All Episodes - Homeless But Human
Join us as we answer common questions and hesitations about serving the poor. Our desire is to empower even more people to understand the complexity of homelessness and to discover practical and relational solutions for real change. You’ll also have an opportunity to listen to the homeless and have a window into their lives.Just imagine— the impact it would make if that homeless person you pass had even just one friend who knew them by name and cared about them beyond just a passing handout. What difference would that make to that person, to you, and to your local community? And if more people joined together in this mission— what difference would we make to the world?
View Podcast Details63 Episodes
Rooted in Good: The Foundation of True Friendship Pt.1
-- STAY CONNECTED -- 📱 https://www.instagram.com/christinthecity/ 📘 https://www.facebook.com/christinthecitymissionaries 💼 https://www.linkedin.com/company/christ-in-the-city/ 🐦 https://twitter.com/CIC_Mission -- WEBSITE -- 🌐 https://christinthecity.org 🛒 Merch Store: https://christinthecity.org/store/
Dayton, Ohio: Encountering Shelters and the Power of Community
-- STAY CONNECTED -- 📱 https://www.instagram.com/christinthecity/ 📘 https://www.facebook.com/christinthecitymissionaries 💼 https://www.linkedin.com/company/christ-in-the-city/ 🐦 https://twitter.com/CIC_Mission -- WEBSITE -- 🌐 https://christinthecity.org 🛒 Merch Store: https://christinthecity.org/store/
Exploring Rittenhouse Square: A Philadelphia Missionary Journey
-- STAY CONNECTED -- 📱 https://www.instagram.com/christinthecity/ 📘 https://www.facebook.com/christinthecitymissionaries 💼 https://www.linkedin.com/company/christ-in-the-city/ 🐦 https://twitter.com/CIC_Mission -- WEBSITE -- 🌐 https://christinthecity.org 🛒 Merch Store: https://christinthecity.org/store/
End of 2024: Highlights from the Missionaries
-- STAY CONNECTED -- 📱 https://www.instagram.com/christinthecity/ 📘 https://www.facebook.com/christinthecitymissionaries 💼 https://www.linkedin.com/company/christ-in-the-city/ 🐦 https://twitter.com/CIC_Mission -- WEBSITE -- 🌐 https://christinthecity.org 🛒 Merch Store: https://christinthecity.org/store/
Summer of Service Series: Gary, Indiana
-- STAY CONNECTED -- 📱 https://www.instagram.com/christinthecity/ 📘 https://www.facebook.com/christinthecitymissionaries 💼 https://www.linkedin.com/company/christ-in-the-city/ 🐦 https://twitter.com/CIC_Mission -- WEBSITE -- 🌐 https://christinthecity.org 🛒 Merch Store: https://christinthecity.org/store/
Summer of Service Series: Dayton, Ohio
-- STAY CONNECTED -- 📱 https://www.instagram.com/christinthecity/ 📘 https://www.facebook.com/christinthecitymissionaries 💼 https://www.linkedin.com/company/christ-in-the-city/ 🐦 https://twitter.com/CIC_Mission -- WEBSITE -- 🌐 https://christinthecity.org 🛒 Merch Store: https://christinthecity.org/store/
Heart of March: Missions, Moments, and Memories
-- STAY CONNECTED -- 📱 https://www.instagram.com/christinthecity/ 📘 https://www.facebook.com/christinthecitymissionaries 💼 https://www.linkedin.com/company/christ-in-the-city/ 🐦 https://twitter.com/CIC_Mission -- WEBSITE -- 🌐 https://christinthecity.org 🛒 Merch Store: https://christinthecity.org/store/
Receiving Others in a "Ministry of Interruptions": Andre House
-- STAY CONNECTED -- 📱 https://www.instagram.com/christinthecity/ 📘 https://www.facebook.com/christinthecitymissionaries 💼 https://www.linkedin.com/company/christ-in-the-city/ 🐦 https://twitter.com/CIC_Mission -- WEBSITE -- 🌐 https://christinthecity.org 🛒 Merch Store: https://christinthecity.org/store/
The Frat Squad: From Rejection to Connection
-- STAY CONNECTED -- 📱 https://www.instagram.com/christinthecity/ 📘 https://www.facebook.com/christinthecitymissionaries 💼 https://www.linkedin.com/company/christ-in-the-city/ 🐦 https://twitter.com/CIC_Mission -- WEBSITE -- 🌐 https://christinthecity.org 🛒 Merch Store: https://christinthecity.org/store/
Breaking Down Barriers: Language, Laughter, and Love
We delve into heartwarming stories and meaningful interactions with our friends on the streets. Sebastian and Lydia share their experiences, from catching pigeons with friends to bridging language barriers with migrants. Discover the joy, laughter, and genuine connections that transcend the challenges of homelessness and language differences. Tune in for an uplifting and insightful episode that highlights the power of simple acts of kindness and the profound impact they can have on everyone involved. -- STAY CONNECTED -- 📱 https://www.instagram.com/christinthecity/ 📘 https://www.facebook.com/christinthecitymissionaries 💼 https://www.linkedin.com/company/christ-in-the-city/ 🐦 https://twitter.com/CIC_Mission -- WEBSITE -- 🌐 https://christinthecity.org 🛒 Merch Store: https://christinthecity.org/store/
Showing Up: The Power of Consistency in Friendship
In this episode of Homeless But Human, we delve into the profound impact of consistency in friendship. From celebrating life's joys to weathering its storms, showing up for our friends, day in and day out, is the cornerstone of meaningful connections. Join us as we explore the transformative power of unwavering support, resilience, and the enduring bonds forged through the simple act of being there for one another. Tune in to discover how consistent acts of friendship can enrich our lives and strengthen the fabric of our relationships. -- STAY CONNECTED -- 📱 https://www.instagram.com/christinthecity/ 📘 https://www.facebook.com/christinthecitymissionaries 💼 https://www.linkedin.com/company/christ-in-the-city/ 🐦 https://twitter.com/CIC_Mission -- WEBSITE -- 🌐 https://christinthecity.org 🛒 Merch Store: https://christinthecity.org/store/
Capturing Humanity: The Empathy Behind Street Photography
In this compelling episode we delve into the captivating world of street photography through the lens of empathy. Join us as we explore the stories behind the camera with photographers who have documenting the lives of marginalized communities. From capturing the raw beauty of resilience to navigating the ethical complexities of consent and representation, our guests share their personal journeys, motivations, and the profound connections forged on the streets. Discover the artistry and intimacy of street photography as we celebrate the power of human connection and advocate for greater empathy and understanding in our communities. Check out our upcoming "15 Day Photo Challenge"! https://christinthecity.org/photo-challenge/
50th Episode Celebration: Blake & Shayla's Podcast Draft
Join Blake and Shayla as they celebrate a milestone 50th episode by embarking on a lively journey down memory lane. In this special edition, they reminisce on past episodes, crafting a fantasy draft team using their favorite moments as team members. With laughter, competition, and heartfelt reflection, this episode is a tribute to the incredible stories and guests that have shaped our podcast's journey. Tune in for a nostalgic celebration of fifty episodes filled with inspiration, insight, and camaraderie. SPOLERS AHEAD Blakes Draft: 1. Catholic Social Teaching: Why It Matters? 2. Confronting Mental Health: Where to Begin? 3. Find Yourself Trying To "Fix" Someone? 4. Invisible Humans: Ron's Story 5. Discerning Next Steps: Going Deeper or Calling Higher? - Part 1 Shayla's Draft: 1. Why Don't the Homeless Just Get a Job? 2. Invisible Humans: Roy's Story 3. The Power of Being Present (Part 1) Listening to Understand vs. Just to Respond 4. The Creativity of Love: Stories from the Streets of Philly 5. The Balance of Loving vs. Enabling And the winner is... SHAYLA with a total of 3,416 total podcast dowloads. 🏆
Irish Missionary Perspectives: Journeys in America
Embark on a Celtic-inspired journey for an early St. Patrick's Day with this special podcast episode. Join Sarah and Daniel, two passionate Irish missionaries, as they share their unique experiences navigating the landscapes of America through the lens of service and faith. Hear firsthand stories of challenges, triumphs, and the shared humanity that transcends borders.Whether you're drawn to the melodic lilt of Irish voices or intrigued by the dynamic interplay of diverse cultures, this episode promises to be a Celtic celebration of mission, purpose, and the universal ties that bind us all. Tune in and be transported to the intersection of Irish warmth and American hospitality, revealing the beauty of connection and the shared journey of the human spirit. ☘️ 🇮🇪
The Gift Of Being With Another
On this episode of Homeless but Human we are joined by two of our Philly missionaries, Erin and Noah. On this episode you will hear more about: Unexpected gifts from our friends on the street What it looks like when someone accepts their goodness. The ways our friends and missionaries show each other how much the Lord delights in them. The gift it is to just be with someone.
End of 2023: Highlights From The Missionaries
As we begin the New Year we are feeling extra thankful here at Christ in the City. We are especially thankful for the people that have supported us and our mission in 2023. For our next podcast episode you will hear favorite stories and memories from this past year so far from our missionaries! We hope you enjoy our end of the year highlights!
Catholic Social Teaching: Why It Matters
On this episode of Homeless but Human, we are joined by Chris, a professor for our missionaries! On this NEW episode we discuss the ins and outs of Catholic Social Teachings and why it matters for us. You will hear about: Our dignity rests in the fact that we can be in communion with God. The tangible aspects of Catholic Social Teaching. The poor are not a problem to be fixed, but a person to be encountered.
Reminders Of Gratitude Throughout The Day
On this new episode of Homeless but Human, we are joined by two of our Philly missionaries, Jay and Alyson. You will hear about: How one encounter can change everything for our friends on the street and our missionaries. Being open to how God wants to work in each encounter. St. Josephs guiding light in our ministry. Reminders of gratitude for what we already have instead of what we do not have.
Discerning Next Steps: Going Deeper or Calling Higher? - Part 3
On this episode of Homeless but Human, we are joined by Sam, our Outreach Director! On this FINAL episode of our series we discuss Part 3 of Discerning Next Steps: Going Deeper or Calling Higher? You will hear more about: Empathy and compassion vs. accountability. Freedom from vs. freedom for. Someone to be loved for the sake of love vs. a problem or relationship to be fixed.
Discerning Next Steps: Going Deeper or Calling Higher? - Part 2
On this episode of Homeless but Human, we are joined by Sam, our Outreach Director! On this episode we discuss Part 2 of Discerning Next Steps: Going Deeper or Calling Higher? You will hear more about: The difference between forgiveness and reconciliation. What freedom in a friendship ought to look like in our lives and The Lords invitation to that freedom. The importance of self expression in a friendship.
Discerning Next Steps: Going Deeper or Calling Higher? - Part 1
On this episode of Homeless but Human we are joined by Sam, our Outreach Director! On this episode we discuss, Part 1 of Discerning Next Steps: Go Deeper or Call Higher? You will hear more about: Vulnerability sparks vulnerability. How to share more intentionally with the people in your life. The call to look outward instead of inward. What is God calling us all to?
Summer Series: Stories from Lincoln
On this weeks episode of Homeless but Human, we are concluding our summer series with the Lincoln team! Erin and Ryan join us to discuss: • The impact and support of alumni and the community of Lincoln. • First hand look into homeless ministry in a shelter. • The power of someone recognizing how much someone deserves to be loved. Jesus says in the Gospel, the poor you'll always have. Yeah. So even if there is no homeless on the streets, someone's poor out there that you can go and love. We are so thankful for all the support and love we received in each city this past summer. If you ever want to volunteer with us or more information on our mission, you can email volunteer@christinthecity.org.
Summer Series: Stories from Gary
Summer Series Spotlight: This week we are joined by Brad and Julie from our Gary team! We discuss: How some things and people do not always need to be fixed. What vulnerability can look like when it is a two way street. The beauty of giving AND learning how to receive. Being present to the people God put right in front of you.
Summer Series: Stories from Dayton
Summer Series Spotlight: This week we are joined by Tony and Stephanie from our Dayton team! We discuss: What street minstry in a shelter looks like. The ways childlike joy opened up the hearts of our friends on the streets. Ways that the missionaries in Dayton learned how important it is to waste time with people you care about. The huge need for volunteers in the shelters near you.
Summer Series: Stores from Dallas
Summer Series Spotlight: This week we are joined by Ashley and Luke from our Dallas team! We discuss: How the mindset of, "do not waste time on me" turned into a life-changing friendship. What the streets in Dallas look like. What happened in a choir practice that moved hearts. What "a beautiful place with beautiful people" meant to the Dallas team.
Summer Series: Stories from Detroit
We're kickstarting our summer podcast series again! Throughout the summer, we'll be sharing highlights from each of the cities where we hosted summer mission trips! First up, we have Helen and Jon from our Detroit team! On this week's episode, we discuss: • Unexpected encounters on the streets. • What trust can look like on the streets. • What CIC brought to Detroit and what Detroit gave back to CIC. • Practical ways to encounter the homeless in Detroit!
Unveiling the Resilience of Homeless Teens
On this new episode of Homeless but Human, we are joined by two of our Denver missionaries, Luke and Meaghan. On this episode you will hear: How the strength of homeless teens impacts our mission. The way our missionaries are able to play a vital role in the lives of the homeless they encounter Simple ways to encounter the homeless near you.
Building Bridges, One Meal at a Time: The Extraordinary Power of Human Connection
On this new episode of Homeless but Human, we are joined by two of our Denver missionaries, Chas and Michaela. On this episode you will hear: How a a simple birthday celebration can impact someone so deeply. The beauty in being vulnerable with our friends on the streets. How consistency in friendship is life changing.
Simplicity Check: I Challenge You To Befriend The Cross
For this weeks episode we are joined by second year missionary, Marilyn. She talks about her Simplicity Check: I Challenge You To Befriend The Cross On this episode we discuss: - What it means to befriend the cross. - How suffering and joy are closer than we think. - The temptation to isolate. - Practical ways to lean into suffering.
The Balance of Loving vs. Enabling
This week on Homeless but Human we are joined by Executive Director of Step Denver, Paul Scudo. Step Denver is a residential recovery program for men struggling with addiction. In this episode you will hear: - How can we love someone in the midst of their addiction. - What is the balance of meeting someone with love vs. enabling. - How the missionaries are a bridge for the homeless to supportive services.
The Creativity of Love: Stories from the Streets of Philly
On this episode of Homeless but Human, we are joined by two of our Philadelphia missionaries, Rachel and Jay. On this episode you will hear: ⁃ How creative love can be for those we encounter on the streets. ⁃ The complementarity of men and women serving the homeless together. ⁃ The rare gift it is to see the fruit of our ministry so clearly.
Seeking Out the Lonely: Not Just Those on the Streets
On this new episode of Homeless but Human, we are joined with two of our Denver missionaries, Grant and Olivia. You will hear about: The homeless are not the only lonely ones. How Jesus can do wonders if you just stop be present to His work everyday. Friendship happens when you least expect it. People need people and we need community.
Updates From Our Philly House
Update from Philly: We've been serving on the streets of Philadelphia for 6 months now and have been blown away by the Lord's generosity! Here to share about it, we are joined by one of Philly team leaders and Sodalit brother, David!
Simplicity Check: I Challenge You To Find Simplicity in the Present Moment
For this weeks episode we are joined by second year missionary, Brad. He talks about his Simplicity Check: I Challenge You To Find Simplicity in the Present Moment. On this episode we discuss: - Having a simple love that allows Jesus to become present in every moment. - Receiving and giving love through the present moment. - The brotherhood that Christ in the City has provided for Brad.
End of Year Highlights with the Missionaries
As we begin the New Year we are feeling extra thankful here at Christ in the City for the people that have supported us in 2022. For the next episode you will hear favorite stories and memories from the year of 2022 from some of our missionaries. We hope you all enjoy our end of the year highlights!
An Advent Reflection on the Joyful Mysteries
In this special Advent episode, we wanted to share a talk that was given during our missionaries recent retreat. Jeff offers a unique perspective on the Joyful Mysteries that allows us to look at Mary’s journey in a whole new way this Advent season.
INVISIBLE HUMANS: Roy’s Story
This week, we are joined on the podcast by our good friend, Roy! He and Nick (a second year missionary) share about: Their unexpected friendship. Experiencing a Broncos game. The immense joy that has come from suffering.
Simplicity Check: I Challenge You To See The Person Behind The Product
Each month, one of our missionaries writes a Simplicity Check reflection about how life at Christ in the City has changed their perspective on simple living. Each reflection includes a challenge that can be done from wherever you are. This is the first Simplicity Check to be featured on our podcast! Today we are joined by Stephanie to discuss her Simplicity Check: I challenge you to love the person behind the product. In this episode, we discuss: ⁃Being more present and sensitive to what is right in front of you. ⁃The meaning that a homemade gift can have. ⁃What does this mean for serving the poor?
How is Christ in the City helping the Homeless?
We had our dear friend, Father Mark Mary, back on our podcast to continue to talk about our mission! In this episode you will hear about: ⁃ Is just being friends with the homeless enough? ⁃ The importance of family. ⁃ How to appreciate life and joy in a new way. We are so thankful that Father got to join us again. Please continue to pray for our mission and the mission of the CFRs!
Serving the Poor: Why Should You Care?
We had a very special guest, and dear friend of Christ in the City, on today's episode of Homeless but Human! Father Mark Mary of the CFR’s joins us to discuss: How do we shake indifference toward the poor? We are all in different states of life, how do we discern what our responsibility is to the poor? How do you know you're successful? What has been the most surprising joy? A concrete exercise you can do in 30 minutes amidst the business of your day to day. We are so thankful that Father got to join us and all the support he has given us through the years!
Why Philly and why now?
On this episode of Homeless but Human, we are joined by two members of our Philly staff, Emma and David! You’ll get to hear about: The leadership team's biggest hopes for the Philadelphia expansion What does planting seeds look like with no street cred How you can help the Philly team get started by providing items or meals
Summer Series: Stories from Denver
On this weeks episode of Homeless but Human, we are concluding our summer series with the Denver team! Ashley and Clay join us to discuss: • Their first time ever doing homeless ministry • How the CIC shirt = street cred • The trust it takes to pass on friendships to the new missionaries We are so thankful for all the support and love we receive in Denver. If you ever want volunteer with us, you can email volunteer@christinthecity.org.
Summer Missions: Stories from Dayton
We were invited to spend 3-weeks this summer serving at the homeless shelters in Dayton, Ohio! Stephanie and Liam join us on the podcast today with the highlights! In this episode of Homeless but Human, we discuss: Cartwheels in the rain at a mens shelter Meeting the darkness with radical joy The overlooked gift of listening well The Lord is doing BIG things in Dayton, OH Link in bio to listen to it!
Summer Missions: Stories from Lincoln
On this weeks episode of our Summer Missions series, we are joined by our Lincoln team! Sophia and Chas tell us about: ⁃ How a beautiful encounter at the bus stop gathered a crowd ⁃ The unexpected reality found on the streets of Lincoln If you’re in the Lincoln area, what can you do? (think Runzas) If you’re in the Lincoln area and looking to get involved, reach out to Mario at: Mario Racicot (402) 327 6202 mracicot@cssisus.org
Summer Missions: Stories from Dallas
Summer Missions Spotlight: Stories from Dallas! Shoutout to the Diocese of Dallas who invited us to come and lead their seminarians for the most incredible 3-week summer mission! On this episode, we discuss: - How the presence of seminarians wearing clerics changed the vibe of street ministry. - Southern hospitality is a thing, even amongst the homeless. - What you can do-- even in 30 seconds at a stoplight.
Summer Missions: Stories from Gary
Summer Missions Spotlight: This week we are joined on the podcast by Maddie and Brian from our Gary team! We discuss: • One of our volunteers encountering his high school classmate on the streets • What encouragement looks like in the midst of hopelessness • What the community in Gary has done for our Christ in the City family.
Summer Missions: Stories from Ireland
Next up on our summer missions podcast series, we have Valya and Brogan from our Ireland team! On this weeks episode of Homeless but Human, we discuss: - Brining Christ in the City into the Irish culture - What if we do not see any homeless - Ireland’s “chat benches” - Training the Christ in the Street Irish volunteers
Summer Missions: Stories from Boston
We're kickstarting our summer podcast series! Thoughout the summer, we'll be sharing highlights from each of the 7 cities where we hosted summer mission trips! First up, we have Tyler and Rachel from our Boston team! On this week's episode, we discuss: •Can a three week mission trip in a new city actually make a difference? •How the Sacred Heart stopped a man in his tracks. •An unexpected encounter at a Red Sox game. •What CIC brought to Boston and what Boston gave CIC. The Encounter ministry in Boston is spreading like wildfire- led by two former CIC missionaries! If you are in the Boston area, check the link below to get involved. http://Sites.google.com/view/encounterchrist
What if I actually don't want to talk to the homeless?
What If I Actually Don't Want to Talk to the Homeless? One of the most beloved missionaries in our community joined us for this episode! We discuss: -What motivates Aaron on the days he's just not feeling it -Are surface-level conversations worth it? -Becoming a more virtuous man -Bringing this mission back home
What is a Formator? (hot seat style!)
A favorite tradition around Christ in the City is hot seat (rapid fire questions from the audience)!!! We have some burning questions that were submitted by our missionaries and listeners. We are excited to have two of our formators on this weeks episode to answer our burning questions! In this episode, we discuss: - What is the most often misunderstood aspect of Christ in the City? - If formators are not counselors or spiritual directors, what's their role? - Phil & Erika's funniest and best moments at Christ in the City
INVISIBLE HUMANS: Chuck's Story
In this episode, our friend Chuck shares what it's been like for him now in housing after 40 years on the streets. We discuss: - What was the hardest thing about being on the streets? - What changed for you to want to move inside? - What is it that brings you life now?
Confronting Mental Health: Where to Begin?
Confronting Mental Health: Where to Begin? with special guest Senite Sahlezghi LPC In this episode we discuss: * The importance of showing up for the people in your life and what that can look like * None of us are entitled to each other's stories or time * How to foster deeper relationships that are not transactional
Should I Give Money to the Homeless?
When someone experiencing homelessness asks for money, it can be hard not to wonder: Am I getting scammed? Would I be contributing to an addiction? What are they really going to use it for? In today's episode, we're back with Sam Schultz, our Director of Homeless Outreach, to discuss another common question we get asked: what do you do when a homeless person asks for money?
Day in the Life of a Missionary
Today we're joined by two of our missionaries, Chas and Stephanie, to walk us through a normal average day, which you'll learn quickly isn't normal or average at Christ in the City. In this episode we'll discuss: - Cook teams and getting creative with donated food - What it's like living with 34 other people and where missionaries find rest - Steph’s yo-yo and other creative ways missionaries break the ice in conversations - The complementarity of having both men and women on street teams together - How do missionaries have the energy to keep going every day
INVISIBLE HUMANS: Jessica's Story
Jessica is the mama to sweet, curly haired Nora and a total superwoman. She's spunky, hardworking, and has a sweet tooth for milkshakes. In God's providence, Jessica's path crossed with CIC's "house mom", Betty, when she was working as a case manager at Samaritan House homeless shelter. Betty joins us today to share about the special role she has gotten to play in Jessica and Nora's story. In this episode you'll hear: What it was like being homeless as an expectant mother How important friendship was through housing rejections and doubts about being a mom The need for both emotional support (missionaries' friendship) and social service support (a case worker)
Why Don't the Homeless Just Get a Job
This is one of the most common questions we get asked at Christ in the City. In this episode, we're joined by Sam Schultz, Christ in the City's Director of Homeless Outreach to discuss: The reality of what it takes to get a job while homeless, from facing practical roadblocks to deeper spiritual wounds Why would we help someone who doesn't appear to be helping themselves? How can we approach this question with more empathy?
INVISIBLE HUMANS: Ron's Story
When Ron met Christ in the City in 2015, he was on the streets and doing his best to stay away from people. He shares what it was like to be distant from all of humanity. You'll get a window into his experience on the streets and hear what a simple hello and invitation did for him. Join us as we hear Ron's story and start to understand what a small encounter can do for someone else’s life. Everyone has a story to tell and we are fortunate to be a part of Ron's!
The Power of Being Present (Part 3) : Taking a Street Walk Through Your Own Heart
In the third part of our three-part series on “The Power of Being Present”: Jeff and Anya are back to wrap up the series with one of the most important–and often the most challenging–steps towards being present: the “street walk” through our own hearts. Jeff and Anya will share wisdom learned through encounters on the street, community life, and personal stories and how one of their primary roles as formators is accompanying missionaries on this healing journey of self-discovery. Missionaries come to realize that to love those on the street with the compassion and empathy they need to heal, they must first learn to love themselves in this way. And as listeners will come to realize throughout this episode, this lesson is not just for missionaries. This is a step we all must take in our lives. Before we can be truly present and encounter the brokenness of others–whether they are our family, friends, or those we serve on the streets– we must first take the time to encounter ourselves–even those parts we have kept hidden. As we start a new year, this episode leaves listeners with a simple but challenging invitation: simply take some time for silence. Allow God to be the center of your own internal monolog so that you can be truly present, and He can be the center of every encounter this new year. Thanks for listening and know of our prayers for you during this new year!
The Power of Being Present (Part 2): Approaching People with Childlike Curiosity
What can children teach us about listening? In the second part of our three-part series on “The Power of Being Present” Jeff and Anya are back to explore this question as we continue our conversation on the art of listening. In this episode, we will dive deeper into what it means to truly encounter someone with a childlike wonder. We will discuss what a 4-year-old in a grocery store can teach us about presence and how (without even knowing it) children’s natural disposition is one of reverence--a cherished virtue of formation at Christ in the City. Jeff and Anya will share how much we can learn from their simple but profound example and how missionaries learn to apply this virtue with the homeless and with their fellow missionaries. Through hearing wisdom gained through personal stories, missionary community life, and encounters on the streets, this episode will invite listeners to approach their own family, friends, or a stranger on the street with a new sense of reverence and child-like wonder. We will leave listeners with an invitation to apply this idea and try a creative “experiment” out on friends and family this Christmas. We are excited for you to try this with us!
The Power of Being Present (Part 1): Listening to Understand vs. Just to Respond
What if your only job was to listen? No agenda. No expectation of a perfect response. Simply being present with the other. Would that change the way you do it? In this first episode of our three-part series on “The Power of Being Present”, we are joined by two of our staff formators: Jeff and Anya. Together, they will take us deeper into why the art of listening--and simply being present--is at the center of good relationships: the heart of our encounters on the streets. Through their unique lens as formators, Jeff and Anya explain how missionaries must first learn (and often un-learn) what it means to simply listen before they can be that same presence for the homeless. Through hearing personal experiences and wisdom gained from encounters on the streets, this episode will leave listeners with powerful insights and practical tips to apply these skills in their own lives.
Find Yourself Trying To “Fix” Someone?
It's hard to face suffering. And sometimes it's even harder to have to watch others go through hard times. Our human nature wants to step in to help with an "I can fix this for you" mentality. But as we'll explore in this episode, people don't want to be "fixed", they want to be loved. Our missionaries face this reality over and over again as they approach the homeless on the streets. We are equipped with knowledge of the local resources, understanding where we can point someone to get a meal, a place to stay, etc. But the truth is, there's a lot of hurt in the world that can't be fixed by a resource. So what can you do? For the answer, we look to Mary and John at the foot of the cross.
What to Do When Passing a Homeless Person
The first Christ in the City podcast is here! In this episode of Homeless but Human, we interview our good friend, Chris, about how he would like to be treated in the midst of experiencing homelessness. He shares some simple conversation starters to make someone's day on the streets. Join us as we explore the call to serve the poor in our own communities and the power of relationships to bring about healing.
Episode 0: Introducing: Homeless but Human
Mother Teresa said, _"Many people talk about the homeless, but few talk to them." _Our desire is to educate even more people to understand the complexity of homelessness and to discover practical and relational solutions for real change. Join us as we answer common questions and hesitations about serving the poor. You’ll also have an opportunity to listen to the homeless and have a window into their lives. Our experience has proven that the deepest poverty of homelessness is sown in the heart long before someone becomes homeless. It’s an all-encompassing experience of being unknown, unloved, and unwanted. Society typically provides shelter, food, and other important, basic needs, but even these resources don’t seem to be enough to solve the deeper issue of homelessness. It’s not ONLY a problem of not having a house, money, or clean clothes. The root of the homelessness is ruptured relationships. Because of this, Christ in the City missionaries walk regular street routes to encounter the homeless. They spend time learning people’s names and stories and return day after day. Over time, these encounters lead to genuine friendships, and trust is built. The disarming power of eye contact and a genuine smile could be all it takes to restore someone's hope in humanity and begin their journey toward healing. We know it’s not comfortable to initiate a conversation with a homeless person you don’t know, especially at first. But you shouldn’t have to feel uncomfortable or confused about how to help. That’s why, each year, the Christ in the City team reaches 17,000 people across the country with an approach that gets people out of the pews and into the streets to encounter their fellow man, seeing a person to be loved not a problem to be fixed. In that way, we can treat the root cause of homelessness, recognizing the deeper crisis of relationship, and treating it with the love and hope that comes from meaningful encounters and intentional friendships. What the homeless actually need is you. Just imagine— the impact it would make if that homeless person you pass had even just one friend who knew them by name and cared about them beyond just a passing handout. What difference would that make to that person, to you, and to your local community? And if more people joined together in this mission— what difference would we make to the world?