Most parishes form their people in the faith, but do they truly teach individuals how to pray, help them understand and actively engage with the sacraments, and guide them in making practical, moral changes in the daily lives? Developing the habits of a disciple can be challenging, and it happens most effectively within a community where people support and challenge one another to grow as followers of Jesus. In today’s conversation, Jodi Phillips and Michelle Zuhlke join me to discuss the faith formation step of building a clear path for discipleship. We explore the importance of small groups in fostering spiritual growth, emphasizing the role of personal relationships and mentorship. [01:27] Deep Dive into Faith Formation [06:39] Mentorship and Community Impact [09:00] Education vs. Formation [17:53] Living the Faith Together [23:54] Expressions of Faith Formation [31:51] Characteristics of Effective Faith Formation [34:14] Mentorship and Shared Life [41:02] Diagnosing Faith Formation Issues [43:21] Engaging Content for Faith Formation [51:19] Evangelization Formation and Small Groups For more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship (https://www.amazon.com/Clear-Path-Missionary-Disciples-Parish/dp/B0CHL7DB58), or check out our “cheat-sheet” Clear Path Definitions and Phases (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/CP-Definitions-and-Phases-8.pdf). Also, if you were inspired by Michelle, check out Our Catholic Family (https://ourcatholicfamily.org/). 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)

Does your parish have Alpha, Christ Life, a parish retreat, or some other initiative that creates an opportunity for people to hear about Jesus, reflect on their faith, and take a step towards a real and lasting relationship with him? The Clear Path step Conversion Moment is designed to help individuals encounter Jesus and make a personal decision to follow Him by offering a clear proclamation of the Gospel. My guest, Marlo Monico, shares her experience building and sustaining a Conversion Moment. She shares stories of significant personal transformations and emphasizes the importance of hospitality, community, and continuous invitation in evangelization efforts. [01:30] Deep Dive into Conversion Moments [04:51] Building a Clear Path of Discipleship [23:28] Content and Impact of Alpha [28:35] Stories of Transformation [40:00] Challenges and Overcoming Obstacles [46:59] Building Community and Small Groups [52:13] Encouragement and Final Thoughts For more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship (https://www.amazon.com/Clear-Path-Missionary-Disciples-Parish/dp/B0CHL7DB58), or check out our “cheat-sheet” Clear Path Definitions and Phases (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/CP-Definitions-and-Phases-8.pdf). Also, if you were inspired by Marlo, check out St. Columbkille’s Alpha (https://www.saintcolumbkille.org/education-formation/alpha). 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)

Do you have a way to introduce your non-practicing friends and family members to your faith community that doesn’t involve inviting them to Mass or other gatherings that might make them feel isolated? Does your parish offer a space where you can meet and build trusting relationships with those distant from their faith? The Clear Path step Relational Outreach is designed for just that. My guests, Katie Winkler and Beth Carlson, share their experience at the JPII Newman Center, where they’ve created spaces for authentic friendships to flourish. They discuss the importance of intentionality in outreach, creating welcoming environments, and the role of personal stories and experiences in building genuine connections. Katie and Beth also highlight the challenges and learning opportunities in outreach efforts, emphasizing the need for patience and persistence in forming meaningful relationships. [05:46] Creating Welcoming Events [11:24] Training and Preparing Leaders [27:41] Inviting to a Deeper Faith Journey [34:10] Celebrating Effort and Building a Culture of Outreach [38:29] Translating Outreach Lessons to Different Contexts [55:32] The Importance of Personal Prayer in Outreach For more on the Clear Path, read the book, A Clear Path to Discipleship (https://www.amazon.com/Clear-Path-Missionary-Disciples-Parish/dp/B0CHL7DB58), or check out our “cheat-sheet” Clear Path Definitions and Phases (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/CP-Definitions-and-Phases-8.pdf). Also, if you were inspired by Katie and Beth, take a look at JPIIOmaha.org (https://www.jpiiomaha.org/). 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)

Do you believe that God continues to work even when you don’t? In my own life, I’ve struggled with the idea that rest has to be earned, that I can only rest once everything on my to-do list is checked off. But the Christian vision is different. God’s work doesn’t stop when we rest. In fact, our rest is a testament to our trust in His ongoing work. Join me as we explore the beauty of working from rest, drawing examples from Jesus’s life, and discover practical ways to incorporate this principle into your daily routine. [01:17] Jesus' Example of Rest [03:36] Practical Steps to Slow Down [05:25] The Four R's of Slowing Down [09:40] Recommended Reading and Conclusion Check out The Ruthless Elimination of Hurry (https://www.amazon.com/Ruthless-Elimination-Hurry-Emotionally-Spiritually/dp/0525653090). 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)

Small groups are vital for parish renewal—you might even be part of one yourself. But is your small group thriving and growing, or is it feeling a bit stagnant? Do you find it challenging to reach beyond the usual participants? And most importantly, are your small groups truly helping people grow in their faith journey? Today, I chat with Michael Hall, author of Intentional Accompaniment and a seasoned leader with Catholic Christian Outreach of Canada. Michael has a wealth of experience building and sustaining healthy small group movements, and he’s here to share some of the strategies and mindsets that can transform your small group from a stagnant gathering into a dynamic, missionary force. Whether you’re leading a small group, coordinating them for your parish, or simply a passionate member of one, this conversation is full of insights that can help you breathe new life into your small group ministry and make a real impact in your community. Join us as we dive into: * practical tips to identify and nurture potential leaders * the power of adopting a missionary mindset * structural models that can help your groups grow and thrive Check out CCO (https://cco.ca/resources/)! Register (https://archdioceseofomaha.formstack.com/forms/small_group_movement) for the Grow a Healthy Small Group Movement workshop. 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)

Have you ever been asked for help but then felt like you were just giving unwanted advice? It’s tough to know how to make your words count. On my team, we use an approach called coaching that focuses on active listening to really support and empower the clergy and lay leaders we work with. We’ve also found that this method can make you a better friend. Today, I bring you a live coaching session with Fr. Scott Schilmoeller, Vocations Director for the Archdiocese of Omaha. We explore how coaching principles like active listening, asking the right questions, and encouraging growth can transform not only professional roles but also personal friendships. You will also hear Fr. Schilmoeller share his experiences and strategies for promoting vocations. Whether you’re interested in coaching, vocations, or simply becoming a better friend, this episode is for you. Tune in to learn how to support and uplift those around you more effectively. [02:34] Coaching Session Overview [03:45] Identifying Priorities and Vision [06:54] Understanding Vocation Hotspots [14:33] Accompanying and Supporting Leaders [24:07] Encouraging Active Listening [27:24] Creating a Concrete Format [28:07] Naming Next Steps [34:23] Benefits of Coaching [36:17] Distinguishing Coaching from Other Disciplines [43:05] Finding the Right Coach Resources mentioned in this episode: * Metanoia Catholic (https://www.metanoiacatholic.com/get-coached) * Omaha Vocations (https://omahavocations.org/) 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)

Is it okay to set boundaries in ministry work? How do we balance being “all things to all people” (1 Cor 9:22) with the need for personal limits? Today’s guest believes that not only is it okay to establish boundaries—it’s essential. Join me as I sit down with John Gencarelli, Director of Youth and Adult Evangelization at St. Phillip Neri-Blessed Sacrament & Holy Name Parishes in Omaha. John opens up about his experience with burnout and shares how setting boundaries transformed his approach to ministry. By tracking his work hours, taking regular days off, and weaving prayer into his daily routine, John discovered how to protect his well-being while still serving effectively. He also highlights the importance of balancing family time with ministry and how thoughtful planning plays a key role in this. Ultimately, John reminds us that it’s God who saves, not us, and setting boundaries allows us to trust in His plan, ensuring that we serve effectively without burning out. Tune in and learn to: * Prioritize Self-Care and Boundaries * Foster Humility, Openness, Forgiveness and Healing * Build and Maintain Community * Take Rest Seriously Mentioned in this episode: Revive Parishes (https://reviveparishes.com/). 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)

Do you find it hard to maintain enthusiasm for evangelization? You’re not alone. Many of us in ministry face moments of profound fatigue and discouragement. But let me share something with you: the key to reigniting that passion lies in rediscovering the love and hope gifted by God which first called us to this mission. Today, I bring you the wisdom of Fr. John Riccardo, founder of Acts XXIX (https://www.actsxxix.org/) and The Rescue Project (https://rescueproject.us/). He discusses how to: * Create intimate environments where the gospel can come alive. * Turn prayer into more than an agenda item, listening for God’s direction. * Build a family out of those on mission with you * Restore hope, unity, and zeal to tired laborers in the vineyard Yes, the challenges are real, but so is the power of God’s plan. Lean into that, and you’ll find your enthusiasm renewed and your mission reinvigorated. 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)

Do you ever feel overwhelmed by trying to be perfect? I mean, Jesus did tell us to “be perfect as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Mt. 5:48), and Paul certainly took this seriously as he gladly “spent and consumed himself for souls” (2 Cor 12:15). But sometimes, I think the pursuit of perfection leaves behind God’s plan for our lives. In fact, living a holy life might mean embracing the imperfection around us. Today’s guest, Colleen Carol Campbell, former journalist and presidential speechwriter and author of The Heart of Perfection tells us what she has learned on this topic. Tune in to hear: Personal stories of how the saints influenced her life and perspective. Practical tips for overcoming the pressures of perfectionism. Insights on balancing professional success with personal faith. Advice on finding peace and spiritual growth amidst life’s challenges. To hear more from Colleen, go to Colleen-Campbell.com (https://colleen-campbell.com/) or grab her book The Heart of Perfection (https://www.amazon.com/Heart-Perfection-Saints-Taught-Perfect/dp/1982106174/ref=tmm_pap_swatch_0?_encoding=UTF8&qid=1596841009&sr=8-2). 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)

Theology of the Body has the power to deeply impact how we approach sexual identity and self-worth. As a father, I understand how tough it can be to navigate these complex topics with today’s youth. That’s why I’m excited to introduce you to two amazing missionaries, Marshall and Reese, from The Culture Project. In this episode, they share their personal mission to spread the gospel and promote sexual integrity among young people. We dive into the importance of recognizing human dignity and how to have meaningful conversations with youth about challenging issues like sexual identity and social media. Plus, Marshall and Reese offer practical advice for parents, teachers, and mentors on how to support and guide young people in their faith and moral growth. This episode is packed with hope and encouragement, giving you the tools to better connect with and support the young people in your life. [01:06] Meet Marshall and Reese [17:52] Introducing the Culture Project [22:59] How to talk about Human Dignity [24:23] Sharing Personal Stories and Experiences [27:26] Challenges Faced by Young People Today [30:58] Parental Guidance and Conversations [36:46] Encouraging Chastity and Sexual Integrity Check out The Culture Project (https://thecultureproject.org/)! Or schedule them by emailing scheduling@thecultureproject.org (mailto:scheduling@thecultureproject.org). Also, click here to get Feeding the Mouth that Bites You (https://www.amazon.com/Feeding-Mouth-That-Bites-You/dp/1514762374). 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)

Have you ever had a moment that completely turned your life around? In a heartfelt conversation with Dave Nodar, founder of ChristLife, he opened up about that pivotal moment when Jesus’ love washed over him, sparking a deep, personal transformation and setting him ablaze with the desire to spread the Good News. Together, we dive deep into why evangelization isn’t just a task for the few but a calling for all of us. Dave puts it powerfully, saying, “If you’re baptized, no exceptions. It’s not just for missionary orders. This is for all of us. That means all the diocesan clergy and the laity, all of us are called to be missionaries.” Dave didn’t stop at just words; he brought ChristLife to life to empower parishes to echo the Gospel’s core message loud and clear. ChristLife helps individuals mature in their faith and equips them to share their faith with others. Tune in to hear: Dave Nodar’s personal journey: From the hippie counterculture to a life-changing encounter with Jesus Christ. The role of evangelization: How it revitalizes the Catholic Church and its parishes by rediscovering their missionary identity. The ChristLife process: A 21-week relational program designed to help parishioners discover, follow, and share Christ. Check out ChristLife (https://christlife.org/) as well as our list of recommended Conversion Moments (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Options-for-Conversion-Moments-1.pdf)! Register to attend the Alpha Training Lab (https://alphausa.org/event/alpha-training-lab-omaha-nebraska/) 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 (https://alphausa.org/catholic-context/) or email Rick (mailto:rickgrinstead@alphausa.org) and Monica (mailto:monicamartinez@alphausa.org) directly. Check out our list of recommended Conversion Moments (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Options-for-Conversion-Moments-1.pdf)! Register to attend the Alpha Training Lab (https://alphausa.org/event/alpha-training-lab-omaha-nebraska/) 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)

Did you know that on average (https://www.datawrapper.de/_/1DUgL/), there’s only one priest for every 2,000 parishioners in our archdiocese? With such a large group to guide, you might wonder how it could be possible for parish leaders to help their people grow in discipleship and move towards sainthood. The Clear Path framework is key to success, but the challenge is greater in our rural communities where a single pastor often handles several parishes. To gain insight on these issues, I sit down with Jake Olson, the evangelization coordinator for Our Catholic Family, a group of parishes in the Northeast corner of Nebraska. Jake describes the clear path as a bowling alley where our ultimate goal (heaven) is like bowling a strike, and the clear path consists of bumpers that keep us aligned towards this goal. Tune in to hear Jake’s practical advice and heartfelt experiences. He shows us how small actions and genuine connections can lead to profound spiritual growth and community transformation. Whether you’re in a bustling city or a quiet rural town, these timeless principles of evangelization are universally applicable. Episode Highlights: * Relational Evangelization: Learn the art of building authentic friendships and introducing Jesus into existing relationships. * The Clear Path: Discover the three-phase strategy tailored for rural communities to guide individuals towards discipleship and sainthood. * *Jake's Journey: *Be inspired by Jake Olson’s personal faith story and his impactful transition from college ministry to serving eight parishes across Cedar and Knox counties. Check out Our Catholic Family (https://ourcatholicfamily.org/). And 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)

Have you ever heard the universal call to holiness, “Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect,” and instead of feeling inspired, felt discouraged? Holiness is hard, especially when we strive for it alone. When we rely solely on our own strengths, we often fail. But when we pursue holiness within the Body of Christ, leaning on both our community and God, we are much more likely to succeed. In today’s episode, Chance and Lora Unger, founders of Missionaries of the Holy Spirit in the Family, share their insights on making holy practices a regular part of family life. Our conversation highlights the transformative power of continually surrendering to God and incorporating prayer into our daily routines. The Ungers emphasize the importance of a supportive community to foster holiness in our marriages and families. They show us how holiness can begin with simple, practical steps such as daily prayer and small acts of kindness. They encourage us to embrace our daily challenges and transform these experiences through grace and prayer. Tune in and hear: * How to embrace and surrender to God's will in daily life * How to integrate prayer and spirituality into family routines * How to find strength and grace in times of personal and family challenges * How to seek and maintain authentic friendships that encourage spiritual growth * How to support a spouse in their faith journey * How to create a new normal of holiness and faithfulness in family life * How to transform ordinary experiences into opportunities for grace and spiritual development For more from our guests, check out https://www.mhsfonline.org/ (https://www.mhsfonline.org/) or email them at MHSFonline@gmail.com (mailto:MHSFonline@gmail.com). 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)

As we approach the 2nd anniversary of the repeal of Roe v. Wade, the debate about abortion continues to divide us. Have you noticed, maybe even in your own conversations, that traditional pro-life messaging about the baby just isn't hitting home? What if I told you that by understanding the deep emotional and psychological needs of women considering abortion, we could revolutionize our approach and truly help women make life-affirming choices? Today, I chat with Megan Drapa, a researcher and education specialist for the Vitae Foundation, about what really influences women contemplating abortion. Megan shares that their research dives into the deep emotional drives behind these decisions, challenging what many of us think. She highlights that many women already see abortion as morally significant but feel driven by fear and a need to protect their identity. Our conversation sheds light on why we need more nuanced, compassionate communication to better support women facing unplanned pregnancies. Tune in to hear about: Emotional and Identity Factors: The decision-making process around abortion is deeply influenced by women's emotions and sense of identity. Many see carrying to term as a huge personal sacrifice or "death to self," and consider abortion the least harmful option despite knowing its moral implications. Effective Messaging: How we frame abortion-related messages greatly affects how they're received. For instance, presenting a 15-week ban as a way to give women enough time and information to make an informed choice can gain more support than strictly labeling it as a pro-life measure. Trust and Support: Building trust and offering support early in women's reproductive lives, before they face an unplanned pregnancy, is essential. Pregnancy centers and healthcare providers need to be seen as trusted resources for women’s health and reproductive needs, avoiding judgmental approaches that can push women away when they most need support. To see the research, check out the Vitae Research Institute (https://vitaeresearchinstitute.org/) or email Megan Drapa (mailto:megan.drapa@vitaefoundation.org). Also mentioned in this episode: The Happy Girl’s Guide to Being Whole (https://www.lumenpress.org/product/the-happy-girls-guide-to-being-whole/). 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)

Is it hard to talk about Jesus with the people in your life? As Christians, we believe that spreading the good news of Jesus is essential to our faith, but sometimes, finding the courage or freedom to do so feels insurmountable. But guess what? There is an awesome program created by Christ Community Church, called Reach One More, and it turns big barriers into little speedbumps. In today’s episode, I chat with Pastor Mark Ashton from Christ Community Church and Jenny Wiswell, the Director of Evangelization and Discipleship for St. Gerald's Catholic Church. We div into how Reach One More works wonders for disciples stepping into the mission field. They share personal stories of individuals transformed by the program, emphasizing the importance of conviction, training, and ongoing support in equipping believers for mission. Our conversation highlights the unity between Catholic and Protestant churches in fulfilling the shared mission of spreading the Gospel. Tune in and hear: [07:49] How Reach One More Adapts Evangelism to Modern Challenges [11:00] The Reach One More Training Experience: Insights and Impact [13:26] Deep Dive into Evangelism Skills and Mindset Shifts [24:18] Sharing Success Stories: Real-Life Transformations [28:16] Cross-Denominational Collaboration: A New Era of Unity [37:15] Implementing 'Reach One More': Practical Steps for Parishes To see the Reach One More program in action, check out St. Gerald's Parish (https://stgerald.org/adult-ff/330-reach-1-more) or contact Jenny Wiswell (mailto:jwiswell@stgerald.org). Download (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/05/OneDrive_1_5-13-2024.zip) the Reach One More training content. 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 do you help the poor? In a culture where lending a hand to those in need is often seen as a noble thing to do, it's crucial for us as Christians to understand the deeper motivation behind our actions. As believers, we serve the poor out of love—a love that sees Jesus in the faces of those in need. To delve into this profound aspect of service, I invite you to listen to my recent conversation with Jill Lynch, Executive Director of the St. Vincent de Paul Society in Omaha. In this enlightening discussion, Jill shares her insights on recognizing the humanity and inherent worth of homeless individuals, challenging stereotypes and emphasizing the importance of empathy and dignity. Jill sheds light on the obstacles faced by the homeless, from securing identification to accessing transportation, and discusses proactive measures to prevent homelessness among the working poor. Through personal anecdotes, she illustrates the holistic approach of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul, offering targeted assistance to those on the brink of homelessness. Above all, Jill emphasizes the profound truth that serving the poor is not just an act of charity, but a way to encounter Christ Himself. By treating each individual with respect and compassion, we fulfill the mission of seeing the face of Jesus in the marginalized. In this episode: [10:43] The Mission and Impact of Holy Family Community Center [13:20] Understanding Homelessness and Addiction [18:47] Personal Stories of Transformation and Hope [29:37] Understanding the Economic Divide and Its Impact [32:03] Building Relationships: Neighbors, Not Clients [36:06] Volunteerism and the Power of Personal Engagement [37:19] Addressing Homelessness: Beyond Immediate Needs [49:22] Faith in Action: Seeing Jesus in Every Face Find out more about Jill's work at SSVPOmaha.org (https://www.ssvpomaha.org/) and HolyFamilyOmaha.org (http://www.holyfamilyomaha.org/). 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)

Wouldn’t it be nice if God performed some undeniable miracle and every person in the world converted? The reality is…he did. Jesus performed numerous miracles, and people still walked away from him (John 6). So, we must look to the ordinary moments. Moments with coworkers, family members, new acquaintances, and friends that may seem mundane at first, but with an openness and attentiveness to the Holy Spirit’s guidance, they become opportunities to share one’s faith or engaging in conversations about spirituality. Today, I sit down with Archbishop Lucas to talk about those moments. He emphasizes the Holy Spirit's role in orchestrating these encounters and God's unconditional love for all people, regardless of their background or circumstances. Tune in to hear about: [01:12] Archbishop Lucas Shares Personal Experiences of Faith Sharing [03:10] A Chance Encounter: Witnessing Faith in Unexpected Places [06:32] Diving into the Story of Philip and the Ethiopian Eunuch [39:44] The Personal Impact of Faith Sharing and Encouragement for the Easter Season Want to hear more from Archbishop Lucas? He's been on the show several times! * Resurrection Amidst Decline: The Church's Hope Revealed in the Easter Mystery (https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/117) * Happy Easter! 2022 (https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/85) * Archbishop Lucas on The Big Goal (https://archomahaequip.fireside.fm/35) 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)

What do you do with ministries that existed before the clear path? By the time you see the fruit of changed lives in your parish, it’s likely that you will ask how you can help your non-clear path ministries serve the community’s mission and goal to make disciples. In this fifth episode of the series How to Build a Clear Path of Discipleship (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/CP-Definitions-and-Phases-8.pdf), Nicole Cook and Kristi Preisman from St. Columbkille describe the process of alignment. They began by talking with their ministry leaders to understand roles, strengths, and areas in need of improvement. They determined how each ministry aligned with the overall mission of the parish and identified areas where ministries needed to adjust. Their goal was to ensure that each ministry at St. Columbkille plays a meaningful role in helping people connect with God and take their next steps in their faith journey. Here’s what to expect from this episode: [14:49] Challenges and Innovations in Aligning Parish Ministries [20:49] Exploring the Parish Pathway and Mission Alignment Tool [21:07] The Role of Volunteers in Parish Ministry Evaluation [21:43] Understanding and Appreciating Ministry Contributions [24:47] The Importance of Data in Shaping Parish Decisions 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)

Now that we’ve built a clear path, how do we make sure is survives? What comes next? In this sixth and final episode of the series How to Build a Clear Path of Discipleship (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/09/CP-Definitions-and-Phases-8.pdf), Jenny Wiswell and Fr. Marcus Knecht from St. Gerald discuss the phase of expansion. They emphasize the importance of recognizing and responding to the diverse needs of parishioners at different stages of their faith journey. They underscore the importance of discernment, communication, leader recruitment, and staying humble and receptive to feedback. Here’s what to expect from this episode: [04:14] Navigating Challenges and Opportunities in Expansion [08:38] The Importance of Communication and Flexibility in Expansion [12:42] Harnessing Individual Gifts for Collective Growth [15:23] The Dynamics of Teamwork in Discernment and Expansion [22:45] The Holy Spirit's Guidance in Ministry [26:45] Empowering Parishioners to Lead Check out St. Gerald's Webpage (https://stgerald.org/about-us/way-of-discipleship)! 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)