[02:29] Lisa's Faith Journey and Education
[06:54] Discovering the Ignatian Associates
[09:43] Living in the Dominican Republic
[13:42] Writing 'The Spiritual Path'
[18:52] The Cycle of Growth: A Tool for Discernment
[30:08] Understanding Consolation and Desolation
[33:42] Markers of Desolation
[35:33] Discerning Priority Relationships
[37:51] The Importance of Environmental Relationships
[39:52] Practical Goal Setting and Relationships
[46:56] Personal Testimonies and Reflections
[51:20] Leadership and Communal Discernment
[57:06] Final Thoughts and Resources

Check out LaStorta or contact Lisa.

Also, register for the Spiritual Path Retreat.

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)

It’s easy to think serving at church—teaching, volunteering, helping with Mass—is the main way lay people live out their faith. But here’s the truth: our primary call isn’t just ministry inside the Church—it’s apostolate out in the world. That means bringing Jesus into your workplace, your neighborhood, and your everyday life. That’s where you’re meant to shine.

And what’s at stake? Souls. If we don’t take time to discern our apostolate, some of the people God placed in our path may never encounter Him. This isn’t just about filling time—it’s about stepping into the mission only you can fulfill. The Church needs you. And the world desperately needs Jesus.

Tune in for a powerful conversation with Fr. Andrew Mattingly, who tells us that sometimes, reaching the world means cutting back on “good” church programs—because when a parish is over-programmed, it can pull focus from the real mission. But when we zero in on what actually forms people for their apostolate, we gain clarity, energy, and fruitfulness. It’s not about doing more. It’s about doing what matters most.

[02:00] Understanding the Lay Apostolate
[04:18] Defining Mission, Ministry, and Apostolate
[11:40] Historical Context of the Lay State
[20:04] Exploring Lay Apostolate Categories
[28:08] Grace in Homemaking and Hospitality
[31:35] Engaging in Local Politics
[36:24] Discerning Your Apostolate
[44:28] Real-Life Apostolate Examples
[47:09] Balancing Parish and Apostolate
[57:56] Encouragement for Busy Families

Don’t forget to check out Our Lady of Good Counsel, On the Apostolate of the Laity, and The Vocation and the Mission of the Lay Faithful.

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 second episode of the series How to Build a Clear Path of Discipleship, Fr. Damian Zuerlein, Dcn. Doug Lenz, and Ann Lenz from St. Frances Cabrini discuss how as they brought change to their community, they remained open to God's direction and surrendered to His will, even when faced with challenges and uncertainties. Their experiences reflect a deep sense of faith and openness to the Holy Spirit's guidance in their parish life.

Here’s what to expect from this episode:
[06:37] How St. Frances Cabrini embraced Discernment and Renewal
[14:35] The Power of Community and Creativity in Faith
[18:30] Taking Leaps of Faith: Stories of Discernment and Action
[27:04] Navigating Change and Finding Purpose
[29:30] The Role of the Holy Spirit in Guiding the Community
[38:43] Reflections and Advice for Faith Communities

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)