EquipCast

What if saving a marriage could save a soul? In this episode, I sit down with Jared Smyth from Communio a consultancy helping parishes build thriving marriage ministries. We talk about the quiet crisis unfolding in our parishes—and the incredible hope breaking through. Parishes that invest just a few hours into helping couples build stronger relationships are seeing renewal from the inside out: healed marriages, thriving families, and faith coming alive again. [01:57] Jared's Background and Faith Journey [14:15] The Importance of Marriage and Family [17:47] Communio's Approach to Strengthening Relationships [26:31] The Impact of Family Structure on Faith and Society [30:13] Addressing Loneliness and Relationship Needs [32:01] Introduction to Communio's Mission [33:00] Data-Informed Ministry [35:48] Marriage Enrichment Strategies [38:54] Engaging Parish Outreach [40:23] Ministry Engagement Ladder [46:23] Success Stories and Impact [55:49] Macro Trends in the Church Don’t forget to check out Communio.org (https://communio.org/) or contact Jared at jsmyth@communio.org (mailto:jsmyth@communio.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)

How do you bring hope to someone who feels completely forgotten? In this powerful episode of EquipCast, Deacon Al Aulner opens a window into the emotional and spiritual struggles of incarcerated men—many of whom have never known love, stability, or the truth of the Gospel. Through stories of heartbreak, transformation, and hope, Deacon Al reveals how meeting people in their brokenness—whether behind bars or in everyday life—is the heart of evangelization. His insights challenge us to listen first, love deeply, and trust that God is already at work in every soul we encounter. [01:10] Deacon Al Aulner's Background [03:29] Journey to Faith and Family Challenges [07:38] Introduction to Prison Ministry [14:18] Personal Experiences and Challenges in Ministry [29:25] Volunteers and Community Impact [31:23] A Corporate Buyer’s Journey to Prison Ministry [35:08] Challenges of Reintegrating After Prison [39:39] Transformative Power of Faith in Prison [46:40] Parish Leadership and Community Engagement [58:57] Call for Volunteers and Final Thoughts Feel free to reach out to Dcn. Al! Call (402) 827-3743 or email awaulner@archomaha.org (mailto:awaulner@archomaha.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)

What does it really take to spark a movement in your parish? Small groups are both easier—and more challenging—than we think. They’re not sustained by participants or materials alone, but by vision, culture, and structure. In this episode, I share why small groups can be pandemic-proof, recession-proof, even persecution-proof—if they’re rooted in mission, shaped by a culture of accompaniment, and supported by strong leadership structures. Discover how to build small groups that don’t just care for those inside the room, but expand outward to transform your parish and beyond. [00:22] Introduction to Small Group Movements [01:49] Challenges and Misconceptions [03:05] Essential Elements for Success [03:52] Vision for Mission [05:35] Culture of Accompaniment [07:31] Structures for Accompaniment [10:10] Resources and Final Thoughts Don’t forget to check out Grow a Healthy Small Group Workshop (https://equip.archomaha.org/grow-a-healthy-small-group-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)

Why would a parish packed with on-fire disciples feel stagnant? You’d think that if you put a dozen former FOCUS missionaries in one parish, it would explode with fruitfulness—but almost nothing happened. The truth is, even the most passionate disciples need a clear path and a culture that supports mission. Without it, the fire fizzles. In this episode, I talk about why real change is uncomfortable but necessary, what a parish of missionary disciples actually looks like, and how a community can shift from cruise ship mode to fire station mode—where mission is normal and conversion is celebrated. [00:00] Introduction and Conference Overview [01:17] Personal Story and Missionary Heart [02:46] Challenges in Building a Missionary Culture [03:13] Three Keys to Developing Missionary Discipleship [08:26] Key 1: Clarity About Mission and Vision [13:06] Key 2: Organizational Health [16:12] Key 3: Making Disciples [19:44] Building a Clear Path to Discipleship [22:34] Success Stories and Conclusion [25:54] Final Thoughts and Encouragement Don’t forget to check out FOCUS (https://focus.org/) and SEEK (https://seek.focus.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)

What happens when you open the Bible and simply say “yes” to God? In this conversation with Sharon Doran, teaching director of Seeking Truth, you’ll hear how Scripture has the power to heal wounds, renew marriages, transform families, and ignite whole communities. Sharon shares how she went from feeling unqualified to teaching hundreds—because the Holy Spirit showed up when she stepped out in faith. Sharon’s story is a reminder that Scripture isn’t just ink on a page—it’s alive. It heals, it unites, and it sends us on mission. If you’ve ever wondered how ordinary people can be used in extraordinary ways, her story will inspire you to guard time with Scripture and trust God to do more than you imagined. [02:07] Sharon's Early Life and Family Influence [08:07] Sharon's Journey into Bible Study [14:16] Challenges and Growth of Seeking Truth [23:08] The Role of Women in Teaching Scripture [29:04] Approach to Scripture Study [37:34] The Importance of Love in Ministry [44:58] Favorite Biblical Passages and Typological Connections [52:37] Encouragement for Personal Scripture Study [55:02] Conclusion and Invitation to Join Seeking Truth Don’t forget to check out Seeking Truth (https://seekingtruth.net/)! 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 do you lead change when you don’t know where you are going (yet)? * Today I sit down with Brian Miller, a change management expert from Coach Approach Ministries, to talk about adaptive change. Adaptive change is when you know something needs to change, but you don’t yet know what the solution is. It’s not just fixing a broken pipe—it’s realizing the whole plumbing system might need to be rethought. It’s the kind of change that requires people to shift their values, beliefs, and behaviors, not just learn a new skill. And that’s why it’s hard—because it’s not just about doing something different, it’s about becoming someone different. When you lead this kind of change, the danger isn’t just that people leave—it’s that they check out. So Brian focuses on the following things: keep the pace people can handle, invite them into shaping the vision, really listen to the voices of concern, and anchor the change in habits and identity. That way, people don’t just stick around—they stay engaged in the mission. [00:01] Meet Brian Miller: Coach and Consultant [01:26] The Three Cs: Character, Competence, Chemistry [03:23] Brian's Journey: From Sunday School to Seminary [08:51] Navigating Change in a Rapidly Evolving World [17:58] Adaptive Change: Technical vs. Adaptive Challenges [25:04] Technical vs. Adaptive Change [25:12] Regulating the Heat of Change [29:13] Handling Rebellion and Sabotage [30:38] Giving Work Back to the People [31:23] Inspiring a Shared Vision [35:20] The Role of the Holy Spirit in Leadership [38:48] Protecting Early Warning Voices [43:21] Anchoring Change in New Habits [45:22] Final Thoughts and Encouragement Don’t forget to check out Coach Approach Ministries (https://coachapproachministries.org/)and Canoeing the Mountains (https://www.amazon.com/Canoeing-Mountains-Tod-Bolsinger-audiobook/dp/B07577663C/ref=sr_1_1?dib=eyJ2IjoiMSJ9.y0UKg_lXjksDZZikI57NlA.yE9VZlIV-cZb049tsUOBTJIo0pZRolEKz083U-bbSbQ&dib_tag=se&keywords=9780830873876&linkCode=qs&qid=1755105120&s=books&sr=1-1)! 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)

Can real friendship heal division in the Church? When I sit with John 17, I’m struck that He was praying for a unity that’s visible, relational, and compelling—a unity that makes the world stop and notice that He was sent by the Father. That kind of unity shows up in real friendships, in shared service, in conversations where we seek truth together—not to win an argument, but to love each other well and grow together, even when we don’t see eye to eye. It’s messy, but it’s also where the Lord does His best work. In this episode of EquipCast, I sit down with Max Chapman and Jeremiah Zimmerman from the More Mercy apostolate to talk about what this looks like in real life. Max shares how praying with John 17 sparked a deep desire in him to build bridges with Christians from other traditions. What started as simple conversations turned into friendships that not only challenged him but also strengthened his Catholic faith. You’ll hear why unity isn’t just an ideal for theologians—it’s something we’re all called to live, one relationship at a time. [01:36] Meet Max Chapman and Jeremiah Zimmerman [02:46] Max's Journey: From Football to Faith [06:20] Jeremiah's Path: From Baseball to Theology [12:50] The Vision for Ecumenical Unity [22:01] Challenges and Joys of Ecumenical Ministry [31:39] Unity in Diversity: Different Catholic Ethnicities [34:37] Practical Steps for Ecumenism [37:19] Building Friendships Across Denominations [41:02] Challenges and Joys of Ecumenical Work [46:33] Mobilizing Lay Faithful for Ecumenism [53:28] Encouragement and Final Thoughts Don’t forget to check out More Mercy (https://moremercylincoln.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)

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 (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Options-for-Relational-Outreach.pdf). 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 (https://www.amazon.com/Clear-Path-Missionary-Disciples-Parish/dp/B0CHL7DB58): 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 faith formation is creating consumer Catholics instead of disciples?In this episode of EquipCast, I sit down with my team to unpack what faith formation is really supposed to do—and why so many parishes get stuck. We talk about the difference between just teaching information and actually forming hearts and habits. You’ll hear why small groups matter, how to spot a healthy ministry, and what it takes to move people from simply learning their faith to living it—and then going on mission. We talk about launching apostolates, forming others, and becoming the kind of disciples who don’t just consume content but live it out with joy and purpose. Plus, we share some honest stories, practical tools (like the Discernment Rosary), and plenty of laughs. If you’ve ever wondered how to choose the right ministry for your clear path to discipleship—or how to fix the one you’ve got—this one’s for you. [00:00] Series Overview: Choosing Ministries for Your Clear Path [03:28] Understanding Faith Formation [05:41] Characteristics of Effective Faith Formation [10:46] Large Group vs. Small Group Faith Formation [13:45] The Role of Accompaniment in Faith Formation [21:00] Practical Tips for Small Group Leaders [27:25] Facilitating Community in Faith Formation [28:45] Importance of Support Systems for Small Groups [39:26] Discerning Faith Formation Options [48:34] The Power of Small Groups and Community [52:41] Final Thoughts and Encouragement Don’t forget to check out Options for Faith Formation (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/07/Options-for-Faith-Formation.pdf). And 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): 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)

What if the biggest thing holding your parish back isn’t a lack of programs—but a lack of missionary disciples? In this episode, I sit down with my team to explore a step in parish life that often gets skipped: evangelization formation. We’re talking about the part of discipleship where people go from passive participants to confident, Spirit-led missionaries—and why that shift changes everything. We get honest about what it actually takes to form missionary disciples—not just run more programs. You’ll hear real behind-the-scenes stories from parishes on the ground, practical tips that work, and ways they faced the most common roadblocks we see, like fear, self-doubt, or the sense of being alone in mission. We break down evangelization formation into clear, doable steps—like helping people pray out loud, share their story, and discover their charisms. Whether your parish is just starting out or ready to go deeper, this episode will shift how you think about forming people for mission—and give you the tools to start. [00:13] Series Overview: Choosing Evangelization Formation Ministry [01:15] Understanding Evangelization Formation [02:17] Characteristics of Evangelization Formation [13:39] The Role of Charisms in Evangelization [17:40] Team Approach and Mentorship in Evangelization [24:20] Programs and Ministries for Evangelization Formation [32:55] Discipleship and Mission [34:24] Practical Steps for Evangelization [35:58] Discernment in Evangelization Formation [39:22] Deep Investment in Leaders [41:34] Practical Ways to Discern Evangelization Formation [45:14] Stories of Evangelization Success Don’t forget to check out Options for Evangelization Formation (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2023/11/Options-for-Evangelization-Formation.pdf). And 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): 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)

Need help choosing steps on the Clear Path of Discipleship that fit your community? Today, we dive into the heart of missionary transformation: the conversion moment. I sit down with my team to unpack why these moments matter—and how they’re changing lives in real time. You’ll hear unforgettable stories (like a bartender who became a parish secretary) and see how ministries like Alpha, ChristLife, and parish retreats are helping people truly encounter Jesus. But this isn’t just about programs. It’s about creating space for people to meet Jesus—and letting that encounter ripple out into the life of your parish. We talk about what’s working, what’s not, and how to choose a format that actually fits your community. We also get real about the challenges—and the surprising opportunities—of doing this in diverse or bilingual settings. If you're trying to figure out where to start, or wondering how to take your next step toward a more missionary parish, this episode is for you. Get ready to think big—and start small. [01:09] Understanding Conversion Moments [07:12] Why Parishes Need Conversion Moments [12:16] Pros and Cons of Different Formats [15:50] Small Groups and Flexibility [18:55] Unity in Multilingual Parishes [24:28] Cultural Shifts and Strategic Planning [29:45] Choosing the Right Conversion Moment [32:59] Forming Missionary Leaders [37:51] The Role of Discernment in Ministry [43:03] Practical Tips for Implementing Conversion Moments [46:24] Inspiring Stories of Conversion [51:52] Common Pitfalls and How to Avoid Them Don’t forget to check out Options for Conversion Moments (https://equip.archomaha.org/wp-content/uploads/2024/04/Options-for-Conversion-Moments-1.pdf). And 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): 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)

What if our parish wasn’t just a place we come to—but a place we’re sent from? That’s the vision: parishes as missionary outposts, where we’re formed, equipped, and fired up to bring Jesus to the world around us. Imagine a community where people are on fire with God’s love, confident in their faith, and ready to share it. A place where the fruit isn’t just attendance numbers, but transformed lives—families healed, hearts stirred, and the Gospel reaching places it’s never gone. That’s the kind of fruit we’re after. Let’s talk about how to get there. [00:23] Coaches Corner: Begin with the End in Mind [00:41] Parenting Wisdom: Raising Adults, Not Children [02:52] Building a Vision for Your Parish [02:58] Pope Francis' Vision for Parishes [08:26] Applying the Vision to Youth Ministry [09:05] Reflecting on Your Ministry Goals [09:45] Closing Thoughts and Prayer 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’s at stake if we stay busy in church but miss our calling in the world? 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 (https://goodcounselkc.org/), On the Apostolate of the Laity (https://www.vatican.va/archive/hist_councils/ii_vatican_council/documents/vat-ii_decree_19651118_apostolicam-actuositatem_en.html), and The Vocation and the Mission of the Lay Faithful (https://www.vatican.va/content/john-paul-ii/en/apost_exhortations/documents/hf_jp-ii_exh_30121988_christifideles-laici.html). 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)

Could Hispanic spirituality be the gift your parish needs? In this episode, I sit down with Deacon Gregorio Elizalde, who leads Hispanic Ministry for the Archdiocese of Omaha. We talk about what really makes Hispanic ministry tick—and spoiler alert—it’s not just about translating resources into Spanish. It’s about receiving culture, building trust, and forming real relationships. Deacon Gregorio shares powerful insights into how many Hispanic Catholics show up with this deep, family-rooted faith that’s joyful, sacrificial, and incredibly contagious. There’s a deep sense of devotion, hospitality, and joy, even in the midst of hardship in Hispanic Catholic communities. And honestly, their ability to evangelize through relationships, through retreats, through just showing up with love—that’s a gift we desperately need in the Church today. If you're leading in a parish, or just want to understand how to better welcome and walk with our Hispanic brothers and sisters, this conversation will open your eyes and maybe even shift your heart. [00:14] The Importance of Hispanic Ministry [04:59] A Life-Changing Retreat [06:31] Becoming a Deacon [09:25] Hispanic Ministry in the Archdiocese [23:57] Ecclesial Movements and Community Impact [29:18] Devotional Culture in Hispanic Communities [33:20] Challenges in Hispanic Ministry [37:23] Consumerism and Faith [42:49] Gifts of the Hispanic Community [47:42] Building Inclusive Parishes [54:32] Resources and Support for Hispanic Ministry For more, check out Dcn. Gregorio's website (https://archomaha.org/oficina-del-ministerio-latino-hispano/), Facebook (https://www.facebook.com/search/top?q=centro%20pastoral%20tepeyac), or just email him at hmo@archomaha.org (mailto:hmo@archomaha.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)

What if real cultural change is just 15% away—and we’re closer than we think? 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 (https://www.amazon.com/Tipping-Point-Little-Things-Difference/dp/0316346624). 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 possible that your biggest step in faith begins with just saying yes—even before you know where it’ll lead? Saying yes to God, even when you don’t know all He’s asking, is about trusting the One who’s asking. It’s not about having the plan—it’s about knowing He’s good. Mary didn’t have all the details, but she said yes, and that yes changed everything. Our willingness can open the door for God to do more than we could ever imagine. I sit with Christina Semmens, author of Say Yes: Discovering Purpose, Peace, and Abundance in Daily Life, to talk about how small, daily choices can lead to a life of mission and meaning. We unpack how personal and relational evangelization isn’t one-size-fits-all, and how saying yes—internally and externally—can transform your relationship with God and others. Whether you're seeking to live your faith more intentionally or just need a dose of spiritual encouragement, Christina offers practical wisdom and heartfelt insight to help you walk more closely with God and embrace your unique calling. [00:01] Meet Christina Simmons: Author and Speaker [02:19] Christina's Personal Journey and Background [08:12] Discovering Faith and Mission [12:23] The Power of Saying Yes [16:20] Living Out Your Unique Mission [21:18] Practical Tools for Spiritual Growth [28:55] Real-Life Transformations [34:30] The Importance of Retreats in Daily Life [36:08] Making Time for Spiritual Retreats [42:26] The Four Rs of Scripture Reading [47:58] Programs vs. Processes in Spiritual Life [50:06] Holistic CPR: Customized Personal Formation [54:59] Dealing with Loneliness on Mission [01:01:55] Final Thoughts and Contact Information Don’t forget to check out Say Yes to Holiness (https://www.sayyestoholiness.com/) or contact Christina (mailto:christinasemmens@gmail.com) personally. 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)

Can something as simple as kindness really change someone's view of God? Simple acts of love and kindness are how Jesus shows up in people’s lives. When someone feels seen, heard, and cared for—especially in their mess or suffering—it softens hearts. It opens a door. That’s when people start to wonder, “Why are you doing this?” And we get to say, “Because Jesus loves you.” When we meet people in their suffering with compassion—feeding them, clothing them, praying with them—we’re not just meeting physical needs, we’re revealing the heart of Jesus. And when people experience that kind of love, they start to believe again that God is real, that He sees them, and that He hasn’t forgotten them. In today’s episode, I sit down with Mandy Busch and Amanda Pfeiffer to share the incredible story of how their parish community responded after an EF4 tornado struck. Instead of just reacting, they mobilized hundreds—each person using their unique spiritual gifts—to serve with compassion, leadership, and faith. We talk about how discovering and using our charisms—the gifts given by the Holy Spirit—can be a game changer for unity and fruitfulness in mission. When we stop comparing and start collaborating, the Church comes alive. Like a puzzle, every piece matters. And when we come together in love, the result is powerful. [01:14] Revisiting the Tornado Incident [03:46] Immediate Aftermath and Community Response [07:22] Mobilizing Resources and Long-Term Support [09:40] Charisms in Action [12:39] Coordination and Leadership [18:45] Recognition and Reflection [24:17] Witnessing the Holy Spirit at Work [26:35] Street Ministry and Community Impact [30:04] Acts of Mercy and Returning to Faith [34:09] Teamwork and Charisms in Action [42:26] Long-term Effects and Continued Support [44:24] Encouragement for Parish Leaders [49:03] Final Thoughts and Resources Don’t forget to check out St. Pat’s Elkhorn (https://www.stpatselkhorn.org/), Called and Gifted (https://siena.org/called-gifted), and related episode “Match Your Gifts to Your Mission” (https://equip.archomaha.org/match-your-gifts-to-your-mission-how-charisms-have-the-power-to-change-everything/). 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’s the one thing that can produce lasting fruit in our parish ministries?If we want to see real growth in areas like attendance, vocations, and community life, we must focus on making and maturing disciples. There are no shortcuts—superficial fixes won’t yield lasting change. True fruitfulness comes from healthy individuals, thriving ministries, and a clear vision rooted in mission. In this episode, I break it all down using the metaphor of a fruit tree—and show why discipleship is the key to everything. [00:34]Vision for Bearing Fruit [00:55] Desiring Good Fruits [02:33] The Role of Discipleship [03:12] Avoiding Shortcuts [04:04] Importance of Branches [05:07] Focusing on the Roots [05:54] Satisfying the Lord's Thirst [07:04] Final Prayer and Reflection [07:46] Closing Remarks 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 if everyday moments—like washing dishes or sitting in traffic—could actually connect you to heaven? In this episode, we’re diving into what it really means to live into your identity as a beloved son or daughter of God. We’ll chat about the baptismal priesthood—not as some abstract theology, but as a real, lived-out calling to be a bridge between heaven and earth. Whether you’re changing a diaper or heading into a meeting, worship isn’t just for Sunday mornings—it’s for every part of your life. I sit down with Fr. Michael Voithofer, and we talk about how worship shifts our focus, heals our hearts, and draws us into God's presence where we can actually rest. You’ll hear how starting your day with a posture of poverty of spirit—just being honest about your need for God—can transform the way you live, love, and lead. So grab your coffee, take a breath, and join us as we explore what it looks like to live from a place of sonship, freedom, and joy—bringing God’s presence into every moment. Are you ready to live like you’re deeply loved and fully sent? [03:57] Living the Priesthood in Daily Life [08:20] The Role of Ablaze House of Prayer [16:12] Combating Self-Reliance [28:04] Understanding Prophetic Ministry [41:50] The Lies of the Serpent and Divine Optometry [42:28] Striving and Self-Reliance in Priesthood [48:08] Prophetic Ministry and Healing [55:47] Living Under an Open Heaven [01:07:56] Community and Kingdom Living Check out Ablaze House of Prayer (https://www.ablazeworship.org/), Encounter School of Ministry (https://encounterschool.org/omaha/), and Fr. Michael’s books (https://www.amazon.com/s?i=digital-text&rh=p_27%3AFR.%2BMICHAEL%2BVOITHOFER%2B&s=relevancerank&text=FR.+MICHAEL+VOITHOFER+&ref=dp_byline_sr_ebooks_1). 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)

Parish renewal is the buzzword of the moment—and with it comes an overwhelming array of resources and ministries. So how do you cut through the noise to find what will truly help your parish move forward? In today’s episode, I talk with Susan Windley-Daoust, author of The Four Ways Forward: Becoming an Apostolic Parish in a Post-Christian World (https://www.osvcatholicbookstore.com/the-four-ways-forward-becoming-an-apostolic-parish-in-a-post-christian-world.html). Susan encourages us to focus on renewal models that prioritize: * Radical hospitality * Small group discipleship * Mission refocus * Signs and wonders Look for resources that align with these key principles and have a proven track record. Engage your parish leadership team in discernment, and don’t be afraid to start small—what matters most is finding what genuinely supports your parish’s growth in missionary identity. Want more practical insights? Tune in now! [04:10] The Call to Evangelization [19:11] Challenges in Modern Parishes [28:30] The Four Ways Forward [33:50] Respecting Individuality in Evangelization [34:18] The Power of First Proclamation [37:16] Embracing Small Groups for Spiritual Growth [43:36] Mission Refocus and Organizational Health [50:49] Elevating Signs and Wonders [58:32] Encouragement for Evangelization [01:03:15] The Mark 5:19 Project Don’t forget to check out Susan’s book (https://www.osvcatholicbookstore.com/the-four-ways-forward-becoming-an-apostolic-parish-in-a-post-christian-world.html) and the Mark 5:19 Project (https://mark519project.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)