Because I’ve been there—and in this episode, I talk about why our “silver bullets” so often fail us. We love quick fixes, big programs, and shiny solutions, but real renewal—personal or parish-wide—only happens when we stop trying to use God and finally turn to Him with honest hearts. In this conversation, I walk through one of my favorite (and most surprising) stories in Scripture and share the uncomfortable but hopeful truth it reveals: God isn’t asking us for better strategies. He’s asking for conversion. If you’ve ever felt discouraged, overwhelmed, or tempted to chase one more magic solution, this episode will help you breathe, refocus, and remember that God has a plan—not a gimmick—waiting for you.

[00:00] Welcome to Equip Cast
[00:34] Silver Bullet Problem
[01:42] Ark as Shortcut
[04:50] Why It Failed
[06:06] Modern Silver Bullets
[07:43] Repentance and Conversion
[08:37] Missionary Conversion Quotes
[10:56] Trust the Mystery
[11:51] Prayer 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)

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)

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)