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)

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)

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)

This week, I sit down with Fr. James Mallon, the author of Divine Renovation, to talk about how we can create parishes that inspire a commitment to Christ and cultivate a dynamic, engaged faith community. We dive into what it takes to make evangelization the heart of parish life, break through cultural barriers, and build leadership teams that lead with purpose.

[03:08] Father James Mallon's Journey: From Ordination to Evangelization
[08:13] The Role of Evangelization in Parish Transformation
[11:38] Practical Steps to Prioritize Evangelization
[21:08] Defining Evangelization: What It Is and What It Isn't
[31:54] The Role of the Baptized in Evangelization
[33:52] Transforming Parishes into Missionary Outposts
[36:05] Challenges and Success Stories
[40:37] Building Effective Leadership Teams
[52:31] Insights from Diocesan Leadership
[58:17] Keys to Continued Growth in Parish Renewal
[01:02:57] The Power of the Holy Spirit

Also, check out Fr. Mallon’s current parish OLG Dartmouth, Divine Renovation Ministry YouTube channel, and the Divine Renovation website.

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)

The core of the Great Commission—"go and make disciples"—is the call to love because God is love. If we let that love shape and transform us, we become agents of love in our communities. This means nurturing our relationship with God first and letting that love overflow into our relationships with others.

In this episode, I talk with Peter Andrastek, Senior Consultant at The Evangelical Catholic. We explore how to share our faith through genuine connections and meaningful conversations. It’s about finding a balance: reaching out with urgency, yet having the wisdom to do it gently. Join me as we dive into what it means to be a missionary disciple, sharing the love we've been given in a way that feels authentic and true.

[03:25] The Importance of Evangelization
[09:55] Deprofessionalizing Evangelization
[17:41] Building Relationships for Mission
[28:35] Understanding and Loving Others
[33:21] Balancing Holiness and Mission
[45:42] Stories of Evangelization

Also check out:

• The Reach More Podcast
• Priests for an Apostolic Age Podcast
• The Need for Deprofessionalizing Evangelization

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)

In this episode, my guests, Dcn. MJ Kersenbrock and Jan Kunz, discuss how they are implementing these efforts in the Catholic Parishes of Western Holt and Boyd Counties. They share the challenges and successes they've encountered while fostering a culture of mission. Their stories highlight the importance of perseverance, prayer, and personal relationships, as well as the transformative impact this formation process has had on individuals, who are now empowered to continue the mission, creating a ripple effect in their communities.

[01:35] Understanding the Evangelization Formation Step
[02:31] Challenges and Successes in Evangelization
[09:20] Personal Stories and Impact
[16:40] The Power of One-on-One Connections
[20:32] Skills for Missionary Discipleship
[27:51] Sharing Stories of Transformation
[31:25] Expansion and Multiplication of Cohorts
[37:24] Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles

For more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship, or check out our “cheat-sheet” Clear Path Definitions and Phases. Here's our Options for Evangelization Formation guide.

Also, mentioned: Evangelical Catholic

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)