Spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ for the purpose of conversion to or a rapprochement with Christianity
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In this episode, Fr. John and Mary break open Jesus' challenging instructions on how to have messy conversations with brothers and sisters. Click here to purchase your Advent of Rescue 2026! ========================== Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at [mission@actsxxix.org](mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)
What happens when healthcare stops treating people like people? Mike Gormley and Dave VanVickle are joined by nurse and nurse educator Stacy Gilson to discuss nursing as a vocation, the challenges facing healthcare workers today, and the importance of seeing the person behind the patient. They explore moral distress, the dehumanization of healthcare, COVID-19, pharmaceuticals, and how Catholics can bring compassion, truth, and the works of mercy into the medical field. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow
Marlon De La Torre, senior director of Evangelization for the Diocese of Columbus, joins the Son Rise Morning Show to discuss his new book, Teaching Toward Heaven: Unveiling a Symphony of Faith and the Catechism of the Catholic Church. Marlon explains why Catholic education must ultimately be directed toward our eternal destiny—not simply toward changing the culture or winning temporary battles. He discusses the role of parents as the primary educators, the importance of teachers living their faith with conviction, and how the Catechism can become more than a reference book: a tool for prayer, discernment, and growing closer to Christ. As the new school year begins, Marlon challenges Catholic educators, parents, and catechists to ask a fundamental question: Are we truly teaching our children toward heaven?Support the show: https://www.sacredheartradio.com/donate-now/See omnystudio.com/listener for privacy information.
Fr. John and Mary tackle in this episode one of the most absurd, extraordinary and demanding words of Jesus in all the Gospel…and why it is that what seems so absurd is actually quite reasonable and leads to true happiness. A Preaching Proposal for an Extended “Parish Mission” Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at [mission@actsxxix.org](mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)
What does it look like to practice medicine as a Catholic? Dr. Mike and Dr. Claudia Mulock share how their faith shapes their work, marriage, and approach to caring for patients. From seeing Christ in the people they serve to offering their work to God, they discuss the challenges of practicing medicine in a demanding healthcare system and how every patient can become an opportunity to love and serve Christ. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow
Imagine a standing coffee date with a friend who talks at you the entire time, looks at their watch, and then says, “Gotta go! This was great!” You'd walk away feeling pretty unsatisfied. The level of intimacy we can reach is limited when conversation remains one-sided. But, too often, we treat our prayer lives the exact same way. We focus on how well we said our prayers instead of stopping to listen to what God wants to say back. This week, Jonna Schuster, author of Hearing God's Voice, joins me to talk about listening prayer. We dive into its theological foundations, the four primary "languages" God uses to communicate, and how learning to hear His voice shifts our daily mission from a heavy burden into a rest-filled collaboration. Episode Timeline: [00:00] – Introduction [01:21] – Jonna's origin story [08:34] – What inspired Hearing God's Voice [14:00] – The scriptural foundation for listening prayer [18:00] – The 4 languages of God: seeing, hearing, feeling, and thinking [24:41] – Receiving God in the mode of the receiver [27:58] – Physical vs. emotional feelings in prayer [35:01] – Asking God for practical solutions and wisdom [39:33] – Overcoming the biggest obstacles to hearing God [46:56] – How listening prayer complements Catholic devotions [50:50] – Moving from performance anxiety to rest and intimacy [53:02] – What church renewal looks like when prayer becomes the norm [59:01] – Where to begin and how to find Jonna's work Resources Mentioned CatholicRevivalMinistries.com Hearing God's Voice ⭐️ Enjoying the Show? If The EquipCast is helping you navigate the realities of parish leadership, please take 60 seconds to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your review helps other tired ministry leaders find these tools and realize they don't have to walk this path alone! Connect & Take the Next Step: Grab Your Free Tools: Get the playbook that actually changes lives at EverydayEvangelization.org. Bring This to Your Parish: Discover strategic training and accompaniment at Anchor Consulting. Read the Book: Order your copy of A Clear Path: How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish. The EquipCast is powered by Everyday Evangelization in conjunction with Anchor Consulting, delivering practical evangelization strategies and parish ministry tools to help you leave your ministry better than you found it. Copyright © 2026 Anchor Consulting. All rights reserved.
Fr. John and Mary offer some background and personal reflection around Jesus' most pointed and important question in the Gospel: who do you say that I am? Check out our merch store here. Pre-order your Advent Guide here. https://youtu.be/ZKsN-AeqJP0 Jesus, the Final Days: What Really Happened, by Craig Evans and N. T. Wright Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at [mission@actsxxix.org](mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)
What is the purpose of medicine? And what does healthcare look like when we remember the dignity and eternal destiny of the person being cared for? Mike Gormley and Dave VanVickle explore what it means to care for the whole person, prepare for death, and recover the true purpose of healthcare. Along the way, they share powerful stories of faith, suffering, hospice care, and conversion. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow
We're joined by Johnny Hebert with a Gospel reflection. Fr. Dave Tomaszycki, editor of the book On the Demonic, Archbishop Fulton Sheen's unfinished book joins us. Dr. Luke Arredondo, Executive Director of the St. Brendan Center for Evangelization and Spirituality in the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee talks about the Feast of the Assumption.
What if evangelization doesn't begin at church—but around your dinner table?In Part 2 of our conversation on Catholic life and evangelization, we get practical about what it actually looks like to bring people closer to Jesus.Evangelization doesn't always mean having the perfect theological argument or convincing someone to come to Mass. Often, it begins with the ordinary things we're already doing: inviting someone into our home, sharing a meal, letting our kids play together, building genuine friendships, and putting Christ at the center of it all.The Catholic life is meant to be lived together.When our homes become places of hospitality, prayer, laughter, good food, honest conversation, and real Christian friendship, people can encounter something different—sometimes long before they ever walk through the doors of a church.The invitation to the altar may begin with an invitation to the table.In this episode, we talk about Catholic hospitality, authentic friendship, evangelization in everyday life, and how ordinary families can participate in the Church's mission without turning every relationship into a “project.”If you want to share your Catholic faith but aren't sure where to begin, begin with the life God has already given you.Open your home. Set the table. Invite somebody in. And put Jesus at the center.If this conversation encouraged you, subscribe, share the episode, and send it to someone who wants to help bring others closer to Christ.https://linktr.ee/bobbyfred85Purposelycatholic.com
What happens when a priest in a cassock and a layman with a clipboard start walking their neighborhood boundaries? Join me, Jim Jansen, as I sit down with Father Jeff Loseke and Adam Stephenson from St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Gretna, Nebraska, to talk about how they took on neighborhood outreach. Instead of waiting for people to walk through their church doors, they exported their parish database into Google Maps and started showing up on front porches. From active parishioners and homebound seniors to those who haven't set foot in a church in decades, they found that personal connection opens doors to healing old wounds and bringing people back to the sacraments. Whether you're responsible for every soul within your parish boundaries or you simply want to be a better neighbor, this conversation will help you turn a walk down the street into an encounter with Jesus. Episode Timeline: [00:00] – Introduction [00:01:46] – Guest Introductions & St. Charles Borromeo's Rapid Growth [00:07:59] – Moving from a "Mega-Parish" Mindset to Neighborhood Ministry [00:12:46] – Mapping Parishioners and Neighborhood Boundaries with Simple Tech [00:18:34] – The Routine: Door-to-Door Walks, Prayer Booklets, and Door Hangers [00:24:53] – Balancing Introversion vs. Extroversion in Doorstep Evangelization [00:29:54] – Training Parish Missionaries and Mobilizing Intercessors [00:32:30] – Starting the Fuse: Non-Threatening Bridges and Low-Barrier Invitations [00:44:31] – Fitting Neighborhood Outreach into the Overall Parish Mission & Clear Path [00:51:40] – Vision for the Future: Empowering Lay Responsibility and Local Presence [01:00:27] – Final Encouragements for Pastors, Staff, and Introverted Leaders Resources Mentioned St. Charles Borromeo Sent Evangelization The Art of Neighboring by Dave Runyon ⭐️ Enjoying the Show? If The EquipCast is helping you navigate the realities of parish leadership, please take 60 seconds to leave a rating and review on Apple Podcasts or Spotify. Your review helps other tired ministry leaders find these tools and realize they don't have to walk this path alone! Connect & Take the Next Step: Grab Your Free Tools: Get the playbook that actually changes lives at EverydayEvangelization.org. Bring This to Your Parish: Discover strategic training and accompaniment at Anchor Consulting. Read the Book: Order your copy of A Clear Path: How to Make Missionary Disciples in Your Parish. The EquipCast is powered by Everyday Evangelization in conjunction with Anchor Consulting, delivering practical evangelization strategies and parish ministry tools to help you leave your ministry better than you found it. Copyright © 2026 Anchor Consulting. All rights reserved.
In this episode, Fr. John and Mary wrestle with one of the most difficult encounters in all of the Gospels — the meeting between Jesus and the Canaanite woman. Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at [mission@actsxxix.org](mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)
Deacon Steve Greco is a permanent deacon of the Diocese of Orange in California; he is the Director of Evangelization and Formation for the Diocese as well. He is also founder and president of Spirit Filled Heart Ministries, which engages in evangelization and support of the foreign missions. He and MaryAnne have been married for over 50 years and have three adult children. They discuss the Mass readings from Sunday mass.The Bible and You airs live weekdays at 2:30pm Pacific Time go to spiritfilledevents.com website or download our Spirit Filled Radio App for Android or Apple Devices.Archives of shows from Spirit Filled Radio are available on podcast at spiritfilledevents.com Support the show
Does God really have a plan to reach the whole world with the gospel? In this episode of Words From The Word, Pastor Roderick Webster opens a brand new series titled "God's Plan for the Evangelization of the World," drawing from Matthew 28:16-20, Mark 16:15-16, Romans 1:16, 1 Corinthians 15:1-4, and John 3:16, all from the King James Version.You might be asking... Why does it matter whether evangelism follows God's plan or man's plan? What exactly is the gospel, and where can I find it clearly explained in Scripture? Is the command to "go and preach" still meant for Christians today? What happens to souls who never hear the gospel?Key points from this devotion:- The Great Commission is a divine command, not a suggestion, and it applies to every believer today- The gospel — Christ's death, burial, and resurrection — is God's power unto salvation for everyone who believes- God's love extends to every person on earth; no one is excluded from the offer of salvation- Generations have died without hearing the gospel because Christians have been slow to obey- Today He is your Savior — do not let Him become your judgeIf this devotion encouraged you, please like, leave a comment, share this video, and subscribe so you never miss a word from the Word.#WordsFromTheWord #GoodNewsBaptistChurch #KJV #BibleDevotion #ChristianLivingStay connected with GNBC:
What does it mean to care for the whole person, body and soul? Dave sits down with nurse, Elizabeth Kauffeld, to discuss the vocation of Catholic healthcare. Together, they explore the sacredness of the end of life, the role of prayer in patient care, and why Catholics have a unique witness to bring to medicine. Whether you're in healthcare or simply seeking a deeper understanding of suffering and mercy, this episode is for you. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow
Austin from came to Taylor's parish to lead a day of training on door to door evangelization. Taylor was hesitant about the idea in the past, but after the training and this conversation, he may have changed his mind! Tune in to find out how door to door evangelization isn't just for the evangelicals and learn tips and tricks that can equip you to better share the faith with anyone. Connect with Austin: https://www.sentevangelization.org Subscribe/Rate Never miss out on the craziness of each episode by hitting the subscribe button RIGHT NOW! Help other people find the show by taking a few moments to leave a review in your podcasting app. Thanks! YouTube Check out the show and other exclusive videos on our YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/fortecatholic Connect
We're joined by Sarah McDonald, communications director in the Archdiocese of New Orleans, with Clarion Herald update. Dina Dow, director of evangelization and catechesis in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, joins us. Dr. Tom Neal, Chief of Evangelization and Mission Engagement of the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee with Catholic 101 segment where we will answer questions about spiritual direction.
Hour 1 for 8/4/26 Drew broadcasts LIVE from the 144th Supreme Convention in Denver Colorado. First, he welcomes Sean Pott, the Senior Director of Evangelization and Education for the Knights of Columbus (1:11). Then, Drew and Dennis J. Gerber discuss the Knights of Columbus Charitable Fund (17:34). Finally, Deepak Devaraj Chief Investment Officer and President of Knights of Columbus Asset Advisors and Drew discuss investing with Catholic values (34:03). Links: kofc.org/relevant
The EquipCast is back! After a few months away, I am excited to kick off a new chapter for The EquipCast. In this quick 3-minute teaser, I share a bit of my own story from this past spring, express my deep gratitude to the Archdiocese of Omaha, and share where we are heading next. Moving forward, The EquipCast is an independent production powered by EverydayEvangelization.org. While the platform is new, our mission remains exactly the same. We are here to give you practical tools, honest conversations, and encouragement for the messy work of parish renewal. You don't have to carry the weight of ministry alone.
Deacon Steve Greco is a permanent deacon of the Diocese of Orange in California; he is the Director of Evangelization and Formation for the Diocese as well. He is also founder and president of Spirit Filled Heart Ministries, which engages in evangelization and support of the foreign missions. He and MaryAnne have been married for over 50 years and have three adult children. They discuss the Mass readings from Sunday mass.The Bible and You airs live weekdays at 2:30pm Pacific Time go to spiritfilledevents.com website or download our Spirit Filled Radio App for Android or Apple Devices.Archives of shows from Spirit Filled Radio are available on podcast at spiritfilledevents.com Support the show
In this episode, Fr. John and Mary build on last week's episode regarding our understanding of God the Father. They invite everyone to listen to perhaps Jesus' most pointed parable on His Father. Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at [mission@actsxxix.org](mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)
A Regnum Christi Daily Meditation. Sign up to receive the text in your email daily at RegnumChristi.com
Medicine today often prioritizes efficiency, profits, and policies, but Catholic healthcare was founded on a very different mission: to continue the healing ministry of Jesus Christ. Gomer and Dave speak with Ryan Conklin of CHRISTUS Health about what makes Catholic healthcare unique, why healing is more than curing, and how Catholic hospitals can remain faithful to their mission in an increasingly secular world. If you've ever wondered what truly sets Catholic healthcare apart, this episode is for you. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow
We're joined by Johnny Hebert with a Gospel reflection. Erin Franco, Catholic wife and mother, talks back-to-school and preparing our families for a new school year, discerning activities and schedules. Dr. Luke Arredondo, Executive Director of the St. Brendan Center for Evangelization and Spirituality in the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee joins us with our Catholic 101 segment.
Father John and Mary start a series on God the Father and how essential it is not just for prayer but for life to know Him. Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at [mission@actsxxix.org](mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)
Deacon Steve Greco is a permanent deacon of the Diocese of Orange in California; he is the Director of Evangelization and Formation for the Diocese as well. He is also founder and president of Spirit Filled Heart Ministries, which engages in evangelization and support of the foreign missions. He and MaryAnne have been married for over 50 years and have three adult children. They discuss the Mass readings from Sunday mass.The Bible and You airs live weekdays at 2:30pm Pacific Time go to spiritfilledevents.com website or download our Spirit Filled Radio App for Android or Apple Devices. Support the show
What is medicine really for? In this solo episode, Gomer explores the purpose of medicine through the lens of Scripture, philosophy, and the Catholic faith. Drawing from Sirach, Plato, St. Thomas Aquinas, Edmund Pellegrino, and the healing ministry of Jesus, he argues that today's healthcare crisis is ultimately a crisis of understanding what it means to be human. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow
We're joined by Sarah McDonald, Archdiocese of New Orleans communications director, with Clarion Herald update. We are joined by Maria Palma Smith, translator of the book Jesus, I Surrender Myself to You: The Life of Don Dolindo Ruotolo. Dr. Tom Neal, Chief of Evangelization and Mission Engagement of the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee with Catholic 101 segment talks about mass readings: why are there different cycles every year for the mass readings?
Talking about faith can feel a lot like trying to offer someone a solution you know would help—only to watch them stare back with no connection at all. Joe Rockey and Father Boniface Hicks explore why that moment can be so discouraging, especially when the person already has negative impressions of Christianity, religion, or past faith experiences. The challenge is not just making a positive impression; often, it is gently overcoming a wounded or distorted one.Father explains that sharing faith should never feel like a sales pitch or a demand. The starting point is witness: *this is what Jesus has done in my life*. That approach gives the other person freedom. It also protects the conversation from becoming pressure, argument, or performance. A sincere testimony begins with humility, personal vulnerability, and enough self-knowledge to answer basic questions: Why do I follow Christ? What difference has He made? Why do I pray, worship, and try to live the moral life?The episode offers a practical structure for testimony: what life was like before, what Jesus did, and what life is like now. That story may be dramatic, or it may be a small recent change—more patience, more peace, more courage, more purpose. Joe brings in the relationship-building and sales lens: do not prejudge the person or assume their problem. Listen first. Learn what matters to them. Then share your experience in terms they can actually understand.**Key Ideas*** Sharing faith can be discouraging when people have prior negative experiences or assumptions about Christianity.* Witness starts with your own life: “This is what Jesus has done for me,” not “Here is what you need to do.”* Faith-sharing requires vulnerability because belief cannot be forced or scientifically proved into another person.* A useful testimony structure: **before Jesus → what Jesus did → what life looks like now**.* The best conversations begin with listening; speak in terms the other person can receive, without judgment or manipulation.**Links & References**None explicitly referenced with a clear official/source link in this episode.**CTA:** If this helped, please leave a review or share this episode with a friend.Questions or thoughts? Email [FatherAndJoe@gmail.com](mailto:FatherAndJoe@gmail.com).### TagsFather and Joe, Joe Rockey, Father Boniface Hicks, sharing faith, evangelization, witness, testimony, talking about Jesus, confidence, rejection, discouragement, vulnerability, personal testimony, faith conversations, family and faith, friends and faith, fallen away Catholics, Christianity, discipleship, relationship building, listening, trust, humility, sales analogy, ethical sales, no manipulation, no judgment, bad religious experiences, negative impressions, conversion, Easter converts, prayer, worship, moral life, Jesus changes lives, before and after, spiritual growth, Catholic podcast, relationship with God, relationship with others, relationship with self, courage, openness, freedom, Bob Ross analogy
In this episode of Father & Dad, Fr. Steven and Dad discuss another summer spent at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit, where Fr. Steven is continuing his studies toward a Licentiate in Sacred Theology (STL) with a specialization in the New Evangelization. Fr. Steven explains what an STL degree is, what the Church means by the “New Evangelization,” and how the Second Vatican Council and the Church's teaching in the decades that followed have shaped this renewed missionary vision.The conversation offers a glimpse into Fr. Steven's coursework, including a class entitled Models of Evangelization, where he has been studying and evaluating practical initiatives that have helped countless people encounter Jesus Christ. Along the way, he shares one of his favorite recommendations for anyone interested in parish renewal and evangelization: Divine Renovation by Fr. James Mallon.Fr. Steven and Dad also remind listeners that Father & Dad will be recording a live episode at the Emmaus Conference on August 22. They hope to see many of you there as they continue the conversation about faith, family, and following Christ together.If you'd like to read Divine Renovation, you can find it here: https://a.co/d/023jsqd7You can also learn more about the Emmaus Conference on the Diocese of Gary Emmaus Conference website: https://dcgary.org/
In this episode, fresh off the heels of a visit to the Carmelite Sisters of the Sacred Heart of Jesus of Los Angeles, Fr. John and Mary gently encourage us to take time this week to pray in a special way for those who dedicate themselves to pray for us — the religious! To learn more about The Resistance or pre-order your copy click here. Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at [mission@actsxxix.org](mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)
Oscar welcomes Andy Churray, president of Vagabond Missions, to Ave Spotlight for a conversation about what it means to live on mission. Andy shares how Vagabond Missions brings the Gospel to inner-city neighborhoods by reaching young people who are often overlooked by traditional ministry. Rooted in Jesus' words that "the Son of Man has nowhere to lay his head," their mission isn't built on flashy programs but on a simple philosophy: make a friend, be a friend, and bring a friend to Christ. Through stories of authentic relationships, Andy reminds listeners that evangelization begins not with projects or programs, but with presence, grace, and the courage to go where others will not. Three Takeaways: Mission begins with relationships. The Gospel spreads most powerfully through authentic friendships, not elaborate strategies. Create margin for people. Like Jesus, we must slow down enough to truly see, know, and accompany those around us. Grace comes before the checklist. Lasting evangelization isn't about completing tasks—it's about allowing Christ's love to overflow into the lives of others.
If We Don't Talk About Jesus, Who Will? Romans 10:14-17 "But how can people call for help if they don't know who to trust? And how can they know who to trust if they haven't heard of the One who can be trusted? And how can they hear if nobody tells them? And how is anyone going to tell them unless someone is sent to do it? That's why Scripture exclaims, A sight to take your breath away! Grand processions of people telling all the good things of God! But not everybody is ready for this, ready to see and hear and act. Isaiah asked what we all ask at one time or another: “Does anyone care, God? Is anyone listening and believing a word of it?” The point is: Before you trust, you have to listen. But unless Christ's Word is preached, there's nothing to listen to.” We are all called to evangelization. What does evangelization even mean? According to the Diocese of Trenton, “Evangelization means bringing the Good News of Jesus into every human situation and seeking to convert individuals and society by the divine power of the Gospel itself.” This could look different for each one of us. I have a friend who feels called to share the Psalms with those he meets. When he does, people are often moved to tears, and it opens doors for him to talk about other parts of the Bible. I have another friend who likes to spend time mentoring women in all that Jesus wants for them. She meets people right where they are and uses the scriptures to show how they can live their lives in a big way. Some people like to go out onto the streets and talk to the homeless people about God and Jesus. Other people like to go door to door asking if they can share the Good News of Jesus with all those they meet. There isn't one special way that you have to evangelize. There also isn't a set rule on whom you have to evangelize to. Sometimes we might feel more comfortable talking about Jesus within our family. We might talk about Jesus to our siblings, our parents, or even our children. Other people might feel uncomfortable talking about Jesus with their family, but they are perfectly fine talking about him to strangers or to their friends. Whatever feels best for you is a great place to start. I say a great place to start because sometimes it is good to step outside of your comfort zone and try something new. It's great if you start by talking about Jesus with those you feel more comfortable doing so with, but then over time, as you become more and more comfortable talking about Jesus, you can branch out and start talking to others about Him. The verse above says, "But how can people call for help if they don't know who to trust? And how can they know who to trust if they haven't heard of the One who can be trusted? And how can they hear if nobody tells them? And how is anyone going to tell them, unless someone is sent to do it?” We live in a world where there is so much noise and so many distractions. We don't know who to listen to these days. This verse is saying: how can we call for help when we don't know who we can trust? And how can people know they can trust Jesus if we aren't talking about Him? If they don't know who He is? It is our job, each and every one of us, to teach the world who Jesus really is and that they can trust Him. Even if you just start with your spouse or your children, tell them about Jesus. Tell them about all of God's promises that Jesus came to fulfill. Tell them they can trust Jesus. God is our comfort, our shield, and our protector. If you didn't already know that, wouldn't you want to? I am not talking about going out and forcing your beliefs on others. I am talking about sharing the Good News with those willing to listen. Next, the verse says, “That's why Scripture exclaims, A sight to take your breath away! Grand processions of people telling all the good things of God!” How great would it be if we were all talking about God? The verse is saying that it would be so beautiful, it would take our breath away if we saw grand processions of people telling all the good things of God! Doesn't that sound like something you want to be a part of? Doesn't that sound exciting? Can you picture it? Instead of being afraid to talk about your faith because you don't want to offend anyone, you freely walk down the streets proclaiming the Good News of Christ Jesus. When I picture that, I think of a time when we used to vacation at this military place called “Fourth Cliffs.” We would go camping there over the Fourth of July weekend. Every 4th of July, they would have a little parade. This parade consisted of a pickup truck with an American Flag attached to it. Anyone who wanted to participate in the parade walked behind the truck shouting “Happy Birthday America!” and “Happy 4th of July.” It was so much fun. When I hear the part of this verse that says “a grand procession,” I picture a whole bunch of people out in the streets talking about how amazing Jesus is! The verse also says, “But not everybody is ready for this, ready to see and hear and act.” We can't do anything about those who are not ready to see, hear or act. That is a job for God. God needs to soften their hearts, open their eyes and ears. We are not responsible for the fruit of our labor. It is not our job to make sure everyone we talk to hears what we are saying. It is only our job to say it. We don't have to put pressure on ourselves to say the right thing to everyone all the time. We don't have to stress about not knowing what to say. If we just follow the promptings of the Holy Spirit, God will take care of the rest. God will make sure what we say takes root in the people we are talking to. We don't have to worry about that. God is so good! Next, the verse says, “Isaiah asked what we all ask at one time or another: “Does anyone care, God? ' " Is anyone listening and believing a word of it?” I like how this says, we all ask at one time or another. I think this is so true. Especially if we have children. We teach them the ways of God, we tell them about Jesus and how much He loves them, and yet we often have no idea if they are hearing what we are saying. Do they believe all that we are saying? Do they believe any of it? What about our friends and family members? Do they believe what we are saying? Are they even listening? The verse ends with, “The point is: Before you trust, you have to listen. But unless Christ's Word is preached, there's nothing to listen to.” This brings us back to the beginning. It is not our job to make sure everything we say is heard or understood; that is God's job. Our job is just to get the information out there. Before anyone can trust, they need to listen, and if we aren't talking about Jesus, then there isn't anything for them to listen to. Take a moment and think about how many people you meet throughout your day. Think about how you could incorporate Jesus into the conversation. Maybe come up with a few one-liners about Jesus or God that could fit into most conversations. Or, practice listening to the Holy Spirit, so you can know when He is prompting you to share the Good News of Jesus with someone. Think of how you can share Jesus with your friends and family. One great way is to love them. Sometimes we teach people more with our actions than we ever could with our words. Especially if we are talking about Jesus, and yet we are not loving people and treating them with respect. In that case, our actions will be much louder than our words, and they won't hear anything we are saying. We are all called to share the Good News of Jesus. How you do that is up to you and God. Ask Him how He wants you to share, and He will tell you. Dear Heavenly Father, I ask you to bless all those listening to this episode today. Lord, we don't want to keep you to ourselves; we want to share you with others. Please help us. Show us how you want each one of us to share with those around us. Give us the courage to share even when we're nervous or scared. Help reassure us that you will guide us in what to say if we ask, and if we listen to you guiding us. Lord, we love you, and we want everyone to love you. Please help us tell about all the amazing things that make you so incredible. You are the almighty one. You are the King of Kings and the Lord of Lords. We are so very grateful for all you do for us, and we ask all of this in accordance with your will and in Jesus holy name, Amen. Thank you so much for joining me on this journey to walk boldly with Jesus. You can find both my books on my website, walkboldlywithjesus.com, or on Amazon. Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace and Walk Boldly With Jesus Devotionals. Remember, Jesus loves you, and so do I! Have a blessed day! www.findingtruenorthcoaching.comCLICK HERE TO DONATECLICK HERE to sign up for Mentoring CLICK HERE to sign up for Daily "Word from the Lord" emailsCLICK HERE to sign up for my newsletter & receive a free audio training about inviting Jesus into your daily lifeCLICK HERE to buy my book Total Trust in God's Safe Embrace
What does it mean to practice medicine as a faithful Catholic? Dave VanVickle is joined by Grant and Christy Martsolf to explore a vision of healthcare that treats the whole person, not just the symptoms. They discuss restorative medicine, the dignity of the human person, AI, lessons from COVID, and how faith is shaping the future of healthcare through their new practice, Headwaters Clinic. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow
We're joined by Johnny Hebert with a Gospel reflection. Sean Harrison, Abbey Youth Fest Director, talks about AYF coming back to Louisiana. Dr. Luke Arredondo, Executive Director of the St. Brendan Center for Evangelization and Spirituality in the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee with Catholic 101 segment- why do we stand when the priest stands and sit when the priest sits?
Deacon Steve Greco is a permanent deacon of the Diocese of Orange in California; he is the Director of Evangelization and Formation for the Diocese as well. He is also founder and president of Spirit Filled Heart Ministries, which engages in evangelization and support of the foreign missions. He and MaryAnne have been married for over 50 years and have three adult children. They discuss the Mass readings from Sunday mass.The Bible and You airs live weekdays at 2:30pm Pacific Time go to spiritfilledevents.com website or download our Spirit Filled Radio App for Android or Apple Devices.Archives of shows from Spirit Filled Radio are available on podcast at spiritfilledevents.com Support the show
In this episode, Fr. John and Mary conclude their series on what ACTS XXIX calls their apostolic values — the “how” of their mission, which is equally as important as the “what”. This week they look at the 3rd and final value: Being Docile to the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit, Fire of Divine Love Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at [mission@actsxxix.org](mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)
Msgr. Roger J. Landry Chapel of the Vincentian Seminary, Krakow Tertio Millennio Seminar Friday of the 14th Week in Ordinary Time, Year II Votive Mass for the Evangelization of Peoples July 10, 2026 Hos 14:2-10, Ps 51, Mt: 10:16-23 To listen to an audio recording of today's homily, please click below: https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/catholicpreaching/7.10.26_Homily_1.mp3 The […] The post Shrewd and Pure Sheep Among Wolves, 14th Friday in Ordinary Time (II), July 10, 2026 appeared first on Catholic Preaching.
As Catholic economist Catherine Pakaluk recently highlighted the beautiful joys of siblings in The New York Times, the TCA team discusses their own experiences as mothers of large families. They reiterate the countless blessings and unique upside of a full house—including how a young sibling can be a balm to older teens struggling with depression or anxiety. Next, we sit down with Catholic mother Keishera Joubert to hear the harrowing, beautiful story of her son, baby Cassian. Known as the "miracle baby born twice," Keishera shares her ordeal of keeping her son alive against all odds. Finally, following the appointment of TCA chaplain Msgr. Roger Landry to the Vatican Dicastery for the Doctrine of Evangelization, we talk with the Pontifical Missions Director about his new call and get his take on the recent SSPX excommunications. Catch the show every Saturday at 7 a.m. and 5 p.m. ET on EWTN Radio!
What does Jesus really mean when he tells his disciples to "heal the sick"? Gomer reflects on accompanying his father through his final days before introducing a new season on Catholic healthcare. Together, Gomer and Dave explore the Church's vision for medicine, the dignity of every patient, and why healthcare is more than a profession, it's a vocation to share in Christ's healing ministry. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow
Read OnlineJesus said to his Apostles: “As you go, make this proclamation: ‘The Kingdom of heaven is at hand.' Cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons. Without cost you have received; without cost you are to give.” Matthew 10:7–8And they were off! After choosing Twelve of His disciples and naming them Apostles—that is, those who are sent—Jesus sends them out, two by two, into the towns and villages of Israel, places where He Himself would later come. They go before Him, preparing hearts to receive the fullness of the Gospel when the Lord Himself arrives.At this stage, their mission is directed solely “to the lost sheep of the house of Israel” (Matthew 10:6). They are not to go into pagan or Samaritan regions—not yet. Only after the Passion, Resurrection, and the outpouring of the Holy Spirit at Pentecost will they go to the ends of the earth, empowered to “make disciples of all nations” (Matthew 28:19). This first mission, therefore, is a foretaste—a seed of the universal mission that will blossom in the early Church and continue through missionary efforts today.In this twofold sending—first to Israel, then to all nations—we glimpse the pattern of the spiritual life: God first works inwardly, forming and healing the soul, and then sends it outward in love. Our evangelization must arise from an interior communion with Christ, deepened by grace and empowered by the Holy Spirit. Just as the Apostles could not be sent to the world until Pentecost, neither can we bear lasting fruit unless we, too, are first transformed by His Spirit.Consider this twofold process in your life. The Apostles' first mission can be likened to our calling to witness to the faith within our homes—to spouses, children, relatives, and close friends. But just as the Twelve had to be formed by Christ before proclaiming His Kingdom, we, too, must be formed in the school of grace. The Apostles were first called, taught, shown signs and wonders, drawn to deeper faith, and only then prepared for this first mission.Likewise, before we can effectively evangelize even within our families, our own conversion must be sincere. For example, parents hand on the faith to their children not merely by teaching doctrine, but by living a faith that is visibly alive. Daily prayer, faithful attendance at Mass, and a genuine love for Christ in the home form the atmosphere in which grace can flourish. This must flow from an interior transformation—similar to the Apostles, who left everything to follow Jesus and were gradually conformed to His mind and heart.That the Apostles were sufficiently prepared to proclaim the Kingdom is evident in Jesus' words as He sends them forth. To “cure the sick, raise the dead, cleanse the lepers, drive out demons,” and to give freely what they themselves had received, reveals that they had already been entrusted with much. Their transformation was not yet complete, but it was real. And Christ, knowing their weaknesses, still entrusted them with His power—because their hearts were open and receptive to grace.So it is with us. Unless we allow Christ to heal, instruct, and sanctify us—unless we live in daily communion with Him—we will struggle to pass on the faith, even to those closest to us. Evangelization does not begin with strategies or words, but with lives deeply conformed to Christ. Only then will we be able to proclaim, with credibility and power, that the Kingdom of Heaven is at hand. Reflect today on this first mission upon which Jesus sent His Apostles. See in their example your own calling: to be formed interiorly by grace so that you become a living witness to the Kingdom of God within you. Begin with those closest to you and, from there, remain attentive to the ways the Holy Spirit leads you to bring the Gospel even farther. As with the Apostles, trust that your response to grace will bear fruit in ways fully known only to God.My Lord and King, You desire that Your Kingdom be proclaimed to the ends of the earth. Please first establish Your Kingdom in my soul, conforming me to Your reign. From there, please use me as an instrument of Your grace for those closest to me and to all to whom You wish to send me. Jesus, I trust in You. Image: Jesus blesses the Apostolic College by Lawrence OP, CC BY-NC-ND 2.0.Source: Free RSS feed from catholic-daily-reflections.com — Copyright © 2026 My Catholic Life! Inc. All rights reserved. This content is provided solely for personal, non-commercial use. Redistribution, republication, or commercial use — including use within apps with advertising — is strictly prohibited without written permission.
Msgr. Roger J. Landry Vincentian Seminary, Kraków, Poland Tertio Millennio Seminary Wednesday of the Fourteenth Week in Ordinary Time, Year II Votive Mass for the Evangelization of Peoples July 8, 2026 Hos 10:1-3.7-8.12, Ps 105, Mt 10:1-7 To listen to an audio recording of this homily, please click below: https://traffic.libsyn.com/secure/catholicpreaching/7.8.26_Homily_1.mp3 The readings for […] The post Bearing Apostolic Fruit from Being Attached to the Luxuriant Vine, 14th Wednesday (II), July 8, 2026 appeared first on Catholic Preaching.
For years, it feels like Catholics have been asked to choose a side.Traditional or progressive.Latin Mass or Novus Ordo.Justice or truth.Mercy or doctrine.Evangelization or tradition.But what if we've been asking the wrong question?In this episode of The Catholic Couple, Bobby and Katie discuss why division has become one of the greatest challenges facing Catholics today and why the answer isn't picking another side—it's becoming a saint.Drawing from Scripture, Church history, René Girard's scapegoat theory, the Catechism, and the "both/and" vision behind Bobby's upcoming book Guardians and Prophets, we explore how the devil often divides the Church not through outright lies, but through half-truths that pull Catholics away from the fullness of the faith.We also discuss: Why Catholic tribalism is growing What René Girard teaches about scapegoating The difference between Guardians and Prophets What Catholics can learn from Protestants about discipleship and community Why authentic relationships matter more than ever Why we believe a real Catholic revival is happening How the Eucharist holds everything together Why the Mass is both the Sacrifice of Calvary and the Wedding Supper of the Lamb If you've ever been discouraged by Catholic infighting or wondered how we can move forward together, this conversation is for you.
DescriptionA shift I am making in the podcast is NOT only to speak with speakers about the art and science of preaching, I am also looking to interview thought leaders ADJACENT to preaching and teaching. Well today, my guest Julianne Stanz, is both! She is a gift to the Church and I'm so grateful to get a chance today to hear beautiful stories from the heart of the Church: from her first time meeting Pope Leo to sharing what, in her opinion, has led to such growth in the Church, and also where ‘the puck is headed', if you will. Julianne Stanz is a storyteller, bestselling author, and encourager whose heart for ministry has inspired and equipped audiences across the globe. With more than two decades of distinguished service in church leadership, both nationally and internationally, she has partnered with dioceses, bishops, clergy, and lay leaders to advance the mission of the Church. She currently serves as the Director of Outreach for Evangelization and Discipleship at Loyola Press and as a consultant to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB), providing strategic guidance on evangelization, missionary discipleship, and pastoral leadership. She is the author of several acclaimed books, including her latest: The Catholic Parent's Survival Guide: How to Answer Your Children's Toughest Questions about Faith (all published by Loyola Press). Julianne is married to Wayne, a Catholic school teacher, and together they are raising three children.Check out Julianne's website right here: www.juliannestanz.comAnd here's the ink to her latest book, “Catholic Parents Survival Guide.” Check it out!LinksFor more information about the Better Preach Podcast visit: www.ryanohara.org/betterpreachBetter Preach Podcast is now on YouTube. Here's a link to the channel.Check out Ryan's FREE course on “sharing your faith as a Catholic.”Follow Ryan on Instagram, Twitter, YouTube, or FacebookJoin the Better Preach email list.
We are taking a break this week as Gomer's dad's funeral is taking place this week. Please keep the Gormley family in your prayers. In the meantime, please enjoy this episode from the backlog. It can be difficult to see the point of our suffering. Sometimes, it can be an even greater struggle to help someone else through their suffering. Mike and Dave are joined by Jeff Cavins to discuss evangelization, but especially, how to share a message of hope when it comes to suffering. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow
In this episode, Fr. John and Mary continue their conversation about why how we do what we do is as important as what we do. This week they address this by looking at their 2nd Apostolic Value entitled: Striving to Be Authentically Human Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at [mission@actsxxix.org](mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)
As we begin a new season on Catholic healthcare, Dave reflects on the passing of Gomer's father and the hope of the Resurrection. Drawing from his experience accompanying his late wife through serious illness, Dave explores why healthcare is more than medicine, it's a work of mercy. He discusses the Church's historic role in caring for the sick, the Catholic roots of hospitals, and previews upcoming conversations with Catholic doctors, nurses, chaplains, and healthcare professionals living out their faith through healing and compassionate care. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow
In this episode, Fr. John and Mary reflect on God's call in our lives to be and do great things for Him as they break open ACTS XXIX's first core, or apostolic, value: ambitious for God and His Kingdom. Give Jesus Back the Pen | Fr. John Riccardo & Ron Huntley | Huntley Leadership Podcast #224 Road to Renewal: How Faith, Vision, And Courage Are Fuelling A Church Comeback Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at [mission@actsxxix.org](mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)
How can parishes better accompany people entering the Catholic Church? In this listener Q&A episode, Dave wraps up the OCIA series by answering questions about sponsors, mentorship, community, Natural Family Planning, and how to meet the diverse needs of those coming into the Church. Dave argues that one of the biggest missing pieces in many OCIA programs isn't more content, it's deeper relationships. We want to hear from you! Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com with your questions/comments Don't forget to text “EKSB” to 33-777 to get the shownotes right to your inbox! You can also find the full shownotes at www.ascensionpress.com/EveryKneeShallBow
In this episode, Fr. John and Mary begin a new series looking at “the how” behind the work we do. It is intended for everyone, but perhaps will be especially helpful for those who lead ministry at any level. Give Jesus Back the Pen | Fr. John Riccardo & Ron Huntley | Huntley Leadership Podcast #224 Road to Renewal: How Faith, Vision, And Courage Are Fuelling A Church Comeback Connect with us and our community on our websites and social media. Or simply reach us via email at [mission@actsxxix.org](mailto: mission@actsxxix.org) ACTS XXIX - Mobilizing for Mission Web: https://www.actsxxix.org Instagram: @acts.xxix Facebook: @ACTSXXIXmission The Rescue Project Web: https://rescueproject.us Instagram: @the.rescue.project Our Streaming Channels Web: https://watch.actsxxix.org/browse YouTube: @actsxxix (https://youtube.com/actsxxix)