EquipCast - Episodes Tagged with “Catholic Schools”

Episode 198: The Key to More Vocations: Creating Safe Spaces for Faith to Flourish

Archdiocese of Omaha — Tue, 04 Nov 2025 00:00:00 -0600

*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)

Episode 174: Experience Miracles: How Alpha Youth Changed the Culture of a School

Archdiocese of Omaha — Tue, 04 Feb 2025 00:00:00 -0600

Do you expect the miraculous from God? As believers, we are invited to trust in God's power and love, knowing He desires to move in our lives in profound and unexpected ways. Miracles are not confined to biblical times; they are a testament to God's ongoing presence in our world. When we step out in faith, we open the door for the Holy Spirit to work, transforming lives and communities.

In this episode, I sit down with Fr. Walter Nolte, Pastor of the Padre Pio Family Parish Group, to discuss the incredible impact of the Alpha Youth program at Archbishop Bergan High School. Fr. Nolte shares inspiring stories of miracles, heartfelt prayers, and the transformative changes in students’ openness to God. We explore how simple acts of prayer and listening have broken down barriers—within students, families, and the broader faith community. This conversation is a powerful reminder of the importance of following the Holy Spirit's lead, connecting authentically with youth, and trusting in the transformative power of God's love.

[01:25] Father Nolte's Journey to Priesthood
[06:00] Challenges in Engaging High Schoolers with Faith
[10:52] Transforming School Culture with Alpha Youth
[15:24] Experiencing God's Presence
[25:26] Miraculous Moments and Personal Testimonies
[29:25] The Role of the Holy Spirit in Modern Times
[31:46] Transforming School Culture Through Prayer
[36:25] Engaging Parents and the Larger Community
[38:13] The Importance of Sharing Personal Faith Stories
[42:23] Implementing Alpha Youth in Schools

For more check out Archbishop Bergan, Alpha Youth, and their story in video form, A Catholic School Runs Alpha Youth.

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

Archdiocese of Omaha — Tue, 07 Jan 2025 00:00:00 -0600

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)