app02 Mon, 06 Jul 2026 02:34:27 +0000 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) The EquipCast - Episodes Tagged with “Parish Engagement” https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/tags/parish%20engagement Tue, 26 Aug 2025 00:00:00 -0500 The EquipCast is your weekly playbook for practical evangelization and parish ministry tools. Hosted by Jim Jansen and powered by Everyday Evangelization, this show is built for diocesan directors, parish leaders, and everyday Catholics who are ready to stop the programmatic noise, break through the grind, and build a clear path to discipleship that actually changes lives. We’ve been talking about the New Evangelization for thirty years, yet church renewal often feels like an endless cycle of empty activity while generations continue to lose their faith. If you are tired of managing decline and spinning your wheels in the messy middle of ministry, you don’t have to carry the weight alone. Every week, we break the default of "doing more" to deliver honest conversations and real stories from people who are finally seeing their faith communities thrive. Hit subscribe, head over to EverydayEvangelization.org to grab your free tools, and discover how to leave your ministry better than you found it. en-us episodic Practical Evangelization & Parish Ministry Tools for Catholic Leaders Jim Jansen | Everyday Evangelization & Parish Ministry Tools The EquipCast is your weekly playbook for practical evangelization and parish ministry tools. Hosted by Jim Jansen and powered by Everyday Evangelization, this show is built for diocesan directors, parish leaders, and everyday Catholics who are ready to stop the programmatic noise, break through the grind, and build a clear path to discipleship that actually changes lives. We’ve been talking about the New Evangelization for thirty years, yet church renewal often feels like an endless cycle of empty activity while generations continue to lose their faith. If you are tired of managing decline and spinning your wheels in the messy middle of ministry, you don’t have to carry the weight alone. Every week, we break the default of "doing more" to deliver honest conversations and real stories from people who are finally seeing their faith communities thrive. Hit subscribe, head over to EverydayEvangelization.org to grab your free tools, and discover how to leave your ministry better than you found it. no parish ministry tools, practical evangelization, church renewal, parish renewal, Clear Path to Discipleship, how to share your faith, Catholic discipleship framework, New Evangelization resources, parish leadership training, diocesan directors, parish leaders, Catholic pastors, priest ministry tools, everyday Catholics, Catholic ministry podcast, managing church decline, ministry burnout, how to make disciples, evangelization strategies, Everyday Evangelization, Jim Jansen Jim Jansen | Everyday Evangelization & Parish Ministry Tools whitney.a.bradley@gmail.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 Jim Jansen | Everyday Evangelization & Parish Ministry Tools 190 How to Choose (Part 4): Relational Outreach full Jim Jansen | Everyday Evangelization & Parish Ministry Tools 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 <p><em>What if your parish’s most “welcoming” events are actually pushing people away?</em> 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.</p> <p>[00:16] Series Overview: Choosing Ministries for Your Clear Path<br> [03:09] Understanding Relational Outreach<br> [06:01] Characteristics of Effective Relational Outreach<br> [09:58] Practical Examples and Parish Initiatives<br> [15:17] Neighborhood Outreach and Community Building<br> [20:42] Supplemental Parish Events for Outreach<br> [24:47] Challenges and Considerations for Parish Events<br> [27:27] Challenges of Transforming Existing Events<br> [29:10] Alternative Outreach Methods<br> [36:08] Discerning Effective Outreach Methods<br> [41:28] Forming Missionary Disciples<br> [49:53] Overcoming Mental Hangups in Outreach</p> <p>Don’t forget to check out <a href="https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Options-for-Relational-Outreach.pdf" rel="nofollow noopener">Options for Relational Outreach</a>.</p> <p>For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to <a href="https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/" rel="nofollow noopener">https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/</a>. And for more on the Clear Path, read the book, <a href="https://www.amazon.com/Clear-Path-Missionary-Disciples-Parish/dp/B0CHL7DB58" rel="nofollow noopener">A Clear Path to Discipleship</a>: How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish.</p> <p>A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha<br> Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com) </p> relational outreach, parish ministry, Catholic evangelization, missionary disciples, outreach strategies, parish engagement, building community, Catholic podcast, Archdiocese of Omaha, EquipCast, neighborhood ministry, faith formation, intentional hospitality, parish leadership, outreach discernment, small group ministry, evangelization training, Catholic outreach ideas, parish renewal, relational ministry What if your parish’s most “welcoming” events are actually pushing people away? In this episode, I sit down with the team to unpack the surprising truth about relational outreach—and why it’s often the last step parishes build, even though it’s the first step many people need. We talk about what makes outreach truly relational (hint: it’s not donuts after Mass), how to create spaces where people feel like they belong before they believe, and why introverts might just be your parish’s secret evangelization weapon. If you’ve ever wondered how to reach people who’ve drifted from the Church—or never really connected in the first place—this one’s for you.

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

]]> Episode 179: The secret to getting more volunteers with John Poitevent from Great Catholic Parishes https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/179 7d5b0100-c334-4849-b438-66b99ffe7272 Tue, 25 Mar 2025 00:00:00 -0500 Jim Jansen | Everyday Evangelization & Parish Ministry Tools 179 The secret to getting more volunteers with John Poitevent from Great Catholic Parishes full Jim Jansen | Everyday Evangelization & Parish Ministry Tools Why is it so hard to get more volunteers? The same 10% of parishioners seem do 90% of the work. The key to changing this isn’t just recruiting more volunteers—it’s making disciples. People step up when they feel seen, invited, and part of something meaningful. That starts with personal relationships. Instead of generic announcements, we need to reach out individually, explain the impact of their involvement, and walk with them on their faith journey. When people feel valued and supported, they naturally want to serve. In today’s episode, I talk with John Poitevent, founder of Great Catholic Parishes, about how personal invitations and a culture of belonging transform parish engagement. We discuss the power of clear roles, training, and encouragement—because when people know they matter, they show up. Listen in and let’s build a parish where everyone has a role to play. 1:05:19 no <p>Why is it so hard to get more volunteers? The same 10% of parishioners seem do 90% of the work. The key to changing this isn’t just recruiting more volunteers—it’s making disciples.</p> <p>People step up when they feel seen, invited, and part of something meaningful. That starts with personal relationships. Instead of generic announcements, we need to reach out individually, explain the impact of their involvement, and walk with them on their faith journey. When people feel valued and supported, they naturally want to serve.<br> In today’s episode, I talk with John Poitevent, founder of Great Catholic Parishes, about how personal invitations and a culture of belonging transform parish engagement. We discuss the power of clear roles, training, and encouragement—because when people know they matter, they show up.</p> <p>Listen in and let’s build a parish where everyone has a role to play.</p> <p>[02:38] John's Faith Journey<br> [05:39] State of Parishes Today<br> [07:16] Engaging the Emerging Generation<br> [18:32] Leadership and Parish Renewal<br> [27:36] Practical Tips for Engaging Volunteers<br> [30:54] Understanding the Discipleship Problem<br> [32:35] The Power of Relationships in Parish Engagement<br> [35:01] Addressing Disaffiliation and Scandals<br> [41:19] The Importance of Personal Invitation<br> [50:22] Rethinking Family Faith Formation<br> [01:00:37] Encouragement for Parish Leaders</p> <p>Don’t forget to check out <a href="https://greatcatholicparishes.org/" rel="nofollow noopener">Great Catholic Parishes</a> and their <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@GreatCatholicParishes" rel="nofollow noopener">podcast</a>!</p> <p>For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to <a href="https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/" rel="nofollow noopener">https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/</a>.</p> <p>A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha<br> Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com) </p> volunteer recruitment, parish engagement, discipleship, personal invitations, parish renewal, family faith formation, church leadership, community building, volunteer strategies, parish growth Why is it so hard to get more volunteers? The same 10% of parishioners seem do 90% of the work. The key to changing this isn’t just recruiting more volunteers—it’s making disciples.

People step up when they feel seen, invited, and part of something meaningful. That starts with personal relationships. Instead of generic announcements, we need to reach out individually, explain the impact of their involvement, and walk with them on their faith journey. When people feel valued and supported, they naturally want to serve.
In today’s episode, I talk with John Poitevent, founder of Great Catholic Parishes, about how personal invitations and a culture of belonging transform parish engagement. We discuss the power of clear roles, training, and encouragement—because when people know they matter, they show up.

Listen in and let’s build a parish where everyone has a role to play.

[02:38] John's Faith Journey
[05:39] State of Parishes Today
[07:16] Engaging the Emerging Generation
[18:32] Leadership and Parish Renewal
[27:36] Practical Tips for Engaging Volunteers
[30:54] Understanding the Discipleship Problem
[32:35] The Power of Relationships in Parish Engagement
[35:01] Addressing Disaffiliation and Scandals
[41:19] The Importance of Personal Invitation
[50:22] Rethinking Family Faith Formation
[01:00:37] Encouragement for Parish Leaders

Don’t forget to check out Great Catholic Parishes and their podcast!

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 is it so hard to get more volunteers? The same 10% of parishioners seem do 90% of the work. The key to changing this isn’t just recruiting more volunteers—it’s making disciples.

People step up when they feel seen, invited, and part of something meaningful. That starts with personal relationships. Instead of generic announcements, we need to reach out individually, explain the impact of their involvement, and walk with them on their faith journey. When people feel valued and supported, they naturally want to serve.
In today’s episode, I talk with John Poitevent, founder of Great Catholic Parishes, about how personal invitations and a culture of belonging transform parish engagement. We discuss the power of clear roles, training, and encouragement—because when people know they matter, they show up.

Listen in and let’s build a parish where everyone has a role to play.

[02:38] John's Faith Journey
[05:39] State of Parishes Today
[07:16] Engaging the Emerging Generation
[18:32] Leadership and Parish Renewal
[27:36] Practical Tips for Engaging Volunteers
[30:54] Understanding the Discipleship Problem
[32:35] The Power of Relationships in Parish Engagement
[35:01] Addressing Disaffiliation and Scandals
[41:19] The Importance of Personal Invitation
[50:22] Rethinking Family Faith Formation
[01:00:37] Encouragement for Parish Leaders

Don’t forget to check out Great Catholic Parishes and their podcast!

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 154: Alpha in the Catholic Context https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/154 da441853-cc14-437e-9d2e-70e9a030bb75 Tue, 11 Jun 2024 00:00:00 -0500 Jim Jansen | Everyday Evangelization & Parish Ministry Tools 154 Alpha in the Catholic Context full Jim Jansen | Everyday Evangelization & Parish Ministry Tools How would you transform your parish if you had a proven strategy to reignite faith and build a vibrant community? Today, I’m excited to share a piece of that strategy with you—a way to create a sense of belonging before we expect people to believe or behave like us. It’s all about fostering a communal approach to faith, where everyone feels included and can directly experience the love and power of God. In this episode, Monica Martinez and Rick Grinstead from Alpha in the Catholic Context join us to discuss how to spark interest and engagement in our faith communities. They emphasize the importance of asking questions and truly listening. Plus, they share practical advice and real-life examples from Alpha, a powerful tool for introducing people to the basic tenets of Christianity. 1:04:34 no <p>How would you transform your parish if you had a proven strategy to reignite faith and build a vibrant community? Today, I’m excited to share a piece of that strategy with you—a way to create a sense of belonging before we expect people to believe or behave like us. It’s all about fostering a communal approach to faith, where everyone feels included and can directly experience the love and power of God.</p> <p>In this episode, Monica Martinez and Rick Grinstead from Alpha in the Catholic Context join us to discuss how to spark interest and engagement in our faith communities. They emphasize the importance of asking questions and truly listening. Plus, they share practical advice and real-life examples from Alpha, a powerful tool for introducing people to the basic tenets of Christianity.</p> <p>Highlights from this episode:</p> <ul> <li><strong>The Power of Questions:</strong> Learn how asking the right questions can open hearts and minds to the gospel message.</li> <li><strong>Building a Culture of Evangelization:</strong> Discover proven methods to transform your parish into a thriving community of faith.</li> <li><strong>Engaging Youth:</strong> Hear firsthand experiences on how to effectively engage young people in meaningful conversations about faith, life, and purpose.</li> </ul> <p>For more, go to <a href="https://alphausa.org/catholic-context/" rel="nofollow noopener">Alpha in the Catholic Context</a> or email <a href="mailto:rickgrinstead@alphausa.org" rel="nofollow noopener">Rick</a> and <a href="mailto:monicamartinez@alphausa.org" rel="nofollow noopener">Monica</a> directly. </p> <p>Check out our list of recommended <a href="https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Options-for-Conversion-Moments-1.pdf" rel="nofollow noopener">Conversion Moments</a>!</p> <p>Register to attend the <a href="https://alphausa.org/event/alpha-training-lab-omaha-nebraska/" rel="nofollow noopener">Alpha Training Lab</a> on August 3.</p> <p>For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to <a href="https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/" rel="nofollow noopener">https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/</a>.</p> <p>A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha<br> Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com) </p> Evangelization strategies, Catholic youth ministry, Alpha course, Parish engagement, Faith conversations, Power of questions in evangelization, Recreate church culture, Catholic evangelization podcast, Youth faith engagement, Effective catechesis strategies How would you transform your parish if you had a proven strategy to reignite faith and build a vibrant community? Today, I’m excited to share a piece of that strategy with you—a way to create a sense of belonging before we expect people to believe or behave like us. It’s all about fostering a communal approach to faith, where everyone feels included and can directly experience the love and power of God.

In this episode, Monica Martinez and Rick Grinstead from Alpha in the Catholic Context join us to discuss how to spark interest and engagement in our faith communities. They emphasize the importance of asking questions and truly listening. Plus, they share practical advice and real-life examples from Alpha, a powerful tool for introducing people to the basic tenets of Christianity.

Highlights from this episode:

  • The Power of Questions: Learn how asking the right questions can open hearts and minds to the gospel message.
  • Building a Culture of Evangelization: Discover proven methods to transform your parish into a thriving community of faith.
  • Engaging Youth: Hear firsthand experiences on how to effectively engage young people in meaningful conversations about faith, life, and purpose.

For more, go to Alpha in the Catholic Context or email Rick and Monica directly.

Check out our list of recommended Conversion Moments!

Register to attend the Alpha Training Lab on August 3.

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 would you transform your parish if you had a proven strategy to reignite faith and build a vibrant community? Today, I’m excited to share a piece of that strategy with you—a way to create a sense of belonging before we expect people to believe or behave like us. It’s all about fostering a communal approach to faith, where everyone feels included and can directly experience the love and power of God.

In this episode, Monica Martinez and Rick Grinstead from Alpha in the Catholic Context join us to discuss how to spark interest and engagement in our faith communities. They emphasize the importance of asking questions and truly listening. Plus, they share practical advice and real-life examples from Alpha, a powerful tool for introducing people to the basic tenets of Christianity.

Highlights from this episode:

  • The Power of Questions: Learn how asking the right questions can open hearts and minds to the gospel message.
  • Building a Culture of Evangelization: Discover proven methods to transform your parish into a thriving community of faith.
  • Engaging Youth: Hear firsthand experiences on how to effectively engage young people in meaningful conversations about faith, life, and purpose.

For more, go to Alpha in the Catholic Context or email Rick and Monica directly.

Check out our list of recommended Conversion Moments!

Register to attend the Alpha Training Lab on August 3.

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)

]]>