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)

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)

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)

Join me in an inspiring episode featuring Sherry Weddell, co-founder of the Catherine of Sienna Institute. She sheds light on charisms, reminding us that these divine gifts are meant to be shared, illuminating the lives of others with God's love and mercy. “These are ways that you and I have been empowered by God to be an instrument of His love and His beauty and His mercy and His healing and His provision for other people."

In this episode, we delve into the world of spiritual gifts, exploring the transformative power of charisms and their role in shaping our faith.

Get Ready to:

• Understand the essence of charisms and how they impact our spiritual journey
• Recognize the stages of spiritual development and the importance of openness
• Learn about the Called and Gifted discernment process to discover your unique spiritual blueprint
• Discover how to create a culture of discipleship and openness within your community
• Gain insights into the profound connection between charisms and evangelization

If you're curious to learn more about how charisms can ignite your faith and guide you on a path of intentional discipleship check out The Catherine of Sienna Institute and Sherry’s book, Forming Intentional Disciples.

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)

And so, I invited Mandy Busch and Amanda Pfeifer to talk about how they are helping parishioners find fulfillment in their mission. They focus first on helping parishioners to understand their God given gifts (charisms) and to notice where the Lord’s gifts are bearing fruit. In their own words: “This is an essential item you need in your toolbox as an intentional disciple. Knowing what your charisms are and the ways in which the Lord moves in you to do his work, changes everything. Because when it’s his work, it’s not work.”

In today’s episode, you will hear how a parish can:

• Lean into helping people discern their charisms
• Equip parishioners for mission
• Help disciples become a vessel of God’s love by first discerning the Lord’s call

If you want to learn about your charisms or to help others do so, check out Siena.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)