In this Coach’s Corner, I’m diving into something that’s been really stirring in my heart: hope. Not the wishful-thinking kind, but the kind that’s born from repentance—a deep turning back to God with a holy fear of offending His love. When we do that, we make space for His grace to move, to renew, to restore. That’s where real hope comes alive.

I also talk about why I truly believe cultural change is possible—even now. Did you know it only takes about 15% of a group to shift the culture? That means if just a small part of our parish gets fired up for the Gospel and mission, it can spark something way bigger. I’ve seen it happen. And more importantly—God’s done it before.

I share stories, reflect on saints and past renewals, and talk about how a mission mindset, paired with corporate repentance, can set the stage for transformation. I end the episode with a prayer asking God to move in power again—because I really believe He’s not done with us yet.

If you’ve been feeling discouraged or wondering if your yes to God really matters, this one’s for you.

[00:35] Finding Real Hope for Your Mission
[02:38] Understanding the Concept of Hope
[03:54] Nurturing Expectation Through Stories of Saints
[05:04] The Tipping Point of Cultural Change
[06:27] Nurturing Holy Fear
[08:01] The Role of Repentance in Renewal
[10:53] The Great Commission and Jesus' Promise
[12:22] Closing Prayer and Final Thoughts

Also, check out The Tipping Point: How Little Things Can Make a Big Difference.

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)

So today, I bring you the first episode in the series How to Build a Clear Path of Discipleship. Rachel Gifford, Director of Catechesis & Evangelization at St. Mary’s Parish, highlights her parish's journey through the phase of assessment. She shares how they examined existing programs to identify gaps in reaching newcomers and building up disciples for the work of mission. Challenges included resistance to change and feeling overwhelmed, but the parish found support in prayer, coaching, and revisiting their mission. Despite the difficulties, they saw positive outcomes, with new families registering and a renewed sense of faith in the community.

Here’s what to expect from this episode:
[03:50] The Initial Steps: Vision, Mission, and the Assessment Phase
[07:41] Navigating Challenges and Building Unity Through Assessment
[12:13] The Power of Shared Vision and Language in Transformation
[17:31] Practical Steps and Realizations in the Assessment Phase
[28:59] Detailed Breakdown of the Clear Path Stages
[38:45] Looking Ahead: Next Steps and Advice for Others

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)