web02.fireside.fm Sun, 12 Apr 2026 11:57:11 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) EquipCast - Episodes Tagged with “Catholic Podcast” https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/tags/catholic%20podcast Tue, 24 Mar 2026 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 wabradley@archomaha.org Episode 210: Life as an Evangelization Coordinator: How Accompaniment Transforms a Community https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/210 b07b6b30-8a22-484e-9d21-37807fc15e5e Tue, 24 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 210 Life as an Evangelization Coordinator: How Accompaniment Transforms a Community full Archdiocese of Omaha Today, we begin a series where I talk to Evangelization Coordinators from across our archdiocese. You’ll hear the honest stories, hard-won wisdom and quiet ways God is moving through the people helping to lead parish renewal from the ground up. In this first episode, Renee Eames of the St. Joseph Family of Parishes, shares what the role looks like day-to-day. Her warm wisdom reminds us that evangelization isn’t about big programs or perfect strategies—it’s about people. It’s about staying close to Jesus in the small moments, letting your heart be softened, and choosing unity when division would be easier. Her story reveals how simple everyday faithfulness—prayer, presence, and quiet accompaniment—can quietly renew a community. This conversation is a reminder that God works through every relationship, every interruption, and every act of love toward the person right in front of you. 54:09 no Today, we begin a series where I talk to Evangelization Coordinators from across our archdiocese. You’ll hear the honest stories, hard-won wisdom and quiet ways God is moving through the people helping to lead parish renewal from the ground up. In this first episode, Renee Eames of the St. Joseph Family of Parishes, shares what the role looks like day-to-day. Her warm wisdom reminds us that evangelization isn’t about big programs or perfect strategies—it’s about people. It’s about staying close to Jesus in the small moments, letting your heart be softened, and choosing unity when division would be easier. Her story reveals how simple everyday faithfulness—prayer, presence, and quiet accompaniment—can quietly renew a community. This conversation is a reminder that God works through every relationship, every interruption, and every act of love toward the person right in front of you. [00:00] Meet Renee Ames [01:20] Renee Background Story [06:52] Small Town Life [11:10] Family Of Parishes [13:20] New Evangelization Role [22:49] Keeping Eternity First [28:08] Prayer As The Root [32:08] Launching Alpha Locally [35:48] Teamwork and Formation [38:23] Back To The Fundamentals [41:41] Workplace Evangelization [46:04] Unity Through Hard Talks [49:53] Patience For Long Fruits [51:21] Practical Advice And Sendoff 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) evangelization coordinator, parish renewal, accompaniment, catholic evangelization, archdiocese of omaha, alpha program, missionary discipleship, small town ministry, catholic podcast, evangelization stories, faith in everyday life, parish life transformation, evangelization series Today, we begin a series where I talk to Evangelization Coordinators from across our archdiocese. You’ll hear the honest stories, hard-won wisdom and quiet ways God is moving through the people helping to lead parish renewal from the ground up. In this first episode, Renee Eames of the St. Joseph Family of Parishes, shares what the role looks like day-to-day. Her warm wisdom reminds us that evangelization isn’t about big programs or perfect strategies—it’s about people. It’s about staying close to Jesus in the small moments, letting your heart be softened, and choosing unity when division would be easier. Her story reveals how simple everyday faithfulness—prayer, presence, and quiet accompaniment—can quietly renew a community. This conversation is a reminder that God works through every relationship, every interruption, and every act of love toward the person right in front of you.

[00:00] Meet Renee Ames
[01:20] Renee Background Story
[06:52] Small Town Life
[11:10] Family Of Parishes
[13:20] New Evangelization Role
[22:49] Keeping Eternity First
[28:08] Prayer As The Root
[32:08] Launching Alpha Locally
[35:48] Teamwork and Formation
[38:23] Back To The Fundamentals
[41:41] Workplace Evangelization
[46:04] Unity Through Hard Talks
[49:53] Patience For Long Fruits
[51:21] Practical Advice And Sendoff

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)

]]> Today, we begin a series where I talk to Evangelization Coordinators from across our archdiocese. You’ll hear the honest stories, hard-won wisdom and quiet ways God is moving through the people helping to lead parish renewal from the ground up. In this first episode, Renee Eames of the St. Joseph Family of Parishes, shares what the role looks like day-to-day. Her warm wisdom reminds us that evangelization isn’t about big programs or perfect strategies—it’s about people. It’s about staying close to Jesus in the small moments, letting your heart be softened, and choosing unity when division would be easier. Her story reveals how simple everyday faithfulness—prayer, presence, and quiet accompaniment—can quietly renew a community. This conversation is a reminder that God works through every relationship, every interruption, and every act of love toward the person right in front of you.

[00:00] Meet Renee Ames
[01:20] Renee Background Story
[06:52] Small Town Life
[11:10] Family Of Parishes
[13:20] New Evangelization Role
[22:49] Keeping Eternity First
[28:08] Prayer As The Root
[32:08] Launching Alpha Locally
[35:48] Teamwork and Formation
[38:23] Back To The Fundamentals
[41:41] Workplace Evangelization
[46:04] Unity Through Hard Talks
[49:53] Patience For Long Fruits
[51:21] Practical Advice And Sendoff

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 209: OCIA - Rediscovering the Heart of Parish Life https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/209 ee88d5c8-8b15-46b8-82aa-5e67d45c801f Tue, 10 Mar 2026 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 209 OCIA - Rediscovering the Heart of Parish Life full Archdiocese of Omaha What if the ancient way of welcoming seekers is exactly what we’re missing? When Dr. Chris Burgwald, Chancellor for the Diocese of Sioux Falls, and I dug into the roots of OCIA, it struck me how much wisdom we’ve left sitting on the shelf. The early Church knew how to walk with people—slowly, personally, lovingly—and somewhere along the line, we traded that for efficiency. Dr. Burgwald shows why returning to this ancient, relational way of forming disciples isn’t nostalgia; it’s the key to helping people truly encounter Jesus and find a home in His Church again. 1:03:50 no What if the ancient way of welcoming seekers is exactly what we’re missing? When Dr. Chris Burgwald, Chancellor for the Diocese of Sioux Falls, and I dug into the roots of OCIA, it struck me how much wisdom we’ve left sitting on the shelf. The early Church knew how to walk with people—slowly, personally, lovingly—and somewhere along the line, we traded that for efficiency. Dr. Burgwald shows why returning to this ancient, relational way of forming disciples isn’t nostalgia; it’s the key to helping people truly encounter Jesus and find a home in His Church again. And what’s amazing is that this shift doesn’t just change the journey for newcomers—it transforms the entire parish. When we implement OCIA the way the Church actually envisions it, gifts surface, people step forward, and a culture of prayer and hospitality begins to grow. Communities rally around seekers, and in the process, everyone gets formed. One person’s “yes” becomes an invitation for an entire parish to rediscover its mission. [01:15] Meet Chris Bergal [12:23] Why People Are Converting [17:16] What Is OCIA? [22:34] Vatican II and Mission [25:22] Doing OCIA Well [30:20] Three Pillars of OCIA [37:50] Practical Parish Implementation [41:41] Parish Renewal and Activation [45:13] Handling Hard Situations [48:46] Not Assembly Line Discipleship [52:20] Model for All Formation [56:25] Teamwork and Leadership Models 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) OCIA, RCIA, parish renewal, Catholic discipleship, evangelization, accompaniment, catechumenate, parish transformation, Catholic conversion, making disciples, Catholic formation, church revitalization, missionary discipleship, Catholic leadership, parish ministry, welcoming seekers, ancient catechumenate, Church revival, Catholic podcast, EquipCast What if the ancient way of welcoming seekers is exactly what we’re missing? When Dr. Chris Burgwald, Chancellor for the Diocese of Sioux Falls, and I dug into the roots of OCIA, it struck me how much wisdom we’ve left sitting on the shelf. The early Church knew how to walk with people—slowly, personally, lovingly—and somewhere along the line, we traded that for efficiency. Dr. Burgwald shows why returning to this ancient, relational way of forming disciples isn’t nostalgia; it’s the key to helping people truly encounter Jesus and find a home in His Church again.

And what’s amazing is that this shift doesn’t just change the journey for newcomers—it transforms the entire parish. When we implement OCIA the way the Church actually envisions it, gifts surface, people step forward, and a culture of prayer and hospitality begins to grow. Communities rally around seekers, and in the process, everyone gets formed. One person’s “yes” becomes an invitation for an entire parish to rediscover its mission.

[01:15] Meet Chris Bergal
[12:23] Why People Are Converting
[17:16] What Is OCIA?
[22:34] Vatican II and Mission
[25:22] Doing OCIA Well
[30:20] Three Pillars of OCIA
[37:50] Practical Parish Implementation
[41:41] Parish Renewal and Activation
[45:13] Handling Hard Situations
[48:46] Not Assembly Line Discipleship
[52:20] Model for All Formation
[56:25] Teamwork and Leadership Models

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 if the ancient way of welcoming seekers is exactly what we’re missing? When Dr. Chris Burgwald, Chancellor for the Diocese of Sioux Falls, and I dug into the roots of OCIA, it struck me how much wisdom we’ve left sitting on the shelf. The early Church knew how to walk with people—slowly, personally, lovingly—and somewhere along the line, we traded that for efficiency. Dr. Burgwald shows why returning to this ancient, relational way of forming disciples isn’t nostalgia; it’s the key to helping people truly encounter Jesus and find a home in His Church again.

And what’s amazing is that this shift doesn’t just change the journey for newcomers—it transforms the entire parish. When we implement OCIA the way the Church actually envisions it, gifts surface, people step forward, and a culture of prayer and hospitality begins to grow. Communities rally around seekers, and in the process, everyone gets formed. One person’s “yes” becomes an invitation for an entire parish to rediscover its mission.

[01:15] Meet Chris Bergal
[12:23] Why People Are Converting
[17:16] What Is OCIA?
[22:34] Vatican II and Mission
[25:22] Doing OCIA Well
[30:20] Three Pillars of OCIA
[37:50] Practical Parish Implementation
[41:41] Parish Renewal and Activation
[45:13] Handling Hard Situations
[48:46] Not Assembly Line Discipleship
[52:20] Model for All Formation
[56:25] Teamwork and Leadership Models

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 207: Holy Simplicity: When Clutter Competes With Your Calling https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/207 beaf1c95-9646-464d-a56a-1483bf0dc3e0 Tue, 17 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 Archdiocese of Omaha 207 Holy Simplicity: When Clutter Competes With Your Calling full Archdiocese of Omaha 1:00:00 no What if your home isn’t just messy… but actually pulling you away from God’s call? I know—that question stopped me in my tracks too. In this week’s episode, I sit down with simplicity consultant Katie Sciba, and she helped me see something I honestly never connected before: the state of our space deeply affects the state of our soul. Here’s another one: Are your possessions shaping you into a disciple… or slowly distracting you from becoming the one God made you to be? Katie has this gentle way of revealing the attachments we don’t even realize we’ve made—the stuff we keep “just in case,” the clutter that drains us, the rooms that quietly stress us out before we take a single step inside. And she shows us how letting go isn’t about losing anything… it’s about creating the freedom to say a deeper yes to God. And maybe the biggest surprise: Could clearing your home be the key to hearing God more clearly? The more we talked, the more I realized: when our homes become places of peace, our hearts become places where God’s voice doesn’t have to fight so hard to be heard. This is practical, it’s freeing, and honestly—it’s beautifully Catholic. So if you’re craving more peace, more clarity, more space to actually live the life God is calling you to… this episode is for you. [00:00] Meet Katie Sciba: Simplicity Consultant [01:53] Katie's Background and Early Life [06:49] Discovering the Blessing of Simplicity [14:01] Dealing with Sentimental Items [17:58] Creating a Peaceful Home Environment [21:29] The Roots of Consumerism and Simplicity [25:20] Helping Others Simplify Their Lives [28:28] The Spiritual Side of Minimalism [33:51] The Iceland Experience [38:10] Practical Steps to Decluttering [51:46] Addressing Common Challenges [54:53] Client Success Stories [58:47] Conclusion and Contact Information For more from Katie, check out KatieSciba.com (https://katiesciba.com/) or email her at scibasimplicity@gmail.com (mailto:scibasimplicity@gmail.com). 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) holy simplicity, catholic simplicity, clutter and calling, decluttering your home, spiritual decluttering, catholic discipleship, catholic podcast, equipcast, katie sciba, simplicity consultant, catholic spirituality, detachment, catholic homemaking, peaceful home, hear god clearly, create space for god, catholic family life, intentional living, spiritual freedom, catholic vocation, living your calling, catholic minimalism, simplify your life, catholic inspiration, archdiocese of omaha What if your home isn’t just messy… but actually pulling you away from God’s call?
I know—that question stopped me in my tracks too. In this week’s episode, I sit down with simplicity consultant Katie Sciba, and she helped me see something I honestly never connected before: the state of our space deeply affects the state of our soul.

Here’s another one:
Are your possessions shaping you into a disciple… or slowly distracting you from becoming the one God made you to be?
Katie has this gentle way of revealing the attachments we don’t even realize we’ve made—the stuff we keep “just in case,” the clutter that drains us, the rooms that quietly stress us out before we take a single step inside. And she shows us how letting go isn’t about losing anything… it’s about creating the freedom to say a deeper yes to God.

And maybe the biggest surprise:
Could clearing your home be the key to hearing God more clearly?
The more we talked, the more I realized: when our homes become places of peace, our hearts become places where God’s voice doesn’t have to fight so hard to be heard. This is practical, it’s freeing, and honestly—it’s beautifully Catholic. So if you’re craving more peace, more clarity, more space to actually live the life God is calling you to… this episode is for you.

[00:00] Meet Katie Sciba: Simplicity Consultant
[01:53] Katie's Background and Early Life
[06:49] Discovering the Blessing of Simplicity
[14:01] Dealing with Sentimental Items
[17:58] Creating a Peaceful Home Environment
[21:29] The Roots of Consumerism and Simplicity
[25:20] Helping Others Simplify Their Lives
[28:28] The Spiritual Side of Minimalism
[33:51] The Iceland Experience
[38:10] Practical Steps to Decluttering
[51:46] Addressing Common Challenges
[54:53] Client Success Stories
[58:47] Conclusion and Contact Information

For more from Katie, check out KatieSciba.com or email her at scibasimplicity@gmail.com.

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 if your home isn’t just messy… but actually pulling you away from God’s call?
I know—that question stopped me in my tracks too. In this week’s episode, I sit down with simplicity consultant Katie Sciba, and she helped me see something I honestly never connected before: the state of our space deeply affects the state of our soul.

Here’s another one:
Are your possessions shaping you into a disciple… or slowly distracting you from becoming the one God made you to be?
Katie has this gentle way of revealing the attachments we don’t even realize we’ve made—the stuff we keep “just in case,” the clutter that drains us, the rooms that quietly stress us out before we take a single step inside. And she shows us how letting go isn’t about losing anything… it’s about creating the freedom to say a deeper yes to God.

And maybe the biggest surprise:
Could clearing your home be the key to hearing God more clearly?
The more we talked, the more I realized: when our homes become places of peace, our hearts become places where God’s voice doesn’t have to fight so hard to be heard. This is practical, it’s freeing, and honestly—it’s beautifully Catholic. So if you’re craving more peace, more clarity, more space to actually live the life God is calling you to… this episode is for you.

[00:00] Meet Katie Sciba: Simplicity Consultant
[01:53] Katie's Background and Early Life
[06:49] Discovering the Blessing of Simplicity
[14:01] Dealing with Sentimental Items
[17:58] Creating a Peaceful Home Environment
[21:29] The Roots of Consumerism and Simplicity
[25:20] Helping Others Simplify Their Lives
[28:28] The Spiritual Side of Minimalism
[33:51] The Iceland Experience
[38:10] Practical Steps to Decluttering
[51:46] Addressing Common Challenges
[54:53] Client Success Stories
[58:47] Conclusion and Contact Information

For more from Katie, check out KatieSciba.com or email her at scibasimplicity@gmail.com.

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 201: Where is God Leading You? An Ignatian Approach to Setting Goals https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/201 a13d06eb-80e5-4a57-b22c-c5cef04aaef6 Tue, 09 Dec 2025 00:00:00 -0600 Archdiocese of Omaha 201 Where is God Leading You? An Ignatian Approach to Setting Goals full Archdiocese of Omaha Feeling stuck and longing for clarity? I invite you to take a moment to pause, pray, and discern where God is calling you. Today’s guest, Lisa Kelly, leadership coach, author of The Spiritual Path, and expert in Ignatian spirituality, shares an Ignatian-inspired process that helps you slow down, notice what’s stirring in your heart, and make choices with clarity and peace. If you’ve ever wondered, “Where is God leading me?” this conversation will give you hope and courage for the road ahead. 1:00:20 no Feeling stuck and longing for clarity? I invite you to take a moment to pause, pray, and discern where God is calling you. Today’s guest, Lisa Kelly, leadership coach, author of The Spiritual Path, and expert in Ignatian spirituality, shares an Ignatian-inspired process that helps you slow down, notice what’s stirring in your heart, and make choices with clarity and peace. If you’ve ever wondered, “Where is God leading me?” this conversation will give you hope and courage for the road ahead. [02:29] Lisa's Faith Journey and Education [06:54] Discovering the Ignatian Associates [09:43] Living in the Dominican Republic [13:42] Writing 'The Spiritual Path' [18:52] The Cycle of Growth: A Tool for Discernment [30:08] Understanding Consolation and Desolation [33:42] Markers of Desolation [35:33] Discerning Priority Relationships [37:51] The Importance of Environmental Relationships [39:52] Practical Goal Setting and Relationships [46:56] Personal Testimonies and Reflections [51:20] Leadership and Communal Discernment [57:06] Final Thoughts and Resources Check out LaStorta (https://www.lastorta.org/) or contact Lisa (mailto:lisa.kelly@lastorta.org). Also, register for the Spiritual Path Retreat (https://christthekingpriory.com/retreats-schedule/the-spiritual-path-embarking-upon-the-journey-of-a-lifetime-lisa-kelly-ma-steve-titus-jd-phd). 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) Ignatian spirituality, spiritual discernment, goal setting with God, Catholic podcast, Lisa Kelly, The Spiritual Path book, prayerful planning, faith and goals, Archdiocese of Omaha podcast, spiritual growth, Ignatian-inspired process, Christian goal setting, discernment tools, living with purpose, spiritual clarity, EquipCast Feeling stuck and longing for clarity? I invite you to take a moment to pause, pray, and discern where God is calling you. Today’s guest, Lisa Kelly, leadership coach, author of The Spiritual Path, and expert in Ignatian spirituality, shares an Ignatian-inspired process that helps you slow down, notice what’s stirring in your heart, and make choices with clarity and peace. If you’ve ever wondered, “Where is God leading me?” this conversation will give you hope and courage for the road ahead.

[02:29] Lisa's Faith Journey and Education
[06:54] Discovering the Ignatian Associates
[09:43] Living in the Dominican Republic
[13:42] Writing 'The Spiritual Path'
[18:52] The Cycle of Growth: A Tool for Discernment
[30:08] Understanding Consolation and Desolation
[33:42] Markers of Desolation
[35:33] Discerning Priority Relationships
[37:51] The Importance of Environmental Relationships
[39:52] Practical Goal Setting and Relationships
[46:56] Personal Testimonies and Reflections
[51:20] Leadership and Communal Discernment
[57:06] Final Thoughts and Resources

Check out LaStorta or contact Lisa.

Also, register for the Spiritual Path Retreat.

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)

]]> Feeling stuck and longing for clarity? I invite you to take a moment to pause, pray, and discern where God is calling you. Today’s guest, Lisa Kelly, leadership coach, author of The Spiritual Path, and expert in Ignatian spirituality, shares an Ignatian-inspired process that helps you slow down, notice what’s stirring in your heart, and make choices with clarity and peace. If you’ve ever wondered, “Where is God leading me?” this conversation will give you hope and courage for the road ahead.

[02:29] Lisa's Faith Journey and Education
[06:54] Discovering the Ignatian Associates
[09:43] Living in the Dominican Republic
[13:42] Writing 'The Spiritual Path'
[18:52] The Cycle of Growth: A Tool for Discernment
[30:08] Understanding Consolation and Desolation
[33:42] Markers of Desolation
[35:33] Discerning Priority Relationships
[37:51] The Importance of Environmental Relationships
[39:52] Practical Goal Setting and Relationships
[46:56] Personal Testimonies and Reflections
[51:20] Leadership and Communal Discernment
[57:06] Final Thoughts and Resources

Check out LaStorta or contact Lisa.

Also, register for the Spiritual Path Retreat.

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 198: The Key to More Vocations: Creating Safe Spaces for Faith to Flourish https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/198 276ea71a-b578-49f0-b239-8fa8a700a845 Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0600 Archdiocese of Omaha 198 The Key to More Vocations: Creating Safe Spaces for Faith to Flourish full Archdiocese of Omaha 45:11 no *Why isn’t “promoting vocations” enough to help young people discover God’s call? * Because so many can’t even hear Him right now. Their faith feels distant, the noise of the world is loud, and what they crave most isn’t another program—it’s a real encounter with Jesus and people who truly care. In this episode, I talk with Fr. Scott Schilmoeller, Vocations Director for the Archdiocese of Omaha, about what it takes to awaken a generation to God’s voice. We don’t need to push vocations—we need to till the soil: to build trust, community, and spaces where faith can take root again. If your heart breaks for the young Church and you long to see them come alive in their calling, this episode is for you. [01:05] Father Scott Schilmoeller's Background and Personal Story [05:41] Discovering a Vocation: College Experiences and Spiritual Growth [08:42] The Role of Community and Family in Faith [14:55] Understanding Vocations: Lowercase and Uppercase V [18:28] Challenges in Vocational Discernment [21:46] Addressing the Vocations Crisis [23:33] Discerning Your Vocation [24:24] Community and Evangelization [25:15] Youth Groups and Initiatives [28:30] Engaging Young Kids [30:06] Middle School and High School Faith [32:10] Supporting Vocational Discernment [34:11] Practical Steps for Leaders [39:47] Encouraging Vocations [42:41] Final Thoughts and Resources Check out OmahaVocations.org (https://omahavocations.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) vocations, Catholic vocations, priesthood, religious life, Fr. Scott Schilmoeller, Jim Jansen, EquipCast, Archdiocese of Omaha, vocation discernment, youth ministry, Catholic podcast, safe spaces for faith, discipleship, small groups, evangelization, Catholic schools, faith formation, calling, spiritual growth, young adults, Catholic community, Newman Center, Eucharist, prayer life, Catholic parents, mentoring youth, vocational crisis, Catholic education, discernment journey, faith and culture, authentic relationships, Catholic storytelling *Why isn’t “promoting vocations” enough to help young people discover God’s call? *

Because so many can’t even hear Him right now. Their faith feels distant, the noise of the world is loud, and what they crave most isn’t another program—it’s a real encounter with Jesus and people who truly care.

In this episode, I talk with Fr. Scott Schilmoeller, Vocations Director for the Archdiocese of Omaha, about what it takes to awaken a generation to God’s voice. We don’t need to push vocations—we need to till the soil: to build trust, community, and spaces where faith can take root again. If your heart breaks for the young Church and you long to see them come alive in their calling, this episode is for you.

[01:05] Father Scott Schilmoeller's Background and Personal Story
[05:41] Discovering a Vocation: College Experiences and Spiritual Growth
[08:42] The Role of Community and Family in Faith
[14:55] Understanding Vocations: Lowercase and Uppercase V
[18:28] Challenges in Vocational Discernment
[21:46] Addressing the Vocations Crisis
[23:33] Discerning Your Vocation
[24:24] Community and Evangelization
[25:15] Youth Groups and Initiatives
[28:30] Engaging Young Kids
[30:06] Middle School and High School Faith
[32:10] Supporting Vocational Discernment
[34:11] Practical Steps for Leaders
[39:47] Encouraging Vocations
[42:41] Final Thoughts and Resources

Check out OmahaVocations.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)

]]> *Why isn’t “promoting vocations” enough to help young people discover God’s call? *

Because so many can’t even hear Him right now. Their faith feels distant, the noise of the world is loud, and what they crave most isn’t another program—it’s a real encounter with Jesus and people who truly care.

In this episode, I talk with Fr. Scott Schilmoeller, Vocations Director for the Archdiocese of Omaha, about what it takes to awaken a generation to God’s voice. We don’t need to push vocations—we need to till the soil: to build trust, community, and spaces where faith can take root again. If your heart breaks for the young Church and you long to see them come alive in their calling, this episode is for you.

[01:05] Father Scott Schilmoeller's Background and Personal Story
[05:41] Discovering a Vocation: College Experiences and Spiritual Growth
[08:42] The Role of Community and Family in Faith
[14:55] Understanding Vocations: Lowercase and Uppercase V
[18:28] Challenges in Vocational Discernment
[21:46] Addressing the Vocations Crisis
[23:33] Discerning Your Vocation
[24:24] Community and Evangelization
[25:15] Youth Groups and Initiatives
[28:30] Engaging Young Kids
[30:06] Middle School and High School Faith
[32:10] Supporting Vocational Discernment
[34:11] Practical Steps for Leaders
[39:47] Encouraging Vocations
[42:41] Final Thoughts and Resources

Check out OmahaVocations.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)

]]> Coach's Corner 24: When You’re Stuck at Step One https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/cc24 a0cb5830-9dbd-48be-98c9-dd509ba66da7 Tue, 28 Oct 2025 01:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha full Archdiocese of Omaha 11:09 no When the mission feels massive, how do you take the first step? We all feel the pressure. With souls on the line, it feels like we need big plans, big programs, big results. But what if the most fruitful thing you could do today was simply to take one small step? In this episode, I share four strategies that have helped me and others start small, build momentum, and trust that God will grow what we begin. Whether you're leading a parish, a ministry, or just trying to follow Jesus more closely, I want to encourage you: don’t wait for perfect. Start small. God delights in small beginnings, and He’ll grow them into something beautiful. [01:42] Strategy 1: Shrink the First Step [02:46] Strategy 2: Do the Next Right Thing [04:42] Strategy 3: Settle for Incomplete and Imperfect [08:43] Strategy 4: Biblical Encouragement to Start Small [10:11] Closing Thoughts and Prayer 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) starting small, mission strategy, overcoming perfectionism, discipleship tools, ministry growth, faith in action, small beginnings, leadership development, Catholic podcast, EquipCast When the mission feels massive, how do you take the first step?

We all feel the pressure. With souls on the line, it feels like we need big plans, big programs, big results. But what if the most fruitful thing you could do today was simply to take one small step? In this episode, I share four strategies that have helped me and others start small, build momentum, and trust that God will grow what we begin. Whether you're leading a parish, a ministry, or just trying to follow Jesus more closely, I want to encourage you: don’t wait for perfect. Start small. God delights in small beginnings, and He’ll grow them into something beautiful.

[01:42] Strategy 1: Shrink the First Step
[02:46] Strategy 2: Do the Next Right Thing
[04:42] Strategy 3: Settle for Incomplete and Imperfect
[08:43] Strategy 4: Biblical Encouragement to Start Small
[10:11] Closing Thoughts and Prayer

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)

]]> When the mission feels massive, how do you take the first step?

We all feel the pressure. With souls on the line, it feels like we need big plans, big programs, big results. But what if the most fruitful thing you could do today was simply to take one small step? In this episode, I share four strategies that have helped me and others start small, build momentum, and trust that God will grow what we begin. Whether you're leading a parish, a ministry, or just trying to follow Jesus more closely, I want to encourage you: don’t wait for perfect. Start small. God delights in small beginnings, and He’ll grow them into something beautiful.

[01:42] Strategy 1: Shrink the First Step
[02:46] Strategy 2: Do the Next Right Thing
[04:42] Strategy 3: Settle for Incomplete and Imperfect
[08:43] Strategy 4: Biblical Encouragement to Start Small
[10:11] Closing Thoughts and Prayer

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)

]]> BONUS: 3 Reasons You Should Join us at SEEK! https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/bonus 60b32bf8-c0a9-411a-b7a4-83b9f991ba7c Tue, 28 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha full Archdiocese of Omaha Imagine standing among thousands of faithful Catholics, voices lifted in prayer and praise. In that moment, you can feel the Church fully alive—young, reverent, and on fire for mission. In this short bonus episode, I share a personal story from my family and three compelling reasons why SEEK might be exactly what your heart’s been longing for. Whether you’re craving hope, community, or a deeper sense of purpose, this isn’t just a conference—it’s a chance to be renewed. Give it a listen, and let the Spirit stir something new in you. 8:17 no Imagine standing among thousands of faithful Catholics, voices lifted in prayer and praise. In that moment, you can feel the Church fully alive—young, reverent, and on fire for mission. In this short bonus episode, I share a personal story from my family and three compelling reasons why SEEK might be exactly what your heart’s been longing for. Whether you’re craving hope, community, or a deeper sense of purpose, this isn’t just a conference—it’s a chance to be renewed. Give it a listen, and let the Spirit stir something new in you. [00:29] Why You Should Attend the Focus Seek Conference [01:17] Personal Family Insights [03:14] Reason 1: See the Church Alive [05:12] Reason 2: Be Equipped for Mission [06:18] Reason 3: Inspirational Speakers [06:48] Special Grants for Omaha Archdiocese Conference Grant Application (https://archdioceseofomaha.formstack.com/forms/conference_grant) for ArchOmaha parish groups of 3 or more. 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) SEEK 2026, Catholic conference, Archdiocese of Omaha, Jim Jansen podcast, EquipCast, Catholic evangelization, parish renewal, missionary discipleship, Focus SEEK, Catholic inspiration, Church alive, faith and family, Catholic events, spiritual renewal, Catholic podcast, adult faith formation Imagine standing among thousands of faithful Catholics, voices lifted in prayer and praise. In that moment, you can feel the Church fully alive—young, reverent, and on fire for mission. In this short bonus episode, I share a personal story from my family and three compelling reasons why SEEK might be exactly what your heart’s been longing for. Whether you’re craving hope, community, or a deeper sense of purpose, this isn’t just a conference—it’s a chance to be renewed. Give it a listen, and let the Spirit stir something new in you.

[00:29] Why You Should Attend the Focus Seek Conference
[01:17] Personal Family Insights
[03:14] Reason 1: See the Church Alive
[05:12] Reason 2: Be Equipped for Mission
[06:18] Reason 3: Inspirational Speakers
[06:48] Special Grants for Omaha Archdiocese

Conference Grant Application for ArchOmaha parish groups of 3 or more.

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)

]]> Imagine standing among thousands of faithful Catholics, voices lifted in prayer and praise. In that moment, you can feel the Church fully alive—young, reverent, and on fire for mission. In this short bonus episode, I share a personal story from my family and three compelling reasons why SEEK might be exactly what your heart’s been longing for. Whether you’re craving hope, community, or a deeper sense of purpose, this isn’t just a conference—it’s a chance to be renewed. Give it a listen, and let the Spirit stir something new in you.

[00:29] Why You Should Attend the Focus Seek Conference
[01:17] Personal Family Insights
[03:14] Reason 1: See the Church Alive
[05:12] Reason 2: Be Equipped for Mission
[06:18] Reason 3: Inspirational Speakers
[06:48] Special Grants for Omaha Archdiocese

Conference Grant Application for ArchOmaha parish groups of 3 or more.

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 197: Meet Your Neighbor in Their Mess: The Call to Parish Outreach https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/197 1fc17b0b-271b-4d81-994c-a150ee9c2837 Tue, 21 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 197 Meet Your Neighbor in Their Mess: The Call to Parish Outreach full Archdiocese of Omaha What does it really mean to love your neighbor—not just in theory, but in their mess? In this episode, I sit down with Austin Habash from Sent Evangelization, and we talk about what happens when we actually step out and meet people where they are. How knocking on doors leads to praying with strangers, and how helping with small needs opens the way for grace. Austin shares stories that are raw, beautiful, and deeply human. If you’ve ever felt the tug to do something more, to bring Jesus to your neighborhood in a real and personal way, this conversation will inspire you and give you a path forward. You don’t have to be perfect—you just have to show up. 58:59 no What does it really mean to love your neighbor—not just in theory, but in their mess? In this episode, I sit down with Austin Habash from Sent Evangelization, and we talk about what happens when we actually step out and meet people where they are. How knocking on doors leads to praying with strangers, and how helping with small needs opens the way for grace. Austin shares stories that are raw, beautiful, and deeply human. If you’ve ever felt the tug to do something more, to bring Jesus to your neighborhood in a real and personal way, this conversation will inspire you and give you a path forward. You don’t have to be perfect—you just have to show up. [01:18] Meet Austin Habash: A Journey of Faith [02:51] The Call to Neighborhood Outreach [05:22] Challenges and Strategies in Evangelization [08:31] Real-Life Stories and Impact [11:51] The Role of Parishes in Evangelization [14:48] Training and Supporting Evangelists [26:03] Building a Community of Faith [28:49] Framework for Evangelization Teams [29:26] Roles within the Evangelization Team [30:38] Training and Preparation for Evangelists [32:46] Practical Steps for Launching Evangelization Efforts [45:17] Engaging with Non-Christians and the Unchurched [55:01] Final Thoughts and Encouragement Check out Sent Evangelization (https://www.sentevangelization.org/) or watch their training videos on Formed.org (https://formed.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) door-to-door evangelization, parish outreach, Catholic evangelization, loving your neighbor, Scent Evangelization, neighborhood ministry, corporal and spiritual works of mercy, Catholic podcast, evangelization stories, parish mission field What does it really mean to love your neighbor—not just in theory, but in their mess?

In this episode, I sit down with Austin Habash from Sent Evangelization, and we talk about what happens when we actually step out and meet people where they are. How knocking on doors leads to praying with strangers, and how helping with small needs opens the way for grace. Austin shares stories that are raw, beautiful, and deeply human. If you’ve ever felt the tug to do something more, to bring Jesus to your neighborhood in a real and personal way, this conversation will inspire you and give you a path forward. You don’t have to be perfect—you just have to show up.

[01:18] Meet Austin Habash: A Journey of Faith
[02:51] The Call to Neighborhood Outreach
[05:22] Challenges and Strategies in Evangelization
[08:31] Real-Life Stories and Impact
[11:51] The Role of Parishes in Evangelization
[14:48] Training and Supporting Evangelists
[26:03] Building a Community of Faith
[28:49] Framework for Evangelization Teams
[29:26] Roles within the Evangelization Team
[30:38] Training and Preparation for Evangelists
[32:46] Practical Steps for Launching Evangelization Efforts
[45:17] Engaging with Non-Christians and the Unchurched
[55:01] Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Check out Sent Evangelization or watch their training videos on Formed.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)

]]> What does it really mean to love your neighbor—not just in theory, but in their mess?

In this episode, I sit down with Austin Habash from Sent Evangelization, and we talk about what happens when we actually step out and meet people where they are. How knocking on doors leads to praying with strangers, and how helping with small needs opens the way for grace. Austin shares stories that are raw, beautiful, and deeply human. If you’ve ever felt the tug to do something more, to bring Jesus to your neighborhood in a real and personal way, this conversation will inspire you and give you a path forward. You don’t have to be perfect—you just have to show up.

[01:18] Meet Austin Habash: A Journey of Faith
[02:51] The Call to Neighborhood Outreach
[05:22] Challenges and Strategies in Evangelization
[08:31] Real-Life Stories and Impact
[11:51] The Role of Parishes in Evangelization
[14:48] Training and Supporting Evangelists
[26:03] Building a Community of Faith
[28:49] Framework for Evangelization Teams
[29:26] Roles within the Evangelization Team
[30:38] Training and Preparation for Evangelists
[32:46] Practical Steps for Launching Evangelization Efforts
[45:17] Engaging with Non-Christians and the Unchurched
[55:01] Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Check out Sent Evangelization or watch their training videos on Formed.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)

]]> Episode 196: The Quiet Crisis in Our Pews: Why Saving Marriages will Save the Faith https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/196 29a421b3-e61c-457c-8006-ecd303483012 Tue, 14 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 196 The Quiet Crisis in Our Pews: Why Saving Marriages will Save the Faith full Archdiocese of Omaha What if saving a marriage could save a soul? In this episode, I sit down with Jared Smyth from Communio a consultancy helping parishes build thriving marriage ministries. We talk about the quiet crisis unfolding in our parishes—and the incredible hope breaking through. Parishes that invest just a few hours into helping couples build stronger relationships are seeing renewal from the inside out: healed marriages, thriving families, and faith coming alive again. 1:02:35 no What if saving a marriage could save a soul? In this episode, I sit down with Jared Smyth from Communio a consultancy helping parishes build thriving marriage ministries. We talk about the quiet crisis unfolding in our parishes—and the incredible hope breaking through. Parishes that invest just a few hours into helping couples build stronger relationships are seeing renewal from the inside out: healed marriages, thriving families, and faith coming alive again. [01:57] Jared's Background and Faith Journey [14:15] The Importance of Marriage and Family [17:47] Communio's Approach to Strengthening Relationships [26:31] The Impact of Family Structure on Faith and Society [30:13] Addressing Loneliness and Relationship Needs [32:01] Introduction to Communio's Mission [33:00] Data-Informed Ministry [35:48] Marriage Enrichment Strategies [38:54] Engaging Parish Outreach [40:23] Ministry Engagement Ladder [46:23] Success Stories and Impact [55:49] Macro Trends in the Church Don’t forget to check out Communio.org (https://communio.org/) or contact Jared at jsmyth@communio.org (mailto:jsmyth@communio.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) marriage ministry, Catholic marriage support, parish renewal, quiet crisis in parishes, relationship enrichment, Communio, evangelization through relationships, parish outreach, Catholic family life, divorce prevention, skills-based relationship ministry, parish growth strategies, clear path to discipleship, Catholic podcast, Equipcast What if saving a marriage could save a soul?

In this episode, I sit down with Jared Smyth from Communio a consultancy helping parishes build thriving marriage ministries. We talk about the quiet crisis unfolding in our parishes—and the incredible hope breaking through. Parishes that invest just a few hours into helping couples build stronger relationships are seeing renewal from the inside out: healed marriages, thriving families, and faith coming alive again.

[01:57] Jared's Background and Faith Journey
[14:15] The Importance of Marriage and Family
[17:47] Communio's Approach to Strengthening Relationships
[26:31] The Impact of Family Structure on Faith and Society
[30:13] Addressing Loneliness and Relationship Needs
[32:01] Introduction to Communio's Mission
[33:00] Data-Informed Ministry
[35:48] Marriage Enrichment Strategies
[38:54] Engaging Parish Outreach
[40:23] Ministry Engagement Ladder
[46:23] Success Stories and Impact
[55:49] Macro Trends in the Church

Don’t forget to check out Communio.org or contact Jared at jsmyth@communio.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)

]]> What if saving a marriage could save a soul?

In this episode, I sit down with Jared Smyth from Communio a consultancy helping parishes build thriving marriage ministries. We talk about the quiet crisis unfolding in our parishes—and the incredible hope breaking through. Parishes that invest just a few hours into helping couples build stronger relationships are seeing renewal from the inside out: healed marriages, thriving families, and faith coming alive again.

[01:57] Jared's Background and Faith Journey
[14:15] The Importance of Marriage and Family
[17:47] Communio's Approach to Strengthening Relationships
[26:31] The Impact of Family Structure on Faith and Society
[30:13] Addressing Loneliness and Relationship Needs
[32:01] Introduction to Communio's Mission
[33:00] Data-Informed Ministry
[35:48] Marriage Enrichment Strategies
[38:54] Engaging Parish Outreach
[40:23] Ministry Engagement Ladder
[46:23] Success Stories and Impact
[55:49] Macro Trends in the Church

Don’t forget to check out Communio.org or contact Jared at jsmyth@communio.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)

]]> Episode 195: Evangelizing the Forgotten: Dcn. Al’s Story of Visiting the Imprisoned https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/195 f3e5bbaa-ac79-480e-a275-aeb61602594c Tue, 07 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 195 Evangelizing the Forgotten: Dcn. Al’s Story of Visiting the Imprisoned full Archdiocese of Omaha How do you bring hope to someone who feels completely forgotten? In this powerful episode of EquipCast, Deacon Al Aulner opens a window into the emotional and spiritual struggles of incarcerated men—many of whom have never known love, stability, or the truth of the Gospel. Through stories of heartbreak, transformation, and hope, Deacon Al reveals how meeting people in their brokenness—whether behind bars or in everyday life—is the heart of evangelization. His insights challenge us to listen first, love deeply, and trust that God is already at work in every soul we encounter. 1:02:35 no How do you bring hope to someone who feels completely forgotten? In this powerful episode of EquipCast, Deacon Al Aulner opens a window into the emotional and spiritual struggles of incarcerated men—many of whom have never known love, stability, or the truth of the Gospel. Through stories of heartbreak, transformation, and hope, Deacon Al reveals how meeting people in their brokenness—whether behind bars or in everyday life—is the heart of evangelization. His insights challenge us to listen first, love deeply, and trust that God is already at work in every soul we encounter. [01:10] Deacon Al Aulner's Background [03:29] Journey to Faith and Family Challenges [07:38] Introduction to Prison Ministry [14:18] Personal Experiences and Challenges in Ministry [29:25] Volunteers and Community Impact [31:23] A Corporate Buyer’s Journey to Prison Ministry [35:08] Challenges of Reintegrating After Prison [39:39] Transformative Power of Faith in Prison [46:40] Parish Leadership and Community Engagement [58:57] Call for Volunteers and Final Thoughts Feel free to reach out to Dcn. Al! Call (402) 827-3743 or email awaulner@archomaha.org (mailto:awaulner@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) prison ministry, evangelization, Catholic podcast, jail ministry, corporal works of mercy, liberty to captives, faith behind bars, Deacon Al Ulner, Archdiocese of Omaha, spiritual transformation How do you bring hope to someone who feels completely forgotten?

In this powerful episode of EquipCast, Deacon Al Aulner opens a window into the emotional and spiritual struggles of incarcerated men—many of whom have never known love, stability, or the truth of the Gospel. Through stories of heartbreak, transformation, and hope, Deacon Al reveals how meeting people in their brokenness—whether behind bars or in everyday life—is the heart of evangelization. His insights challenge us to listen first, love deeply, and trust that God is already at work in every soul we encounter.

[01:10] Deacon Al Aulner's Background
[03:29] Journey to Faith and Family Challenges
[07:38] Introduction to Prison Ministry
[14:18] Personal Experiences and Challenges in Ministry
[29:25] Volunteers and Community Impact
[31:23] A Corporate Buyer’s Journey to Prison Ministry
[35:08] Challenges of Reintegrating After Prison
[39:39] Transformative Power of Faith in Prison
[46:40] Parish Leadership and Community Engagement
[58:57] Call for Volunteers and Final Thoughts

Feel free to reach out to Dcn. Al! Call (402) 827-3743 or email awaulner@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)

]]> How do you bring hope to someone who feels completely forgotten?

In this powerful episode of EquipCast, Deacon Al Aulner opens a window into the emotional and spiritual struggles of incarcerated men—many of whom have never known love, stability, or the truth of the Gospel. Through stories of heartbreak, transformation, and hope, Deacon Al reveals how meeting people in their brokenness—whether behind bars or in everyday life—is the heart of evangelization. His insights challenge us to listen first, love deeply, and trust that God is already at work in every soul we encounter.

[01:10] Deacon Al Aulner's Background
[03:29] Journey to Faith and Family Challenges
[07:38] Introduction to Prison Ministry
[14:18] Personal Experiences and Challenges in Ministry
[29:25] Volunteers and Community Impact
[31:23] A Corporate Buyer’s Journey to Prison Ministry
[35:08] Challenges of Reintegrating After Prison
[39:39] Transformative Power of Faith in Prison
[46:40] Parish Leadership and Community Engagement
[58:57] Call for Volunteers and Final Thoughts

Feel free to reach out to Dcn. Al! Call (402) 827-3743 or email awaulner@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)

]]> Episode 194: When Missionaries Stall-out: My Clear Path Talk at SEEK 2025 https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/194 069d1928-24d3-433a-9f67-59d0e98c5441 Tue, 23 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 194 When Missionaries Stall-out: My Clear Path Talk at SEEK 2025 full Archdiocese of Omaha What happens when a parish full of on-fire missionaries still stalls out? I saw it happen—and it taught me something big: even the most passionate disciples need a clear path and a culture that supports mission. In this episode, I share why real change is worth the discomfort, and how parishes can shift from “cruise ship mode” to “fire station mode”—where mission is normal and conversion is celebrated. 28:37 no Why would a parish packed with on-fire disciples feel stagnant? You’d think that if you put a dozen former FOCUS missionaries in one parish, it would explode with fruitfulness—but almost nothing happened. The truth is, even the most passionate disciples need a clear path and a culture that supports mission. Without it, the fire fizzles. In this episode, I talk about why real change is uncomfortable but necessary, what a parish of missionary disciples actually looks like, and how a community can shift from cruise ship mode to fire station mode—where mission is normal and conversion is celebrated. [00:00] Introduction and Conference Overview [01:17] Personal Story and Missionary Heart [02:46] Challenges in Building a Missionary Culture [03:13] Three Keys to Developing Missionary Discipleship [08:26] Key 1: Clarity About Mission and Vision [13:06] Key 2: Organizational Health [16:12] Key 3: Making Disciples [19:44] Building a Clear Path to Discipleship [22:34] Success Stories and Conclusion [25:54] Final Thoughts and Encouragement Don’t forget to check out FOCUS (https://focus.org/) and SEEK (https://seek.focus.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, missionary discipleship, parish renewal, Jim Jansen, Equipcast, FOCUS missionaries, evangelization, church leadership, faith formation, spiritual growth, Catholic community, SEEK conference, small group ministry, clear path to discipleship, Archdiocese of Omaha, making disciples, parish transformation, Catholic evangelization strategy, church culture change, personal apostolate Why would a parish packed with on-fire disciples feel stagnant?

You’d think that if you put a dozen former FOCUS missionaries in one parish, it would explode with fruitfulness—but almost nothing happened. The truth is, even the most passionate disciples need a clear path and a culture that supports mission. Without it, the fire fizzles.

In this episode, I talk about why real change is uncomfortable but necessary, what a parish of missionary disciples actually looks like, and how a community can shift from cruise ship mode to fire station mode—where mission is normal and conversion is celebrated.

[00:00] Introduction and Conference Overview
[01:17] Personal Story and Missionary Heart
[02:46] Challenges in Building a Missionary Culture
[03:13] Three Keys to Developing Missionary Discipleship
[08:26] Key 1: Clarity About Mission and Vision
[13:06] Key 2: Organizational Health
[16:12] Key 3: Making Disciples
[19:44] Building a Clear Path to Discipleship
[22:34] Success Stories and Conclusion
[25:54] Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Don’t forget to check out FOCUS and SEEK!

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)

]]> Why would a parish packed with on-fire disciples feel stagnant?

You’d think that if you put a dozen former FOCUS missionaries in one parish, it would explode with fruitfulness—but almost nothing happened. The truth is, even the most passionate disciples need a clear path and a culture that supports mission. Without it, the fire fizzles.

In this episode, I talk about why real change is uncomfortable but necessary, what a parish of missionary disciples actually looks like, and how a community can shift from cruise ship mode to fire station mode—where mission is normal and conversion is celebrated.

[00:00] Introduction and Conference Overview
[01:17] Personal Story and Missionary Heart
[02:46] Challenges in Building a Missionary Culture
[03:13] Three Keys to Developing Missionary Discipleship
[08:26] Key 1: Clarity About Mission and Vision
[13:06] Key 2: Organizational Health
[16:12] Key 3: Making Disciples
[19:44] Building a Clear Path to Discipleship
[22:34] Success Stories and Conclusion
[25:54] Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Don’t forget to check out FOCUS and SEEK!

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 193: When Ordinary People Say Yes: The story of Seeking Truth Bible Study https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/193 e98a8dae-cf62-4802-aaa9-1255fd599d99 Tue, 16 Sep 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 193 When Ordinary People Say Yes: The story of Seeking Truth Bible Study full Archdiocese of Omaha What happens when ordinary people open the Bible and say “yes” to God? Sharon Doran shares her journey from unequipped teacher to leading hundreds—proof that Scripture isn’t just ink on a page—it’s alive. Tune in to hear how Scripture heals, unites, and brings unexpected fruit to ordinary people. 56:31 no What happens when you open the Bible and simply say “yes” to God? In this conversation with Sharon Doran, teaching director of Seeking Truth, you’ll hear how Scripture has the power to heal wounds, renew marriages, transform families, and ignite whole communities. Sharon shares how she went from feeling unqualified to teaching hundreds—because the Holy Spirit showed up when she stepped out in faith. Sharon’s story is a reminder that Scripture isn’t just ink on a page—it’s alive. It heals, it unites, and it sends us on mission. If you’ve ever wondered how ordinary people can be used in extraordinary ways, her story will inspire you to guard time with Scripture and trust God to do more than you imagined. [02:07] Sharon's Early Life and Family Influence [08:07] Sharon's Journey into Bible Study [14:16] Challenges and Growth of Seeking Truth [23:08] The Role of Women in Teaching Scripture [29:04] Approach to Scripture Study [37:34] The Importance of Love in Ministry [44:58] Favorite Biblical Passages and Typological Connections [52:37] Encouragement for Personal Scripture Study [55:02] Conclusion and Invitation to Join Seeking Truth Don’t forget to check out Seeking Truth (https://seekingtruth.net/)! 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) Bible study, Catholic Bible study, Seeking Truth, Sharon Doran, Jim Jansen, Equipcast, Archdiocese of Omaha, Scripture teaching, Word of God, spiritual renewal, marriage healing, family transformation, feminine genius, women in ministry, Holy Spirit, biblical literacy, Omaha Catholics, canonical approach, typology in Scripture, Catholic podcast, faith formation, spiritual direction, Catholic evangelization, Catholic education, prayer life, Catholic marriage, Catholic family life, Catholic community, Scripture study tools, Catholic resources What happens when you open the Bible and simply say “yes” to God? In this conversation with Sharon Doran, teaching director of Seeking Truth, you’ll hear how Scripture has the power to heal wounds, renew marriages, transform families, and ignite whole communities. Sharon shares how she went from feeling unqualified to teaching hundreds—because the Holy Spirit showed up when she stepped out in faith.

Sharon’s story is a reminder that Scripture isn’t just ink on a page—it’s alive. It heals, it unites, and it sends us on mission. If you’ve ever wondered how ordinary people can be used in extraordinary ways, her story will inspire you to guard time with Scripture and trust God to do more than you imagined.

[02:07] Sharon's Early Life and Family Influence
[08:07] Sharon's Journey into Bible Study
[14:16] Challenges and Growth of Seeking Truth
[23:08] The Role of Women in Teaching Scripture
[29:04] Approach to Scripture Study
[37:34] The Importance of Love in Ministry
[44:58] Favorite Biblical Passages and Typological Connections
[52:37] Encouragement for Personal Scripture Study
[55:02] Conclusion and Invitation to Join Seeking Truth

Don’t forget to check out Seeking Truth!

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 happens when you open the Bible and simply say “yes” to God? In this conversation with Sharon Doran, teaching director of Seeking Truth, you’ll hear how Scripture has the power to heal wounds, renew marriages, transform families, and ignite whole communities. Sharon shares how she went from feeling unqualified to teaching hundreds—because the Holy Spirit showed up when she stepped out in faith.

Sharon’s story is a reminder that Scripture isn’t just ink on a page—it’s alive. It heals, it unites, and it sends us on mission. If you’ve ever wondered how ordinary people can be used in extraordinary ways, her story will inspire you to guard time with Scripture and trust God to do more than you imagined.

[02:07] Sharon's Early Life and Family Influence
[08:07] Sharon's Journey into Bible Study
[14:16] Challenges and Growth of Seeking Truth
[23:08] The Role of Women in Teaching Scripture
[29:04] Approach to Scripture Study
[37:34] The Importance of Love in Ministry
[44:58] Favorite Biblical Passages and Typological Connections
[52:37] Encouragement for Personal Scripture Study
[55:02] Conclusion and Invitation to Join Seeking Truth

Don’t forget to check out Seeking Truth!

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 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)

]]> How to Choose (Part 3): Faith Formation https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/189 83ce8752-375c-427b-8a9c-18340663f85e Tue, 19 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 189 How to Choose (Part 3): Faith Formation full Archdiocese of Omaha What if your parish’s faith formation is creating consumer Catholics instead of disciples? In this episode of EquipCast, I sit down with my team to unpack what faith formation is really supposed to do—and why so many parishes get stuck. We talk about the difference between just teaching information and actually forming hearts and habits. You’ll hear why small groups matter, how to spot a healthy ministry, and what it takes to move people from simply learning their faith to living it—and then going on mission. We talk about launching apostolates, forming others, and becoming the kind of disciples who don’t just consume content but live it out with joy and purpose. Plus, we share some honest stories, practical tools (like the Discernment Rosary), and plenty of laughs. If you’ve ever wondered how to choose the right ministry for your clear path to discipleship—or how to fix the one you’ve got—this one’s for you. 56:53 no What if your parish’s faith formation is creating consumer Catholics instead of disciples?In this episode of EquipCast, I sit down with my team to unpack what faith formation is really supposed to do—and why so many parishes get stuck. We talk about the difference between just teaching information and actually forming hearts and habits. You’ll hear why small groups matter, how to spot a healthy ministry, and what it takes to move people from simply learning their faith to living it—and then going on mission. We talk about launching apostolates, forming others, and becoming the kind of disciples who don’t just consume content but live it out with joy and purpose. Plus, we share some honest stories, practical tools (like the Discernment Rosary), and plenty of laughs. If you’ve ever wondered how to choose the right ministry for your clear path to discipleship—or how to fix the one you’ve got—this one’s for you. [00:00] Series Overview: Choosing Ministries for Your Clear Path [03:28] Understanding Faith Formation [05:41] Characteristics of Effective Faith Formation [10:46] Large Group vs. Small Group Faith Formation [13:45] The Role of Accompaniment in Faith Formation [21:00] Practical Tips for Small Group Leaders [27:25] Facilitating Community in Faith Formation [28:45] Importance of Support Systems for Small Groups [39:26] Discerning Faith Formation Options [48:34] The Power of Small Groups and Community [52:41] Final Thoughts and Encouragement Don’t forget to check out Options for Faith Formation (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Options-for-Faith-Formation.pdf). 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. 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) faith formation, Catholic discipleship, small group ministry, parish ministry, missionary disciples, Catholic podcast, EquipCast, Archdiocese of Omaha, spiritual growth, catechesis, clear path to discipleship, evangelization, Catholic coaching, discernment rosary, kerygmatic catechesis, Catholic small groups, parish renewal, adult faith formation, Catholic leadership, church ministry tools _What if your parish’s faith formation is creating consumer Catholics instead of disciples?_In this episode of EquipCast, I sit down with my team to unpack what faith formation is really supposed to do—and why so many parishes get stuck. We talk about the difference between just teaching information and actually forming hearts and habits.

You’ll hear why small groups matter, how to spot a healthy ministry, and what it takes to move people from simply learning their faith to living it—and then going on mission. We talk about launching apostolates, forming others, and becoming the kind of disciples who don’t just consume content but live it out with joy and purpose. Plus, we share some honest stories, practical tools (like the Discernment Rosary), and plenty of laughs. If you’ve ever wondered how to choose the right ministry for your clear path to discipleship—or how to fix the one you’ve got—this one’s for you.

[00:00] Series Overview: Choosing Ministries for Your Clear Path
[03:28] Understanding Faith Formation
[05:41] Characteristics of Effective Faith Formation
[10:46] Large Group vs. Small Group Faith Formation
[13:45] The Role of Accompaniment in Faith Formation
[21:00] Practical Tips for Small Group Leaders
[27:25] Facilitating Community in Faith Formation
[28:45] Importance of Support Systems for Small Groups
[39:26] Discerning Faith Formation Options
[48:34] The Power of Small Groups and Community
[52:41] Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Don’t forget to check out Options for Faith Formation. And for more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship: How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish.

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 if your parish’s faith formation is creating consumer Catholics instead of disciples?_In this episode of EquipCast, I sit down with my team to unpack what faith formation is really supposed to do—and why so many parishes get stuck. We talk about the difference between just teaching information and actually forming hearts and habits.

You’ll hear why small groups matter, how to spot a healthy ministry, and what it takes to move people from simply learning their faith to living it—and then going on mission. We talk about launching apostolates, forming others, and becoming the kind of disciples who don’t just consume content but live it out with joy and purpose. Plus, we share some honest stories, practical tools (like the Discernment Rosary), and plenty of laughs. If you’ve ever wondered how to choose the right ministry for your clear path to discipleship—or how to fix the one you’ve got—this one’s for you.

[00:00] Series Overview: Choosing Ministries for Your Clear Path
[03:28] Understanding Faith Formation
[05:41] Characteristics of Effective Faith Formation
[10:46] Large Group vs. Small Group Faith Formation
[13:45] The Role of Accompaniment in Faith Formation
[21:00] Practical Tips for Small Group Leaders
[27:25] Facilitating Community in Faith Formation
[28:45] Importance of Support Systems for Small Groups
[39:26] Discerning Faith Formation Options
[48:34] The Power of Small Groups and Community
[52:41] Final Thoughts and Encouragement

Don’t forget to check out Options for Faith Formation. And for more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship: How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish.

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 2): Evangelization Formation https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/188 0c7be8db-cd2a-4375-b8f0-e502df15de2e Tue, 12 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 188 How to Choose (Part 2): Evangelization Formation full Archdiocese of Omaha What if the biggest thing holding your parish back isn’t a lack of programs—but a lack of missionary disciples? In this episode, I sit down with my team to explore a step in parish life that often gets skipped: evangelization formation. We’re talking about the part of discipleship where people go from passive participants to confident, Spirit-led missionaries—and why that shift changes everything. We get honest about what it actually takes to form missionary disciples—not just run more programs. You’ll hear real behind-the-scenes stories from parishes on the ground, practical tips that work, and ways they faced the most common roadblocks we see, like fear, self-doubt, or the sense of being alone in mission. We break down evangelization formation into clear, doable steps—like helping people pray out loud, share their story, and discover their charisms. Whether your parish is just starting out or ready to go deeper, this episode will shift how you think about forming people for mission—and give you the tools to start. 1:02:42 no What if the biggest thing holding your parish back isn’t a lack of programs—but a lack of missionary disciples? In this episode, I sit down with my team to explore a step in parish life that often gets skipped: evangelization formation. We’re talking about the part of discipleship where people go from passive participants to confident, Spirit-led missionaries—and why that shift changes everything. We get honest about what it actually takes to form missionary disciples—not just run more programs. You’ll hear real behind-the-scenes stories from parishes on the ground, practical tips that work, and ways they faced the most common roadblocks we see, like fear, self-doubt, or the sense of being alone in mission. We break down evangelization formation into clear, doable steps—like helping people pray out loud, share their story, and discover their charisms. Whether your parish is just starting out or ready to go deeper, this episode will shift how you think about forming people for mission—and give you the tools to start. [00:13] Series Overview: Choosing Evangelization Formation Ministry [01:15] Understanding Evangelization Formation [02:17] Characteristics of Evangelization Formation [13:39] The Role of Charisms in Evangelization [17:40] Team Approach and Mentorship in Evangelization [24:20] Programs and Ministries for Evangelization Formation [32:55] Discipleship and Mission [34:24] Practical Steps for Evangelization [35:58] Discernment in Evangelization Formation [39:22] Deep Investment in Leaders [41:34] Practical Ways to Discern Evangelization Formation [45:14] Stories of Evangelization Success Don’t forget to check out Options for Evangelization Formation (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Options-for-Evangelization-Formation.pdf). 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. 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) Evangelization, Missionary Discipleship, Catholic Leadership, Parish Renewal, Faith Formation, Clear Path Discipleship, Catholic Podcast, Holy Spirit, Mentorship Matters, EquipCast, Catholic Evangelization, Discipleship Journey, Church Growth, Charisms, Prayer Life, Catholic Community, Alpha Program, Evangelical Catholic, Reach One More, Called and Gifted What if the biggest thing holding your parish back isn’t a lack of programs—but a lack of missionary disciples? In this episode, I sit down with my team to explore a step in parish life that often gets skipped: evangelization formation. We’re talking about the part of discipleship where people go from passive participants to confident, Spirit-led missionaries—and why that shift changes everything.

We get honest about what it actually takes to form missionary disciples—not just run more programs. You’ll hear real behind-the-scenes stories from parishes on the ground, practical tips that work, and ways they faced the most common roadblocks we see, like fear, self-doubt, or the sense of being alone in mission. We break down evangelization formation into clear, doable steps—like helping people pray out loud, share their story, and discover their charisms. Whether your parish is just starting out or ready to go deeper, this episode will shift how you think about forming people for mission—and give you the tools to start.

[00:13] Series Overview: Choosing Evangelization Formation Ministry
[01:15] Understanding Evangelization Formation
[02:17] Characteristics of Evangelization Formation
[13:39] The Role of Charisms in Evangelization
[17:40] Team Approach and Mentorship in Evangelization
[24:20] Programs and Ministries for Evangelization Formation
[32:55] Discipleship and Mission
[34:24] Practical Steps for Evangelization
[35:58] Discernment in Evangelization Formation
[39:22] Deep Investment in Leaders
[41:34] Practical Ways to Discern Evangelization Formation
[45:14] Stories of Evangelization Success

Don’t forget to check out Options for Evangelization Formation. And for more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship: How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish.

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 if the biggest thing holding your parish back isn’t a lack of programs—but a lack of missionary disciples? In this episode, I sit down with my team to explore a step in parish life that often gets skipped: evangelization formation. We’re talking about the part of discipleship where people go from passive participants to confident, Spirit-led missionaries—and why that shift changes everything.

We get honest about what it actually takes to form missionary disciples—not just run more programs. You’ll hear real behind-the-scenes stories from parishes on the ground, practical tips that work, and ways they faced the most common roadblocks we see, like fear, self-doubt, or the sense of being alone in mission. We break down evangelization formation into clear, doable steps—like helping people pray out loud, share their story, and discover their charisms. Whether your parish is just starting out or ready to go deeper, this episode will shift how you think about forming people for mission—and give you the tools to start.

[00:13] Series Overview: Choosing Evangelization Formation Ministry
[01:15] Understanding Evangelization Formation
[02:17] Characteristics of Evangelization Formation
[13:39] The Role of Charisms in Evangelization
[17:40] Team Approach and Mentorship in Evangelization
[24:20] Programs and Ministries for Evangelization Formation
[32:55] Discipleship and Mission
[34:24] Practical Steps for Evangelization
[35:58] Discernment in Evangelization Formation
[39:22] Deep Investment in Leaders
[41:34] Practical Ways to Discern Evangelization Formation
[45:14] Stories of Evangelization Success

Don’t forget to check out Options for Evangelization Formation. And for more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship: How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish.

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 1): Conversion Moment https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/187 e01d1b8d-6acb-4523-906a-534cb0a07935 Tue, 05 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 187 How to Choose (Part 1): Conversion Moment full Archdiocese of Omaha Need help choosing steps on the Clear Path of Discipleship that fit your community? Today, we dive into the heart of missionary transformation: the conversion moment. I sit down with my team to unpack why these moments matter—and how they’re changing lives in real time. You’ll hear unforgettable stories (like a bartender who became a parish secretary) and see how ministries like Alpha, ChristLife, and parish retreats are helping people truly encounter Jesus. But this isn’t just about programs. It’s about creating space for people to meet Jesus—and letting that encounter ripple out into the life of your parish. We talk about what’s working, what’s not, and how to choose a format that actually fits your community. We also get real about the challenges—and the surprising opportunities—of doing this in diverse or bilingual settings. If you're trying to figure out where to start, or wondering how to take your next step toward a more missionary parish, this episode is for you. Get ready to think big—and start small. 1:00:20 no Need help choosing steps on the Clear Path of Discipleship that fit your community? Today, we dive into the heart of missionary transformation: the conversion moment. I sit down with my team to unpack why these moments matter—and how they’re changing lives in real time. You’ll hear unforgettable stories (like a bartender who became a parish secretary) and see how ministries like Alpha, ChristLife, and parish retreats are helping people truly encounter Jesus. But this isn’t just about programs. It’s about creating space for people to meet Jesus—and letting that encounter ripple out into the life of your parish. We talk about what’s working, what’s not, and how to choose a format that actually fits your community. We also get real about the challenges—and the surprising opportunities—of doing this in diverse or bilingual settings. If you're trying to figure out where to start, or wondering how to take your next step toward a more missionary parish, this episode is for you. Get ready to think big—and start small. [01:09] Understanding Conversion Moments [07:12] Why Parishes Need Conversion Moments [12:16] Pros and Cons of Different Formats [15:50] Small Groups and Flexibility [18:55] Unity in Multilingual Parishes [24:28] Cultural Shifts and Strategic Planning [29:45] Choosing the Right Conversion Moment [32:59] Forming Missionary Leaders [37:51] The Role of Discernment in Ministry [43:03] Practical Tips for Implementing Conversion Moments [46:24] Inspiring Stories of Conversion [51:52] Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them Don’t forget to check out Options for Conversion Moments (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Options-for-Conversion-Moments-1.pdf). 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. 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) conversion moment, parish renewal, Catholic evangelization, Alpha program, ChristLife, Catholic retreats, missionary discipleship, clear path ministry, parish leadership, bilingual ministry, Catholic podcast, Archdiocese of Omaha, faith formation, spiritual conversion, Catholic small groups, hospitality in ministry, discernment in ministry, evangelization tools, Catholic parish strategy, unity in diversity Need help choosing steps on the Clear Path of Discipleship that fit your community? Today, we dive into the heart of missionary transformation: the conversion moment. I sit down with my team to unpack why these moments matter—and how they’re changing lives in real time. You’ll hear unforgettable stories (like a bartender who became a parish secretary) and see how ministries like Alpha, ChristLife, and parish retreats are helping people truly encounter Jesus.

But this isn’t just about programs. It’s about creating space for people to meet Jesus—and letting that encounter ripple out into the life of your parish. We talk about what’s working, what’s not, and how to choose a format that actually fits your community. We also get real about the challenges—and the surprising opportunities—of doing this in diverse or bilingual settings. If you're trying to figure out where to start, or wondering how to take your next step toward a more missionary parish, this episode is for you. Get ready to think big—and start small.

[01:09] Understanding Conversion Moments
[07:12] Why Parishes Need Conversion Moments
[12:16] Pros and Cons of Different Formats
[15:50] Small Groups and Flexibility
[18:55] Unity in Multilingual Parishes
[24:28] Cultural Shifts and Strategic Planning
[29:45] Choosing the Right Conversion Moment
[32:59] Forming Missionary Leaders
[37:51] The Role of Discernment in Ministry
[43:03] Practical Tips for Implementing Conversion Moments
[46:24] Inspiring Stories of Conversion
[51:52] Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Don’t forget to check out Options for Conversion Moments. And for more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship: How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish.

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)

]]> Need help choosing steps on the Clear Path of Discipleship that fit your community? Today, we dive into the heart of missionary transformation: the conversion moment. I sit down with my team to unpack why these moments matter—and how they’re changing lives in real time. You’ll hear unforgettable stories (like a bartender who became a parish secretary) and see how ministries like Alpha, ChristLife, and parish retreats are helping people truly encounter Jesus.

But this isn’t just about programs. It’s about creating space for people to meet Jesus—and letting that encounter ripple out into the life of your parish. We talk about what’s working, what’s not, and how to choose a format that actually fits your community. We also get real about the challenges—and the surprising opportunities—of doing this in diverse or bilingual settings. If you're trying to figure out where to start, or wondering how to take your next step toward a more missionary parish, this episode is for you. Get ready to think big—and start small.

[01:09] Understanding Conversion Moments
[07:12] Why Parishes Need Conversion Moments
[12:16] Pros and Cons of Different Formats
[15:50] Small Groups and Flexibility
[18:55] Unity in Multilingual Parishes
[24:28] Cultural Shifts and Strategic Planning
[29:45] Choosing the Right Conversion Moment
[32:59] Forming Missionary Leaders
[37:51] The Role of Discernment in Ministry
[43:03] Practical Tips for Implementing Conversion Moments
[46:24] Inspiring Stories of Conversion
[51:52] Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them

Don’t forget to check out Options for Conversion Moments. And for more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship: How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish.

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 186: From Pew to Purpose: How to Live the Apostolate You Were Made For https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/186 3bd04502-4979-44be-a885-0940b19eb51f Tue, 17 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 186 From Pew to Purpose: How to Live the Apostolate You Were Made For full Archdiocese of Omaha What’s at stake if we stay busy in church but miss our calling in the world? It’s easy to think serving at church—teaching, volunteering, helping with Mass—is the main way lay people live out their faith. But here’s the truth: our primary call isn’t just ministry inside the Church—it’s apostolate out in the world. That means bringing Jesus into your workplace, your neighborhood, and your everyday life. That’s where you’re meant to shine. And what’s at stake? Souls. If we don’t take time to discern our apostolate, some of the people God placed in our path may never encounter Him. This isn’t just about filling time—it’s about stepping into the mission only you can fulfill. The Church needs you. And the world desperately needs Jesus. Tune in for a powerful conversation with Fr. Andrew Mattingly, who tells us that sometimes, reaching the world means cutting back on “good” church programs—because when a parish is over-programmed, it can pull focus from the real mission. But when we zero in on what actually forms people for their apostolate, we gain clarity, energy, and fruitfulness. It’s not about doing more. It’s about doing what matters most. 1:00:40 no What’s at stake if we stay busy in church but miss our calling in the world? It’s easy to think serving at church—teaching, volunteering, helping with Mass—is the main way lay people live out their faith. But here’s the truth: our primary call isn’t just ministry inside the Church—it’s apostolate out in the world. That means bringing Jesus into your workplace, your neighborhood, and your everyday life. That’s where you’re meant to shine. And what’s at stake? Souls. If we don’t take time to discern our apostolate, some of the people God placed in our path may never encounter Him. This isn’t just about filling time—it’s about stepping into the mission only you can fulfill. The Church needs you. And the world desperately needs Jesus. Tune in for a powerful conversation with Fr. Andrew Mattingly, who tells us that sometimes, reaching the world means cutting back on “good” church programs—because when a parish is over-programmed, it can pull focus from the real mission. But when we zero in on what actually forms people for their apostolate, we gain clarity, energy, and fruitfulness. It’s not about doing more. It’s about doing what matters most. [02:00] Understanding the Lay Apostolate [04:18] Defining Mission, Ministry, and Apostolate [11:40] Historical Context of the Lay State [20:04] Exploring Lay Apostolate Categories [28:08] Grace in Homemaking and Hospitality [31:35] Engaging in Local Politics [36:24] Discerning Your Apostolate [44:28] Real-Life Apostolate Examples [47:09] Balancing Parish and Apostolate [57:56] Encouragement for Busy Families Don’t forget to check out Our Lady of Good Counsel (https://goodcounselkc.org/), On the Apostolate of the Laity (https://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_decree_19651118_apostolicam-actuositatem_en.html), and The Vocation and the Mission of the Lay Faithful (https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_exhortations/documents/hf_jp-ii_exh_30121988_christifideles-laici.html). 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) apostolate, laity, lay apostolate, Catholic mission, parish ministry, ministry vs apostolate, Fr. Andrew Mattingly, Jim Jansen, EquipCast, Catholic podcast, discernment, lay vocation, evangelization, Catholic laity, mission in the world, Catholic parish life, spiritual discernment, Catholic leadership, renewing the temporal order, works of mercy, Catholic evangelization, apostolic mission, Vatican II laity, Catholic discipleship What’s at stake if we stay busy in church but miss our calling in the world?

It’s easy to think serving at church—teaching, volunteering, helping with Mass—is the main way lay people live out their faith. But here’s the truth: our primary call isn’t just ministry inside the Church—it’s apostolate out in the world. That means bringing Jesus into your workplace, your neighborhood, and your everyday life. That’s where you’re meant to shine.

And what’s at stake? Souls. If we don’t take time to discern our apostolate, some of the people God placed in our path may never encounter Him. This isn’t just about filling time—it’s about stepping into the mission only you can fulfill. The Church needs you. And the world desperately needs Jesus.

Tune in for a powerful conversation with Fr. Andrew Mattingly, who tells us that sometimes, reaching the world means cutting back on “good” church programs—because when a parish is over-programmed, it can pull focus from the real mission. But when we zero in on what actually forms people for their apostolate, we gain clarity, energy, and fruitfulness. It’s not about doing more. It’s about doing what matters most.

[02:00] Understanding the Lay Apostolate
[04:18] Defining Mission, Ministry, and Apostolate
[11:40] Historical Context of the Lay State
[20:04] Exploring Lay Apostolate Categories
[28:08] Grace in Homemaking and Hospitality
[31:35] Engaging in Local Politics
[36:24] Discerning Your Apostolate
[44:28] Real-Life Apostolate Examples
[47:09] Balancing Parish and Apostolate
[57:56] Encouragement for Busy Families

Don’t forget to check out Our Lady of Good Counsel, On the Apostolate of the Laity, and The Vocation and the Mission of the Lay Faithful.

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 at stake if we stay busy in church but miss our calling in the world?

It’s easy to think serving at church—teaching, volunteering, helping with Mass—is the main way lay people live out their faith. But here’s the truth: our primary call isn’t just ministry inside the Church—it’s apostolate out in the world. That means bringing Jesus into your workplace, your neighborhood, and your everyday life. That’s where you’re meant to shine.

And what’s at stake? Souls. If we don’t take time to discern our apostolate, some of the people God placed in our path may never encounter Him. This isn’t just about filling time—it’s about stepping into the mission only you can fulfill. The Church needs you. And the world desperately needs Jesus.

Tune in for a powerful conversation with Fr. Andrew Mattingly, who tells us that sometimes, reaching the world means cutting back on “good” church programs—because when a parish is over-programmed, it can pull focus from the real mission. But when we zero in on what actually forms people for their apostolate, we gain clarity, energy, and fruitfulness. It’s not about doing more. It’s about doing what matters most.

[02:00] Understanding the Lay Apostolate
[04:18] Defining Mission, Ministry, and Apostolate
[11:40] Historical Context of the Lay State
[20:04] Exploring Lay Apostolate Categories
[28:08] Grace in Homemaking and Hospitality
[31:35] Engaging in Local Politics
[36:24] Discerning Your Apostolate
[44:28] Real-Life Apostolate Examples
[47:09] Balancing Parish and Apostolate
[57:56] Encouragement for Busy Families

Don’t forget to check out Our Lady of Good Counsel, On the Apostolate of the Laity, and The Vocation and the Mission of the Lay Faithful.

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 185: Hispanic Ministry: The gift your parish needs https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/185 ec062113-3612-463c-8467-c9289f5151b4 Tue, 10 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 185 Hispanic Ministry: The gift your parish needs full Archdiocese of Omaha Could Hispanic spirituality be the gift your parish needs? In this episode, I sit down with Deacon Gregorio Elizalde, who leads Hispanic Ministry for the Archdiocese of Omaha. We talk about what really makes Hispanic ministry tick—and spoiler alert—it’s not just about translating resources into Spanish. It’s about receiving culture, building trust, and forming real relationships. Deacon Gregorio shares powerful insights into how many Hispanic Catholics show up with this deep, family-rooted faith that’s joyful, sacrificial, and incredibly contagious. There’s a deep sense of devotion, hospitality, and joy, even in the midst of hardship in Hispanic Catholic communities. And honestly, their ability to evangelize through relationships, through retreats, through just showing up with love—that’s a gift we desperately need in the Church today. If you're leading in a parish, or just want to understand how to better welcome and walk with our Hispanic brothers and sisters, this conversation will open your eyes and maybe even shift your heart. 57:30 no Could Hispanic spirituality be the gift your parish needs? In this episode, I sit down with Deacon Gregorio Elizalde, who leads Hispanic Ministry for the Archdiocese of Omaha. We talk about what really makes Hispanic ministry tick—and spoiler alert—it’s not just about translating resources into Spanish. It’s about receiving culture, building trust, and forming real relationships. Deacon Gregorio shares powerful insights into how many Hispanic Catholics show up with this deep, family-rooted faith that’s joyful, sacrificial, and incredibly contagious. There’s a deep sense of devotion, hospitality, and joy, even in the midst of hardship in Hispanic Catholic communities. And honestly, their ability to evangelize through relationships, through retreats, through just showing up with love—that’s a gift we desperately need in the Church today. If you're leading in a parish, or just want to understand how to better welcome and walk with our Hispanic brothers and sisters, this conversation will open your eyes and maybe even shift your heart. [00:14] The Importance of Hispanic Ministry [04:59] A Life-Changing Retreat [06:31] Becoming a Deacon [09:25] Hispanic Ministry in the Archdiocese [23:57] Ecclesial Movements and Community Impact [29:18] Devotional Culture in Hispanic Communities [33:20] Challenges in Hispanic Ministry [37:23] Consumerism and Faith [42:49] Gifts of the Hispanic Community [47:42] Building Inclusive Parishes [54:32] Resources and Support for Hispanic Ministry For more, check out Dcn. Gregorio's website (https://archomaha.org/oficina-del-ministerio-latino-hispano/), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=centro%20pastoral%20tepeyac), or just email him at hmo@archomaha.org (mailto:hmo@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) Hispanic ministry, Catholic Church, Hispanic Catholics, parish renewal, evangelization, Hispanic spirituality, Deacon Gregorio Elizalde, Jim Jansen, EquipCast, Archdiocese of Omaha, Hispanic faith, Catholic podcast, parish support, Latino Catholics, bilingual ministry, Hispanic culture in the Church, Catholic evangelization, Hispanic youth, Hispanic Catholic gifts, intercultural ministry Could Hispanic spirituality be the gift your parish needs?

In this episode, I sit down with Deacon Gregorio Elizalde, who leads Hispanic Ministry for the Archdiocese of Omaha. We talk about what really makes Hispanic ministry tick—and spoiler alert—it’s not just about translating resources into Spanish. It’s about receiving culture, building trust, and forming real relationships.

Deacon Gregorio shares powerful insights into how many Hispanic Catholics show up with this deep, family-rooted faith that’s joyful, sacrificial, and incredibly contagious. There’s a deep sense of devotion, hospitality, and joy, even in the midst of hardship in Hispanic Catholic communities. And honestly, their ability to evangelize through relationships, through retreats, through just showing up with love—that’s a gift we desperately need in the Church today.

If you're leading in a parish, or just want to understand how to better welcome and walk with our Hispanic brothers and sisters, this conversation will open your eyes and maybe even shift your heart.

[00:14] The Importance of Hispanic Ministry
[04:59] A Life-Changing Retreat
[06:31] Becoming a Deacon
[09:25] Hispanic Ministry in the Archdiocese
[23:57] Ecclesial Movements and Community Impact
[29:18] Devotional Culture in Hispanic Communities
[33:20] Challenges in Hispanic Ministry
[37:23] Consumerism and Faith
[42:49] Gifts of the Hispanic Community
[47:42] Building Inclusive Parishes
[54:32] Resources and Support for Hispanic Ministry

For more, check out Dcn. Gregorio's website, Facebook, or just email him at hmo@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)

]]> Could Hispanic spirituality be the gift your parish needs?

In this episode, I sit down with Deacon Gregorio Elizalde, who leads Hispanic Ministry for the Archdiocese of Omaha. We talk about what really makes Hispanic ministry tick—and spoiler alert—it’s not just about translating resources into Spanish. It’s about receiving culture, building trust, and forming real relationships.

Deacon Gregorio shares powerful insights into how many Hispanic Catholics show up with this deep, family-rooted faith that’s joyful, sacrificial, and incredibly contagious. There’s a deep sense of devotion, hospitality, and joy, even in the midst of hardship in Hispanic Catholic communities. And honestly, their ability to evangelize through relationships, through retreats, through just showing up with love—that’s a gift we desperately need in the Church today.

If you're leading in a parish, or just want to understand how to better welcome and walk with our Hispanic brothers and sisters, this conversation will open your eyes and maybe even shift your heart.

[00:14] The Importance of Hispanic Ministry
[04:59] A Life-Changing Retreat
[06:31] Becoming a Deacon
[09:25] Hispanic Ministry in the Archdiocese
[23:57] Ecclesial Movements and Community Impact
[29:18] Devotional Culture in Hispanic Communities
[33:20] Challenges in Hispanic Ministry
[37:23] Consumerism and Faith
[42:49] Gifts of the Hispanic Community
[47:42] Building Inclusive Parishes
[54:32] Resources and Support for Hispanic Ministry

For more, check out Dcn. Gregorio's website, Facebook, or just email him at hmo@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)

]]> Coach's Corner 21: Hope – The Church’s Key to Renewal https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/cc21 8aafe15c-7cb9-4937-8b0c-a9172be506ec Tue, 03 Jun 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha full Archdiocese of Omaha What if real cultural change is just 15% away—and we’re closer than we think? In this Coach’s Corner, I’m diving into something that’s been really stirring in my heart: hope. Not the wishful-thinking kind, but the kind that’s born from repentance—a deep turning back to God with a holy fear of offending His love. When we do that, we make space for His grace to move, to renew, to restore. That’s where real hope comes alive. I also talk about why I truly believe cultural change is possible—even now. Did you know it only takes about 15% of a group to shift the culture? That means if just a small part of our parish gets fired up for the Gospel and mission, it can spark something way bigger. I’ve seen it happen. And more importantly—God’s done it before. I share stories, reflect on saints and past renewals, and talk about how a mission mindset, paired with corporate repentance, can set the stage for transformation. I end the episode with a prayer asking God to move in power again—because I really believe He’s not done with us yet. If you’ve been feeling discouraged or wondering if your yes to God really matters, this one’s for you. 13:47 no What if real cultural change is just 15% away—and we’re closer than we think? In this Coach’s Corner, I’m diving into something that’s been really stirring in my heart: hope. Not the wishful-thinking kind, but the kind that’s born from repentance—a deep turning back to God with a holy fear of offending His love. When we do that, we make space for His grace to move, to renew, to restore. That’s where real hope comes alive. I also talk about why I truly believe cultural change is possible—even now. Did you know it only takes about 15% of a group to shift the culture? That means if just a small part of our parish gets fired up for the Gospel and mission, it can spark something way bigger. I’ve seen it happen. And more importantly—God’s done it before. I share stories, reflect on saints and past renewals, and talk about how a mission mindset, paired with corporate repentance, can set the stage for transformation. I end the episode with a prayer asking God to move in power again—because I really believe He’s not done with us yet. If you’ve been feeling discouraged or wondering if your yes to God really matters, this one’s for you. [00:35] Finding Real Hope for Your Mission [02:38] Understanding the Concept of Hope [03:54] Nurturing Expectation Through Stories of Saints [05:04] The Tipping Point of Cultural Change [06:27] Nurturing Holy Fear [08:01] The Role of Repentance in Renewal [10:53] The Great Commission and Jesus' Promise [12:22] Closing Prayer and Final Thoughts Also, check out The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference (https://www.amazon.com/Tipping-Point-Little-Things-Difference/dp/0316346624). 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) hope, church renewal, catholic podcast, parish transformation, spiritual renewal, mission and discipleship, equipcast, archdiocese of omaha, jim jansen, catholic leadership, faith and culture, repentance and hope, jubilee of hope, tipping point, catholic evangelization, holy fear, cultural change in the church, saints and renewal, catholic mission, pastoral conversion What if real cultural change is just 15% away—and we’re closer than we think?

In this Coach’s Corner, I’m diving into something that’s been really stirring in my heart: hope. Not the wishful-thinking kind, but the kind that’s born from repentance—a deep turning back to God with a holy fear of offending His love. When we do that, we make space for His grace to move, to renew, to restore. That’s where real hope comes alive.

I also talk about why I truly believe cultural change is possible—even now. Did you know it only takes about 15% of a group to shift the culture? That means if just a small part of our parish gets fired up for the Gospel and mission, it can spark something way bigger. I’ve seen it happen. And more importantly—God’s done it before.

I share stories, reflect on saints and past renewals, and talk about how a mission mindset, paired with corporate repentance, can set the stage for transformation. I end the episode with a prayer asking God to move in power again—because I really believe He’s not done with us yet.

If you’ve been feeling discouraged or wondering if your yes to God really matters, this one’s for you.

[00:35] Finding Real Hope for Your Mission
[02:38] Understanding the Concept of Hope
[03:54] Nurturing Expectation Through Stories of Saints
[05:04] The Tipping Point of Cultural Change
[06:27] Nurturing Holy Fear
[08:01] The Role of Repentance in Renewal
[10:53] The Great Commission and Jesus' Promise
[12:22] Closing Prayer and Final Thoughts

Also, check out The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference.

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 if real cultural change is just 15% away—and we’re closer than we think?

In this Coach’s Corner, I’m diving into something that’s been really stirring in my heart: hope. Not the wishful-thinking kind, but the kind that’s born from repentance—a deep turning back to God with a holy fear of offending His love. When we do that, we make space for His grace to move, to renew, to restore. That’s where real hope comes alive.

I also talk about why I truly believe cultural change is possible—even now. Did you know it only takes about 15% of a group to shift the culture? That means if just a small part of our parish gets fired up for the Gospel and mission, it can spark something way bigger. I’ve seen it happen. And more importantly—God’s done it before.

I share stories, reflect on saints and past renewals, and talk about how a mission mindset, paired with corporate repentance, can set the stage for transformation. I end the episode with a prayer asking God to move in power again—because I really believe He’s not done with us yet.

If you’ve been feeling discouraged or wondering if your yes to God really matters, this one’s for you.

[00:35] Finding Real Hope for Your Mission
[02:38] Understanding the Concept of Hope
[03:54] Nurturing Expectation Through Stories of Saints
[05:04] The Tipping Point of Cultural Change
[06:27] Nurturing Holy Fear
[08:01] The Role of Repentance in Renewal
[10:53] The Great Commission and Jesus' Promise
[12:22] Closing Prayer and Final Thoughts

Also, check out The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference.

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 184: When God asks, how do you answer?—The Power of “Yes” with Christina Semmens https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/184 92ac1b22-4743-411d-b263-5c41149981cb Tue, 27 May 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 184 When God asks, how do you answer?—The Power of “Yes” with Christina Semmens full Archdiocese of Omaha 1:04:00 no Is it possible that your biggest step in faith begins with just saying yes—even before you know where it’ll lead? Saying yes to God, even when you don’t know all He’s asking, is about trusting the One who’s asking. It’s not about having the plan—it’s about knowing He’s good. Mary didn’t have all the details, but she said yes, and that yes changed everything. Our willingness can open the door for God to do more than we could ever imagine. I sit with Christina Semmens, author of Say Yes: Discovering Purpose, Peace, and Abundance in Daily Life, to talk about how small, daily choices can lead to a life of mission and meaning. We unpack how personal and relational evangelization isn’t one-size-fits-all, and how saying yes—internally and externally—can transform your relationship with God and others. Whether you're seeking to live your faith more intentionally or just need a dose of spiritual encouragement, Christina offers practical wisdom and heartfelt insight to help you walk more closely with God and embrace your unique calling. [00:01] Meet Christina Simmons: Author and Speaker [02:19] Christina's Personal Journey and Background [08:12] Discovering Faith and Mission [12:23] The Power of Saying Yes [16:20] Living Out Your Unique Mission [21:18] Practical Tools for Spiritual Growth [28:55] Real-Life Transformations [34:30] The Importance of Retreats in Daily Life [36:08] Making Time for Spiritual Retreats [42:26] The Four Rs of Scripture Reading [47:58] Programs vs. Processes in Spiritual Life [50:06] Holistic CPR: Customized Personal Formation [54:59] Dealing with Loneliness on Mission [01:01:55] Final Thoughts and Contact Information Don’t forget to check out Say Yes to Holiness (https://www.sayyestoholiness.com/) or contact Christina (mailto:christinasemmens@gmail.com) personally. 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) Christina Semmens, Say Yes book, Catholic podcast, spiritual growth, daily faith, personal mission, evangelization, Catholic evangelization, charisms, Holy Spirit, Catholic spirituality, living your calling, Catholic encouragement, faith and purpose, Catholic discernment, Catholic daily life, spiritual encouragement, Catholic inspiration, EquipCast, Archdiocese of Omaha Is it possible that your biggest step in faith begins with just saying yes—even before you know where it’ll lead?

Saying yes to God, even when you don’t know all He’s asking, is about trusting the One who’s asking. It’s not about having the plan—it’s about knowing He’s good. Mary didn’t have all the details, but she said yes, and that yes changed everything. Our willingness can open the door for God to do more than we could ever imagine.

I sit with Christina Semmens, author of Say Yes: Discovering Purpose, Peace, and Abundance in Daily Life, to talk about how small, daily choices can lead to a life of mission and meaning. We unpack how personal and relational evangelization isn’t one-size-fits-all, and how saying yes—internally and externally—can transform your relationship with God and others.

Whether you're seeking to live your faith more intentionally or just need a dose of spiritual encouragement, Christina offers practical wisdom and heartfelt insight to help you walk more closely with God and embrace your unique calling.

[00:01] Meet Christina Simmons: Author and Speaker
[02:19] Christina's Personal Journey and Background
[08:12] Discovering Faith and Mission
[12:23] The Power of Saying Yes
[16:20] Living Out Your Unique Mission
[21:18] Practical Tools for Spiritual Growth
[28:55] Real-Life Transformations
[34:30] The Importance of Retreats in Daily Life
[36:08] Making Time for Spiritual Retreats
[42:26] The Four Rs of Scripture Reading
[47:58] Programs vs. Processes in Spiritual Life
[50:06] Holistic CPR: Customized Personal Formation
[54:59] Dealing with Loneliness on Mission
[01:01:55] Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Don’t forget to check out Say Yes to Holiness or contact Christina personally.

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)

]]> Is it possible that your biggest step in faith begins with just saying yes—even before you know where it’ll lead?

Saying yes to God, even when you don’t know all He’s asking, is about trusting the One who’s asking. It’s not about having the plan—it’s about knowing He’s good. Mary didn’t have all the details, but she said yes, and that yes changed everything. Our willingness can open the door for God to do more than we could ever imagine.

I sit with Christina Semmens, author of Say Yes: Discovering Purpose, Peace, and Abundance in Daily Life, to talk about how small, daily choices can lead to a life of mission and meaning. We unpack how personal and relational evangelization isn’t one-size-fits-all, and how saying yes—internally and externally—can transform your relationship with God and others.

Whether you're seeking to live your faith more intentionally or just need a dose of spiritual encouragement, Christina offers practical wisdom and heartfelt insight to help you walk more closely with God and embrace your unique calling.

[00:01] Meet Christina Simmons: Author and Speaker
[02:19] Christina's Personal Journey and Background
[08:12] Discovering Faith and Mission
[12:23] The Power of Saying Yes
[16:20] Living Out Your Unique Mission
[21:18] Practical Tools for Spiritual Growth
[28:55] Real-Life Transformations
[34:30] The Importance of Retreats in Daily Life
[36:08] Making Time for Spiritual Retreats
[42:26] The Four Rs of Scripture Reading
[47:58] Programs vs. Processes in Spiritual Life
[50:06] Holistic CPR: Customized Personal Formation
[54:59] Dealing with Loneliness on Mission
[01:01:55] Final Thoughts and Contact Information

Don’t forget to check out Say Yes to Holiness or contact Christina personally.

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 183: Charisms in the Chaos: How a Parish Community Mobilized After a Tornado https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/183 a5854d4a-f240-4555-bf29-85aecb31600b Tue, 20 May 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 183 Charisms in the Chaos: How a Parish Community Mobilized After a Tornado full Archdiocese of Omaha Can something as simple as kindness really change someone's view of God? Simple acts of love and kindness are how Jesus shows up in people’s lives. When someone feels seen, heard, and cared for—especially in their mess or suffering—it softens hearts. It opens a door. That’s when people start to wonder, “Why are you doing this?” And we get to say, “Because Jesus loves you.” When we meet people in their suffering with compassion—feeding them, clothing them, praying with them—we’re not just meeting physical needs, we’re revealing the heart of Jesus. And when people experience that kind of love, they start to believe again that God is real, that He sees them, and that He hasn’t forgotten them. In today’s episode, I sit down with Mandy Busch and Amanda Pfeiffer to share the incredible story of how their parish community responded after an EF4 tornado struck. Instead of just reacting, they mobilized hundreds—each person using their unique spiritual gifts—to serve with compassion, leadership, and faith. We talk about how discovering and using our charisms—the gifts given by the Holy Spirit—can be a game changer for unity and fruitfulness in mission. When we stop comparing and start collaborating, the Church comes alive. Like a puzzle, every piece matters. And when we come together in love, the result is powerful. 50:39 no Can something as simple as kindness really change someone's view of God? Simple acts of love and kindness are how Jesus shows up in people’s lives. When someone feels seen, heard, and cared for—especially in their mess or suffering—it softens hearts. It opens a door. That’s when people start to wonder, “Why are you doing this?” And we get to say, “Because Jesus loves you.” When we meet people in their suffering with compassion—feeding them, clothing them, praying with them—we’re not just meeting physical needs, we’re revealing the heart of Jesus. And when people experience that kind of love, they start to believe again that God is real, that He sees them, and that He hasn’t forgotten them. In today’s episode, I sit down with Mandy Busch and Amanda Pfeiffer to share the incredible story of how their parish community responded after an EF4 tornado struck. Instead of just reacting, they mobilized hundreds—each person using their unique spiritual gifts—to serve with compassion, leadership, and faith. We talk about how discovering and using our charisms—the gifts given by the Holy Spirit—can be a game changer for unity and fruitfulness in mission. When we stop comparing and start collaborating, the Church comes alive. Like a puzzle, every piece matters. And when we come together in love, the result is powerful. [01:14] Revisiting the Tornado Incident [03:46] Immediate Aftermath and Community Response [07:22] Mobilizing Resources and Long-Term Support [09:40] Charisms in Action [12:39] Coordination and Leadership [18:45] Recognition and Reflection [24:17] Witnessing the Holy Spirit at Work [26:35] Street Ministry and Community Impact [30:04] Acts of Mercy and Returning to Faith [34:09] Teamwork and Charisms in Action [42:26] Long-term Effects and Continued Support [44:24] Encouragement for Parish Leaders [49:03] Final Thoughts and Resources Don’t forget to check out St. Pat’s Elkhorn (https://www.stpatselkhorn.org/), Called and Gifted (https://siena.org/called-gifted), and related episode “Match Your Gifts to Your Mission” (https://equip.archomaha.org/match-your-gifts-to-your-mission-how-charisms-have-the-power-to-change-everything/). 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) charisms, spiritual gifts, Catholic podcast, tornado recovery, faith in action, works of mercy, evangelization, parish ministry, Holy Spirit, Catholic Church, disaster response, unity in mission, Amanda Pfeiffer, Mandy Busch, St. Patrick's Elkhorn, EquipCast, Archdiocese of Omaha, Called and Gifted, Catholic community, church outreach, charisms in crisis Can something as simple as kindness really change someone's view of God?

Simple acts of love and kindness are how Jesus shows up in people’s lives. When someone feels seen, heard, and cared for—especially in their mess or suffering—it softens hearts. It opens a door. That’s when people start to wonder, “Why are you doing this?” And we get to say, “Because Jesus loves you.” When we meet people in their suffering with compassion—feeding them, clothing them, praying with them—we’re not just meeting physical needs, we’re revealing the heart of Jesus. And when people experience that kind of love, they start to believe again that God is real, that He sees them, and that He hasn’t forgotten them.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Mandy Busch and Amanda Pfeiffer to share the incredible story of how their parish community responded after an EF4 tornado struck. Instead of just reacting, they mobilized hundreds—each person using their unique spiritual gifts—to serve with compassion, leadership, and faith. We talk about how discovering and using our charisms—the gifts given by the Holy Spirit—can be a game changer for unity and fruitfulness in mission. When we stop comparing and start collaborating, the Church comes alive. Like a puzzle, every piece matters. And when we come together in love, the result is powerful.

[01:14] Revisiting the Tornado Incident
[03:46] Immediate Aftermath and Community Response
[07:22] Mobilizing Resources and Long-Term Support
[09:40] Charisms in Action
[12:39] Coordination and Leadership
[18:45] Recognition and Reflection
[24:17] Witnessing the Holy Spirit at Work
[26:35] Street Ministry and Community Impact
[30:04] Acts of Mercy and Returning to Faith
[34:09] Teamwork and Charisms in Action
[42:26] Long-term Effects and Continued Support
[44:24] Encouragement for Parish Leaders
[49:03] Final Thoughts and Resources

Don’t forget to check out St. Pat’s Elkhorn, Called and Gifted, and related episode “Match Your Gifts to Your Mission”.

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 something as simple as kindness really change someone's view of God?

Simple acts of love and kindness are how Jesus shows up in people’s lives. When someone feels seen, heard, and cared for—especially in their mess or suffering—it softens hearts. It opens a door. That’s when people start to wonder, “Why are you doing this?” And we get to say, “Because Jesus loves you.” When we meet people in their suffering with compassion—feeding them, clothing them, praying with them—we’re not just meeting physical needs, we’re revealing the heart of Jesus. And when people experience that kind of love, they start to believe again that God is real, that He sees them, and that He hasn’t forgotten them.

In today’s episode, I sit down with Mandy Busch and Amanda Pfeiffer to share the incredible story of how their parish community responded after an EF4 tornado struck. Instead of just reacting, they mobilized hundreds—each person using their unique spiritual gifts—to serve with compassion, leadership, and faith. We talk about how discovering and using our charisms—the gifts given by the Holy Spirit—can be a game changer for unity and fruitfulness in mission. When we stop comparing and start collaborating, the Church comes alive. Like a puzzle, every piece matters. And when we come together in love, the result is powerful.

[01:14] Revisiting the Tornado Incident
[03:46] Immediate Aftermath and Community Response
[07:22] Mobilizing Resources and Long-Term Support
[09:40] Charisms in Action
[12:39] Coordination and Leadership
[18:45] Recognition and Reflection
[24:17] Witnessing the Holy Spirit at Work
[26:35] Street Ministry and Community Impact
[30:04] Acts of Mercy and Returning to Faith
[34:09] Teamwork and Charisms in Action
[42:26] Long-term Effects and Continued Support
[44:24] Encouragement for Parish Leaders
[49:03] Final Thoughts and Resources

Don’t forget to check out St. Pat’s Elkhorn, Called and Gifted, and related episode “Match Your Gifts to Your Mission”.

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 178: Measuring Faith: How Data and Devotion Are Revitalizing Sacred Heart Parish https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/178 7cb3543b-5b7a-4642-8da1-d5543bebe871 Tue, 18 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 178 Measuring Faith: How Data and Devotion Are Revitalizing Sacred Heart Parish full Archdiocese of Omaha What does it take to build a thriving, faith-filled parish? In this episode, I sit down with Father Jamie Zarse, pastor at Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee, Kansas, to unpack his vision for renewing his parish—starting with a team of prayer warriors and leaders—and the spiritual habits that are transforming his community. From deeper devotion to the Eucharist and the Rosary to more frequent confession and scripture-based prayer, these simple yet powerful practices are sparking real change. Mass attendance is up by 18%, generosity is growing with an additional $408,000 in tithing, and parishioners are coming alive in their faith. Father Jamie also reveals why measuring spiritual progress and forming strong leadership teams are key to sustaining this momentum. He shares how his leadership team, a mix of staff and dedicated volunteers, meets weekly to ensure they are always working on the most important things. They even use innovative tools like QR code surveys during Mass to track engagement in key spiritual habits. 50:29 no What does it take to build a thriving, faith-filled parish? In this episode, I sit down with Father Jamie Zarse, pastor at Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee, Kansas, to unpack his vision for renewing his parish—starting with a team of prayer warriors and leaders—and the spiritual habits that are transforming his community. From deeper devotion to the Eucharist and the Rosary to more frequent confession and scripture-based prayer, these simple yet powerful practices are sparking real change. Mass attendance is up by 18%, generosity is growing with an additional $408,000 in tithing, and parishioners are coming alive in their faith. Father Jamie also reveals why measuring spiritual progress and forming strong leadership teams are key to sustaining this momentum. He shares how his leadership team, a mix of staff and dedicated volunteers, meets weekly to ensure they are always working on the most important things. They even use innovative tools like QR code surveys during Mass to track engagement in key spiritual habits. Whether you're a parish leader or just passionate about seeing your faith community flourish, this episode is packed with wisdom you won’t want to miss. Discover how Father Jamie's approach has led to a significant increase in OCIA participants and the success of marriage enrichment programs that have saved marriages and strengthened families. Give it a listen and let us know—what’s one habit or leadership insight that stood out to you? [05:12] Building a Team of Prayer Warriors [10:14] Leadership and Vision Development [18:37] Measuring Parish Engagement [23:30] Accountability and Evangelization [28:42] Building a Healthy Leadership Team [37:32] Leveraging Business Practices in Parish Management [44:20] Personal and Professional Rule of Life Check out Fr. Jamie’s parish, Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church (https://www.shoj.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) transforming parishes, parish renewal, Father Jamie Zarse, Sacred Heart Parish, Shawnee Kansas, prayer warriors, leadership teams, spiritual habits, Eucharist devotion, Rosary devotion, confession habits, scriptural prayer, mass attendance, parish generosity, measuring spiritual progress, OCIA growth, marriage enrichment, parish leadership, faith community, Catholic podcast, EquipCast, Archdiocese of Omaha, church growth strategies, parish success stories, building vibrant parishes, faith-filled community, Catholic discipleship, parish transformation, church leadership insights What does it take to build a thriving, faith-filled parish? In this episode, I sit down with Father Jamie Zarse, pastor at Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee, Kansas, to unpack his vision for renewing his parish—starting with a team of prayer warriors and leaders—and the spiritual habits that are transforming his community. From deeper devotion to the Eucharist and the Rosary to more frequent confession and scripture-based prayer, these simple yet powerful practices are sparking real change. Mass attendance is up by 18%, generosity is growing with an additional $408,000 in tithing, and parishioners are coming alive in their faith.

Father Jamie also reveals why measuring spiritual progress and forming strong leadership teams are key to sustaining this momentum. He shares how his leadership team, a mix of staff and dedicated volunteers, meets weekly to ensure they are always working on the most important things. They even use innovative tools like QR code surveys during Mass to track engagement in key spiritual habits.

Whether you're a parish leader or just passionate about seeing your faith community flourish, this episode is packed with wisdom you won’t want to miss. Discover how Father Jamie's approach has led to a significant increase in OCIA participants and the success of marriage enrichment programs that have saved marriages and strengthened families.
Give it a listen and let us know—what’s one habit or leadership insight that stood out to you?

[05:12] Building a Team of Prayer Warriors
[10:14] Leadership and Vision Development
[18:37] Measuring Parish Engagement
[23:30] Accountability and Evangelization
[28:42] Building a Healthy Leadership Team
[37:32] Leveraging Business Practices in Parish Management
[44:20] Personal and Professional Rule of Life

Check out Fr. Jamie’s parish, Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church.

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 does it take to build a thriving, faith-filled parish? In this episode, I sit down with Father Jamie Zarse, pastor at Sacred Heart Parish in Shawnee, Kansas, to unpack his vision for renewing his parish—starting with a team of prayer warriors and leaders—and the spiritual habits that are transforming his community. From deeper devotion to the Eucharist and the Rosary to more frequent confession and scripture-based prayer, these simple yet powerful practices are sparking real change. Mass attendance is up by 18%, generosity is growing with an additional $408,000 in tithing, and parishioners are coming alive in their faith.

Father Jamie also reveals why measuring spiritual progress and forming strong leadership teams are key to sustaining this momentum. He shares how his leadership team, a mix of staff and dedicated volunteers, meets weekly to ensure they are always working on the most important things. They even use innovative tools like QR code surveys during Mass to track engagement in key spiritual habits.

Whether you're a parish leader or just passionate about seeing your faith community flourish, this episode is packed with wisdom you won’t want to miss. Discover how Father Jamie's approach has led to a significant increase in OCIA participants and the success of marriage enrichment programs that have saved marriages and strengthened families.
Give it a listen and let us know—what’s one habit or leadership insight that stood out to you?

[05:12] Building a Team of Prayer Warriors
[10:14] Leadership and Vision Development
[18:37] Measuring Parish Engagement
[23:30] Accountability and Evangelization
[28:42] Building a Healthy Leadership Team
[37:32] Leveraging Business Practices in Parish Management
[44:20] Personal and Professional Rule of Life

Check out Fr. Jamie’s parish, Sacred Heart of Jesus Catholic Church.

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 177: How Collaboration and the Temperaments Can Unlock Parish Renewal https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/177 6986e805-274b-4d3f-9996-222f37eb1c24 Tue, 11 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 177 How Collaboration and the Temperaments Can Unlock Parish Renewal full Archdiocese of Omaha Are you part of a dynamic team that truly leverages each member’s unique gifts? Building cohesive and effective teams is essential for parish renewal and vibrant ministry. When individuals are inspired and equipped to discover, discern, and live out their God-given mission, our parishes thrive. In this episode, I sit down with Matt Ingold of Metanoia Catholic, and he interviews me for his podcast, The Catholic Coaching Podcast. We explore how collaboration strengthens ministry by embracing diverse gifts and temperaments. Whether sanguine, choleric, melancholic, or phlegmatic, each person brings valuable strengths that contribute to a well-rounded, effective team. By recognizing these differences and assigning roles accordingly, we cultivate unity, purpose, and a faith community where everyone feels valued and empowered. Join us as we discuss practical ways to build strong teams that drive renewal and share the Gospel with joy and purpose! 1:09:46 no Are you part of a dynamic team that truly leverages each member’s unique gifts? Building cohesive and effective teams is essential for parish renewal and vibrant ministry. When individuals are inspired and equipped to discover, discern, and live out their God-given mission, our parishes thrive. In this episode, I sit down with Matt Ingold of Metanoia Catholic, and he interviews me for his podcast, The Catholic Coaching Podcast (https://www.metanoiacatholic.com/tccp). We explore how collaboration strengthens ministry by embracing diverse gifts and temperaments. Whether sanguine, choleric, melancholic, or phlegmatic, each person brings valuable strengths that contribute to a well-rounded, effective team. By recognizing these differences and assigning roles accordingly, we cultivate unity, purpose, and a faith community where everyone feels valued and empowered. Join us as we discuss practical ways to build strong teams that drive renewal and share the Gospel with joy and purpose! [02:09] Jim Jansen's Ministry Journey [06:57] Challenges and Growth in Evangelization [14:06] Transition to Archdiocese Work [19:08] Innovative Evangelization Strategies [34:40] The Role of Temperaments in Ministry [35:56] The Power of Temperaments in Team Dynamics [39:56] Integrating Temperaments in Evangelization [48:08] Creating a Clear Path for Discipleship [51:51] Building Effective Ministry Contexts [56:00] Equipping for Mission and Evangelization Don’t forget to check out Metanoia Catholic (https://www.metanoiacatholic.com/) and The Clear Path book (https://clearpathbook.com/)! 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) parish renewal, collaboration in ministry, four temperaments, effective ministry teams, Catholic coaching, evangelization strategies, Metanoia Catholic, team dynamics, discipleship, Catholic podcast, church leadership, faith formation, missionary disciples, building a clear path, personal growth, parish support, Catholic evangelization Are you part of a dynamic team that truly leverages each member’s unique gifts? Building cohesive and effective teams is essential for parish renewal and vibrant ministry. When individuals are inspired and equipped to discover, discern, and live out their God-given mission, our parishes thrive.

In this episode, I sit down with Matt Ingold of Metanoia Catholic, and he interviews me for his podcast, The Catholic Coaching Podcast. We explore how collaboration strengthens ministry by embracing diverse gifts and temperaments. Whether sanguine, choleric, melancholic, or phlegmatic, each person brings valuable strengths that contribute to a well-rounded, effective team. By recognizing these differences and assigning roles accordingly, we cultivate unity, purpose, and a faith community where everyone feels valued and empowered.

Join us as we discuss practical ways to build strong teams that drive renewal and share the Gospel with joy and purpose!

[02:09] Jim Jansen's Ministry Journey
[06:57] Challenges and Growth in Evangelization
[14:06] Transition to Archdiocese Work
[19:08] Innovative Evangelization Strategies
[34:40] The Role of Temperaments in Ministry
[35:56] The Power of Temperaments in Team Dynamics
[39:56] Integrating Temperaments in Evangelization
[48:08] Creating a Clear Path for Discipleship
[51:51] Building Effective Ministry Contexts
[56:00] Equipping for Mission and Evangelization

Don’t forget to check out Metanoia Catholic and The Clear Path book!

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)

]]> Are you part of a dynamic team that truly leverages each member’s unique gifts? Building cohesive and effective teams is essential for parish renewal and vibrant ministry. When individuals are inspired and equipped to discover, discern, and live out their God-given mission, our parishes thrive.

In this episode, I sit down with Matt Ingold of Metanoia Catholic, and he interviews me for his podcast, The Catholic Coaching Podcast. We explore how collaboration strengthens ministry by embracing diverse gifts and temperaments. Whether sanguine, choleric, melancholic, or phlegmatic, each person brings valuable strengths that contribute to a well-rounded, effective team. By recognizing these differences and assigning roles accordingly, we cultivate unity, purpose, and a faith community where everyone feels valued and empowered.

Join us as we discuss practical ways to build strong teams that drive renewal and share the Gospel with joy and purpose!

[02:09] Jim Jansen's Ministry Journey
[06:57] Challenges and Growth in Evangelization
[14:06] Transition to Archdiocese Work
[19:08] Innovative Evangelization Strategies
[34:40] The Role of Temperaments in Ministry
[35:56] The Power of Temperaments in Team Dynamics
[39:56] Integrating Temperaments in Evangelization
[48:08] Creating a Clear Path for Discipleship
[51:51] Building Effective Ministry Contexts
[56:00] Equipping for Mission and Evangelization

Don’t forget to check out Metanoia Catholic and The Clear Path book!

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)

]]> Coach's Corner 18: 12 Tips to Revolutionize Your Rosary https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/cc18 0263d1f2-6b29-4548-814f-3d1e73db7818 Tue, 11 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0600 Archdiocese of Omaha full Archdiocese of Omaha Do you ever get distracted while praying the rosary—or even, dare we say, find it boring? The rosary is a powerful tool to deepen your relationship with Jesus and Mary, a beautiful way to converse with God and invite His grace to transform your life. Join me for a Coach’s Corner where I share 12 practical tips to revolutionize your experience of the rosary and make it more meaningful than ever. 10:24 no Do you ever get distracted while praying the rosary—or even, dare we say, find it boring? The rosary is a powerful tool to deepen your relationship with Jesus and Mary, a beautiful way to converse with God and invite His grace to transform your life. Join me for a Coach’s Corner where I share 12 practical tips to revolutionize your experience of the rosary and make it more meaningful than ever. [00:23] Introduction to the Rosary [01:21] 12 Tips to Revolutionize Your Rosary [00:02:00] Tip 1: Go for a Walk [00:02:30] Tip 2: Focus on the Mysteries [00:03:00] Tip 3: Read the Mysteries [00:03:30] Tip 4: Other Stories [00:04:00] Tip 5: Pray the Mysteries Seasonally [00:04:30] Tip 6: Switch Your Counter [00:05:00] Tip 7: Contemplate Your Questions [00:05:30] Tip 8: Intercessory Rosary [00:06:00] Tip 9: Focus on Jesus in the Mystery [00:07:00] Tip 10: Split It Up [00:07:30] Tip 11: Be Patient with Yourself [00:08:00] Tip 12: Remember, Love is the Aim [00:09:00] Closing Prayer Also, check out our Discernment Rosary (https://equip.archomaha.org/sd4discernmentrosary/) guide. 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) rosary tips, praying the rosary, Our Lady of Lourdes, Catholic prayer, meditation, spiritual growth, faith inspiration, rosary mysteries, prayer techniques, Catholic podcast, spiritual life, prayer habits Do you ever get distracted while praying the rosary—or even, dare we say, find it boring? The rosary is a powerful tool to deepen your relationship with Jesus and Mary, a beautiful way to converse with God and invite His grace to transform your life.

Join me for a Coach’s Corner where I share 12 practical tips to revolutionize your experience of the rosary and make it more meaningful than ever.

[00:23] Introduction to the Rosary
[01:21] 12 Tips to Revolutionize Your Rosary
[00:02:00] Tip 1: Go for a Walk
[00:02:30] Tip 2: Focus on the Mysteries
[00:03:00] Tip 3: Read the Mysteries
[00:03:30] Tip 4: Other Stories
[00:04:00] Tip 5: Pray the Mysteries Seasonally
[00:04:30] Tip 6: Switch Your Counter
[00:05:00] Tip 7: Contemplate Your Questions
[00:05:30] Tip 8: Intercessory Rosary
[00:06:00] Tip 9: Focus on Jesus in the Mystery
[00:07:00] Tip 10: Split It Up
[00:07:30] Tip 11: Be Patient with Yourself
[00:08:00] Tip 12: Remember, Love is the Aim
[00:09:00] Closing Prayer

Also, check out our Discernment Rosary guide.

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)

]]> Do you ever get distracted while praying the rosary—or even, dare we say, find it boring? The rosary is a powerful tool to deepen your relationship with Jesus and Mary, a beautiful way to converse with God and invite His grace to transform your life.

Join me for a Coach’s Corner where I share 12 practical tips to revolutionize your experience of the rosary and make it more meaningful than ever.

[00:23] Introduction to the Rosary
[01:21] 12 Tips to Revolutionize Your Rosary
[00:02:00] Tip 1: Go for a Walk
[00:02:30] Tip 2: Focus on the Mysteries
[00:03:00] Tip 3: Read the Mysteries
[00:03:30] Tip 4: Other Stories
[00:04:00] Tip 5: Pray the Mysteries Seasonally
[00:04:30] Tip 6: Switch Your Counter
[00:05:00] Tip 7: Contemplate Your Questions
[00:05:30] Tip 8: Intercessory Rosary
[00:06:00] Tip 9: Focus on Jesus in the Mystery
[00:07:00] Tip 10: Split It Up
[00:07:30] Tip 11: Be Patient with Yourself
[00:08:00] Tip 12: Remember, Love is the Aim
[00:09:00] Closing Prayer

Also, check out our Discernment Rosary guide.

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)

]]> Coach's Corner 17: A Clear Path for School Parents https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/cc17 fa7e0502-f465-4f87-93d8-cd4f4aad2136 Tue, 07 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0600 Archdiocese of Omaha full Archdiocese of Omaha One of the largest opportunities for evangelization is in our Catholic schools. But breaking into this mission field comes with its own struggles. Many parents are juggling so many responsibilities and pressures. They're dealing with work, family, and all the demands of modern life, which can make it hard to prioritize their faith journey. Plus, the church's efforts to engage them might not always resonate or fit into their busy lives. But the key is to meet them where they are. Join me today for a discussion about how to engage school parents in the clear path to discipleship. 12:38 no One of the largest opportunities for evangelization is in our Catholic schools. But breaking into this mission field comes with its own struggles. Many parents are juggling so many responsibilities and pressures. They're dealing with work, family, and all the demands of modern life, which can make it hard to prioritize their faith journey. Plus, the church's efforts to engage them might not always resonate or fit into their busy lives. But the key is to meet them where they are. Join me today for a discussion about how to engage school parents in the clear path to discipleship. [01:12] Challenges Facing Catholic Schools [05:00] The Role of Parents in Faith Formation [07:23] Building a Clear Path of Discipleship [09:42] Pro Tips for Engaging School Parents 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 education, evangelization, faith formation, discipleship, Catholic schools, parental involvement, school parents, clear path of discipleship, Catholic faith, faith journey, church engagement, Catholic community, religious education, family faith, parish support, Catholic podcast, faith development One of the largest opportunities for evangelization is in our Catholic schools. But breaking into this mission field comes with its own struggles. Many parents are juggling so many responsibilities and pressures. They're dealing with work, family, and all the demands of modern life, which can make it hard to prioritize their faith journey. Plus, the church's efforts to engage them might not always resonate or fit into their busy lives. But the key is to meet them where they are.

Join me today for a discussion about how to engage school parents in the clear path to discipleship.

[01:12] Challenges Facing Catholic Schools
[05:00] The Role of Parents in Faith Formation
[07:23] Building a Clear Path of Discipleship
[09:42] Pro Tips for Engaging School Parents

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)

]]> One of the largest opportunities for evangelization is in our Catholic schools. But breaking into this mission field comes with its own struggles. Many parents are juggling so many responsibilities and pressures. They're dealing with work, family, and all the demands of modern life, which can make it hard to prioritize their faith journey. Plus, the church's efforts to engage them might not always resonate or fit into their busy lives. But the key is to meet them where they are.

Join me today for a discussion about how to engage school parents in the clear path to discipleship.

[01:12] Challenges Facing Catholic Schools
[05:00] The Role of Parents in Faith Formation
[07:23] Building a Clear Path of Discipleship
[09:42] Pro Tips for Engaging School Parents

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 170: How Young Adults Can Find Their Place After College https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/170 2e22ea4e-62a9-4580-8ed8-43e49e1ddb5f Tue, 17 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0600 Archdiocese of Omaha 170 How Young Adults Can Find Their Place After College full Archdiocese of Omaha 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. In 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. 1:00:15 no 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. In 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. [02:50] The Role of Community in Faith Development [06:10] Challenges and Transitions for Young Adults [17:57] Building a Young Adult Ministry [26:19] Creating a Vision for Young Adult Engagement [31:58] Leadership Transitions and Identifying New Leaders [39:10] Engaging Young Adults in Prayer and Community [44:45] Connecting Young Adults to Their Parishes [50:59] Balancing Family Life and Ministry [54:37] Encouragement for Aspiring Leaders For more, check out archoyoungadults.org (https://www.archoyoungadults.org/) or email Matt at archoyoungadults@gmail.com (mailto:archoyoungadults@gmail.com). 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) young adult ministry, faith community, post-college transition, ArchO Young Adults, Omaha Archdiocese, spiritual growth, mentorship, community building, grassroots movement, Catholic young adults, Holy Spirit guidance, service and charisms, young adult challenges, faith journey, parish involvement, missionary disciples, Catholic podcast 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.

In 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.

[02:50] The Role of Community in Faith Development
[06:10] Challenges and Transitions for Young Adults
[17:57] Building a Young Adult Ministry
[26:19] Creating a Vision for Young Adult Engagement
[31:58] Leadership Transitions and Identifying New Leaders
[39:10] Engaging Young Adults in Prayer and Community
[44:45] Connecting Young Adults to Their Parishes
[50:59] Balancing Family Life and Ministry
[54:37] Encouragement for Aspiring Leaders

For more, check out archoyoungadults.org or email Matt at archoyoungadults@gmail.com.

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 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.

In 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.

[02:50] The Role of Community in Faith Development
[06:10] Challenges and Transitions for Young Adults
[17:57] Building a Young Adult Ministry
[26:19] Creating a Vision for Young Adult Engagement
[31:58] Leadership Transitions and Identifying New Leaders
[39:10] Engaging Young Adults in Prayer and Community
[44:45] Connecting Young Adults to Their Parishes
[50:59] Balancing Family Life and Ministry
[54:37] Encouragement for Aspiring Leaders

For more, check out archoyoungadults.org or email Matt at archoyoungadults@gmail.com.

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 168: How to Tell If Your Prayer Life Is Working with Nathan Crankfield, Sales Lead for Hallow https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/168 acdc718b-d0e9-40cf-89b6-93494adb32db Tue, 19 Nov 2024 00:00:00 -0600 Archdiocese of Omaha 168 How to Tell If Your Prayer Life Is Working with Nathan Crankfield, Sales Lead for Hallow full Archdiocese of Omaha 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. In 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. 1:04:15 no 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. In 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. [01:08] Nathan's Background and Faith Journey [07:26] College Life and Spiritual Growth at Mount St. Mary's [16:01] The Importance and Practice of Prayer [33:56] God's Desire for Silence and Conversation [36:51] Recognizing the Fruits of Prayer [39:52] Challenges in Maintaining a Prayer Life [46:21] Balancing Work and Prayer [53:40] The Impact of the Hallow App Don’t forget to check out Nathan Crankfield (https://www.instagram.com/nathancrankfield/) on Instagram and his website Seeking Excellence (https://nathancrankfield.com/). And if you aren’t using the app yet: Hallow.com (https://hallow.com/). 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) Prayer Life, Spiritual Growth, Hallow App, Faith and Prayer, Catholic Podcast, Prayer Practices, Finding Peace in Prayer, Overcoming Prayer Challenges, Transformative Prayer, Daily Prayer Routine, Prayer and Mental Health, Building a Relationship with God, Prayer Tips, Faith Journey, Listening to God 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.

In 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.

[01:08] Nathan's Background and Faith Journey
[07:26] College Life and Spiritual Growth at Mount St. Mary's
[16:01] The Importance and Practice of Prayer
[33:56] God's Desire for Silence and Conversation
[36:51] Recognizing the Fruits of Prayer
[39:52] Challenges in Maintaining a Prayer Life
[46:21] Balancing Work and Prayer
[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.

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)

]]> 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.

In 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.

[01:08] Nathan's Background and Faith Journey
[07:26] College Life and Spiritual Growth at Mount St. Mary's
[16:01] The Importance and Practice of Prayer
[33:56] God's Desire for Silence and Conversation
[36:51] Recognizing the Fruits of Prayer
[39:52] Challenges in Maintaining a Prayer Life
[46:21] Balancing Work and Prayer
[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.

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)

]]> Step 2: Conversion Moment – The Ministries that Make Up a Clear Path of Discipleship https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/163 6fde9b26-12b1-4346-bb51-4ab68a2701fc Tue, 08 Oct 2024 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 163 Step 2: Conversion Moment – The Ministries that Make Up a Clear Path of Discipleship full Archdiocese of Omaha 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. My 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. 55:05 no 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. My 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. [01:30] Deep Dive into Conversion Moments [04:51] Building a Clear Path of Discipleship [23:28] Content and Impact of Alpha [28:35] Stories of Transformation [40:00] Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles [46:59] Building Community and Small Groups [52:13] Encouragement and Final Thoughts 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), or check out our “cheat-sheet” Clear Path Definitions and Phases (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/CP-Definitions-and-Phases-8.pdf). Also, here our Options for Conversion Moments (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Options-for-Conversion-Moments-1.pdf) guide. If you were inspired by Marlo, check out St. Columbkille’s Alpha (https://www.saintcolumbkille.org/education-formation/alpha). 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) Alpha Program, Conversion Moments, St. Columbkille Parish, Evangelization, Discipleship, Catholic Faith, Omaha Archdiocese, Small Groups, Faith Journey, Hospitality in Church, Church Community Building, Personal Transformation Stories, Religious Education, Catholic Podcast, Spiritual Growth, Church Outreach Programs, Faith and Community, Parish Life, Christian Conversion, Alpha Course Testimonials 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.

My 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.

[01:30] Deep Dive into Conversion Moments
[04:51] Building a Clear Path of Discipleship
[23:28] Content and Impact of Alpha
[28:35] Stories of Transformation
[40:00] Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles
[46:59] Building Community and Small Groups
[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.

If you were inspired by Marlo, check out St. Columbkille’s Alpha.

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)

]]> 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.

My 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.

[01:30] Deep Dive into Conversion Moments
[04:51] Building a Clear Path of Discipleship
[23:28] Content and Impact of Alpha
[28:35] Stories of Transformation
[40:00] Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles
[46:59] Building Community and Small Groups
[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.

If you were inspired by Marlo, check out St. Columbkille’s Alpha.

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 152: Sanctify the Ordinary with Missionaries of the Holy Spirit, Chance and Lora Unger https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/152 4d88f95b-c180-4417-911a-8d24b4b9ffcf Tue, 28 May 2024 00:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 152 Sanctify the Ordinary with Missionaries of the Holy Spirit, Chance and Lora Unger full Archdiocese of Omaha 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. In 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. 50:54 no 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. In 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. Tune in and hear: * How to embrace and surrender to God's will in daily life * How to integrate prayer and spirituality into family routines * How to find strength and grace in times of personal and family challenges * How to seek and maintain authentic friendships that encourage spiritual growth * How to support a spouse in their faith journey * How to create a new normal of holiness and faithfulness in family life * How to transform ordinary experiences into opportunities for grace and spiritual development For more from our guests, check out https://www.mhsfonline.org/ (https://www.mhsfonline.org/) or email them at MHSFonline@gmail.com (mailto:MHSFonline@gmail.com). 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, marriage, family life, holiness, spirituality, surrender to God, Christian parenting, faith, community, prayer, challenges in marriage, Missionaries of the Holy Spirit, continual surrender, embrace weaknesses, transformative power, Christian family, faith journey, relational difficulties, God's grace, parenting challenges, spiritual growth 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.

In 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.

Tune in and hear:

  • How to embrace and surrender to God's will in daily life
  • How to integrate prayer and spirituality into family routines
  • How to find strength and grace in times of personal and family challenges
  • How to seek and maintain authentic friendships that encourage spiritual growth
  • How to support a spouse in their faith journey
  • How to create a new normal of holiness and faithfulness in family life
  • How to transform ordinary experiences into opportunities for grace and spiritual development

For more from our guests, check out https://www.mhsfonline.org/ or email them at MHSFonline@gmail.com.

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 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.

In 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.

Tune in and hear:

  • How to embrace and surrender to God's will in daily life
  • How to integrate prayer and spirituality into family routines
  • How to find strength and grace in times of personal and family challenges
  • How to seek and maintain authentic friendships that encourage spiritual growth
  • How to support a spouse in their faith journey
  • How to create a new normal of holiness and faithfulness in family life
  • How to transform ordinary experiences into opportunities for grace and spiritual development

For more from our guests, check out https://www.mhsfonline.org/ or email them at MHSFonline@gmail.com.

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 82: Religious Ed that's Tailored to YOUR Needs https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/82 6e45a886-bce5-4995-89e1-2d4d7b52c641 Tue, 15 Mar 2022 06:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 82 Religious Ed that's Tailored to YOUR Needs full Archdiocese of Omaha 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. A 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. Transmitting 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. I 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! 1:05:06 no 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. A 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. Transmitting 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. I 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, tune into my conversation with Fr. Tim Donovan, Founder, President, and Chaplain of Faith and Family Life Catholic Ministries. [01:17] Meet Father Tim Donovan [02:18] Discovering Pathways [04:24] The Importance of Family in Faith Formation [06:23] Creating Effective Sacramental Resources [21:52] The Role of Beauty in Catechesis [24:40] Implementing the Catechumenal Model [33:03] Balancing Sacramental Preparation and Family Engagement [37:00] Addressing Fear of Change in Parishes [42:08] Building Missionary Families [49:10] Supporting Parish Leaders and Families [52:25] Encouragement and Resources for Change Resources * Faith and Family Life Catholic Ministries (https://www.fflcm.org/) – Look for the Pathways Formation Suite * Leading Change without Losing (https://careynieuwhof.com/product/leading-change-without-losing/) by Carey Nieuwhof * Directory for Catechesis (https://www.usccb.org/resources/directory-catechesis-new-edition)(New Edition) A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com) catholic, ministry, catholic ministry, ministry leaders, Catholic catechesis, family faith formation, sacramental preparation, Pathways Formation Suite, Fr. Tim Donovan, EquipCast podcast, Archdiocese of Omaha, Catholic parenting, religious education reform, catechumenal model, experiential catechesis, Catholic family ministry, youth ministry transformation, Catholic sacraments, missionary families, Catholic curriculum, faith and family life, Catholic discipleship, Catholic education innovation, parish renewal, Catholic podcast, Catholic resources for families, Catholic evangelization, Catholic small groups, Catholic parish leadership 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.

A 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.

Transmitting 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. I 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, tune into my conversation with Fr. Tim Donovan, Founder, President, and Chaplain of Faith and Family Life Catholic Ministries.

[01:17] Meet Father Tim Donovan
[02:18] Discovering Pathways
[04:24] The Importance of Family in Faith Formation
[06:23] Creating Effective Sacramental Resources
[21:52] The Role of Beauty in Catechesis
[24:40] Implementing the Catechumenal Model
[33:03] Balancing Sacramental Preparation and Family Engagement
[37:00] Addressing Fear of Change in Parishes
[42:08] Building Missionary Families
[49:10] Supporting Parish Leaders and Families
[52:25] Encouragement and Resources for Change

Resources

A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha
Editor: 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.

A 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.

Transmitting 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. I 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, tune into my conversation with Fr. Tim Donovan, Founder, President, and Chaplain of Faith and Family Life Catholic Ministries.

[01:17] Meet Father Tim Donovan
[02:18] Discovering Pathways
[04:24] The Importance of Family in Faith Formation
[06:23] Creating Effective Sacramental Resources
[21:52] The Role of Beauty in Catechesis
[24:40] Implementing the Catechumenal Model
[33:03] Balancing Sacramental Preparation and Family Engagement
[37:00] Addressing Fear of Change in Parishes
[42:08] Building Missionary Families
[49:10] Supporting Parish Leaders and Families
[52:25] Encouragement and Resources for Change

Resources

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

]]> 45: Ministry or Apostolate? https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/45 14c1ccd6-d769-4a13-a1ed-3841c8a18c2c Tue, 16 Feb 2021 06:00:00 -0600 Archdiocese of Omaha 45 Ministry or Apostolate? full Archdiocese of Omaha 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. However, 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. So what is an apostolate? And how does remembering help the lay faithful evangelize? 1:03:21 no 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. However, 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. So what is an apostolate? And how does remembering help the lay faithful evangelize? Join us for a conversation with Peter Andrastek, Senior Consultant at The Evangelical Catholic (https://evangelicalcatholic.org/), as we discuss the pivotal role of the lay apostolate and practical advice for both parishioners and church leaders to foster personal holiness and effective apostolate in various contexts. [01:25] Peter's Faith Journey [04:59] Understanding Evangelical Catholic [09:50] Defining Ministry vs. Apostolate [17:56] The Importance of Personal Apostolate [22:26] The Role of the Parish in Supporting Apostolate [32:59] Forming a Community of Disciple Makers [35:29] Small Group Dynamics and Jesus' Model [38:59] Ecclesial Movements and Parish Life [49:36] Practical Steps for Parishioners and Pastors [55:00] Resources and Final Thoughts Resources * Where Does the Ministry End and the Apostolate Begin? (https://churchlifejournal.nd.edu/articles/where-does-the-ministry-end-and-the-apostolate-begin/) * The Evangelical Catholic (https://www.evangelicalcatholic.org/) – A nonprofit specializing in Catholic ministry consulting and evangelization training. They work to support dioceses, parishes, and university campus ministries to lead self-sustaining evangelization movements through our customized coaching service and online learning management system. * Soul of the Apostolate (https://www.goodreads.com/book/show/753243.The_Soul_of_The_Apostolate) by Jean-Baptiste Chautard A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com) Catholic evangelization, lay apostolate, parish ministry, Evangelical Catholic, Peter Andrastek, Jim Jansen, Fr. Jeff Lorig, Catholic discipleship, Catholic podcast, Archdiocese of Omaha, Catholic leadership, faith formation, Catholic mission, Catholic parish renewal, Catholic lay formation, Catholic outreach, Catholic culture change, Catholic small groups, Catholic apostolate training, Catholic pastoral vision, Catholic ministry vs apostolate 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. However, 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.

So what is an apostolate? And how does remembering help the lay faithful evangelize? Join us for a conversation with Peter Andrastek, Senior Consultant at The Evangelical Catholic, as we discuss the pivotal role of the lay apostolate and practical advice for both parishioners and church leaders to foster personal holiness and effective apostolate in various contexts.

[01:25] Peter's Faith Journey
[04:59] Understanding Evangelical Catholic
[09:50] Defining Ministry vs. Apostolate
[17:56] The Importance of Personal Apostolate
[22:26] The Role of the Parish in Supporting Apostolate
[32:59] Forming a Community of Disciple Makers
[35:29] Small Group Dynamics and Jesus' Model
[38:59] Ecclesial Movements and Parish Life
[49:36] Practical Steps for Parishioners and Pastors
[55:00] Resources and Final Thoughts

Resources

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

]]> 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. However, 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.

So what is an apostolate? And how does remembering help the lay faithful evangelize? Join us for a conversation with Peter Andrastek, Senior Consultant at The Evangelical Catholic, as we discuss the pivotal role of the lay apostolate and practical advice for both parishioners and church leaders to foster personal holiness and effective apostolate in various contexts.

[01:25] Peter's Faith Journey
[04:59] Understanding Evangelical Catholic
[09:50] Defining Ministry vs. Apostolate
[17:56] The Importance of Personal Apostolate
[22:26] The Role of the Parish in Supporting Apostolate
[32:59] Forming a Community of Disciple Makers
[35:29] Small Group Dynamics and Jesus' Model
[38:59] Ecclesial Movements and Parish Life
[49:36] Practical Steps for Parishioners and Pastors
[55:00] Resources and Final Thoughts

Resources

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

]]> Episode 32: Missional Amnesia https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/32 1012cc6e-d55d-47a3-81d4-a656c63816eb Tue, 29 Sep 2020 06:00:00 -0500 Archdiocese of Omaha 32 Missional Amnesia full Archdiocese of Omaha 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. 48:42 no 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. [00:57] What Does It Mean to Be a Missional Community? [01:42] The Unstuck Church and Church Lifecycle [03:06] The Importance of Being Missional [04:34] Challenges of Modern Evangelization [06:37] The Call to Evangelize [09:58] The Role of Holiness in Mission [19:48] Strategies for Effective Evangelization [23:38] The Challenge of Missionary Work [24:28] Pope Francis' Perspective on Mission [25:12] Reaching People Outside the Church [26:16] The Problem with RCIA [27:58] Evangelization Programs vs. Strategy [29:13] Empowering Parishioners for Mission [32:37] Creating a Missional Community [36:28] Innovative Ideas for Outreach [41:01] Practical Steps for Parish Staff and Families [47:28] Conclusion and Call to Action missional community, Catholic evangelization, parish renewal, missionary discipleship, EquipCast, Archdiocese of Omaha, Fr. Jeff Lorig, Jim Jansen, church growth strategy, The Unstuck Church, Tony Morgan, Divine Renovation, Alpha program, Catholic outreach, apostolic age, evangelization strategy, Catholic parish leadership, RCIA reform, Joy of the Gospel, Pope Francis evangelization, Catholic mission, parish transformation, Catholic discipleship, outreach to the unchurched, Catholic podcast, Catholic leadership, faith crisis, Catholic culture change, spiritual renewal, Catholic family evangelization 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.

[00:57] What Does It Mean to Be a Missional Community?
[01:42] The Unstuck Church and Church Lifecycle
[03:06] The Importance of Being Missional
[04:34] Challenges of Modern Evangelization
[06:37] The Call to Evangelize
[09:58] The Role of Holiness in Mission
[19:48] Strategies for Effective Evangelization
[23:38] The Challenge of Missionary Work
[24:28] Pope Francis' Perspective on Mission
[25:12] Reaching People Outside the Church
[26:16] The Problem with RCIA
[27:58] Evangelization Programs vs. Strategy
[29:13] Empowering Parishioners for Mission
[32:37] Creating a Missional Community
[36:28] Innovative Ideas for Outreach
[41:01] Practical Steps for Parish Staff and Families
[47:28] Conclusion and Call to Action

]]> 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.

[00:57] What Does It Mean to Be a Missional Community?
[01:42] The Unstuck Church and Church Lifecycle
[03:06] The Importance of Being Missional
[04:34] Challenges of Modern Evangelization
[06:37] The Call to Evangelize
[09:58] The Role of Holiness in Mission
[19:48] Strategies for Effective Evangelization
[23:38] The Challenge of Missionary Work
[24:28] Pope Francis' Perspective on Mission
[25:12] Reaching People Outside the Church
[26:16] The Problem with RCIA
[27:58] Evangelization Programs vs. Strategy
[29:13] Empowering Parishioners for Mission
[32:37] Creating a Missional Community
[36:28] Innovative Ideas for Outreach
[41:01] Practical Steps for Parish Staff and Families
[47:28] Conclusion and Call to Action

]]>