] Mobilizing Lay Faithful for Ecumenism
[53:28] Encouragement and Final Thoughts

Don’t forget to check out More Mercy!

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

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

]]> Can real friendship heal division in the Church?

When I sit with John 17, I’m struck that He was praying for a unity that’s visible, relational, and compelling—a unity that makes the world stop and notice that He was sent by the Father. That kind of unity shows up in real friendships, in shared service, in conversations where we seek truth together—not to win an argument, but to love each other well and grow together, even when we don’t see eye to eye. It’s messy, but it’s also where the Lord does His best work.

In this episode of EquipCast, I sit down with Max Chapman and Jeremiah Zimmerman from the More Mercy apostolate to talk about what this looks like in real life. Max shares how praying with John 17 sparked a deep desire in him to build bridges with Christians from other traditions. What started as simple conversations turned into friendships that not only challenged him but also strengthened his Catholic faith. You’ll hear why unity isn’t just an ideal for theologians—it’s something we’re all called to live, one relationship at a time.

[01:36] Meet Max Chapman and Jeremiah Zimmerman
[02:46] Max's Journey: From Football to Faith
[06:20] Jeremiah's Path: From Baseball to Theology
[12:50] The Vision for Ecumenical Unity
[22:01] Challenges and Joys of Ecumenical Ministry
[31:39] Unity in Diversity: Different Catholic Ethnicities
[34:37] Practical Steps for Ecumenism
[37:19] Building Friendships Across Denominations
[41:02] Challenges and Joys of Ecumenical Work
[46:33] Mobilizing Lay Faithful for Ecumenism
[53:28] Encouragement and Final Thoughts

Don’t forget to check out More Mercy!

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

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

]]> How to Choose (Part 4): Relational Outreach https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/190 45e83762-6782-4fb1-bda4-0ea507a8d742 Tue, 26 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 190 How to Choose (Part 4): Relational Outreach full Archdiocese of Omaha What if your parish’s most “welcoming” events are actually pushing people away? In this episode, I sit down with the team to unpack the surprising truth about relational outreach—and why it’s often the last step parishes build, even though it’s the first step many people need. We talk about what makes outreach truly relational (hint: it’s not donuts after Mass), how to create spaces where people feel like they belong before they believe, and why introverts might just be your parish’s secret evangelization weapon. If you’ve ever wondered how to reach people who’ve drifted from the Church—or never really connected in the first place—this one’s for you. 56:39 no What if your parish’s most “welcoming” events are actually pushing people away? In this episode, I sit down with the team to unpack the surprising truth about relational outreach—and why it’s often the last step parishes build, even though it’s the first step many people need. We talk about what makes outreach truly relational (hint: it’s not donuts after Mass), how to create spaces where people feel like they belong before they believe, and why introverts might just be your parish’s secret evangelization weapon. If you’ve ever wondered how to reach people who’ve drifted from the Church—or never really connected in the first place—this one’s for you. [00:16] Series Overview: Choosing Ministries for Your Clear Path [03:09] Understanding Relational Outreach [06:01] Characteristics of Effective Relational Outreach [09:58] Practical Examples and Parish Initiatives [15:17] Neighborhood Outreach and Community Building [20:42] Supplemental Parish Events for Outreach [24:47] Challenges and Considerations for Parish Events [27:27] Challenges of Transforming Existing Events [29:10] Alternative Outreach Methods [36:08] Discerning Effective Outreach Methods [41:28] Forming Missionary Disciples [49:53] Overcoming Mental Hangups in Outreach Don’t forget to check out Options for Relational Outreach (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Options-for-Relational-Outreach.pdf). For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. And for more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship (https://www.amazon.com/Clear-Path-Missionary-Disciples-Parish/dp/B0CHL7DB58): How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com) relational outreach, parish ministry, Catholic evangelization, missionary disciples, outreach strategies, parish engagement, building community, Catholic podcast, Archdiocese of Omaha, EquipCast, neighborhood ministry, faith formation, intentional hospitality, parish leadership, outreach discernment, small group ministry, evangelization training, Catholic outreach ideas, parish renewal, relational ministry What if your parish’s most “welcoming” events are actually pushing people away? In this episode, I sit down with the team to unpack the surprising truth about relational outreach—and why it’s often the last step parishes build, even though it’s the first step many people need. We talk about what makes outreach truly relational (hint: it’s not donuts after Mass), how to create spaces where people feel like they belong before they believe, and why introverts might just be your parish’s secret evangelization weapon. If you’ve ever wondered how to reach people who’ve drifted from the Church—or never really connected in the first place—this one’s for you.

[00:16] Series Overview: Choosing Ministries for Your Clear Path
[03:09] Understanding Relational Outreach
[06:01] Characteristics of Effective Relational Outreach
[09:58] Practical Examples and Parish Initiatives
[15:17] Neighborhood Outreach and Community Building
[20:42] Supplemental Parish Events for Outreach
[24:47] Challenges and Considerations for Parish Events
[27:27] Challenges of Transforming Existing Events
[29:10] Alternative Outreach Methods
[36:08] Discerning Effective Outreach Methods
[41:28] Forming Missionary Disciples
[49:53] Overcoming Mental Hangups in Outreach

Don’t forget to check out Options for Relational Outreach.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. And for more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship: How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish.

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

]]> What if your parish’s most “welcoming” events are actually pushing people away? In this episode, I sit down with the team to unpack the surprising truth about relational outreach—and why it’s often the last step parishes build, even though it’s the first step many people need. We talk about what makes outreach truly relational (hint: it’s not donuts after Mass), how to create spaces where people feel like they belong before they believe, and why introverts might just be your parish’s secret evangelization weapon. If you’ve ever wondered how to reach people who’ve drifted from the Church—or never really connected in the first place—this one’s for you.

[00:16] Series Overview: Choosing Ministries for Your Clear Path
[03:09] Understanding Relational Outreach
[06:01] Characteristics of Effective Relational Outreach
[09:58] Practical Examples and Parish Initiatives
[15:17] Neighborhood Outreach and Community Building
[20:42] Supplemental Parish Events for Outreach
[24:47] Challenges and Considerations for Parish Events
[27:27] Challenges of Transforming Existing Events
[29:10] Alternative Outreach Methods
[36:08] Discerning Effective Outreach Methods
[41:28] Forming Missionary Disciples
[49:53] Overcoming Mental Hangups in Outreach

Don’t forget to check out Options for Relational Outreach.

For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. And for more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship: How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish.

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

]]> Episode 176: How Curiosity Transforms Evangelization + A New Resource to Elevate! Your Small Groups https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/176 0221b382-afe2-4bd4-9447-c8fa674ea99a Tue, 25 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0600 Archdiocese of Omaha 176 How Curiosity Transforms Evangelization + A New Resource to Elevate! Your Small Groups full Archdiocese of Omaha What’s the secret sauce to evangelization? Aside from the Holy Spirit, it's curiosity—genuinely wanting to know and understand the person in front of you. When you show sincere interest in someone's story, experiences, and thoughts, you create space for authentic connection. This curiosity builds trust and opens the door to deeper conversations where faith can be shared naturally. Evangelization isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being present, listening, and letting relationships grow organically. To help you do this, our team has developed Elevate!, a new small group resource designed for meaningful conversations with friends who aren’t ready for a traditional Bible study. In this episode, I sit down with Andy Dejka, the mastermind behind Elevate!, to explore how it fosters deeper dialogue. We discuss its unique four-week, four-person, four-question format, leadership requirements, and the heart behind its creation. Andy also shares his personal call to mission, including how running a stand at a local farmer’s market shaped his approach to evangelization. Join us for this insightful conversation on building real relationships and drawing people closer to the Lord. 34:24 no What’s the secret sauce to evangelization? Aside from the Holy Spirit, it's curiosity—genuinely wanting to know and understand the person in front of you. When you show sincere interest in someone's story, experiences, and thoughts, you create space for authentic connection. This curiosity builds trust and opens the door to deeper conversations where faith can be shared naturally. Evangelization isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being present, listening, and letting relationships grow organically. To help you do this, our team has developed Elevate! (https://archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Elevate.pdf), a new small group resource designed for meaningful conversations with friends who aren’t ready for a traditional Bible study. In this episode, I sit down with Andy Dejka, the mastermind behind Elevate!, to explore how it fosters deeper dialogue. We discuss its unique four-week, four-person, four-question format, leadership requirements, and the heart behind its creation. Andy also shares his personal call to mission, including how running a stand at a local farmer’s market shaped his approach to evangelization. Join us for this insightful conversation on building real relationships and drawing people closer to the Lord. [01:25] Andy's Journey to Mission [04:16] Understanding Small Group Resources [08:41] Introducing Elevate: A New Approach [18:58] The Power of Curiosity in Evangelization [26:31] Real-Life Evangelization Stories [29:34] How to Get Started with Elevate Check out ArchOmaha.org/Lent/ (https://archomaha.org/lent/), Elevate! (https://archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/01/Elevate.pdf), and Generosity (https://archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/Generosity-Study-Participant-Book-8.5-%C3%97-11-in.pdf). For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com) Elevate small group resource, deeper conversations, small group evangelization, Andy Dejka, meaningful relationships, faith sharing, small group ministry, Christian podcast, evangelization tools, building community, spiritual growth, curiosity in evangelization, small group discussions What’s the secret sauce to evangelization? Aside from the Holy Spirit, it's curiosity—genuinely wanting to know and understand the person in front of you. When you show sincere interest in someone's story, experiences, and thoughts, you create space for authentic connection. This curiosity builds trust and opens the door to deeper conversations where faith can be shared naturally. Evangelization isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being present, listening, and letting relationships grow organically.

To help you do this, our team has developed Elevate!, a new small group resource designed for meaningful conversations with friends who aren’t ready for a traditional Bible study. In this episode, I sit down with Andy Dejka, the mastermind behind Elevate!, to explore how it fosters deeper dialogue. We discuss its unique four-week, four-person, four-question format, leadership requirements, and the heart behind its creation. Andy also shares his personal call to mission, including how running a stand at a local farmer’s market shaped his approach to evangelization.

Join us for this insightful conversation on building real relationships and drawing people closer to the Lord.

[01:25] Andy's Journey to Mission
[04:16] Understanding Small Group Resources
[08:41] Introducing Elevate: A New Approach
[18:58] The Power of Curiosity in Evangelization
[26:31] Real-Life Evangelization Stories
[29:34] How to Get Started with Elevate

Check out ArchOmaha.org/Lent/, Elevate!, and Generosity.

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

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

]]> What’s the secret sauce to evangelization? Aside from the Holy Spirit, it's curiosity—genuinely wanting to know and understand the person in front of you. When you show sincere interest in someone's story, experiences, and thoughts, you create space for authentic connection. This curiosity builds trust and opens the door to deeper conversations where faith can be shared naturally. Evangelization isn’t about having all the answers—it’s about being present, listening, and letting relationships grow organically.

To help you do this, our team has developed Elevate!, a new small group resource designed for meaningful conversations with friends who aren’t ready for a traditional Bible study. In this episode, I sit down with Andy Dejka, the mastermind behind Elevate!, to explore how it fosters deeper dialogue. We discuss its unique four-week, four-person, four-question format, leadership requirements, and the heart behind its creation. Andy also shares his personal call to mission, including how running a stand at a local farmer’s market shaped his approach to evangelization.

Join us for this insightful conversation on building real relationships and drawing people closer to the Lord.

[01:25] Andy's Journey to Mission
[04:16] Understanding Small Group Resources
[08:41] Introducing Elevate: A New Approach
[18:58] The Power of Curiosity in Evangelization
[26:31] Real-Life Evangelization Stories
[29:34] How to Get Started with Elevate

Check out ArchOmaha.org/Lent/, Elevate!, and Generosity.

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

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

]]> Episode 136: Discover the Power of Authentic Connection https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/136 3fe6c93f-a55f-4955-9087-58a7fbb440d1 Tue, 30 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0600 Archdiocese of Omaha 136 Discover the Power of Authentic Connection full Archdiocese of Omaha 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. In this episode, Charlie Petro shares insights on moving beyond surface-level connections to truly listen, connect, and love those around us. 43:22 no 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. In 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: Gain practical insights on fostering deep connections and breaking down barriers of isolation. Understand the importance of authentic solidarity in today's culture and its role in building a connected community. Discover how simple acts, like stepping beyond our comfort zones, can pave the way for a more compassionate and interconnected world. For more on Ixim and their works check out https://ixim.org/ or email Charlie at cpetro@archomaha.org. For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com) Mission experiences, solidarity, Guatemala missions, spiritual transformation, global community impact, authentic connections, togetherness, building community, presence, connection beyond projects, listening, compassion, interconnected world, deep connections, breaking isolation barriers. 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.

In 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:

  • Gain practical insights on fostering deep connections and breaking down barriers of isolation.
  • Understand the importance of authentic solidarity in today's culture and its role in building a connected community.
  • Discover how simple acts, like stepping beyond our comfort zones, can pave the way for a more compassionate and interconnected world.

For more on Ixim and their works check out https://ixim.org/ or email Charlie at cpetro@archomaha.org.

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

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

]]> 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.

In 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:

  • Gain practical insights on fostering deep connections and breaking down barriers of isolation.
  • Understand the importance of authentic solidarity in today's culture and its role in building a connected community.
  • Discover how simple acts, like stepping beyond our comfort zones, can pave the way for a more compassionate and interconnected world.

For more on Ixim and their works check out https://ixim.org/ or email Charlie at cpetro@archomaha.org.

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

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

]]>