Podcasts about evangelization

_Dear friends, please bear with us as we encountered some audio issues during this episode. We're grateful for your patience and thank you for tuning in! _ In this episode, Fr. John and Mary continue their series on Jesus' words to the 7 Churches in the Book of Revelation. Today, they look at Jesus' words to the Church in Pergamum and His challenge to them and to us to repent of those places in our lives where we have served two masters. 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)

Dave is joined by Jim Beckman, director of Impact Center, to explore what it truly means to be a missionary disciple. Together, they dive into the beautiful messiness of mission and the bold obedience required, even when it challenges comfort or expectations. If you feel God stirring your heart to start a Bible study, lead a mission trip, or step out more boldly in evangelization, this conversation 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

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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; in this episode they discuss the readings from the first Sunday in Lent with a focus on spiritual warfare.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

Deacon Steve Greco is a permanent deacon of the Diocese of Orange. He is founder of Spirit Filled Hearts Ministry, and host of Empowered by the Spirit.  In this archived episode from 2021, Deacon Steve talks about evangelization with evangelist Terry Barber.Empowered by the Spirit airs live weekdays at 10:00am and Fridays at 5pmPacific Time go to https://www.spiritfilledevents.com/empowered-by-the-spirit website or download our Spirit Filled Radio App for Android or Apple Devices.APPLE LINK FOR APPGOOGLE PLAY LINK FOR APPArchives of shows from Spirit Filled Radio are available on podcast at https://www.spiritfilledevents.com/empowered-by-the-spirit Support the show

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary continue their series on Jesus' words to the 7 Churches in the Book of Revelation — Churches that are at one and the same time real places and symbolic of the Church in every age. Today, they look at Jesus' words to the Church in Smyrna and see what it might mean for us. 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)

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Well, we are now well into the Lenten season — a time that naturally invites us to slow down a little, to reflect, and perhaps to take a deeper look at our spiritual lives. For many people, Lent can be a real opportunity to renew faith or even to rediscover it.  Starting next week, there's a course that might be just what you're looking for. It's called “Come and See”, and it's designed to help people explore their faith in a welcoming and thoughtful way.  I'm delighted to say that joining us now to tell us more about it is Fr Michael Hurley, priest, retreat giver, and author of Inspiring Faith Communities – A Programme of Evangelization, published by Messenger Publications. 

Matthew Harvey Sanders is the Founder and CEO of Longbeard, a Catholic AI company that built Magisterium AI and is engaging in AI projects in partnership with the Vatican. Eric sits down with Matthew to discuss artificial intelligence and how it can be a tool for missionary disciples as we move into an AI age. You can go to longbeard.com to learn more about their Catholic AI projects. You can listen to Brett Powell's conversation with Matthew at https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/ai-is-it-a-force-for-human-flourishing-or-not-w/id1728315523?i=1000708327679 Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim"

【神修話語】二零二六年二月二十一日 【駱曦 愛生命 隨想】二零二六年二月二十一日 【保祿家書】保祿家書 - 迦拉達書 Ep 11 - 迦 5:1-12

11）迦 5:1-12恩許的自由決不可放棄。 1基督解救了我們，是為使我們獲得自由；所以，你們要站穩，不可再讓奴隸的軛，束縛住你們。2請注意，我保祿告訴你們：若你們還願意受割損，基督對你們就沒有什麼益處。3我再向任何自願受割損的人聲明：他有遵守全部法律的義務。4你們這些靠法律尋求成義的人，是與基督斷絕了關係，由恩寵上跌了下來。5至於我們，我們卻是依賴聖神，由於信德，懷着能成義的希望，6因為在基督耶穌內，割損或不割損都算不得什麼，唯有以愛德行事的信德，纔算什麼。7以前你們跑得好！有誰攔阻了你們去追隨真理呢？8這種勸誘，決不是出自那召選你們的天主。9少許的酵母就能使整個麵團發酵。10我在主內信任你們，認為你們不會有什麼別的心思；但那擾亂你們的人，不論他是誰，必要承受懲罰。11至於我，弟兄們，如果我仍宣講割損的需要，那我為什麼還受迫害？若是這樣，十字架的絆腳石就早已除去了。12巴不得那些擾亂你們的人，將自己割淨了！ ❖保祿在《迦拉達書》不是反對「工行」，他所反對的只是人以為可以單憑「法律尋求成義」（4）。保祿也不是反對信德的作為（這經常與「法律」的內容吻合），因為這些作為都有賴與基督在生活上的共融才能成事。反之，保祿聲明重要的卻是「以愛德行事的信德」（6）。雖然保祿在信中指摘迦拉達人「與基督斷絕了關係，由恩寵上跌了下來」（4），但他仍懷有希望，期待他們改過（10）。 ❖「基督解救了我們，是為使我們獲得自由」（1a）──信友的自由，按保祿的神學，是指捨棄罪惡、擺脫法律、出離死亡而言，但在此，如在羅7:1-25及8:1-4是特指擺脫「法律」而言。迦拉達人在未領洗之前是什麼法律的奴隸呢？他們既不是猶太人，所以不是梅瑟法律的奴隸；他們既是外邦人，所以曾是「無能無用的蒙學」的奴隸（4:9），即外教迷信的奴隸。現在基督從這蒙學中解救了他們，就如從梅瑟的法律中解救了猶太人一樣。 ❖「不可再讓奴隸的軛，束縛住你們」（1b）──他們既然在基督內獲得了自由，就不該再去遵守梅瑟法律，負這奴隸的軛（宗15:10），否則只會是改換了另一主人的奴隸而已。 ❖「若你們還願意受割損，基督對你們就沒有什麼益處」（2）──保祿按血統來說，原是個純粹的猶太人（1:14；羅11:1），按身份來說，是基督的宗徒，他基於這種理由，遂敢嚴厲警告他們說：或隨從梅瑟，或隨從耶穌，不能有什麼折中的辦法。梅瑟的法律所特別重視的「割損禮」，決不是唯一使人得救的途徑，唯一使人得救的途徑，就是基督：凡在基督以外尋求救恩的，絕對找不到救恩（宗4:12）。猶太主義保守派的信友對迦拉達人卻說：只要他們接受割損禮，便可得救；對於其他的梅瑟法律，如守潔與不潔等（肋11-16章），甚至可以不去遵守，因為他們不屬於以色列民族，但割損禮卻必行不可。保祿很激烈地反對這種說法，因為他們把割損禮與耶穌的洗禮竟然等量齊觀，說這兩種禮儀既都是天主制定的，應該一同遵行，不能有所偏廢。 ❖「我再向任何自願受割損的人聲明：他有遵守全部法律的義務」（3）──為駁斥這一謬說，保祿不再在這裡證明割損禮已被廢棄，因為在本書信的3、4兩章中，已詳細證明舊約制度和它所包含的割損禮已告結束。他保祿在這裡願意討論的，是誰若接受割損禮，就該「遵守全部法律」，就如領洗的信友，應該遵守基督的全部法律一樣（6:2；及5:14-26）。 ❖「你們這些靠法律尋求成義的人，是與基督斷絕了關係，由恩寵上跌了下來」（4）──也許迦拉達人曾說，為確保得救，更好這兩種禮法一起遵守。但是這種想法，完全錯誤了，這樣作，就「是與基督斷絕了關係，由恩寵上跌了下來」，因為「成義」只是藉著信德，由唯一的基督所獲得的鴻恩（2:16-21；羅3:21-26等）。 ❖「至於我們，我們卻是依賴聖神，由於信德，懷着能成義的希望」（5）──本節「依賴【聖】神」（πνεύματι - pneúmati）一語，原文本無「聖」字，但按上下文和大多數希臘教父，是指「聖神」而言，或至少應作「聖神所引導的靈魂」解。保祿指出我們不能「靠法律尋求成義」，卻要在真理的道路上，尋求因信德和由聖神而來的成義，且要在成義以後，以天主義子的身份，「由於信德，懷着能成義的希望」。這句話中的「成義的希望」，並不是說我們還未「成義」，因為藉着洗禮我們已真正成了天主的義子。這話是指天主在來世要賞給我們的圓滿的、永遠的「正義」，即天上的永福，這是我們在現世有權利「希望」獲得天主所恩許給我們的（羅8:19-25）。 ❖「因為在基督耶穌內，割損或不割損都算不得什麼，唯有以愛德行事的信德，纔算什麼」（6）──在新約制度下，「割損或不割損」在天主的眼裡是同樣毫無價值（6節及格前7:19），只有信德才是有價值和不可缺少的條件。但要注意，保祿在這裡所說的「信德」是「以愛德行事的信德」，所以基督徒的信德是和愛德分不開的；一個有活潑信德的信友，時常為天父，為近人行事。5、6兩節就如得前1:3；哥1:4-5，是論直接以天主為對象的信、望、愛三德，即「唯有以愛德（ἀγάπη - agápe : love）行事的信德（πίστις - pístis : faith）」，才能令人「懷着能成義的希望（ἐλπίς - elpís : hope）」。 ❖「以前你們跑得好！有誰攔阻了你們去追隨真理呢？這種勸誘，決不是出自那召選你們的天主」（7-8）──「以前你們跑得好！」保祿常喜用賽跑的比喻（見2:2；格前9:24-27；斐3:12-14；弟後4:7）。迦拉達信友以前跑得雖好，可是目前跑得不像從前那樣好。他們是受到猶太主義保守派的「勸誘」，半途迨慢甚至停頓下來，這肯定「不是出自那召選你們的天主」。 ❖「少許的酵母就能使整個麵團發酵」（9）──使他們停頓的因由，本來不大，不過只是「少許酵母」的異端，即那迷惑性的「勸誘」。這種「勸誘」自然不是來自召選他們的天主，而是來自十字架的敵人。保祿在格前5:6-8也用了這個酵母的比喻來指信友應有的聖潔生活：「你們豈不知道少許的酵母，能使整個麵團發酵嗎？你們應把舊酵母除淨，好使你們成為新和的麵團。」在本書信中，他卻用來指猶太主義保守派那似是而非的異端。 ❖「我在主內信任你們，認為你們不會有什麼別的心思；但那擾亂你們的人，不論他是誰，必要承受懲罰」（10）──保祿希望迦拉達的信友不要陷在他們的羅網中。他信任他們不會變心，但是保祿警告那些撒莠子的人。「不論他是誰」是說不論他們依據誰的大名，或誰是他們的領袖，必應受當受的懲罰。那麼是誰要去懲罰他們呢？是保祿自己？或是天主？不得而知。但看當時迦拉達教會的光景，似乎是保祿以天主的懲罰來恐嚇他們。 ❖「如果我仍宣講割損的需要，那我為什麼還受迫害？若是這樣，十字架的絆腳石就早已除去了」（11）──如果保祿也宣講割損禮，為什麼自開始宣講福音直到現在，到處受猶太人迫害呢？可見保祿並沒有宣講割損禮，反之他到處宣講為猶太人的「絆腳石」，使猶太人跌倒的十字架的道理（格前1:23；羅9:32）。假使保祿不再宣講十字架的道理，猶太人和保祿必定能夠互相諒解，不致於發生任何衝突，但保祿若這樣做就不是基督的真宗徒。 ❖「巴不得那些攪亂你們的人，將自己割淨了！」（12）──保祿對這些擾亂分子真是忿怒填胸，他才會說出「割淨」（ἀποκόψονται - apokópsontai）這句極盡諷刺的話（近乎我們所稱的「粗口」）。這話的意思是說，既然這些保守派的信友，這樣熱愛割損禮，為什麼不再進一步像厄弗所的阿爾特米（Artemis）女神的司祭般，把自己完全閹割了呢？按當時迦拉達地方恭敬阿爾持米／齊貝肋（Cybele）女神的司祭，為光榮所恭敬的女神有時當眾全行閹割。 按保祿剛烈的性格，這並非不可能發生的事。他還有另一段具爭議性的話，寫在斐3:2-3：「你們要提防狗，要提防邪惡的工人，要提防自行割切（κατατομή - katatomé）的人。其實真受割損（περιτομή - peritomé）的人是我們」。保祿以攻擊的心態，把輕視的字眼應用在他們身上，稱他們為「狗」。這一字暗喻他們在敬拜禮儀上的不潔，正如猶太人有時也用這詞來形容外邦人（瑪15:26）。保祿看不起肉體上的割損，諷刺地稱之為「割切」，相對地提出屬靈的割損，正如《申命紀》所提及的在心中受割損（申10:16；參看耶4:4；羅2:29）。 ***** ***** ***** 信德是天主白白賜予人的恩寵，我們有可能失落這分無價之寶。關於這點，聖保祿鼓勵弟茂德說：「你要打這場好仗，保持信德和良心純潔；有些人竟擯棄了良心，而在信德上遭了覆舟之災」（弟前1:18-19）。為能在信德中生活、成長及恆心到底，我們必須用天主聖言滋養它；並祈求天主增強它；它該「以愛德行事」（迦5:6），以望德作支持及在教會的信德中植根。 （教理162） 信德是超性的德行，藉著信德我們信天主，信祂所說過的和啟示給我們的一切，並且信聖教會為我們提出的當信的道理，因為天主自己就是真理。因著信德，「人自由地把自己整個託付給天主」。因此，信者尋求認識和實踐天主的聖意。「義人因信德而生活」（羅1:17）。生活的信德「以愛德行事」（迦5:6）。 （教理1814）

Gomer and Dave will be back next week! In the meantime, please enjoy the episode from the archives: What is your plan for Lent? Is there anything you've been avoiding that the Lord is tugging at your heart to revisit? Michael Gormley and Dave VanVickle explain where our focus should be and how Lent is a time to become more disciplined, virtuous and free. 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

Send a textHere are some exterior encounters with the topic off goodnessWe need to be holy, and let Christ radiate from within usWe can highlight the good fruits of the Christian traditionWe need to confront scandals, possiblyWe need to confront the topic of evil in the world, possiblyWe need to confront people's bad experience of the church, possibly

We're joined by Sarah McDonald, Communications Director of the Archdiocese of New Orleans talks about the Clarion Herald upcoming issue and news updates. Emily Mentock, executive producer of "The Boy from Milan: Stories of Carlo Acutis", a project by the Augustine Institute in partnership with Digital Content. Dr. Tom Neal, Chief of Evangelization and Mission Engagement of the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee with Catholic 101 segment talks about Ash Wednesday- how did it originate?

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary continue their series on Jesus' words to the 7 Churches in the Book of Revelation — Churches that are at one and the same time real places and symbolic of the Church in every age. Today, they look at Jesus' words to the Church in Ephesus and see what it might mean for us. 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)

At the closing mass of the 2026 CCRNO Holy Spirit Women's Conference, this homily focuses on practical tips for everday evangelization ... 

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; in this episode they continue their discussion of Jesus' Sermon on the Mount.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

How do you balance the joys and trials of living out your vocation? Dave talks with Gomer and his wife, Shannon to discuss the dynamic of being called to serve, while having a family. They share the good, the bad and the ugly of being on mission for the Lord and detail the sacrifices of daily life. No matter their calling to serve, they remember their first calling is to serve their family. 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

Send a textBefore someone is inquiry, they might be indifferent or be filled with anger or maybe they just don't know much of anything. This series is about bringing people from there into an inquiry into the faith. It is about overcoming intellectual or emotional obstacles that they might not even know they have.God has the initiative in this.And He calls us to have authentic relationship and real kindness to be a bridge.

We're joined by Gary Zimak, Catholic speaker and author, talks about his book Give Up Worry for Lent. Kathleen Higgins, Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry in the Diocese of Baton Rouge joins us. Dr. Luke Arredondo, Executive Director of the St. Brendan Center for Evangelization and Spirituality in the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee with Catholic 101 segment on homilies: should they be long or short?

What does it mean to face death well? When I sat down with Dr. Stephen Doran—a neurosurgeon, deacon, and man who's walked intimately with suffering—I felt my own fears and assumptions around death get exposed. There's something powerful about hearing someone who has been at the bedside of so many people say, with deep conviction, that death isn't just an end… it's a moment meant to be lived well. In this conversation, Steve and I talk about the healing that comes when we confront our mortality and the immense dignity that every person deserves at the end of life. Steve shares the story of his father in law's beautiful passing, the principles every Catholic should understand about end of life care, and the spiritual posture that transforms fear into hope. If you've ever wondered what it really means to “die well”—or how to accompany someone you love through their final season—this episode will give you courage, clarity, and peace. Take a listen. [01:22] Meet Dr. Steve Doran [10:39] Living and Dying Well [22:06] Ethical Considerations at the End of Life [29:45] The Role of Advanced Directives and Durable Power of Attorney [32:55] Evangelization in the Dying Process [36:31] Accompanying the Dying with Compassion [41:43] The Meaning of Suffering and Love [43:51] Daily Sacrifices and Preparing for Death [47:42] Sharing the Good News at Death's Door [49:53] Final Thoughts and Resources For more on this topic, check out StephenDoran.com, his book To Die Well, or Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services. 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)

========================== 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 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

Deacon Victor Valenzuela is assigned to St. Mary Church in Fullerton.  He is married, with two adult children.  He is a licensed social worker who is retired from 31 years of employment at Kaiser Permanente.  He is a former seminarian who has worked in a variety of ministries.  His wife is Diane.  Today, Deacon Victor continues his talk with Deacon Steve Greco, founder of Spirit Filled Hearts Ministry and Director of Evangelization and Faith Formation for the Diocese of Orange, about his story of faith. Support the show

What is your true mission here on earth? In this solo episode, Dave dives into what it actually looks like to advance the Kingdom of Heaven in our modern, busy world and also shares his top tips for shifting from a routine faith to a missionary heart. Being a missionary disciple isn't about checking off a religious "to-do list." It's about a daily, radical rediscovery of Jesus Christ. Dave reminds us that because Heaven is our true home, we should feel a certain "holy discomfort" in this life—a restlessness that drives us to put our daily routines at the foot of the Cross and lean entirely on Him. 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

Brian Cranley looks at the God of Reason Created Science in His Image how Marcus discusses "celebrity priests" and why Fulton Sheen says the priest is not his own.

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 50 years and have three adult children.  They discuss the Mass readings from Sunday mass; in this episode they discuss Jesus' Sermon on the Mount.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

We're joined by Sarah McDonald, Communications Director of the Archdiocese of New Orleans with update and Clarion Herald story preview. Dina Dow, Director of Evangelization and Catechesis in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, talks about Lent. Dr. Tom Neal, Chief of Evangelization and Mission Engagement of the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee with Catholic 101 segment talks about the Eucharist- should we receive it on the tongue or in our hands?

In this episode, Fr. John and Mary offer a proposal to consider as a parish or church community for Lent based on this Sunday's Gospel from Matthew 5: 13-16. 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)

We're joined by Jason Gale, Vice President of Content and Production with TAN Books, talks about the Way of the Cross with the Saints. Dina Dow, Director of Evangelization and Catechesis in the Diocese of Baton Rouge, talks about evangelization at the primary mission of Catholic Schools. Terry Dickson, Communications Director of the Diocese of Biloxi, talks about the Gulf Pine Catholic paper.

What happens when a family says yes to God—without knowing where it will lead? In this deeply moving and Spirit-led conversation, Eric sits down with Jean-Paul de Fleuriot, founder of Faith Room, to hear the story of how discernment, trust, and love for the poor reshaped his family's life—and their neighbourhood. Jean-Paul shares how his family felt called to move into a poorer neighbourhood and simply begin loving people where they were, without an agenda. What started as a quiet act of obedience slowly became a visible sign of God's presence: a garden planted in their front yard that turned into sacred ground—where neighbours stopped, talked, shared stories, and began to open their hearts. Throughout the conversation, Jean-Paul reflects on: -The slow, faithful work of discernment and learning to trust God step by step -What it looks like to truly love people in their brokenness, without trying to fix them -How small, ordinary choices can lead to real spiritual movement in a neighbourhood -The way music became a place of encounter and healing, opening hearts to God's presence This episode is less about programs and strategies, and more about presence, obedience, and faith. It's a powerful reminder that mission often begins quietly—right where we live—and that God delights in working through simple acts of love. Eric reflects that this conversation was deeply inspiring and personally challenging, calling him—and all of us—to greater trust, greater courage, and deeper faith in what God can do through a surrendered life. If you've ever wondered what mission looks like beyond parish walls—or how God might be inviting you into something new—this episode is for you.

Evangelization requires vulnerability. Fear of rejection often holds us back from inviting others to Christ. Dave and Gomer sit down with Jonathan Cardinal, Senior Regional Director at FOCUS, to discuss the power of one-on-one encounter, confronting the fears that keep us silent, and what it truly means to live as a missionary disciple. Together, they explore how each of us is called to be a living witness, leading others not just by words, but by example. 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 Sr. Evangeline Ingwersen and Jim Jordan with Paraclete Press, talks about a Lenten chant devotion. Patti Armstrong, author of the book, Michelle Duppong Hope in the Depths of Suffering. Dr. Luke Arredondo, Executive Director of the St. Brendan Center for Evangelization and Spirituality in the Diocese of Pensacola-Tallahassee with Catholic 101 segment talks about repetition at Catholics- why do Catholics pray in repetition?

“What is the Islamic Dilemma?” addresses the complexities surrounding Sharia law and its implications for evangelization. The discussion also touches on the theological differences in naming Jesus, the reasons behind seeking common ground with Islam, and the misconceptions surrounding sharia law as a scare tactic. Additionally, the episode examines whether Muslims believe all Christians must convert or face dire consequences. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 01:30 – What is the Islamic Dilemma? 16:07 – What are the theological differences in calling Jesus Yeshua and Eisaa apart from the linguistic differences? 23:37 – Why does our leadership try to find so much common ground with Islam instead of highlighting the controversial side of it? 32:41 – My sister converted to Islam. She sent us a video saying that sharia law is actually a scare tactic made up by Christians. What are your thoughts on this? 37:32 – Do Muslims believe all Christians need to convert or be killed? 43:53 – Do Christians and Muslims worship the same God? What about Christians and Jews? 50:44 – What is the best way to evangelize Muslims?

How can we expect couples to live a sacramental marriage when they've never seen one lived? So many of the couples who walk into our parishes today aren't rooted in the life of the Church. Nine out of ten aren't attending Mass, many have simply “slid” into the relationship, and most have never witnessed a joyful, vibrant Christian marriage up close. And yet—we hand them content, classes, and checklists and hope it changes their lives. In this conversation with Ryan Verret, we dive into why that model is breaking down and why the real answer isn't more information, but more relationship. Ryan shares the deeply human insight at the heart of Witness to Love: that authentic conversion only moves at the pace of a friendship… and that the simplest act—having someone waiting for you in the pew—can open the door for grace to take root. If you've ever wondered how to truly draw couples into the heart of parish life, this episode will encourage you. Take a listen. [01:13] Ryan Verret's Background and Upbringing [09:35] State of Marriage Preparation in the Church [18:11] Witness to Love: Vision and Approach [26:19] The One Change That Made a Difference [29:39] The Need for Comprehensive Faith Formation [32:45] The Mentor Couple Model [40:38] The Impact of Witness to Love [44:29] Personal Reflections and Broader Implications [53:02] Connecting with Witness to Love Check out Witness To Love, or connect with Ryan by emailing connect@witnesstolove.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 we bring young people back to the Church?” This question resonates with many parents concerned about their young adult children drifting away from the Faith. The discussion also touches on how to share Catholic beliefs with classmates at a Protestant school, the importance of not pressuring individuals into faith, and the dynamics of interacting with Protestant friends. Join the Catholic Answers Live Club Newsletter Invite our apologists to speak at your parish! Visit Catholicanswersspeakers.com Questions Covered: 04:27 – We hear from a lot of parents about their young adult children leaving the Faith, how do we get them back? 13:30 – I go to a protestant school. How do I bring my classmates the Catholic faith? 18:00 – I suggest that we don't pressure them into the Faith. 29:27 – How would you interact with protestants you are friends with? 37:25 – Is evangelization safe if it always makes us question our faith and look for other options? 45:14 – Why does the Church take its time on evangelizing and catechizing people even when they fall away and return? 50:32 – Is it appropriate for a Catholic to say ‘I am saved' when evangelizing protestants?

In this episode Fr. John and Mary break open the richness found inside just one line in the prayer Jesus taught us, "Thy Kingdom come, Thy will be done on earth as it is in heaven." 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)

Author/evangelist Kevin Wells joins Bill and Father Larry to discuss the state of evangelization in the church today and how it is not just the job of your parish clergy!

Deacon Victor Valenzuela is assigned to St. Mary Church in Fullerton.  He is married, with two adult children.  He is a licensed social worker who is retired from 31 years of employment at Kaiser Permanente.  He is a former seminarian who has worked in a variety of ministries.  His wife is Diane.  Today, Deacon Victor talks with Deacon Steve Greco, founder of Spirit Filled Hearts Ministry and Director of Evangelization and Faith Formation for the Diocese of Orange, about his story of faith. Support the show

How do we truly accompany people into the Catholic Church? This campus minister seems to have cracked the code! Dave and Gomer chat with Kevin Pesek, the Campus Minister at St. Mary's Catholic Center at Texas A&M to talk about the surprising growth they're seeing in OCIA and what's driving it. Kevin shares what's working in their approach to curriculum, why vocation numbers are soaring, and how young people are deeply hungry for an authentic relationship with Jesus in the Catholic Church. 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 start a conversation about how common it can be for many of us to let our prayers become mere words and begin to break open in depth the prayer He taught us. 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 faith—really? In this episode of The Normal Christian Life, we continue our series on the theological virtues by exploring faith: what it is, what it isn't, and why it cannot be reduced to intellectual agreement or apologetics alone. This conversation unpacks: Why biblical faith is relational and lived, not merely believed How faith engages the whole person—mind, heart, will, and action The proper role of reason in the life of faith Why dryness, doubt, and desolation do not mean faith is failing How God's hiddenness can actually deepen trust The importance of community, testimony, and perseverance Drawing from Scripture (especially Hebrews 11), the saints, and lived experience, we show that faith is not emotional hype or blind guessing—but a conviction that endures even when God feels absent. If you've ever wondered: “Why doesn't God feel close anymore?” “Is my faith weak if I don't feel anything?” “How do I keep believing through suffering or silence?” This episode offers clarity, realism, and hope. Faith is a gift—and a response—that matures through trust, surrender, and perseverance.    "Support Our Mission through Patreon patreon.com/TheNCLPodcast"   00:00 Introduction to Theological Virtues 02:17 Understanding Faith: Beyond Intellectual Assent 06:25 Personal Faith Journeys 09:48 Faith and Reason: A Harmonious Relationship 13:12 Experiencing God: Faith and Feelings 23:11 Faith in Action: Living Out Beliefs 30:07 Struggles with Faith and Desolation 31:44 Understanding God's Hiddenness 34:58 The Role of Suffering in Faith 50:35 The Importance of Community in Faith 53:24 Evangelization and Personal Testimonies 58:55 Concluding Thoughts and Prayer

How can we bring holiness and harmony into our homes? Gomer sits down with Mike DiCosola to guide families in living more like the Holy Family. Mike DiCosola, Director of Mission Engagement for Paradisus Dei and leader of the Missionaries to the Family initiative, shares insights to strengthen marriages and deepen family life. Discover practical ways Jesus wants to meet your family right where you are, even in the mess and brokenness, and lead you toward transformation.  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 let everyone know when and how to register for ACTS XXIX's big event of 2026: The Jesus Conference — Mobilizing the Church for the World He Loves! Podcast Sponsor: Ardiana's Restaurant 41602 W 10 Mile Rd, Novi, MI 48375 ========================== 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's your focus this New Year? Dave and Gomer discuss the fuller way to approach your New Year's resolution, give their favorite hack to living in the present moment and share Bible verses to guide your 2026! 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 their first episode for 2026, Fr. John and Mary extend an invitation to consider so as to build momentum around a movement to bring hope and renewal to our parishes, neighborhoods, universities and more. 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)

In this special bonus episode, Bishop Andrew Cozzens joins Fr. Mike Schmitz to talk about his role as a bishop of the Catholic Church, his involvement in the Catechism in a Year podcast, and why we can continue to trust in the authority of the Church despite the brokenness of its leaders at times. Bishop Andrew Cozzens is the Bishop of the Diocese of Crookston in northern Minnesota.  He currently serves as the chair of the USCCB Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis where he has been tasked by the Bishops with leading a three-year National Eucharistic Revival. This episode has been found to be in conformity with the Catechism by the Institute on the Catechism, under the Subcommittee on the Catechism, USCCB. For the complete reading plan, visit ascensionpress.com/ciy Please note: The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains adult themes that may not be suitable for children - parental discretion is advised.

Fr. Mike joins Gomer and Dave on this week's episode to discuss the impact of the Parables on our lives today. Find out how the Parables tour came to be, which parable they think is the scariest and the best approach to take when reading the parables.  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