Podcast appearances and mentions of faith formation

Send us a textEpisode 279Speaker Richard Rohr Topic  On the Edge: Being a Christian in the 21st Century.Some really interesting questions asked in the session

What is a human being, and why do we exist? The Rev. Dr. Pete Jurchen (Assistant Professor of Lutheran Education and Faith Formation at Concordia University, Nebraska) joins Andy and Sarah for Episode 4 of our “Prepared with a Reason” series to talk about what anthropology is and why he finds it interesting, some common assumptions in the secular view of origins and history of humans, how these views shape us even if we don't claim to believe the worldviews, why it's important to know where to properly place our identity, and how we can faithfully reply to secular assumptions of the history of humans. Find the “Prepared with a Reason” curriculum at cph.org/prepared-with-a-reason-leaders-guide-digital-edition. As you grab your morning coffee (and pastry, let's be honest), join hosts Andy Bates and Sarah Gulseth as they bring you stories of the intersection of Lutheran life and a secular world. Catch real-life stories of mercy work of the LCMS and partners, updates from missionaries across the ocean, and practical talk about how to live boldly Lutheran. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

Our culture tells us that independence is everything — but what if true flourishing happens when we give some of it up?Joel and Tim explore how commitment to a local church is not just a spiritual act, but something deeply human. They unpack how technology, hyper-individualism, and cultural values can isolate us, while the church pulls us back into the kind of community God designed for our good.From the sociology of connection to the theology of commitment, this conversation challenges us to see that infringing on our individuality might actually be the healthiest thing for us — because we are made to be together.Timestamps 00:00 – Intro: Isolation vs. community 22:47 – Commitment vs. loneliness 35:40 – How community shapes identity 41:12 – Inviting others into connected community 59:09 – Tim's takeaway: Spend more time at churchDiscussed on this episodeFriedrich NietzscheCasey NeistatWhy We Need the Church Now More Than Ever, by Carmen Joy ImesNijay Gupta SubstackDominion, by Tom HollandGlow Kids: How Screen Addiction Is Hijacking Our Kids-and How to Break the Trance by Nicholas KardarasJonathan HaidtAfter BabelBronfenbrenner's Ecological Systems Theory

Send us a textEpisode : 287Speaker  Richard Rohr Topic : On the Edge Talk 3 Part 2.Timeless wisdom , Eternal Truth.  Only God is Good. We are already enfolded in the Fathers loving mercy.

*Why isn't “promoting vocations” enough to help young people discover God's call? * Because so many can't even hear Him right now. Their faith feels distant, the noise of the world is loud, and what they crave most isn't another program—it's a real encounter with Jesus and people who truly care. In this episode, I talk with Fr. Scott Schilmoeller, Vocations Director for the Archdiocese of Omaha, about what it takes to awaken a generation to God's voice. We don't need to push vocations—we need to till the soil: to build trust, community, and spaces where faith can take root again. If your heart breaks for the young Church and you long to see them come alive in their calling, this episode is for you. [01:05] Father Scott Schilmoeller's Background and Personal Story [05:41] Discovering a Vocation: College Experiences and Spiritual Growth [08:42] The Role of Community and Family in Faith [14:55] Understanding Vocations: Lowercase and Uppercase V [18:28] Challenges in Vocational Discernment [21:46] Addressing the Vocations Crisis [23:33] Discerning Your Vocation [24:24] Community and Evangelization [25:15] Youth Groups and Initiatives [28:30] Engaging Young Kids [30:06] Middle School and High School Faith [32:10] Supporting Vocational Discernment [34:11] Practical Steps for Leaders [39:47] Encouraging Vocations [42:41] Final Thoughts and Resources Check out OmahaVocations.org (https://omahavocations.org/)! For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)

Joel and Tim explore what it means to live and raise children as elect exiles in a world with different values. They reflect on social media, culture, and the ways Christians can tell the alternate story of Jesus — distinctive, thoughtful, and rooted in grace.The discussion covers family and intergenerational ministry, schools, and creating spaces for children to engage meaningfully with the church. They highlight the importance of modelling commitment through consistent presence and participation.Over-commitment to church isn't the problem — intentionality, faithfulness, and living in deep community are. By prioritising time together, parents and churches equip the next generation to confidently live as elect exiles in Christ.

Eighth-graders preparing for the Sacrament of Confirmation in the faith formation program at Blessed Sacrament Church in Poth meet Oct. 18 to clean and prepare the cemetery for All Souls Day.Article Link

Send us a textEpisode 277Speaker Richard Rohr Topic: On the Edge Talk 3  Part 1 

Maria Morera Johnson and Catholicmom.com contributor Alex Resch discuss family-friendly celebrations of Hallowtide. Maria and Alex have a fun conversation about celebrating Hallowtide by honoring Halloween, All Saints, and All Souls with faith, fun, and meaningful traditions that bring the season's true spirit to life. Alex Resch is a wife and homeschooling mother to her children and a former middle- and high-school science teacher. Alex loves evangelizing and sharing our beautiful Catholic faith with everyone she meets – especially the children of her parish's Faith Formation program. She is the managing editor of AmazingCatechists.com, and you can visit her at her site, Ora Et Schola, for homeschool tips. Links for this Episode: Read all articles by Alex Resch AmazingCatechists.com Ora Et Schola

Real strength is forged through struggle. In this Conquer Workshop, Pastor Ken Shaver, a former Army pilot and seasoned pastor, challenges believers to endure hardness as good soldiers of Jesus Christ. Through stirring stories and clear Scripture, you'll be inspired to embrace hardship as the training ground for victory.This is the third sermon in a special series that will contain all of the sermons and workshops delivered at the 2025 Thee Generation Youth Summit at Falls Baptist Church in Menomonee Falls, WI this past October 8–10, 2025.Don't forget to make plans to join hundreds of other young people next October 14–16, 2026 for our annual meeting in Menomonee Falls, WI. For more information, please visit theegeneration.org/tgys. If you've been encouraged by this podcast, please take the time to give us a five-star rating and write a brief review. That would help tremendously in getting the word out and raising the visibility of the Thee Generation for others. For more faith inspiring resources and information about joining Thee Generation, please visit theegeneration.org.

Send us a textEpisode 276Speaker: Marie BeirneTopic: Encounter with the Holy Spirit of God Part 2.The last thing the world needs today are more fearful , angry people.We all need the gentle action of Gods reconciling spirit to set us free,  to unite us in  God and with each other.

Send us a textEpisode 275Speaker Marie Beirne Topic : Encounter with Holy spirit of God.So good the remember the teaching of the Second Vatican Council on our call to be channels of Gods Holy Spirit today and everyday, especially in the areas of forgiveness and reconciliation.    Thank you Marie 

Send us a textEpisode 274Speaker Raniero Cantalamessa Topic:   Personal Faith Story Part 2 The wonder of New Life in the Holy Spirit of God.

Send us a textEpisode 273Speaker  Raniero Cantalamessa Topic      Personal faith story A story of ,the journey from the experience of religious authority, to the authority of religious experience .  Wonderful and so true for us-all.Thank you Raniero 

Michelle and Cliff talk with some of the coaches and participants from Around the Table Cohorts.

Send us a textEpisode 272Speaker  Chris Thomas Topic : I will pour out my Spirit on all people.  Part 2Timeless wisdom recorded in 2012  Reminding us of the dignity of each human person and the inner call to live in harmony To live lives of Justice and Peace.

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)

We're joined by Trong Van Cao, talks about his journey to America and his faith journey with God in his book Of Good Courage: A Refugee's Journey from Despair to Triumph, Bobby Fredericksen, Catholic convert, talks about his article Influencers vs. Saints: Why Teaching the Faith Requires Character, Formation and Maturity and Sunnie Johnson-Lain, CEO of St. Vincent de Paul in Baton Rouge, joins us.

Michelle and Cliff talk with Neema Cyrus-Franklin from the Around the Table Initiative through the PCUSA about the practice of Story Weaving as well as get some of her reflections from her time at the Youth Triennium of 2025.

How does a family culture encourage young people to consider church work? Kevin and Jen Siek, along with their son Keith, join Andy and Sarah for our Set Apart to Serve series to talk about Keith's experiences growing up in a strong faith family, how his experiences at Christ Academy shaped his future vocational path, and his decision to attend Concordia University, Nebraska, this fall. His parents talk about who shaped their faith, their support of Keith in his vocational journey, and what faith formation looks like in their home. Christ's church will continue until He returns, and that church will continue to need church workers. Set Apart to Serve (SAS) is an initiative of the LCMS to recruit church workers. Together, we pray for workers for the Kingdom of God and encourage children to consider church work vocations. Here are three easy ways you can participate in SAS: 1. Pray with your children for God to provide church workers. 2. Talk to your children about becoming church workers. 3. Thank God for the people who work in your congregation. To learn more about Set Apart to Serve, visit lcms.org/set-apart-to-serve. Have a topic you'd like to hear about on The Coffee Hour? Contact us at: listener@kfuo.org.

In this episode Fr. Eamonn McCarthy reflects on Parish life and faith formation and sacramental reception. L'articolo E51| Catechesis – Fr Eamonn McCarthy – Faith formation. proviene da Radio Maria.

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)

Michelle and Cliff talk with Jeff Chu about the many aspects of his life and faith formation including his life and reflections on the church and its engagement with LGBTQ community as well as his books.

Send us a textEpisode 270 Speaker Dave Wells Topic : Jesus Hope of the World Part 2 Recorded in 2014 Timeless Wisdom ,  Beautiful Vision of Life and Death in Christ Jesus our living hope.Thank you Dave.

Are you equipped to stand firm in the Christian faith in today's ever-changing culture? Jonathan Youssef welcomes Trevin Wax, co-author of The Gospel Way Catechism, to discuss the importance of Christian catechism as a tool for spiritual formation in today's world. Trevin is a vice president at the North American Mission Board (NAMB), a visiting professor at Cedarville University, and a regular columnist at The Gospel Coalition. This conversation unpacks the meaning of catechism, its vital role in discipleship, and the inspiration behind this book, a resource designed to help Christians discern Biblical Truth amid cultural confusion.Listen now to discover how classic elements of catechism can be adapted for modern challenges, including secularism, expressive individualism, and technological developments like artificial intelligence.This episode offers insights into making faith accessible to all ages, with news of an upcoming children's catechism, and practical tips for applying catechetical truths to everyday life and outreach.CANDID LISTENER SURVEYWe love bringing you honest, hope-filled conversations about the Christian faith, and we'd love your feedback. We've compiled a short listener survey to help us plan future episodes you'll love. Will you take a couple of minutes to complete it today? Your voice will help shape what's next! Take the Survey NowFollow Candid Conversations on social media:Instagram: @candidpodTikTok: @officiallycandidpodYouTube: @CandidPodSubscribe & Share:If this episode inspired you, please subscribe, leave a review, and share it with others. 

Michelle and Cliff talk with Justin Whitmel Early about making faith formation a habit and discuss his book Habits of the Household.     Dr. Eric Brown gives us an appetizer in self compassion in the face of trauma.

Send us a textEpisode 269Speaker  Dave Wells Topic : Jesus Hope of the WorldRecorded  2014.On the theme of Hope this is still excellent and helpful teaching.

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)

Michelle and Cliff have a conversation with Liz Walker about faith formation in processing grief and trauma through her work through the "Can we Talk" program and her book No One Left Alone.  Noelle Castin Helps get us started with an appetizer of supporting our young people in worship with resources to aid in faith formation for during and after the worship service.

Send us a textEpisode 268Speaker John Bell Topic The Power of Unity Part 4 What is Gods Holy Spirit saying to you ?

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)

Michelle and Cliff talk with Michelle Junkin, Co-director at Big Faith Resources about making certain church is accessible to those with Neurodivergence and Brittney Porch starts us off with an appetizer giving us some ideas for family worship spaces within worship and a resource for how to get started. 

As many head back to school and religious education, we welcome back friend of the show Joe Paprocki to help catechists teach God's word in the modern world. Joe serves as National Consultant for Faith Formation at Loyola Press and is the author of the newly updated book, “The Catechist's Toolbox 2.0: Building Today's Missionary Disciples.”

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)

Michelle and Cliff talk with Brittany Sky, Project Manager for Gen On Ministries.  We also start off with an Appetizer from Jenna Caldwell Campbell discussing Faith formation in our youth and families.

Philippians 2:1-11This sermon uses an approach presented in Andrew Root's outstanding book 'Faith Formation in a Secular Age: Responding the Church's Obsession with Youthfulness'. It is highly recommended for Christian leaders. I am very grateful for Root's work - Tim

Join Mary Jane Fox as she speaks with Melissa Weeks, the Director of Faith Formation for the Military Council of Catholic Women (MCCW). They discuss the vital role of community and spirituality in navigating the ups and downs of military life. In this episode, you will: Learn what the MCCW is. Hear Melissa's story as an active-duty spouse and mom of five. Discover how faith anchors life in the military. Explore now: Guest information and helpful resources to stay up to date with the MCCW.  Jewel for the Journey: “The secret of happiness is to live moment by moment and to thank God for all that He, in His goodness, sends to us day after day." - St. Gianna Beretta Molla Do you like what you hear? Become a Missionary of Hope by sponsoring a week of Journeys of Hope. Click here to get started. Learn more at PilgrimCenterOfHope.org/Journeys Help us spread hope! PilgrimCenterOfHope.org/Donate

Send us a textEpisode 266Speaker John BellTopic  The Power of Unity  Part 2 

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)

Michelle and Cliff kick off Season 3 talking Faith Formation and the part Christian Education plays with Gregory Rawn from Spirit and Truth Publishing. Appetizer: John Magnuson Helps us to streamline our Faith Formation  

This Sunday, we celebrate Faith Formation at Mayflower. We welcome several new members, give our third graders Bibles, and Rev. Dr. Lori Walke delivers a terrific "children's sermon" that has a lesson for us all in it. Livestreamed from the sanctuary of Mayflower Congregational UCC Church in Oklahoma City.

Hosts Susanne McNinch and Chez Filippini talk with Dr. Christopher Gawel and Michele Kenaga about their respective roles as Director of Liturgy and Sacramental Practice and Director of Faith Formation, their faith journeys, the importance of family catechesis and the shift from traditional classroom-based faith formation to more organic, family-centered approaches.

Miriam Marston is preparing for another year of sacramental preparation at St. Anthony's Catholic Church in Tigard. Find out about things that will run the same and a few things that are different this year.More information can be found on their webpage.Subscribe to the Morning Blend on your favorite podcast platform.Find this show on the free Hail Mary Media App, along with a radio live-stream, prayers, news, and more.Look through past episodes or support this podcast.The Morning Blend is a production of Mater Dei Radio in Portland, Oregon.

Send us a textEpisode 265Speaker John BellTopic The Power of Unity  Part 1.In this episode we can hear the powerful call to personal humility as we enter the dialogue of  union and harmony in the Holy Spirit  . Thank you John.

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)

Send us a textIn this episode of the Frontiers in Faith podcast, Monsignor Roger Landry interviews Bishop Shorot Francis Gomes of the Silat Diocese in Bangladesh. Bishop Gomez shares his journey from a traditional family to becoming a bishop, detailing the challenges and triumphs of his missionary work in a predominantly Muslim region. He discusses the importance of education, the establishment of primary schools, and the need for support for seminarians and children with special needs. The conversation highlights the growth of the Catholic community in Silat and the recent completion of a new cathedral, symbolizing hope and faith for the local population. Bishop Gomez calls for support from American Catholics to help sustain and expand the church's mission in Bangladesh.

In which ways does music inform the spiritual development of children? Concordia Seminary, St. Louis has received a grant from Lilly Endowment Inc. to help establish the Children in Worship Initiative. “We learn things as children, especially musically because it gets inside of us,” said Dr. Samuel Eatherton, professor of practical theology and Kantor at Concordia Seminary, “we have it for a lifetime because we learned it as children.” Join the conversation between Dr. Samuel Eatherton and Mrs. Lois Eatherton, project coordinator for the recently awarded grant as they discuss music and faith formation.

In this thought-provoking episode of the Upword Podcast, host Dan Johnson sits down with Mark Matlock to explore the shifting spiritual landscape in America. Drawing from his latest book, Faith for the Curious, and years of research with Barna Group, Mark unpacks the rise of the “spiritually curious” — a growing group of people who are open to spirituality but not necessarily aligned with traditional Christian beliefs.Together, they discuss:The difference between the spiritually curious, curious skeptics, and naturalistsHow Gen Z is both in revival and retreat — and what that means for the ChurchWhy traditional evangelism methods may fall short in today's cultureThe importance of long-term relationships over quick conversionsHow churches can better engage those deconstructing their faithThe role of curiosity, ambiguity, and meaningful relationships in discipleshipWhether you're a ministry leader, student, or simply curious about faith trends, this episode offers deep insights into how we can better understand and walk alongside those exploring spirituality in a post-Christian world.

In this episode, our guest Deb Jurchen talks about the importance of intergenerational connectedness as it relates to family ministry in churches and homes.   Bio: Deb Jurchen holds a BFA in K-12 Art Education from Concordia University, Nebraska, and an MSE in Family Life Education from Concordia University Wisconsin & Ann Arbor. Professionally, Deb serves as the Director of University Institutes at Concordia University, Nebraska, an adjunct professor in the Family Life Education Graduate program at Concordia University, Nebraska, as well as the Family Life Ministry Consultant for the Nebraska District LCMS.    Deb is married to Rev. Dr. Pete Jurchen who is Assistant Professor of Lutheran Education and Faith Formation at Concordia University, Nebraska. Together, they have five children and reside in Seward, Nebraska. She loves hiking, gardening, and staying active with her kids!  Resources: Email us at friendsforlife@lcms.org LCMS Life Ministry: www.lcms.org/life  LCMS Family Ministry: www.lcms.org/family  Not all the views expressed are necessarily those of the LCMS; please discuss any questions with your pastor.

When we practice our sports, instruments, arts, we become a better baseball player, trumpeter, or artist. However, when we sit with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament we become more like Him, we become saints.  Cari Reagan shares this message with the 4th-8th grade students in Summer Children's Faith Formation before a time of Eucharistic Adoration.  Come, follow us: Parish Website  |  Facebook  |  Instagram  |  YouTube  |  Spotify Music