The Rebuilt Parish Podcast

What happens when someone truly discovers who they are in Christ? In this episode, Melissa sits down with Johnnette Williams of Women of Grace for a conversation filled with joy, honesty, and deep spiritual wisdom. Alongside Tom Corcoran, they reflect on Johnnette’s powerful story of conversion, the heart behind her ministry, and what she’s learned from walking with thousands of women over the years. From healing and identity to the unique role women play in the life of a parish, this episode offers both encouragement and practical insight for parish leaders seeking to build a culture where people can truly be transformed. If you’re looking for a practical next step in building a culture of generosity in your parish, download Raising Givers: 6 People Who Can Help from Church Money and start identifying the key people who can move your mission forward: https://download.rebuiltparish.com/raisinggivers In This Episode, You’ll Hear: Johnnette’s story of returning to the faith and being set on fire for the Gospel How healing and restoration unfold over time through a life of prayer Why so many women feel disconnected—and what they’re really searching for The deeper identity every woman is called to rediscover The unique role women play in shaping the spiritual culture of a parish A simple, practical step pastors can take to better reach and form women The importance of weakness, surrender, and daily dependence on the Lord Key Takeaway: When people begin to understand who they are in Christ, everything changes—and that transformation can renew an entire parish from the inside out. Timestamps: 00:00 – Intro 01:00 – Johnnette’s story and return to the faith 07:00 – Encountering healing through prayer and the Holy Spirit 12:00 – How Women of Grace began 18:00 – Why so many women feel disconnected 25:00 – Identity, weakness, and dependence on God 32:00 – The role of women in parish life 39:00 – A simple step for reaching women in your parish 41:00 – Final encouragement and prayer Links & Resources Women of Grace Website: https://womenofgrace.com Women of Grace Foundational Study: https://womenofgrace.com/study-programs Watch/Listen to Johnnette (EWTN): https://www.ewtn.com Women of Grace TV & Radio Archives: https://womenofgrace.com/tv Connect on Social Media Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/womenofgrace Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/womenofgrace YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@WomenofGrace Pinterest: https://www.pinterest.com/womenofgrace TikTok: https://www.tiktok.com/@womenofgrace If this episode encouraged you: Share it with a leader or team member who is passionate about reaching and forming women in your parish.   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish 

What if a capital campaign was not just about raising money but raising faith? In this episode, Melissa sits down with Daniel Miller, Director of Next Gen at Church of the Nativity, to reflect on the heart behind the Wonder Campaign. This is an 18 million dollar effort rooted not just in facilities, but in forming the next generation of disciples. Daniel shares how the campaign began, the spiritual vision driving it, and the real challenges they have faced along the way. From donor conversations to parish wide storytelling, you will hear how Nativity approached this as a faith movement first and a financial goal second. Even if your parish is not planning a campaign, this conversation offers a clear framework for leading with vision, inviting generosity as worship, and trusting God in the unknown. If you’re looking for a practical next step in building a culture of generosity in your parish, download Raising Givers: 6 People Who Can Help from Church Money and start identifying the key people who can move your mission forward: https://download.rebuiltparish.com/raisinggivers And if you’d like to learn more about how the Wonder Campaign is unfolding at Church of the Nativity, you can explore the vision and progress here: https://www.churchnativity.com/wonder/ 🔑 Key Takeaways: Why a capital campaign should start with mission, not money How to invite people into giving as an act of faith The importance of storytelling and one church one message Lessons learned from donor engagement and leadership alignment What real spiritual fruit looks like beyond financial results 📊 By the Numbers: 18 million dollar campaign goal 15.6 million pledged so far Over 1000 households participating 🙌 A Word to Parish Leaders: If you do not feel ready, you are not alone. As Daniel shares, throughout Scripture, God rarely calls the ready. He calls the willing. This episode is a reminder that when the vision is clear and rooted in faith, God provides what is needed to move forward.   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish

What does parish renewal really look like when you’re living it day by day? In this episode, Melissa sits down with Fr. James Mallon, founder of Divine Renovation, alongside Tom Corcoran. Together, they reflect on their shared history, the early days of parish renewal, and the sense of being “kindred spirits” in a mission to help the Church rediscover evangelization. But this conversation goes deeper than theory. Fr. James shares what it’s been like returning to parish life after years of leading a global ministry. From walking into a struggling parish to witnessing signs of new life, he offers a candid and hope-filled look at what renewal actually requires. It’s not quick. It’s not easy. But it is worth it. Key Takeaways Parish renewal is painful, slow, and deeply worthwhile Culture change in a parish often takes years, not months Evangelization must come before catechesis and programs Healthy parishes mobilize people for mission, not just participation God is stirring new spiritual hunger, especially in younger generations Resources Mentioned Divine Renovation by Fr. James Mallon - https://a.co/d/0j6JWUd6  Rebuilt by Michael White & Tom Corcoran - https://a.co/d/00Fq31Mn  For more information on Divine Renovation visit their website: https://www.divinerenovation.org/   👉 Free Resource: Strong parishes are built on strong leadership. Get a clear picture of where your leadership is today and where it can grow with our free Leadership Self Evaluation. https://download.rebuiltparish.com/leadershipevaluation    Final Encouragement There’s no quick fix for renewal. But there is a path. Stay faithful. Build a team. Keep moving forward. The fruit will come.

What does real parish transformation actually look like and how does it begin? In this episode, Melissa sits down with Maria Pulitano, Head of Parish Transformation at Rebuilt, to unpack what happens when a parish becomes truly mission-focused. Drawing from her experience walking alongside pastors and teams across the country, Maria shares how coaching helps parishes move from maintenance into momentum, not by copying another model, but by becoming the best version of who they are called to be. You’ll hear how culture begins to shift, how leaders are supported in real time, and why small steps can lead to lasting change. If you’ve ever wondered whether transformation is possible in your parish, this conversation offers both clarity and encouragement for the next step. Strong parishes are built on strong leadership. Get a clear picture of where your leadership is today and where it can grow with our free Leadership Self Evaluation. https://download.rebuiltparish.com/leadershipevaluation  Key Takeaways Parish transformation begins with a renewed focus on the mission to make disciples Coaching is a partnership that walks alongside pastors and leaders, not a one-size-fits-all solution Healthy culture change happens through small, intentional steps that build momentum You don’t need a large staff to grow—leaders can be raised up from the pews Coaches provide real-time support through challenges like staffing, communication, and change management Measuring both metrics and stories of life change helps parishes recognize what God is doing Strong leadership teams and clear mission alignment are foundational for long-term growth Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Maria and Parish Transformation 02:00 – What Transformation Looks Like in a Parish 04:00 – Debunking the “Mini Nativity” Myth 06:00 – What Coaching Relationships Really Look Like 09:00 – Real-Time Support and “Speed Dial” Coaching 12:00 – Navigating Challenges and Leading Change 14:00 – Building Mission, Vision, and Leadership Teams 17:00 – Creating Momentum Through Small Wins 19:00 – Raising Up Leaders from the Pew 23:00 – Delegation, Trust, and Avoiding Burnout 24:30 – Measuring Wins and Tracking Growth 28:00 – Why Coaching Works and What Makes It Unique 31:00 – Encouragement for Parish Leaders Considering a Next Step What could be possible in your parish if you took one intentional step forward? If you’re beginning to ask that question, you’re not alone. Start by gathering a few leaders, naming what you hope for, and exploring what’s next. You can also learn more about coaching and connect with our team in the show notes. Links & Resources Learn more about Rebuilt Coaching rebuiltparish.com/coaching  Connect with our team: Natalie - [email protected] Bill - [email protected]  parish renewal, Catholic parish growth, parish coaching, church leadership, discipleship, Catholic evangelization, parish transformation, church growth strategy, small groups ministry, Catholic leadership development https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish

What does it look like when a parish begins to move from maintenance to momentum? In this episode, Melissa sits down with Fr. Paul MacNeil of St. Alexander Parish in Fonthill, Ontario, to reflect on what happened when he stepped into a parish facing financial strain, low attendance, and limited engagement. Rather than settling into maintenance mode, Fr. Paul leaned into coaching and began making intentional changes that created real momentum. From opening doors and improving hospitality to building a leadership team, launching small groups, and aligning the parish around a clearer vision, Fr. Paul shares how St. Alexander has grown from fewer than 250 people on a weekend to around 650 today. This conversation offers practical insight and encouragement for any pastor or parish leader who is ready to see their parish move forward with clarity and purpose. Key Takeaways Momentum often begins with simple, visible changes that signal welcome and care Hospitality plays a critical role in helping people return and engage Parish renewal is about building a culture of discipleship, not just adding programs A strong leadership team helps sustain and multiply momentum Small groups create connection and help a growing parish feel personal Strong parishes are built on strong leadership. Get a clear picture of where your leadership is today and where it can grow with our free Leadership Self Evaluation. https://download.rebuiltparish.com/leadershipevaluation  If this conversation resonated with you, Fr. Paul shares even more of the story in his Under the Hood blog series—an honest, behind-the-scenes look at the decisions, challenges, and breakthroughs that helped build momentum at St. Alexander. https://substack.com/@frpaulmacneil/p-190929046  Episode Highlights Why Fr. Paul chose coaching while stepping into a new parish The story of locked doors and what it revealed about parish culture Early “low-hanging fruit” that helped build trust and momentum How hospitality and environment shaped the parish experience Growing from under 250 to over 650 in weekly attendance The role of small groups in sustaining momentum Leading with greater support, clarity, and confidence If you’re a pastor or parish leader looking to build momentum in your parish, reach out to our team to see if coaching is the right fit for you: [email protected] or [email protected]  Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!  “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish  

What actually changes when a parish moves from trying different ideas… to truly aligning everything around mission? In this episode, Melissa sits down with Gail Rayos, who has experienced parish renewal from both sides. After years serving as a pastoral associate at St. Mary Magdalen in Florida, Gail walked through Rebuilt coaching with her parish. Now, she’s helping other parishes do the same as a coach. This conversation is filled with practical insight and honest reflection. Gail shares the hesitation many parishes feel before coaching, the moment things began to shift, and how a renewed commitment to small groups and leadership transformed their parish culture. More than anything, she offers encouragement that renewal doesn’t mean starting from scratch. It means reconnecting what’s already there and moving forward with clarity. Key Takeaways Many parishes are already doing good things, but struggle to connect them into a clear mission Coaching helps parishes move from scattered efforts to aligned systems A true commitment to small groups can transform parish life and deepen faith Leadership development is not one area of ministry. It strengthens everything Renewal is not about becoming another parish. It’s about becoming who your parish is called to be Resources Mentioned Learn how your parish can grow wider and reach more people: What would it look like for your parish to move from maintaining to reaching those who are not yet engaged? Download the Grow Wider Self Evaluation: https://download.rebuiltparish.com/widerevaluation Interested in coaching for your parish? Reach out to: [email protected] [email protected] If this conversation resonated with you, share it with a pastor or team member who is carrying the weight of parish leadership. You are not alone, and renewal is possible.   https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish

What does parish renewal actually look like when it moves from ideas into real parish life? In this special replay from the 2025 Rebuilt Conference, Melissa Wilkinson sits down with a panel of parish leaders who have spent years putting the Rebuilt model into practice. Together, they share honest stories from the field, including what their parishes were facing before coaching, the hesitations and resistance they encountered, and the progress they have seen through faithful, intentional leadership. You will hear from leaders serving in very different parish contexts, from multicultural communities to collaborative parishes to growing suburban churches. What ties their stories together is not a perfect formula, but a willingness to take the next step. They talk about leadership, weekend experience, communication, small groups, resistance to change, and the importance of staying focused on mission. This conversation is encouraging for any pastor or parish staff member who knows renewal is needed but is unsure where to begin. If your parish feels stuck, overwhelmed, or hesitant to make a change, this episode offers both practical wisdom and real hope. Key Takeaways Renewal often begins with one clear step, not a full overhaul. Strong leadership teams create the foundation for lasting parish change. A better weekend experience can become a catalyst for wider renewal. Resistance is normal, but clarity, conviction, and communication matter. Coaching helps parish leaders move from inspiration to action. Featured Guests Analia Kolikowski, Pastoral Associate, Church of St. John the Apostle, East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania Fr. Roger Gustafson, Pastor, St. Hilary Parish, Tiburon, California Fr. Mark Peacock, Pastor, Holy Spirit Parish, Grand Rapids, Michigan Cathy O’Leary, Creative Director, New Roads Catholic Community, Belmont, Massachusetts Strong parishes are built on strong leadership. Get a clear picture of where your leadership is today and where it can grow with our free Leadership Self Evaluation. https://download.rebuiltparish.com/leadershipevaluation  Why This Episode Matters If you have ever wondered whether renewal could really happen in your parish, this conversation offers a grounded and hopeful answer. These leaders share what changed when they stopped trying to do everything at once and instead took faithful steps forward with vision, courage, and support. Listener Invitation Want to see what parish renewal can look like in real life? Listen in and consider what one next step God may be inviting your parish to take.   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!  “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish

What happens when prayer stops being something we “fit in,” and becomes the place we start? In this conversation, Fr. John Riccardo (Acts XXIX) joins Melissa Wilkinson and Tom Corcoran to talk about the renewal God wants to do in parishes, leaders, and teams, beginning with surrender and a restored dependence on the Holy Spirit. Fr. John shares his unexpected call to priesthood, the “call within a call” that led to Acts XXIX, and why so many parish teams stay stuck in maintenance: fear of failure, fear of risk, and a functional way of doing ministry that forgets we’re meant to live as family. Along the way, you’ll hear practical, concrete ways to bring prayer into the center of parish leadership, build true communion among teams, and reclaim the mindset of the early Church- because Acts didn’t end at chapter 28. Resources Mentioned Acts XXIX: https://www.actsxxix.org/  The Rescue Project: https://watch.actsxxix.org/therescueproject    How is your parish intentionally reaching those beyond your walls, and what might God be inviting you to do next? Download our Grow Wider Self-Evaluation to find out and take your next faithful step forward.  Grow Wider Self Evaluation: https://download.rebuiltparish.com/widerevaluation  Key Takeaways Surrender is daily, not one-time. Fr. John shares a tangible morning practice: “crawling back on the altar” each day. The only real failure is quitting. Trying something that doesn’t work is often discernment, not defeat. Parish renewal requires a shift from maintenance to mission. Comfort can keep the “machine” running, but it won’t bring new life. Teams need to look like family. If we’re inviting people into the family of God, parish leadership must embody real communion. Prayer isn’t “before the work.” Prayer is how you know what the work is. Restore the initiative to God. Hospitality and beauty open hearts. They communicate “you matter,” and prepare people to receive what God wants to do. Loneliness is real among clergy—and relational ministry matters. Priests need communion, not isolation. “Acts 29” is a mindset. The Holy Spirit is still writing the Church’s story through you and your parish today.   Chapters & Timestamps 00:00 — Welcome + why this conversation matters 00:18 — Fr. John’s origin story: an unexpected call to priesthood 03:10 — Prayer, wandering, and the struggle to surrender 06:16 — A daily surrender practice: “crawl back on the altar” 07:12 — The “call within a call” that led to Acts XXIX 10:21 — Choosing the right people for mission and ministry 16:29 — Risk, fear, and redefining failure for parish leaders 19:34 — St. Joan of Arc and magnanimity: “I was born for this” 22:01 — Why “Acts 29”: reclaiming the fruitfulness of the early Church 27:12 — How Acts XXIX serves parishes (free charism, clear principles) 31:39 — The four core efforts: Rescue Project, immersives, clergy retreats, media 35:23 — How priests and lay leaders can truly work together 38:09 — Stories of transformation: what changes when teams pray to discern 42:25 — Permission to “waste time”: meals, prayer, presence, and culture shift 49:10 — How to connect with Acts XXIX + key links 52:04 — Closing encouragement Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Catholic parish renewal, Acts XXIX Catholic, Fr John Riccardo, Tom Corcoran Rebuilt Parish, parish leadership development, Catholic evangelization strategy, parish mission and vision, moving from maintenance to mission, Catholic church revitalization, Rescue Project Catholic, leadership immersion Catholic, Catholic clergy renewal, priest burnout and renewal, Catholic team leadership, prayer in parish leadership, restoring the initiative to God, biblical worldview Catholic, Catholic discipleship formation, Holy Spirit and discernment, parish culture transformation, Catholic ministry teamwork, lay and clergy collaboration, parish staff prayer, church leadership podcast, Catholic evangelization podcast

Every parish wants to reach more people, but where do you begin? In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson sits down with Fr. John Sullivan, pastor of Holy Redeemer Parish in Chatham, Massachusetts, to talk about how defining a clear target audience can transform the way a parish approaches ministry. You may have heard of “Timonium Tim,” the persona developed at Church of the Nativity to help guide evangelization efforts. Fr. John shares how he adapted that concept for his own parish and created “Chatham Chuck,” a simple way to keep the mission of evangelization front and center in parish life. Throughout the conversation, Fr. John explains how understanding the people in the pews shaped his preaching, hospitality, and leadership decisions. He also offers practical encouragement for parish leaders who feel discouraged by slow progress, reminding us that renewal in the Church is often a long and faithful work.   Key Takeaways Defining a clear target audience helps parishes stay focused on their mission of evangelization • Many parishes must first help those already in the pews deepen their faith before reaching outward • Renewal takes persistence and patience. Transformation rarely happens overnight • A welcoming weekend experience helps visitors quickly feel like part of the community • Listening to the stories of your parishioners can reveal important insights about your parish culture Want to know if your parish is ready to reach more people? Take a few minutes to reflect on where your parish stands with this free Grow Wider Self Evaluation. https://download.rebuiltparish.com/widerevaluation Chapters  00:00 Introduction 00:03 Meet Fr. John Sullivan from Holy Redeemer Parish 01:56 What “Timonium Tim” Means for Parish Evangelization 02:11 How “Chatham Chuck” Was Created 04:47 Understanding Your Parish Community 06:15 Leading Through Criticism and Change 06:43 Using Message Series to Reach People in the Pews 09:54 Who Is “Chatham Chuck”? 12:33 Why Parish Renewal Takes Time 15:57 Hospitality and the Weekend Experience 17:18 Avoiding Mission Drift in Parish Leadership 19:02 Helping Parishioners Evangelize Their Families 20:36 Staying Faithful in Ministry Leadership 22:16 First Steps for Identifying Your Parish Audience 24:32 Final Encouragement for Parish Leaders Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    catholic parish leadership, parish renewal, catholic evangelization, church leadership, catholic parish growth, rebuilt parish podcast, timonium tim, parish target audience, parish mission strategy, catholic discipleship, catholic ministry leadership, church growth strategies, parish evangelization ideas, catholic leadership podcast, parish hospitality ministry, catholic church outreach, parish mission clarity, evangelization in the catholic church, catholic priest leadership, parish culture change, catholic preaching strategy, church leadership development, catholic ministry strategy, parish leadership training, grow wider parish strategy

What does it look like when a diocese truly walks alongside parishes in renewal? In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson talks with Edward Herrera and Julie St. Croix from the Institute for Evangelization at the Archdiocese of Baltimore. Together, they share how their Emmaus Teams accompany pastors and parish leaders through prayer, trust, leadership development, staff culture, pastoral council formation, and parish transition. This conversation offers a practical and hope-filled look at evangelization from the diocesan level, not as programs handed down from a distance, but as real partnership rooted in relationship. Edward and Julie unpack what distinguishes a parish that is simply maintaining from one that is actively living its mission, and they offer encouraging wisdom for pastors and leaders who want to take the next faithful step toward renewal. If you have ever wondered how dioceses and parishes can work together in a way that truly strengthens mission, this episode is full of insight. Looking for a practical next step? Our free Grow Wider Self Evaluation will help you reflect on how your parish is reaching new people and where there may be room to grow. Key Takeaways Evangelization begins with relationship, trust, and accompaniment Healthy parish renewal starts by supporting the pastor and leadership team Stronger parish culture requires shared vision, prayer, and co-responsibility Missional parishes are marked by welcome, discipleship, and community presence Renewal does not begin with doing everything at once, but with taking the next step faithfully Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    parish renewal, Catholic parish leadership, evangelization, Catholic leadership podcast, Archdiocese of Baltimore, Emmaus Team, accompaniment in ministry, parish staff culture, pastoral council renewal, Catholic diocesan leadership, Rebuilt Parish podcast, Catholic mission, disciple making, parish evangelization, church leadership, missional parish, Catholic ministry leadership, Julie St. Croix, Edward Herrera, Institute for Evangelization

How does a parish actually grow wider? In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson welcomes back Ed Bradley to take a deep dive into the Grow Wider Anchor - what it means, where parishes often get stuck, and how to start making measurable progress. If your parish wants to bring people back to church, reach young families, and build a culture of invitation, this conversation will give you both clarity and practical next steps. And be sure to listen through to the end—Ed shares exactly where he would recommend a parish start in the next 90 days. Grow Wider Self Evaluation: https://download.rebuiltparish.com/widerevaluation  Key Takeaways Growing wider starts with a clear burden for those who aren’t coming. Define your target audience intentionally - know your mission field. Friendly is not the same as strategically welcoming. Your digital presence is often your first impression. Next-gen ministry can be a powerful growth strategy. Parishioners need confidence and tools to invite others. Start with intentional hospitality systems, not just good intentions. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to the Grow Wider Anchor 02:00 – Understanding the Four Anchors and Discipleship 07:30 – Where Parishes Commonly Break Down 11:00 – Defining Your Target Audience 16:00 – Friendly vs Strategically Welcoming 20:30 – Weekend Experience and First Impressions 23:30 – Digital Presence as the Front Door 26:00 – Leveraging Next-Gen Ministry 31:30 – Teaching Parishioners to Invite 35:00 – Where to Start in the Next 90 Days Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    parish renewal, Catholic parish renewal, grow wider, Rebuilt Parish, Rebuilt model, parish growth, growing church attendance, bring people back to church, Catholic evangelization, evangelization strategies, parish evangelization, parish outreach, welcoming parish, hospitality ministry, church hospitality team, welcoming newcomers, first time guest experience, weekend Mass experience, improving the weekend experience, Catholic Mass experience, discipleship pathway, making disciples, parish discipleship, Great Commission Catholic, invite a friend to church, invest and invite, invite people to Mass, parishioner invitation, how to get parishioners to invite, newcomer follow up, welcome desk church, new parishioner welcome, church engagement path, engagement strategy church, parish engagement, church digital presence, parish website best practices, church social media strategy, Catholic church marketing, live stream Mass, first impressions church, attract young families, next gen ministry, children’s liturgy of the word, kids ministry Catholic, youth ministry Catholic, Catholic family ministry, grow younger parish, parish leadership team, Catholic parish leadership, parish culture change, Timonium Tim, Church of the Nativity Timonium

What happens when three parishes merge, cultures blend, Mass schedules shift, and emotions run high? On this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson sits down with Fr. Andres Mendoza, pastor of Saint Benedict of Núrcia in Wallingford, Connecticut. With multiple worship sites, a parish school, and a richly diverse community. Fr. Mendoza has navigated complex transitions with one clear priority: prayer comes first. In this conversation, Fr. Mendoza shares how grounding every meeting, decision, and difficult conversation in prayer has shaped not only leadership, but culture. From empowering staff to pray aloud, to inviting parishioners into spontaneous, in-the-moment prayer, to leaning deeply into the Benedictine spirit of ora et labora inspired by Saint Benedict of Nursia, Fr. Mendoza offers a powerful witness: prayer and work are not separate - they are one. If you're leading through change, feeling stretched thin, or wondering how to build unity across different communities, this episode offers practical encouragement and spiritual clarity. Get our FREE Leadership Evaluation here: rebuiltparish.com/leadershipevaluation Key Takeaways Start every meeting with prayer Make consultation with the Holy Spirit the foundation of every decision. Teach people how to pray Don’t assume comfort; model simple, sincere dialogue with the Lord. Pray in the moment Move from “I’ll pray for you” to “Can I pray with you right now?” Lead mergers through discernment, not fear Invite the Holy Spirit into emotionally charged decisions. Guard your personal prayer time Even 15–20 intentional minutes daily anchors leadership. Unite prayer and action Inspired by Saint Benedict of Nursia, remember that work and prayer belong together.   Chapters 00:00 Welcome and Introduction to Fr. Andres Mendoza 02:30 A Parish with Multiple Worship Sites and a School 06:00 Why Prayer Became the Foundation of Leadership 09:10 Teaching Staff How to Pray with Confidence 12:30 Personal Prayer Rhythms for Busy Pastors 16:30 Navigating Parish Mergers Through the Holy Spirit 20:00 Overcoming Fear and Resistance in Times of Change 23:00 Encouragement for Overwhelmed Parish Leaders 26:00 Ora et Labora and the Unity of Prayer and Work 29:00 Final Reflections and Blessing Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish  Catholic parish leadership, parish merger, prayer in ministry, prayer first culture, Catholic church leadership, Holy Spirit discernment, parish renewal, Catholic pastor interview, ora et labora, Saint Benedict spirituality, Latino Catholic ministry, building unity in parishes, leadership through change, Catholic parish growth, examination of conscience, sacrament of confession, prayer in staff meetings

When a message series really takes hold, it does more than shape a homily. It begins to shape hearts, conversations, and culture. In this episode, Father Benoît St-Onge shares a simple but powerful conviction: you have to step inside the message series yourself. When leaders allow the Word of God to first speak into their own lives, it naturally finds its way into the life of the parish. Father Benoît reflects on how vulnerability, honesty, and shared humanity open the door for Scripture to become personal and practical. Drawing inspiration from how message series are lived out at Church of the Nativity, he reminds us that renewal doesn’t require creativity for creativity’s sake. Often, it’s about faithfully adapting what already works and trusting God to do the rest. As Father Benoît puts it, this isn’t magic. It’s truth. And when pastors and leaders lean in together, the Word of God does exactly what it promises to do. Get FREE access to our Sample Content Library: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/offers/6ViPVzNg/checkout Get the “Heal” Homily Series for your parish for Lent: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/lent Key Takeaways Message series work best when leaders live them first. When pastors and staff allow the Word of God to speak into their own lives, preaching becomes more authentic and relatable. Vulnerability builds trust. Modeling humanity from the ambo invites parishioners to see themselves in the message rather than feeling preached at. Creativity doesn’t require starting from scratch. Faithful adaptation and thoughtful reuse of proven ideas can be just as effective as creating something new. The Word of God does the work. Renewal isn’t about clever techniques. When Scripture is applied honestly to real life, it bears fruit. Parish renewal happens in community. Asking for help and learning from others is not weakness. It’s how healthy parishes grow.   Catholic parish renewal, message series planning, Catholic preaching resources, parish leadership, homily preparation, discipleship in parish life, Church of the Nativity, Rebuilt Parish, parish culture change, Catholic small groups, living the Gospel, pastoral leadership, applying Scripture to daily life, Catholic evangelization, parish ministry strategy   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish 

In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson is joined by Colleen Droney, a longtime leader at Church of the Nativity and a key member of the Rebuilt Parish team, for a practical and deeply encouraging conversation about making prayer the center of parish and staff culture. Colleen shares how prayer has shaped her leadership across both parish and ministry settings, why prayer is never optional in times of growth and decision-making, and how the Rebuilt team is learning to pause, listen, and surrender together, even as a fully virtual staff. From staff-wide prayer rhythms and adoration to creative uses of technology and Bible plans, this episode offers parish leaders concrete ways to root their teams more deeply in prayer without adding more burden. This is an honest, hope-filled conversation for pastors and parish leaders who feel stretched thin but long for deeper spiritual grounding in their teams. Want to see how your whole parish can Grow Deeper in their faith? Complete our self evaluation: https://download.rebuiltparish.com/deeperevaluation  What You’ll Hear in This Episode Why prayer must be the agenda, not just an agenda item How leadership immersion with Acts 29 renewed Rebuilt’s commitment to prayer Translating in-person staff prayer into a virtual environment Creating consistent, non-negotiable rhythms of prayer The power of pausing and listening before making decisions How Bible plans build vulnerability and trust among staff Practical examples of prayer shaping parish culture at Nativity Simple first steps any parish can take to begin praying together   Practices Highlighted in the Episode Weekly staff prayer as a non-negotiable rhythm Virtual adoration (“Holy Zoom”) for distributed teams Scripture-based prayer before meetings Staff Bible plans using the YouVersion Bible App Prayer challenges and seasonal devotions Ministry huddles and praying over parish spaces Empowering champions to lead prayer without adding burden to pastors Key Leadership Takeaway Healthy parish culture flows from prayerful leadership. When pastors and parish teams make space to pause, surrender, and listen together, prayer becomes the foundation for unity, clarity, and fruitfulness. You don’t have to do everything at once. Start small, be consistent, and trust God to build the culture over time. Chapters 00:00 – Introducing Colleen and the focus on prayer 00:57 – Why prayer is essential in busy seasons of ministry 02:19 – Lessons from Acts 29 and adoration 04:25 – Translating staff prayer into a virtual environment 06:10 – Creating space for silence and surrender 08:39 – Prayer as permission to pause 11:11 – Building prayer into parish staff culture 12:54 – Using Bible plans to deepen team connection 16:17 – Creative prayer rhythms within ministry teams 19:27 – First steps for parish leaders who feel stretched thin 24:01 – The pastor’s role in cultivating a prayer culture 31:07 – Why prayer must be non-negotiable Featured Rebuilt Bible Plans on YouVersion Rebuilt Faith - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/62006-rebuilt-faith  Breathing Room - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/64604-breathing-room Grace & Truth - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/64135-grace-truth  Baggage: A Journey of Forgiveness Heal (coming for Lent)   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    parish prayer culture, Catholic parish leadership, staff prayer, adoration, virtual ministry, Acts 29, Church of the Nativity, YouVersion Bible App, parish staff formation, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, prayer in ministry

In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Tom Corcoran returns to the studio with Melissa Wilkinson to reflect on how God has been opening unexpected doors through Rebuilt Parish. Their conversation centers on Rebuilt’s growing partnership with YouVersion, the global reach of the Bible App, and what it looks like to move forward in faith while trusting God with the results. Tom shares a leadership reflection rooted in Exodus, exploring the tension between waiting on God and taking faithful action. Together, Tom and Melissa unpack how Rebuilt’s Bible plans are now reaching tens of thousands of people across the world, how parishes can repurpose message series for deeper daily engagement, and why holy discontent can be a gift rather than a flaw in parish leadership. The episode also includes reflections from the YouVersion Beyond a Billion celebration, powerful reminders about sowing seeds even when we never see the harvest, and encouragement for pastors and parish leaders to keep preaching, teaching, and creating with faithfulness and hope. Want to see how your whole parish can Grow Deeper in their faith? Complete our self evaluation: https://download.rebuiltparish.com/deeperevaluation  What You’ll Hear in This Episode How Rebuilt Parish became a content partner with YouVersion Why leadership often requires movement before clarity The global impact of Rebuilt Bible plans across 150+ countries How parishes can extend Sunday messages into daily discipleship A reflection on holy discontent and perseverance in ministry Takeaways from the Beyond a Billion worship celebration Why sowing seeds faithfully matters, even when fruit feels slow Featured Rebuilt Bible Plans on YouVersion Rebuilt Faith - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/62006-rebuilt-faith  Breathing Room - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/64604-breathing-room  Grace & Truth - https://www.bible.com/reading-plans/64135-grace-truth  Baggage: A Journey of Forgiveness Heal (coming for Lent) These plans can be used individually, in small groups, or alongside your parish message series to create daily spiritual touchpoints beyond the weekend. Key Leadership Takeaway Faithful leadership lives in the tension between trust and action. God opens seas, but He often asks us to step forward first. Whether you’re leading a parish, preaching a message, or building ministry systems, the call is the same: keep sowing seeds, keep moving forward, and trust God with the growth. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome and episode overview 01:24 – Doors God has opened through Rebuilt Parish 03:12 – Leadership, Exodus, and moving forward in faith 05:31 – How the YouVersion partnership began 12:48 – What the Bible App is and why it matters 14:38 – Global reach of Rebuilt Bible plans 17:45 – Using Bible plans for parish discipleship 19:48 – Reflections from the Beyond a Billion celebration 24:04 – The parable of the sower and ministry perseverance 29:13 – Meeting leaders and artists at the VIP gathering 33:56 – Stewarding influence without losing a pastoral heart 36:16 – Closing encouragement   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Tom Corcoran, YouVersion Bible App, parish leadership, Catholic discipleship, Bible reading plans, ministry partnerships, holy discontent, parish renewal, evangelization, sowing seeds, leadership faithfulness

In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson sits down with Father Joel Wilson, pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Maple Shade, New Jersey. After nearly five years in Rebuilt coaching, Father Joel shares the honest story of leading a parish through significant financial debt, the painful decision to close a longtime parish school, and the renewal that followed. Together, they reflect on how data, both quantitative and qualitative, can inform better decisions without replacing trust in the Holy Spirit. Father Joel walks through how his parish collects and reviews metrics, how a strategic plan helped clarify mission and priorities, and why courage, prayer, and clarity are essential for parish renewal. This conversation offers encouragement for pastors and parish leaders who feel overwhelmed by numbers, uncertain about next steps, or hesitant to pause long standing programs in order to create space for deeper discipleship. Get our FREE Leadership Evaluation here: rebuiltparish.com/leadershipevaluation 🔑 Key Takeaways Why closing a parish school can be both a loss and an opening for new life How attendance, giving, and engagement data can support better decisions The value of qualitative data and faith stories alongside metrics Using SWOT analysis in parish strategic planning Why “pause” can be more pastoral than “stop” How small groups, grief ministry, and youth pathways fuel discipleship Teaching stewardship as worship and first fruits, not obligation Trusting God first while letting data guide wise action ⏱️ Episode Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Father Joel’s parish context 02:10 Parish culture, service mindset, and closing the school 05:05 Early metrics and financial challenges 08:00 Leading the parish with transparency and courage 09:45 Collecting attendance, giving, and engagement data 12:00 Livestreaming and qualitative data stories 16:30 Strategic planning and SWOT analysis 19:50 Measuring momentum and stewardship growth 25:00 Youth, young adults, and discipleship pathways 30:20 Start, stop, and pause decisions in ministry 33:45 Reimagining parish initiatives through mission 36:40 Encouragement for leaders intimidated by data 39:00 Closing reflections and blessing 🙏 Final Encouragement Renewal does not begin with perfect data or flawless plans. It begins with prayerful leadership, honest assessment, and the courage to take the next faithful step. Whether you are just beginning to track metrics or discerning a major decision, this episode is a reminder that God works powerfully through clarity, trust, and intentional action. 🎧 Listen now and share this episode with your leadership team or pastoral council. Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Parish strategic planning Catholic parish renewal Parish data and metrics Stewardship as discipleship Small groups ministry Youth and young adult engagement Financial leadership in parishes Rebuilt coaching

Ron Huntley from Huntley Leadership returns to the Rebuilt Parish podcast to share the heart behind his new book, The Road to Renewal. Ron and Melissa talk about why renewal stories matter right now, why the problems facing the Church are often the same across the world, and what it takes to build leadership teams that actually move a parish forward. You will hear practical frameworks, honest behind the scenes moments, and a clear reminder that renewal is impossible without a real dependence on the Holy Spirit. Key Takeaways How this book began as a prompting in prayer while Ron was on vacation, and why he let go of a different book he had planned to write Why a multi author book helps dismantle the objection: “That works there, but not here” Why “feeling it” is often the spark that launches renewal, and how Nativity’s story helped set the tone Why prayer is not a box to check, but a culture of reliance on the Holy Spirit Ron’s coaching framework for the five phases of missional momentum, including the reality of the “danger zone” What healthy leadership looks like: honesty, emotional maturity, shared responsibility, and healthy conflict A behind the scenes leadership meeting story that turned into a surprising witness to visiting priests Why pastors should not walk the road alone, and what changes when shared leadership becomes real Why self awareness tools and gift based teams matter for ministry alignment A frank conversation about diocesan culture and the call to be peacemakers, not critics Links and Resources Huntley Leadership: HuntleyLeadership.com  Ron Huntley’s new book, Road to Renewal: https://a.co/d/1yorrO6  Chapters 00:00 Welcome and Introducing The Road to Renewal 01:00 Why This Book, Why Now 02:20 The Church’s Pioneers and the Power of Shared Stories 04:25 Collaboration Over Competition 06:15 Leadership Is Ownership 07:45 Recognizing Gifts and Divine Providence 09:40 Why the Book Begins With Feeling It 12:00 Repetition, Perspective, and Shared Themes 14:00 The Same Problems Everywhere 15:25 Prayer First and the Work of the Holy Spirit 19:00 Putting the Pen Down 20:30 Discouragement and Holy Expectation 21:00 The Five Phases of Missional Momentum 26:20 Helping Other Parishes After Renewal 29:20 Niceness, Greatness, and Truth 30:35 What Actually Moves the Needle 34:30 The Leadership Meeting That Went Sideways 38:00 Defining Leadership in the Parish 42:30 Why Pastors Should Not Walk Alone 44:35 Building Teams With Different Gifts 50:15 Where to Get the Book 51:30 Closing and Gratitude   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Parish renewal, Catholic leadership, parish leadership teams, Rebuilt Parish, Ron Huntley, Huntley Leadership, The Road to Renewal, Divine Renovation, Acts XXIX, Father Michael White, Tom Corcoran, leadership development, church coaching, pastoral leadership, diocesan renewal, evangelization, discipleship, Holy Spirit, prayer and discernment, Alpha Catholic, small groups, stewardship, finance council, spiritual gifts, charisms, CliftonStrengths, Working Genius, APES assessment, Alan Hirsch, high performance teams, healthy conflict, team culture, missional momentum, sustainable fruitfulness, intentional generosity, collaboration over competition, discouragement in ministry, vision and ownership

In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Brandon Hollern returns to unpack a topic many parish leaders avoid - but can’t afford to ignore: metrics. Brandon reframes parish numbers not as cold data points, but as indicators of real people, real stories, and real souls. Drawing from his experience at Church of the Nativity, Brandon explains how tracking attendance, giving, small groups, and serving helps leadership teams shepherd people more intentionally along a discipleship path. The conversation explores how metrics reveal what’s working, where growth is needed, and how parishes can respond with pastoral care rather than fear. If you’ve ever worried that tracking numbers feels “too business-like,” this episode offers a renewed perspective: numbers matter because people count - and faithful stewardship requires clarity, consistency, and courage. Get our FREE Leadership Evaluation here: rebuiltparish.com/leadershipevaluation   Key Takeaways: Metrics matter because people count. Every number represents a real person with a story, a soul, and a place on the discipleship pathway. Tracking numbers is an act of pastoral care, not a business practice. Metrics help leaders see who is engaged, who may be drifting, and where care or attention is needed. You can’t lead what you don’t measure. Attendance, giving, small groups, and serving provide directional clarity about whether your parish is helping people grow. Downward trends are not failures. They are invitations to respond, adjust, and shepherd more intentionally. Consistency matters more than sophistication. Start simple, track weekly, and build habits over time rather than waiting for a perfect system. Small groups and serving fuel discipleship and stewardship. Data consistently shows that engaged parishioners grow spiritually and give more generously. Volunteer metrics help leaders care for ministers, not just deploy them. Tracking service participation allows parishes to notice burnout, life changes, and moments for encouragement. Dashboards align the entire staff around the mission. Shared visibility reinforces that making disciples is everyone’s responsibility, regardless of role or title. Numbers tell stories when paired with context. Weather, seasons, life events, and parish rhythms all matter when interpreting data. Start where you are and grow from there. Even basic tracking can spark better conversations, clearer priorities, and more faithful leadership over time.   Episode Chapters 00:00 – Why metrics matter because people count 01:09 – When Brandon realized metrics are about shepherding people 02:11 – Using data to inform future parish decisions 03:07 – Overcoming the fear that metrics feel too business-like 04:04 – Using metrics to evaluate what’s working (and celebrate wins) 05:22 – When numbers trend down—and why that’s not a failure 06:24 – How Nativity identified a decline in serving and responded 07:29 – Where parishes should start with tracking metrics 09:00 – How Nativity tracks Mass attendance at scale 10:53 – Accounting for context (snowstorms, livestreams, anomalies) 13:50 – What small-group metrics reveal about discipleship 15:16 – Using data to trigger pastoral care, not just reports 17:16 – Tracking volunteer engagement and caring for ministers 20:03 – Reframing offertory as trust, commitment, and spiritual growth 21:57 – Why groups and serving lead to healthier parish finances 25:12 – Nativity’s weekly rhythm for collecting and reviewing metrics 27:04 – Dashboards as a discipleship alignment tool for staff 28:11 – Practical first steps for parishes just getting started 30:52 – Consistency over time: the long view of parish renewal Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish  Parish metrics, church data, Catholic parish leadership, discipleship tracking, church attendance, offertory trends, small groups ministry, volunteer engagement, parish dashboards, church analytics, pastoral care systems, Rebuilt Parish, Church of the Nativity, ministry metrics, parish renewal, making disciples, parish operations, faith and data, church leadership tools

Pastors carry more than most parishioners will ever see—and when they’re supported well, the whole parish gets healthier. In this episode, Melissa sits down with Henry White, Assistant to the Pastor at Church of the Nativity, to hear his faith story (including a very real season of wrestling with belief and the Catholic Church), how God opened an unexpected door into parish ministry, and what it looks like to support Father Michael White day-to-day. Henry shares the unseen pressures pastors carry, why a strong team matters spiritually and practically, and how small groups become real pastoral care in action—especially in a time when loneliness is everywhere. Looking to strengthen your leadership team? Download our free Leadership Evaluation to gain clarity, align your staff, and take your next faithful step forward. Chapters 00:00 — Welcome + Meet Henry White 00:47 — Henry’s faith story: conversion, discipleship, and coming back to the Church 04:29 — The “Nativity phone call” that changed everything 06:15 — How working closely with Father Michael has shaped Henry’s faith 08:35 — The unseen pressure pastors carry (and why staff support matters) 11:10 — Why teams + small groups help care for people beyond Sunday 11:36 — The pastor as “rock”: support that frees him to lead prayerfully 14:02 — Gifted teams help pastors focus on what only they can do 15:28 — A day in the life: messages, writing, edits, and rhythms of support 18:22 — A real difference-maker: small groups as pastoral support and belonging 23:25 — Simple ways to build stronger support around your pastor 25:28 — The traits that make someone thrive in a support role: humility + initiative 29:26 — Hope for the Church: conversions, passion, and healthier parish leadership Key Takeaways Pastors are one person carrying spiritual, relational, and leadership responsibility for many. A strong support team helps pastors lead more prayerfully and stay focused on mission. The best teams operate out of gifts and trust—when someone owns what they’re good at, the pastor’s plate gets lighter. Small groups provide real pastoral care and belonging, especially when loneliness is widespread. Support roles require a humble heart and a willingness to go the next step—often quietly, consistently, and faithfully. If you serve on a parish team—or wish your pastor had more support—share this episode with a staff member, key volunteer, or your pastor’s closest collaborators. The Church doesn’t thrive on leadership alone; it thrives when people serve together.   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Catholic parish leadership, assistant to the pastor, supporting pastors, parish staff, Church of the Nativity, Father Michael White, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, parish renewal, leadership teams, pastoral support, small groups, discipleship, Catholic conversion, Gen Z Catholicism, parish operations, healthy parish culture  

 What if conversations about giving felt less like “asking for money” and more like helping people talk with God about the gifts He’s entrusted to them? In this episode, Melissa sits down with Charlie Hiebler, Director of Stewardship for both Church of the Nativity and Rebuilt, to unpack a deeply relational—and deeply pastoral—approach to stewardship. Charlie shares how gratitude, visibility, and mission clarity can reshape a parish culture over time, why stewardship is really about people (not dollars), and how generosity becomes a real step on the pathway of discipleship. Looking to strengthen your leadership team? Download our free Leadership Evaluation to gain clarity, align your staff, and take your next faithful step forward. Chapters 00:01 — Welcome + Meet Charlie Hiebler 00:27 — Charlie’s background: banking, Loyola, and the “magis” 03:24 — Stewardship as prayerful discernment: helping people talk with God 04:29 — “It’s not about money”—it’s ministry, relationships, and mission 06:11 — Why Nativity felt different for Charlie’s family 09:59 — The joy of transformation through giving 10:16 — “Work the weekend”: being visible and meeting people where they are 11:50 — Why the development director shouldn’t be stuck counting money 12:14 — Coffee, lunch, and conversations that get deep fast 15:17 — Connecting people to parish care, small groups, and support 17:36 — Defining stewardship in gospel terms 20:34 — How Nativity shifted culture: STEPS and a focused stewardship weekend 23:50 — Humor + stewardship: the “Dr. Rick” parody and why joy matters 28:16 — Simple ways to start: gratitude, clarity, relationships, and presence 35:18 — Transformation story: an anonymous gift with ripple effects 39:12 — More than cash: a family heirloom offered for the next generation 41:57 — Hope for the Church: generosity evolving, not disappearing 44:29 — “Lead with your heart”: where your treasure is, your heart will be 46:56 — Final encouragement + how to reach Charlie Key Takeaways Stewardship is best framed as discipleship and discernment, not fundraising. Gratitude comes first: thanking people cultivates trust and joy. The work is deeply relational—when relationships grow, giving often follows naturally. Healthy parish culture shifts when stewardship is integrated into a clear discipleship pathway (like Nativity’s STEPS). Humor can disarm fear and help people experience generosity as joyful and faith-filled. Generosity isn’t only cash—people give through time, talent, and meaningful assets offered with love. Mentioned in the Episode Nativity’s STEPS discipleship pathway: Serve, Tithe/Give, Engage (small groups), Practice (prayer & sacraments), Share your faith Stewardship weekend as a focused annual moment of invitation and gratitude The power of storytelling and impact-sharing to connect giving to mission If this conversation sparked ideas for your parish—especially around building a culture of gratitude and generosity—share the episode with a pastor or staff member who carries stewardship in their role. Want to connect with Charlie? He invites parish leaders to reach out: [email protected]. Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Catholic stewardship, parish giving, tithing, discipleship pathway, church fundraising, development director, parish renewal, generosity, stewardship weekend, donor relationships, parish culture change, gratitude in ministry, time talent treasure, Nativity STEPS, Rebuilt Parish, Catholic leadership, cheerful giver, Matthew where your treasure is, parish development, mission-driven giving

What happens when the interviewer becomes the guest? In this episode, Tom flips the script and sits down with Melissa to hear her story—from a “cradle Catholic” upbringing (and a surprising family connection to parish life), to an eighth-grade encounter with the Holy Spirit, to seasons of doubt, leadership lessons from Target, and the moment God pulled her back into the Church in a deeper way. Melissa shares the full-circle threads that shaped her vocation: The Purpose Driven Life, Walking with Purpose, discovering Rebuilt, and how a simple “don’t leave your church—change your church” nudge became a turning point. You’ll also hear how COVID-era webinars connected her to Rebuilt more directly, what it was like rebuilding a parish team from the inside, and the discernment that led her from local parish leadership to serving the wider Church through Rebuilt. Get our FREE Leadership Evaluation here: rebuiltparish.com/leadershipevaluation Chapters with Timestamps 00:01 Turning the tables: Tom interviews Melissa 00:06 Cold remedies: bone broth vs. raw garlic (and the “man cold”) 02:20 Behind the curtain: how Melissa usually prepares for interviews 02:46 Why this episode: hearing Melissa’s faith story 03:11 Growing up Catholic + Puerto Rican roots and a parish-planting surprise 04:07 An eighth-grade invitation to an evangelical youth group 05:06 Encountering the Holy Spirit + what felt different than CCD 07:04 “Devastated”: being told she couldn’t go back—and what she learned there 07:50 A stronger Catholic youth group experience in high school 08:16 Penn State years: faith drift, Mass inconsistency, and accessibility challenges 11:27 Doubts in college: The Da Vinci Code + youth minister scandal 12:59 Target leadership: running a $30M store at 25 14:04 Biggest leadership lessons: delegation, layers, accountability, follow-up 16:04 Anxiety, remodel season, and stepping away to start a family 17:49 A leap of faith: money, identity shifts, and learning to rely on God 20:10 Faith reignited: a faith-based company and praise & worship 21:10 2017 turning point: The Purpose Driven Life and “change your church” 22:40 Why she almost left St. Mary’s: welcome, kids ministry, and culture gaps 25:25 A mom’s prayers + The Word Among Us + learning Scripture 27:50 Pastoral Council, website rebuild, and the COVID connection to Rebuilt 29:42 Laying down a personal project: the faith journal “cease and desist” moment 33:49 Going full-time at the parish + NextGen rebuild 34:29 Rebuilding the parish team: culture, structure, and hard decisions 40:12 Lessons learned the hard way (including passwords and online giving!) 41:08 Discernment to join Rebuilt: “global impact” and a Holy Spirit-led opening 45:47 Favorite podcast guests: Rick Warren, Lisa, Jeff Cavins, partner parishes 47:29 Dream guests + Catholic voices she’d love to interview next 49:19 Wrap-up and thanks Key Takeaways Faith formation isn’t just information - it’s encounter and community. Melissa’s story highlights how fellowship, real conversation, and prayer can awaken faith in a lasting way. Leadership skills translate—when they’re rooted in mission. Delegation, clear roles, and accountability matter in parish life, especially when rebuilding culture and team health. God weaves “full circle” moments over time. Books, studies, and relationships that once shaped Melissa’s faith became part of her vocational path years later. Renewal often requires courageous change. Sometimes that means restructuring roles, setting standards, and making hard decisions for the health of the mission. Discernment happens in community. Melissa shares how prayer, pastoral conversations, and timely invitations clarified her next “yes.” Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson, Tom Corcoran, faith story, cradle Catholic, Catholic testimony, Holy Spirit encounter, youth ministry, Penn State Catholic, Our Lady of Victory, The Da Vinci Code faith doubts, delegation, accountability, parish staff leadership, parish renewal, Rebuilt book, Walking with Purpose, The Purpose Driven Life, Rick Warren, Jeff Cavins, Catholic discipleship, parish culture, church communications, parish website, COVID church ministry, NextGen ministry, rebuilding parish teams, discernment, vocation, Catholic leadership development, Hallow app, Jonathan Roumie, Craig Groeschel, Carey Nieuwhof

In this episode, Melissa and Tom sit down with Curtis Martin, founder of FOCUS, to explore what it truly takes to form missionary disciples in our time. Curtis shares his own journey back to Christ and back to the Catholic Church, the heartbeat behind FOCUS, and why evangelization begins not with programs but with people rooted in prayer. He unpacks the simple, relational, and deeply biblical methodology FOCUS missionaries use to make disciples—one that works not only on college campuses but also in parishes. Through powerful stories, practical wisdom, and his signature analogies, Curtis casts a compelling vision for any parish longing to reach the lost and welcome them home. Whether you're serving on a parish staff, volunteering in ministry, or simply longing for renewal in the Church, this conversation will encourage you to “get on the field” and step boldly into Christ’s mission. Highlights Curtis’ prodigal journey back to Christ and the Catholic Church Why people are “doing worse than we think” and waiting to be rescued The simple, repeatable evangelization method modeled by Jesus Why friendship—not force—is the doorway to discipleship How daily prayer fuels all missionary effectiveness (“hot pot” analogy) The explosive fruit of FOCUS: vocations, missionary families, and spiritual multiplication The critical role of parish hospitality and why welcome is evangelization What parishes can learn from the momentum of FOCUS campuses How to build a culture where disciples make disciples Why evangelization is not osmosis—it's intentional, relational, and urgent Chapters 00:01 — Welcome & Introduction 00:47 — Curtis’ Story & Passion for Evangelization 03:22 — Realizing He Was Lost 08:28 — Patterns in Students Whose Faith Comes Alive 11:35 — The Fruit of 28 Years: Vocations, Families & Mission 15:45 — Surfing the Wave of Renewal 16:44 — Why Catholics Need More Than Osmosis Evangelization 21:46 — The Story of Amy: The Power of Welcome 24:29 — Hospitality as Evangelization 29:19 — Placing Christ at the Center of Each Day 32:24 — How FOCUS Missionaries Evangelize 36:45 — Discipleship That’s Strategic, Systematic & Repeatable 43:25 — Momentum in Parishes & Campuses 45:32 — What Parishes Should Do First 48:26 — Collaboration Across Ministries 49:42 — Plugging Leaders Into Christ 51:34 — Where to Learn More & Closing Thoughts Resources & Links FOCUS: https://focus.org Learn more about SEEK: https://seek.focus.org Rebuilt Parish: https://rebuiltparish.com   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Curtis Martin, FOCUS Catholic, FOCUS missionaries, SEEK conference, Catholic evangelization, parish renewal, missionary discipleship, relational evangelization, friendship evangelization, making missionary disciples, Catholic young adult ministry, campus ministry, reaching college students for Christ, Catholic vocations, parish hospitality, welcoming parish culture, parish discipleship pathway, Catholic parish growth, Rebuilt Parish podcast, Church of the Nativity, strategic evangelization, repeatable evangelization model, Catholic leadership, Great Commission Catholic Church, evangelizing the next generation, small groups, Catholic marriage and family renewal.

In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa sits down with longtime Church of the Nativity parishioner and volunteer minister, Eva Fiastro, who has been connected to Nativity for over 40 years (and whose husband goes all the way back to the “Mass-in-the-middle-school” days). Eva shares a vivid before-and-after picture of Christmas Eve at Nativity—from a stressful holy day of obligation with hidden nativity scenes, seat-saving battles, overflow rooms, and parking chaos… to a joyful, outward-facing celebration at the Maryland State Fairgrounds that welcomes thousands and puts newcomers first. Along the way, she walks through how a deeper embrace of mission, message series, hospitality ministries, layered leadership, and a bold move off-campus transformed one of the biggest days of the year. Eva also offers practical, low-cost ideas any parish can start using right away—from clean bathrooms and warm smiles to parking shuttles and clear preaching that invites people back. If you’re a pastor or parish leader wondering how to move Christmas Eve from obligation to celebration, Eva’s story will give you both hope and concrete next steps. Chapters & Timestamps 00:01 – Welcome & Introduction to Eva 00:39 – Eva’s Story: Family, Vocation, and Nativity Roots 02:58 – What Christmas Eve Used to Look and Feel Like 05:11 – Seat-Saving, Parking Lot Stress, and Unwelcoming Culture 07:10 – Hosting on Christmas Eve and Feeling the Frustration 08:58 – How The Purpose Driven Life Sparked Parish-Wide Change 10:53 – Growing a Culture of Service: Greeters, Hosts, and Coffee & Donuts 15:35 – Layers of Leadership and Building Hospitality Teams 19:15 – Overflow Rooms, Big Screens, and a Lack of Community 21:45 – The Bold Idea: Moving Christmas Eve to the Fairgrounds 23:14 – Outgrowing the Exhibition Hall and Moving to the “Cow Palace” 26:20 – Caring for Volunteers: Behind-the-Scenes Hospitality Suite 26:46 – Eva’s “Aha” Moment: The Candlelit Silent Night 29:44 – Christmas as Celebration, Not Obligation 31:02 – Evangelization at the Fairgrounds: Billboards and Invitations 32:00 – From Hidden Crèche to Front-and-Center Nativity 34:12 – Practical Advice for Pastors and Parish Leaders 37:04 – Final Encouragement: From Obligation to Celebration 38:37 – Closing & Christmas Blessing Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Christmas Eve Mass, Catholic parish Christmas ideas, Church of the Nativity Christmas Eve, Rebuilt Parish podcast, Nativity Maryland State Fairgrounds Mass Cow Palace Christmas Eve liturgy parish hospitality teams ushers greeters and hosts in church Catholic parish renewal Christmas Eve evangelization making Christmas Eve more welcoming from obligation to celebration holy day of obligation Christmas overflow seating for Christmas Mass parking lot ministry for churches volunteer hospitality for Mass Purpose Driven Life in Catholic parish message series for Advent and Christmas candlelight Silent Night tradition transforming parish culture at Christmas  

Tom and Melissa sit down with Jeff Cavins—Catholic speaker, author, and creator of The Great Adventure Catholic Bible. Jeff shares his powerful journey from leaving the Church to coming back to the Catholic Church with a renewed fire for Scripture. He talks about how people truly meet Jesus in the Church, why priests must preach so the Word lands in everyday life, and how Scripture moves people from passive pew-sitters to active disciples. Along the way, Jeff shares lessons from Mother Angelica, stories from his years as a pastor, and insights for every parish leader who wants to make Scripture come alive. Resources Mentioned The Great Adventure Catholic Bible – Ascension Press Hallow App – Daily Reflections with Jeff Cavins Jeff Cavins Website & Pilgrimages Bible in a Year Podcast (with Fr. Mike Schmitz & Jeff Cavins) Highlights Jeff’s journey: from Catholic roots to Protestant pastor and back home to the Church The prophetic bishop who told him, “You’ll be back to teach your people” Why relational preaching matters more than polished rhetoric The “Holy Osmosis” myth—why Catholics need to be taught how to read Scripture Practical ways priests can preach the Word so it connects to people’s lives How curiosity and empathy make great communicators The art of questions—how Jesus used them, and why you should too Moving parishioners from consumers to contributors What “innovators” and “early adopters” have to do with parish renewal Behind the scenes of Jeff’s new Great Adventure Bible Study, filmed on location Chapters 00:00 — Welcome & the Father Michael / Justin Jefferson laugh 01:00 — Jeff’s quick story: leaving and returning to the Catholic Church 03:50 — A prophetic bishop’s words and blessing the journey 10:10 — Why people don’t always meet Jesus in church—and what to do about it 14:42 — Teaching Catholics to read the Bible 17:47 — Preaching that opens the Word for daily life 23:16 — Stop talking to “one”: speak to you 27:45 — Asking questions that open hearts 29:15 — From stage fright to communicator: speaking to individuals 34:06 — Knowing Scripture and people’s burdens 40:29 — Moving pew-sitters to disciples 44:18 — Innovators, early adopters, and parish renewal 48:05 — The impact of The Great Adventure 52:09 — The new on-location Bible study 53:03 — Where to find Jeff & wrap-up Quick Takeaways Preach to people, not at them. Lead with relationship, not content overload. Every parent and priest should teach how to read Scripture. Great communication starts with listening and curiosity. Renewal begins with innovators and early adopters—start small, then multiply. Resources Mentioned The Great Adventure Catholic Bible – Ascension Press Hallow App – Daily Reflections with Jeff Cavins Jeff Cavins Website & Pilgrimages Bible in a Year Podcast (with Fr. Mike Schmitz & Jeff Cavins) Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish 

In this episode, Melissa talks with Casey Phillips and Micah Johnson from the Cathedral of Christ the King in Lexington, Kentucky — the first cathedral to partner with Rebuilt. They share their honest, often funny journey from “closet Rebuilt meetings” to a thriving culture of hospitality, alignment, and mission. Hear how they moved from simply maintaining programs to forming disciples, the practical steps that followed their Weekend Observation, and the ripple effects they’re already seeing in new volunteers, stronger leadership, and even newcomers discovering faith. 👉 Grab our free Weekend Experience Evaluation to assess your parish weekends and unlock simple changes that make every Mass more welcoming and impactful. https://download.rebuiltparish.com/weekendevaluation  Key Takeaways Start with curiosity. Their journey began by asking, “What’s it like for someone new walking into our parish?” Fresh eyes reveal blind spots. The Weekend Observation gave clarity, affirmation, and a roadmap. Hospitality matters. A welcome desk became a visible sign of welcome — and led to eight OCIA inquiries. Vision casting changes everything. Positive picture > pushback from the “old guard.” Unified message = unified mission. A parish-wide series launched their new mission statement and recruited volunteers. Coaching creates accountability. Regular check-ins and goals kept the team aligned. Relationships sustain momentum. Coaches provided encouragement, prayer, and friendship. Immediate fruit. New volunteers, new engagement, and newcomers exploring faith. It’s not about perfection. Trust the process and the Holy Spirit. Renewal is worth it. A simple weekend visit became a catalyst for lasting growth. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome & Episode Setup 00:22 – Meet Casey (Director of Evangelization) 01:09 – Meet Micah (Stewardship & Advancement) 02:16 – First Cathedral in Coaching 03:25 – Why Invite Rebuilt (Weekend Observation) 07:13 – First Impressions of the Observation Weekend 11:39 – What the Feedback Revealed 16:08 – Turning Feedback into Action 18:34 – Building a Real Welcome Desk 19:59 – Rethinking the Gift Shop for Hospitality 22:44 – Deciding to Start Coaching 27:42 – Early Fruit: OCIA Inquiries from the Desk 28:35 – Team Alignment & a Clear Mission Statement 32:16 – Launching a Unified Message Series 33:42 – Visible Impact & Outside Interest 34:35 – Coaching as Alignment & Accountability 36:00 – Personal Invitations that Recruit Volunteers 38:18 – Coaches as Partners & Friends 42:05 – Why a Weekend Observation Is Worth It 43:55 – Advice: Parish-Specific, Not One-Size-Fits-All 46:02 – Closing & Thanks Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Catholic parish renewal, Rebuilt Parish, Cathedral of Christ the King Lexington, weekend observation, parish coaching, hospitality ministry, welcome desk, unified message, mission statement, evangelization, discipleship, parish leadership team, Lexington diocese, parish growth, volunteer recruitment, parish alignment, Catholic podcast

Jason Simon shares his journey from an evangelical Protestant upbringing to entering the Catholic Church—and ultimately leading Evangelical Catholic. He unpacks what “missionary discipleship” really means (hint: it’s not a buzzword), why true formation begins in communion (small, deep relationships), and how parishes of any size can build a replicable, dialogical process that sends everyday Catholics into mission at work, at the gym, and across their neighborhoods. Jason also offers a powerful “glory story” from Iowa that shows communion naturally spilling over into life-saving mission. Evangelical Catholic: evangelicalcatholic.org Contact Jason: [email protected] ➡️ Take the first step toward renewal—get our free Weekend Experience Evaluation to identify what’s working, what’s not, and where your parish can grow. https://download.rebuiltparish.com/weekendevaluation  Key Highlights From Protestant to Catholic: How family witness, Scripture devotion, and one-to-one mentoring opened Jason to the Church. Mutual enrichment: Why Protestants often mirror back Catholic “impoverishments” (Scripture, preaching, worship) and how Catholics offer sacramental/liturgical depth in return. Missionary discipleship ≠ cliché: A robust, heroic vision inspired by Evangelii Gaudium—formed laity sent into secular culture with love, zeal, and prudence. Formation flows from communion: Real formation happens in small groups / micro-groups / one-on-one, not large lectures. A replicable pathway: Communion → plan/curriculum → dialogical learning → daily prayer → bi-weekly one-on-ones → discern the who before the what. Glory story (Des Moines): A “baby believer” in a dads’ group reaches out—prompting a conversation that literally saves a life. Any parish can start: Rural or suburban, staff or no staff—assemble a small formation team and prioritize a repeatable process. Pastors’ role: Preach to awaken desire (not compulsion), make the “hot” disciples hotter, and trust them to accompany the lukewarm. Chapters with Timestamps 00:00 — Welcome & guest intro (Jason Simon, Evangelical Catholic) 00:18 — Jason’s story: evangelical roots, Catholic conversion, mentor, and EC leadership 03:27 — Protestant strengths, Catholic riches & “mutual impoverishment” 06:36 — Family witness: lectionary after dinner & proactive evangelizing at home 10:13 — What is “missionary discipleship”? A robust, heroic vision 15:24 — Depth first: relentless relationships, learning the “language” of secular life 19:08 — Formation that starts in communion (small groups & real friendship) 21:30 — Plan + pedagogy + dialogue: why conversation forms people 24:24 — The formation rhythm: weekly meetings, daily prayer, one-on-ones 27:45 — Discern the who before the what—and support the missionary 28:45 — “Glory stories” from Iowa—communion spilling into mission 34:24 — Rural vs. suburban: different constraints, shared opportunity 37:30 — First steps for overwhelmed parishes: build a small formation team 40:20 — Pastors: preach to awaken desire for holiness & mission 43:44 — Preach to the disciples; let them accompany the lukewarm 46:27 — Vision casting: missionary disciples on the pastor’s team 47:27 — How to connect with Evangelical Catholic & closing Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    missionary discipleship, catholic small groups, parish renewal, Evangelical Catholic, Jason Simon, Evangelii Gaudium, catholic evangelization, forming disciples, lay apostolate, Rebuilt Parish podcast, parish coaching, catholic leadership, catholic preaching, pastoral strategy

Creative Director Kathy O’Leary (New Roads Catholic Community, MA) joins Melissa to share a decade of parish renewal experience: saying yes to coaching, building a weekend experience for newcomers, preaching in message series, and shifting staff from “doing ministry” to equipping ministers. Kathy unpacks Boston’s Disciples in Mission collaborative model, why New Roads chose its name from Pope Francis’ call to “create new roads,” and how clear goals + prayer (hello, 100 serve cards) catalyzed momentum. If you’ve felt alone, stuck, or second-guessed by the “old guard,” this conversation offers perspective, practicals, and a lot of hope. ➡️ Take the first step toward renewal—get our free Weekend Experience Evaluation to identify what’s working, what’s not, and where your parish can grow. https://download.rebuiltparish.com/weekendevaluation  Key Takeaways Mission first, structure second: The Boston collaborative model gave permission to experiment—evangelization is the point, not just maintaining buildings. Outward over inward: Design every weekend assuming new people are present; that posture eventually attracts them. Equip the saints: Staff exist to build teams and layers of leaders, not to do all the work (prevents burnout and multiplies impact). Set goals and pray boldly: Coaching pushed New Roads to name a hard number for volunteer signups—and God met it. Fresh eyes matter: Outside coaching provides perspective, language, and accountability that accelerate change. Community beats isolation: Peer parishes and coaching cohorts remind leaders they’re not alone (think Moses’ arms upheld). One Church, One Message: Shared message series unifies across worship sites and keeps the parish focused on mission. Grace, not grind: Results belong to God; leaders can release both criticism and compliments to Him. Name signals mission: “New Roads” (inspired by Pope Francis) keeps the team oriented to reach the lost. Perseverance bears unseen fruit: We are “prophets of a future not our own”—keep going. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome & Guest Intro  01:00 – Role & Responsibilities  05:01 – First Contact with Rebuilt  07:52 – Boston’s Disciples in Mission  10:33 – Rediscovering the Why  12:35 – Reaching the Lost Changes the Found  15:08 – Why “New Roads”  17:30 – Culture Shifts  19:34 – Equipping vs. Doing  20:27 – Let God Lead  22:00 – Coaching Wins  23:30 – Accountability & Community  26:40 – Two Sites, One Message 29:20 – Encouragement to Leaders:  31:00 – Wrap-Up & Thanks Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Catholic parish renewal, Rebuilt Parish, New Roads Catholic Community, Disciples in Mission, Boston collaboratives, evangelization, discipleship, weekend experience, message series, one church one message, parish coaching, parish leadership team, volunteer recruitment, serve cards, accountability, culture change, Pope Francis “new roads,” equipping ministers, parish growth, Catholic podcast

In this very special (and longest-ever!) episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson and Tom Corcoran sit down with legendary pastor and author Rick Warren — founder of Saddleback Church and author of The Purpose Driven Life and The Purpose Driven Church. Rick reflects on how he mentored Fr. Michael White and Tom during the earliest days of the Rebuilt movement and shares wisdom from a lifetime of global ministry. Together, they discuss the five phases of renewal every church must go through, the future of evangelization leading to the 2000th anniversary of the Church in 2033, and how Catholics and Christians of every denomination can unite to “finish the task” of the Great Commission. This conversation is packed with encouragement, laughter, and timeless principles for parish renewal and disciple-making in every context. Key Takeaways: The Rebuilt Connection: How Rick Warren’s mentorship helped inspire the Rebuilt model of renewal and mission at Church of the Nativity. Five Renewals for Every Church: Personal, Relational, Missional, Structural, and Cultural renewal — and why they always begin in the heart of the leader. The Power of Unity: Why collaboration among Catholics, Evangelicals, Orthodox, and Pentecostals is essential to the future of evangelization. Finishing the Task: Rick’s new global initiative to fulfill the Great Commission by Pentecost 2033 — the 2000th birthday of the Church. Jesus’ Model for Ministry: Preaching, teaching, healing, praying, and building — the five actions every parish can emulate to transform its community. The Role of Pain in Evangelization: How God uses our struggles, not our successes, to connect with others and bring them to faith. Finishing the Task — Rick Warren’s global initiative for the Great Commission Get your FREE Weekend Experience Evaluation here: https://download.rebuiltparish.com/weekendevaluation  Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome and introduction: The Rebuilt–Saddleback connection 03:00 – How Rick met Fr. Michael and Tom and why he believed in Rebuilt’s vision 08:00 – Rick’s early experiences with the Catholic Church and stories from the Vatican 11:00 – The five renewals that spark parish transformation 19:00 – Why structure must change as your parish grows 23:00 – God’s plan for renewal and why the Church will always endure 33:00 – The movement toward unity and the 2000th birthday of the Church 38:00 – “Finishing the Task” and the Great Commission Allies initiative 47:00 – What it means to follow the model of Jesus in ministry 55:00 – How the early Church grew without buildings or technology 1:12:00 – Evangelization through pain: witnessing from our struggles 1:22:00 – Reaching every people group before 2033 1:40:00 – “Come and See” to “Come and Die”: discipleship and mission 1:45:00 – Passing it on: the Rebuilt movement as part of a four-generation legacy Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Rick Warren, Rebuilt Parish, Church Renewal, Great Commission, Finishing the Task, Parish Growth, Purpose Driven Church, Evangelization, Parish Leadership, Discipleship, Unity, 2033 Church Anniversary

When Rebuilt first introduced the idea of preaching in message series to him, Fr. Mark Peacock wanted nothing to do with it. “How could I possibly talk about one topic for five weeks?” he remembers thinking. In this candid conversation, he shares how partnership, planning, and prayer helped him move from resistance to enthusiasm — and how preaching in series has transformed Holy Spirit Parish. Fr. Mark explains the teamwork that goes into every series with his associate Fr. Nick, the role of their communications staff, and the parish-wide systems that keep everyone — from the pulpit to the school — focused on the same mission. You’ll also hear practical ideas like Homily in a Minute videos, themed prayer cards, and small-group alignment that keep parishioners engaged long after Sunday. Key Takeaways Honest beginnings: Fr. Mark once called himself “the resistor.” His biggest fear — running out of content — vanished once he began planning collaboratively. Shared preaching: Two priests, one unified message. Fr. Mark and Fr. Nick align weekly on the Know / Feel / Do of each homily while adding their personal stories. Integrated planning: Every message series flows from the parish’s mission statement and strategic plan; annual retreats map themes across the year. From content to community: Pairing Rebuilt Faith with a parish-wide small-group launch gave Holy Spirit record participation and deeper discipleship. Creative communication: Short “Homily in a Minute” recap videos, printed prayer cards, and social-media posts reinforce the weekend message all week long. Lay collaboration: Communications, music, and ministry leaders meet to carry each theme through the school, religious ed, and parish life. Flexibility with resources: The team mixes original series (like Fruits of the Spirit) with customized content from the Rebuilt Content Library. Practical advice: Start small, use available tools, ask for help, and make the message your own — but don’t preach alone. Chapters 00 : 00 — Intro: Fr. Mark’s journey from resistor to advocate 01 : 08 — About Holy Spirit Parish: size, staff, and mission 04 : 03 — Initial hesitation: “How do I preach one topic for weeks?” 06 : 28 — Turning point: Collaborating with Fr. Nick and the team 09 : 00 — Planning the year: Themes rooted in mission and strategy 11 : 06 — Rebuilt Faith & small-group launch: Lenten momentum 13 : 46 — Writing and preaching together: Aligning message and tone 17 : 36 — Parishioner feedback: “Now I want to hear the next week!” 21 : 11 — How to connect each week: Recaps & reminders 23 : 06 — Homily in a Minute: Quick videos with big impact 26 : 28 — Creating original series: Fruits of the Spirit collaboration 31 : 00 — Extending the message: Prayer cards, emails, social media 33 : 07 — One message across parish and school: Shared Advent theme 35 : 19 — Next generation impact: Bringing series into the school 37 : 00 — Encouragement for pastors: “Ask for help and just start.” Resources & Links Rebuilt Content Library: Customizable message-series resources Rebuilt Faith book + small-group materials: [Insert link] Homily in a Minute examples from Holy Spirit Parish: [Insert link] Upcoming Rebuilt Workshops: [Insert link]   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Catholic preaching, Catholic homilies, message series Catholic church, parish renewal, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, homily planning, small group launch, Rebuilt Faith book, parish communications, Holy Spirit Grand Rapids, preaching team, Catholic leadership, parish mission statement, sermon series Catholic, Homily in a Minute, parish media strategy, clergy collaboration, Rebuilt Content Library.

What actually works in Catholic youth ministry right now? Dan DeMatte shares how Damascus is forming 30,000+ young people each year through high-adventure Catholic camps and year-round missions—combining ropes courses, paintball, and beach time with Mass, Eucharistic Adoration, prayer labs, and small groups. We unpack the “culture of encounter” (with God and with one another), why play is a pathway to discipleship, and how parishes without a youth minister (or with frequent turnover) can still anchor teens in transformational experiences. Dan also previews the new Emmitsburg, Maryland camp and adult retreats that mirror the same encounter-driven model. Learn more about Damascus camps and all that Damascus has to offer: https://www.damascus.net/  Key Takeaways Encounter first, then formation: Damascus builds a culture of encounter—teaching teens to hear God’s voice, recognize Jesus in the Eucharist, and welcome the Holy Spirit—while also fostering authentic peer/community encounter. Theology of play: Good fathers play with their children—adventure + joy (ropes, zip lines, paintball) open hearts to deeper prayer and discipleship. Mass that engages: Daily camp Mass with quick “micro-catechesis” (e.g., epiclesis, penitential rite) and varied expressions (candlelight, men/women liturgies, robust worship) helps teens enter the mystery. Measurable fruit: Common testimonies include first-time experiences of hearing God, healing from anxiety/loneliness, and teens leading families back to Sunday Mass. Anchor experiences for parishes: With youth-minister tenure averaging ~18 months, parishes can anchor youth work with reliable summer camps/retreats to ensure continuity and momentum. Adult & team options: Damascus hosts women’s and men’s retreats (same encounter model + adventure elements); team-building options are available. Scale with excellence: “Start small, perfect, iterate, then scale.” Damascus now serves ~9,000 in summer and 20–25k during the school year across Ohio, Michigan, and Maryland. Local relevance: A vibrant Sunday experience at home is critical so teens can sustain what God did on the mountain. Get FREE Sample Access of Rebuilt’s Content Library to try it out for yourself! https://www.rebuiltparish.com/content  Chapters 00:00 — Why this conversation matters: Youth ministry that actually bears fruit 00:32 — Dan’s calling & early story: From 7th-grade mission to a lifetime serving the young Church 06:35 — What pastors face: Cost, turnover, and why many give up on youth ministry 07:22 — “Secret sauce” (part 1): Culture of encounter (God + authentic community) 10:36 — “Secret sauce” (part 2): High-adventure faith & the theology of play 15:16 — A day at camp: Prayer lab, adventure blocks, micro-catechesis, Mass, adoration, small groups 19:20 — Outcomes: Healing, courage, and teens leading families back to Mass 22:25 — Scaling the mission: From one week of camp to three sites and 185 missionaries 26:49 — Parishes & anchor experiences: How to leverage camps/retreats when staff turns over 30:35 — Adult retreats & team impact: Women/men weekends, expressive prayer, confidence 32:50 — Maryland launch: Emmitsburg site, million-dollar adventure build-out, how to support 34:30 — Next steps: How to get your parish and teens involved Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Catholic youth ministry, Damascus Catholic camps, high adventure Catholic camp, Emmitsburg Maryland Catholic camp, Catholic teen retreat, Eucharistic Adoration youth, Catholic summer camp ropes course, culture of encounter, theology of play, Catholic small groups for teens, parish youth ministry ideas, Catholic parish renewal, youth minister turnover, men’s Catholic retreat, women’s Catholic retreat, Rebuilt Parish podcast, Church of the Nativity.

Where do you start with parish renewal—and how do you keep it practical? Maria Pulitano unpacks Rebuilt’s Equip Courses: short, action-oriented video series with workbooks that help pastors and parish leaders take clear first steps (and next steps) across the Four Anchors of renewal. From onboarding new staff to aligning councils and launching small groups, Maria shares how parishes use these courses at their own pace to create unity, momentum, and measurable progress—without trying to “become Nativity.” Key Takeaways Clarity on where to start: Begin with Foundations to understand the Four Anchors, then choose the next course based on your parish priorities. Built for action, not theory: Each session includes tools, discussion prompts, and a simple action plan your team can implement right away. Paced for real parish life: 8–12 10–12 minute videos per course; watch weekly or batch—whatever fits your calendar. Whole-parish alignment: Use with staff, councils, volunteer leaders, and ministry teams so everyone shares a common playbook. Not “mini-Nativity”: Courses translate proven, widely applicable strategies so your parish becomes the best version of itself. Quick wins → lasting culture: On-ramps for small groups, Next Gen, volunteering, stewardship, leadership culture, and more. Great for onboarding: Speed up new staff formation and get councils on the same page about direction and values. Get FREE Sample Access of our Content Library to try it out for yourself! https://www.rebuiltparish.com/content  What’s Available (and What’s Coming) Available now: Foundations • Leadership Strategies • Church Money (Finance & Stewardship) • Small Groups • Every Member a Minister (Volunteering) • Next Generation Coming soon: Grow Wider (reach the unchurched/de-churched) • Preaching in a Message Series Chapters 00:00 – Intro & Why It Matters: The heart behind Equip Courses. 00:56 – Maria’s Background: 30 years at Nativity; from ambassador to Head of Parish Transformation. 02:20 – What Are Equip Courses? Purpose, the Four Anchors, and practical design. 04:03 – How It Works: Video length, pacing, and the companion workbook. 05:16 – Course Catalog: What’s live now and what’s launching soon. 07:03 – Where to Start: Why Foundations first, then your chosen priority. 08:03 – Who Uses Them: Staff, councils, volunteers, and ministry leaders. 09:09 – From Idea to Action: Sessions with steps, tools, and team discussion. 10:01 – Not Mini-Nativity: Contextualizing strategies for any parish. 11:48 – Results on the Ground: Onboarding, small-group launches, Next Gen upgrades. 14:03 – Bigger Picture: How Equip fits Rebuilt’s mission to make disciples. 15:15 – Low-Lift Start: One session a week = real momentum in 8 weeks. 17:07 – How to Get Started: RebuiltParish.com → Get Equipped. Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Catholic parish renewal, parish leadership training, Rebuilt Equip Courses, Four Anchors, Catholic small groups, parish stewardship, volunteer ministry, Catholic Next Gen ministry, preaching in a message series, parish council onboarding, Catholic discipleship pathway, Church of the Nativity, Rebuilt Parish resources.  

How do you help parishioners move from consumers to disciples? Tom Corcoran shares the story behind STEPS (Rebuilt’s simple path of discipleship), why he and Fr. Michael wrote Rebuilt Faith for people in the pews, and how a new YouVersion Bible App plan makes daily formation easy and communal. You’ll hear how Nativity and partner parishes have used STEPS to launch small groups, increase serving and generosity, and sustain a culture of renewal—plus details on Global Bible Month and YouVersion’s Beyond a Billion celebration.   Join us in the Rebuilt Faith Bible plan on the YouVersion App: https://www.bible.com/en/reading-plans/62006 Key Takeaways STEPS = action. Discipleship is a journey of concrete practices (serving, giving, small groups, prayer, evangelization) that change people and parishes. Personal + corporate = momentum. Rebuilt equips leaders; Rebuilt Faith equips parishioners—together they align culture and accelerate renewal. Proven fruit. Nativity saw ~1,000 people join small groups during a Rebuilt Faith push; partner parishes report hundreds more—with rises in serving and giving. Small groups multiply impact. Group participants are more likely to serve and give; community fuels growth in every STEP. YouVersion makes it daily & shared. The 30-day Rebuilt Faith plan lets individuals or small groups read together, comment daily, and stay connected. https://www.bible.com/  Free and accessible. The Bible App is donor-supported and free for parishes and parishioners—an easy on-ramp for formation. Renewal takes time. Keep teaching STEPS regularly; new people are always arriving, and veterans need periodic renewal. Contextualize wisely. Use STEPS as a clear model, then adapt language and stories to your local context. Get FREE Sample Access of our Content Library to try it out for yourself! https://www.rebuiltparish.com/content  Chapters 00:00 – Intro: STEPS, Rebuilt Faith, and the YouVersion partnership. 00:30 – Why STEPS: Origins of the discipleship path and why it’s verb-driven. 02:20 – Why Rebuilt Faith: A book for people in the pews that complements Rebuilt for leaders. 04:36 – Practices, not obligations: Serving, giving, prayer, groups as formation. 06:22 – Parish impact: Nativity’s small-group surge; culture of engagement. 08:29 – Partner parish fruit: Stories of growth in groups, serving, generosity. 12:57 – Big news: The Rebuilt Faith 30-day YouVersion plan and how to use it in groups. 15:21 – Global Bible Month: November challenges and “Beyond a Billion” celebration. 18:14 – One mission, many partners: Ecumenical collaboration for making disciples. 19:28 – Why STEPS matters most: A simple handle for everyday discipleship. 22:18 – Generosity & surrender: How giving (and each STEP) forms the heart. 26:17 – Culture you can feel: Critical mass of disciples changes the parish. 31:57 – What’s next & resources: Plan launch timing, series, kits, and speaker options. Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Catholic parish renewal, discipleship pathway, STEPS Rebuilt, Rebuilt Faith book, YouVersion Bible App, Global Bible Month, Catholic small groups, parish generosity, serving in parish ministry, Catholic evangelization, Church of the Nativity, Rebuilt Parish resources, message series, parish culture change, Bible reading plan for Catholics.  

“Sunday is always coming.” In this episode, Colleen Droney shares how Rebuilt’s Content Library helps pastors and parish teams preach in message series aligned to the Catholic lectionary, launch small groups, and support Children’s Liturgy of the Word—without starting from scratch. Colleen traces the Library’s roots at Church of the Nativity, explains the “One Church, One Message” framework, and offers practical ways parishes can adapt transcripts, summaries, and planning tools to their unique context. You’ll also hear real-world wins (including a pastor who prepped months of homilies ahead of a new assignment) and simple on-ramps for teams just getting started. Get FREE Sample Access of our Content Library to try it out for yourself! https://www.rebuiltparish.com/content  Key Takeaways Start with series, not add-ons. Greeters and cafés help, but preaching in a message series is often the single most catalytic shift for parish culture and discipleship alignment. One Church, One Message. Homilies, small groups, and kids’ lessons move together around the same Scripture/series so the whole parish hears a unified call to discipleship. Built for Catholic parishes. Content is organized by liturgical year and season and tracks with the lectionary (with notes for annual nuances). From busy to better. Ready-made summaries, transcripts, Know/Feel/Do, videos, and lesson plans remove friction so pastors and message teams can focus on people, prayer, and proclamation. Adapt, don’t copy. Use the framework and Scripture alignment, then add local stories and your parish voice for authenticity. Team sport. A message team can plan ahead (Nativity meets weekly + seasonal planning), support multiple preachers, and ensure consistency across Mass times. Plan ahead with confidence. A long-range planning calendar (readings + suggested series) gives pastors and DREs a clear runway for Advent, Lent, and beyond. Quick win pathways. New to the Library? Pilot a 3–5 week Advent or Lent series, or start with small groups that follow the weekend message. New training. The forthcoming Equip Course: Preaching in a Message Series walks leaders step-by-step through the approach and planning rhythm. We’re here to help. Free sample access is available; Rebuilt’s team can coach you on tailoring content to your parish. Chapters 00:00 – Welcome & Intro: Why this conversation matters for overwhelmed pastors. 00:27 – Colleen’s Story: Parishioner → minister → Rebuilt staff; pandemic pivot and global reach. 03:23 – Heart for Pastors: Tackling isolation; walking alongside leaders. 05:45 – Origin of the Content Library: From Nativity’s archives to a scalable resource. 08:26 – What’s Inside: Homily/message series, small groups, Children’s Liturgy, support docs. 09:18 – Why It’s Different: Lectionary-aligned, organized by season & liturgical year. 12:38 – How It Fits Together: “One Church, One Message” across weekend, groups, and kids. 14:52 – On-Ramps for Beginners: Start with Advent/Lent; reduce Sunday prep stress. 16:05 – Success Story: Pre-planning months of homilies for a new assignment. 18:50 – Why Start with Preaching: Culture change begins from the pulpit. 20:42 – A Blessing, Not a Burden: Curated tools that buy back time. 21:43 – Practical Planning: The big calendar (“the beast”), teamwork, and workflow. 26:31 – Free Sample & Equip Course: Try the Library; training for message-series preaching. 27:49 – Where to Find It: RebuiltParish.com → Get Equipped → Content. 28:42 – Final Encouragement: Start small, adapt locally, and unite your parish around the Gospel. Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Catholic parish renewal, preaching in a message series, homily series, lectionary-based preaching, Catholic liturgical year, small group ministry, Children’s Liturgy of the Word, One Church One Message, discipleship pathway, parish message team, Church of the Nativity, Rebuilt Parish Content Library, Advent series, Lent series, Catholic preaching resources, parish leadership, Sunday planning, Know Feel Do framework, Catholic DRE resources, pastor support.  

How do you build a worship culture—not just a music set? In this Rebuilt Conference breakout, worship leader Simon Piles (Church of the Nativity) shares a practical, parish-tested playbook for clarifying vision, recruiting and developing a team, aligning tech and space (including using lighting as “architecture”), and creating campus-wide moments that form people in praise. He makes a clear case that excellence in music is evangelization—great music lowers the barrier for the unchurched to step into church and encounter Christ. You’ll hear why vision comes before volunteers, how talent attracts talent, when to pay musicians (and how to care well for volunteers), and simple ways to embed worship beyond Sunday—like student band leadership and open-mic worship nights. If you’re ready to raise the praise and reach those not yet in the pews, this conversation offers clear, concrete steps you can start this month—with a humble, honest tone aimed at pastors and parish leaders who want to lift hearts to God. Join us for our FREE Workshops - back in session this Fall: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/workshops   Key Themes Vision first: Define what you want music to do for the weekend and message before you build the team. Who you’re reaching: Program for the unchurched/seekers (Nativity’s “Timonium Tim”)—music as invitation. Play to your space: Fit your approach to architecture, acoustics, and tech; lighting can function like “architecture.” Short- and long-term tech plan: Name what’s possible now, and what upgrades are needed to serve the vision later. Team + leader: Invest in a leader and a bench; cultivate “layers of leaders” so the ministry isn’t fragile. Skill, worship heart, team player: Aim for all three—don’t compromise on skill. Evangelize your musicians, too. Paying musicians vs volunteers: Why paying can stabilize quality/availability, and how to pastor volunteers well. Campus-wide culture: Concerts, summer worship nights, staff/ministry events with worship, and open-mic worship nights. Next Gen pipeline: Student band leadership forms future worship leaders and normalizes praise among youth. Leadership alignment: Music leaders must be at the table for parish-wide vision; worship is not a silo. Chapters 0:00–0:47 — Intro: Rebuilt Conference breakout, “Creating a Worship Culture: Raise the Praise” 1:03–2:29 — Why vision precedes team building 2:41–4:11 — Who are we reaching? (“Timonium Tim”) 4:47–6:46 — Play to your space; lighting as “architecture”; tech planning 6:49–8:17 — Bring tech into the vision early; recruit tech-minded volunteers 8:48–10:02 — Team vs. “star”: you need both (leader & team) 10:02–12:16 — Layers of leaders; seamless transitions over decades 13:04–14:55 — The 3 qualities: skill, worship heart, team player 14:55–17:44 — Pay vs. volunteer; consistency, availability, and investing in excellence 18:02–21:04 — Campus-wide culture: concerts, summer worship series, worship at staff/minister events 21:04–24:18 — Student band & open-mic worship nights (every other month) 24:19–25:50 — “Nativity’s way isn’t the only way”—but great music draws people; leadership alignment Tags / Keywords: worship culture, Catholic worship, parish music ministry, Church of the Nativity, Rebuilt Parish, worship leader, music ministry recruiting, paying church musicians, lighting in worship, tech for churches, student band, open-mic worship night, parish renewal Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!  “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish   

In this episode, Biblical scholar Dr. Mary Healy pours into pastors and parish leaders on cultivating a personal relationship with Jesus and the Holy Spirit, and how that relationship drives parish renewal. She shares how Confirmation is meant to “perpetuate the grace of Pentecost,” why many never experience its full fruit, and how leaders can move parishes from maintenance to mission. From preaching that majors on the mighty deeds of God to creating safe spaces for charisms (prophecy, healing, discernment), Dr. Healy offers practical steps, stories, and a powerful prayer of impartation for listeners.   Key Takeaways: Model friendship with the Holy Spirit. Share concrete, current examples (“Here’s how the Spirit prompted me this week…”). Pray—and pause. Begin meetings: “Come, Holy Spirit,” then leave actual silence for Him to move. Reframe preaching. Major on what God has done—the Gospel’s power—then invite a clear response. Teach charisms. Offer a talk/workshop or short homily series; explain gifts and how they build up the Church. Create safe practice spaces. Praise & worship/adoration nights with guided discernment; small groups that read Scripture (esp. 1 Cor 12–14) and practice gifts. Plan light-touch evangelization. Send parishioners out two-by-two to pray with people who are open; debrief and celebrate fruit. Choose on-fire leaders for key ministries. Especially OCIA—place radiant, prayerful disciples where seekers first land. Guard the team’s heart. Bring complaints to the Lord, end in praise, practice daily forgiveness, and ask to see people as He sees them.   Connect with Dr. Healy: https://www.drmaryhealy.com/    Books by Dr. Healy Healing: Bringing the Gift of God’s Mercy to the World: https://a.co/d/dIPSXUA  The Spiritual Gifts Handbook: Using Your Gifts to Build the Kingdom: https://a.co/d/9kYFZ4I  The Gospel of Mark Commentary: https://a.co/d/e0tu15D  Hebrews Commentary: https://a.co/d/e2Hdf16  Chapters: 00:00 – Welcome & intro to Dr. Mary Healy 02:25 – Knowing the Holy Spirit personally 03:33 – Confirmation & Acts 8: origins and obstacles 05:27 – Pentecost power (Acts 2): joy, boldness, gifts 06:55 – From striving to yielding: ending “white-knuckle” faith 10:31 – Pastors as witnesses; moving hearts, not just minds 13:38 – How to open meetings to the Spirit (pray, then pause) 16:06 – Learning to recognize the Lord’s voice; “God winks” 21:22 – Charisms: teaching, testing, practicing in parish life 24:05 – Small groups that exercise and discern gifts 25:13 – Evangelization two-by-two; stories from the field 30:18 – Luke 10: authority over the enemy; Jesus rejoices 35:26 – Preaching: indicative vs. imperative 39:30 – Staffing key roles with radiant disciples (OCIA) 41:33 – Deepening your interior life as a leader 46:46 – Prayer of impartation for listeners   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish   

In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson sits down with Cynthia Marr, longtime music director at Ascension Parish in Sudbury MA, to talk about one of the most vital elements of the weekend experience: music. Cynthia shares her decades of experience in parish music ministry, what she learned from attending the Rebuilt Conference and visiting Nativity, and how her parish has transformed its worship culture. From adopting praise and worship as the primary repertoire to seamlessly integrating screens in a traditional sanctuary, Cynthia explains how excellent music creates energy, evokes emotion, and makes the weekend message stick. If you’re a pastor, music director, or parish leader looking to strengthen your liturgy and engage your congregation more deeply, you’ll be inspired by Cynthia’s insights and practical strategies. See Cynthia’s worship team in action here: https://youtu.be/wV2-v75MbFY    Join us for our FREE Workshops - back in session in September: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/workshops  Key Takeaways Music shapes memory. People remember messages more when paired with music, humming refrains long after Mass ends. Consistency builds participation. Keeping a set of songs for several weeks helps congregations learn and sing confidently. Excellence matters. A strong sound system, prepared musicians, and professional rehearsal practices elevate the entire parish’s worship. Screens can unify. With thoughtful placement, screens help people look up, engage, and sing together without being obtrusive. Recruitment never stops. Building a “bench” of musicians and investing in relationships ensures sustainability in music ministry. Vision drives culture. Music aligned with the pastor’s vision and parish mission creates a unified weekend experience that attracts and retains parishioners.   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish   

In this inspiring episode, we sit down with Lisa Brenninkmeyer, founder of Walking with Purpose, to hear her powerful story of faith, conversion, and mission. Lisa shares her journey from an evangelical Protestant background to embracing the Catholic Church, the struggles she faced with poor formation and belonging, and the transformative moments that shaped her ministry. Together with Tom and Melissa, Lisa explores the treasures of Catholic faith—especially the Eucharist, redemptive suffering, and authentic community—and how these truths equip lay leaders to evangelize and disciple with confidence. Catholic pastors and parish leaders will find encouragement in Lisa’s insights on leadership, discipleship, and creating intergenerational “sisterhood” within the Church. Her story reminds us that Jesus calls us not to transactional religion but to deep, life-giving transformation. Learn more about Walking with Purpose:  Hope for Right Now: A Walking with Purpose podcast Heart of Vines book link Heart of Vines Masterclass link Website: https://walkingwithpurpose.com/ Social: Instagram: @walkingwithpurpose_official FB: www.facebook.com/walkingwithpurpose X:https://x.com/walkingwpurpose Pinterest:https://www.pinterest.com/walkingwpurpose/ YouTube:https://www.youtube.com/c/WalkingwithPurpose_official Key Takeaways Conversion is less about information and more about belonging and transformation. Poor RCIA or weak parish hospitality can leave wounds—but God redeems them through authentic community. The Eucharist as daily nourishment is central to Catholic discipleship. The Catholic Church offers a unique and life-changing perspective on redemptive suffering. Lay leaders are essential in evangelization because they are closest to those outside the Church. Pastors and parish leaders must stay connected to people—small groups and one-on-one ministry reignite mission focus. Gen Z brings great hope with their hunger for authenticity, dignity, and deeper questions of faith. Chapters 00:01 – Welcome and introductions 00:54 – Lisa’s Protestant upbringing and journey into the Catholic Church 04:38 – Early struggles: lack of belonging and poor formation 07:59 – Leading seekers and facing opposition abroad 12:41 – The beginnings of Walking with Purpose 19:30 – Discovering Catholic treasures: Eucharist, saints, redemptive suffering 23:55 – How Walking with Purpose transforms women’s lives 28:29 – The call to love, listen, and lead women in faith 31:28 – Leadership lessons: protecting what fuels your ministry 36:35 – What gives Lisa hope: the faith and openness of Gen Z 40:24 – Final thoughts and encouragement Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish    Hashtags #RebuiltParish #CatholicLeadership #ParishRenewal #WalkingWithPurpose #CatholicPodcast #MakeDisciples #ParishLife #CatholicEvangelization Keywords: Catholic parish renewal, discipleship, Walking with Purpose, women’s ministry, Catholic evangelization, parish leadership, conversion story, Eucharist, redemptive suffering, lay leadership, small groups, parish community, Lisa Brenninkmeyer

In this episode, Tom and Melissa sit down with Chris Stefanick—international speaker, author, and founder of Real Life Catholic—to talk about the heart of evangelization today. Chris shares his own conversion story, why he’s passionate about parish-based evangelization, and how he’s seen God work powerfully through simple faithfulness. Together, we discuss the challenge of reaching the de-churched and disengaged, the temptation to measure success by scale, and why the Church must speak to people’s everyday lives if we hope to bring them back to Christ. This conversation is honest, down-to-earth, and full of encouragement for pastors, parish staff, and ministry leaders striving to make disciples in today’s Church. Sign up for The Daily Anchor to start your morning with brief daily reflections from Chris Stefanick: https://bit.ly/daily-anchor Join Chris Stefanick at an upcoming REBOOT event at parishes across the country: https://reallifecatholic.com/reboot/ Subscribe to the Chris Stefanick Show on YouTube: https://bit.ly/45sIFrv Learn more about Real Life Catholic: www.reallifecatholic.com Follow Chris on Instagram: https://www.instagram.com/chris.stefanick/  Key Takeaways Joy is compelling. Chris shares how encountering authentic joy in Christ set him on fire to share the Gospel. Start small, be faithful. Evangelization is about faithfulness in the small things, not chasing big numbers or stages. Parish is the front line. Parishes remain the heart of Catholic life and the place where evangelization must take root. Accessibility matters. People today crave faith that speaks into their everyday lives—not just academic theology. Authenticity in preaching. Preachers don’t need to be perfect, but they do need to be relatable, honest, and prepared. New wineskins. The Church can’t cling to old structures—renewal requires courage to innovate while staying true to the Gospel. Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish 

Join Melissa Wilkinson and Mia Corcoran as they delve into the transformative power of faith, healing, and community in the Church of the Nativity. Discover how personal experiences and spiritual revelations have shaped their journey and inspired others.   Join us for our FREE Workshops - back in session in September: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/workshops     Key Takeaways Embracing Change: Mia Corcoran shares her journey from traditional church practices to embracing a purpose-driven ministry, highlighting the importance of adapting to new spiritual insights. Power of Small Groups: The episode emphasizes the transformative impact of small groups in fostering community, personal growth, and deeper faith connections. Healing Ministry: Mia discusses the inception and growth of the healing prayer ministry, showcasing the power of prayer and faith in bringing about physical and spiritual healing. Spiritual Warfare: The conversation delves into the role of spiritual warfare and deliverance, encouraging listeners to recognize and combat spiritual challenges. Empowerment Through Faith: Listeners are encouraged to embrace their spiritual authority and actively participate in their faith communities to effect positive change. Personal Testimonies: Mia shares powerful stories of healing and transformation, illustrating the profound impact of faith and prayer in overcoming life's challenges. Community Impact: The episode highlights the importance of community support and collaboration in driving spiritual growth and transformation within the church.   Chapters: Introduction to Mia Corcoran (0:00) Early Days and Transformations (5:12) Purpose-Driven Ministry (12:45) The Power of Small Groups (20:30) Healing Prayer Ministry (28:15) Personal Testimonies of Healing (35:50) Spiritual Warfare and Deliverance (45:00) Empowering the Church Community (55:20) Closing Thoughts and Reflections (1:05:00) Hashtags: #FaithJourney #HealingMinistry #SpiritualGrowth #CommunityImpact   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish   

Join Melissa Wilkinson as she welcomes Bob Boulter, Director of Member Care at Church of the Nativity, to discuss the journey of deepening faith while working in a church setting. Bob shares his unique experiences from both the corporate and church worlds, offering insights into the challenges and rewards of living a faith-driven life. Key Highlights:  Bob's diverse religious upbringing and journey to the seminary.  Transition from the hotel and restaurant industry to church ministry.  The role of healing prayer in personal and community transformation.  Overcoming common fears and obstacles when returning to church.  Spiritual practices that sustain church workers in their demanding roles. Tune in to hear Bob's inspiring stories and learn how to grow deeper in your faith. Don't miss our upcoming workshops in September for a chance to connect with the community. Join us for our FREE Workshops - back in session in September: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/workshops     Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!  “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish 

Join us for our FREE Workshops - back in session in September: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/workshops    In this engaging podcast episode, Debbie Pine, a Pastoral Associate at one of our Partner Parishes, St. Alexander in Fonthill, Ontario, shares her journey from personal faith to becoming a ministry leader. She discusses the importance of community in faith, the challenges and rewards of launching small groups, and how these experiences have deepened her own spiritual growth. Debbie emphasizes the significance of connection, vulnerability, and support within the church, encouraging others to embrace their faith journeys with grace and patience. Takeaways Debbie's faith was rooted in personal devotion and community engagement. She joined the parish staff after feeling a strong calling to serve. Volunteers can play a significant role in church leadership. Engaging with parishioners has enriched Debbie's understanding of faith. Small groups foster deeper connections and support within the community. Launching small groups was a transformative experience for the parish. Small groups have positively impacted Debbie's walk with Christ. Prayer and reflection are essential for nurturing personal faith. Creating a safe space in small groups encourages vulnerability. It's important to be gentle with oneself during faith journeys.   Chapters   00:00 Journey of Faith: From Personal Devotion to Ministry Leadership 03:00 The Impact of Community: Building Connections in Faith 05:33 Navigating Challenges: Strengthening Faith Through Adversity 08:32 Small Groups: A Catalyst for Spiritual Growth 11:26 Creating a Culture of Community: The Role of Small Groups 14:20 Deepening Faith: The Transformative Power of Shared Experiences 17:26 Nurturing Faith: Balancing Leadership and Personal Spirituality 20:28 Encouragement for the Journey: Embracing Imperfection in Faith   Keywords faith, ministry, community, small groups, spiritual growth, church leadership, personal devotion, parish life, discipleship, encouragement Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish   

Join us in this insightful episode of the Rebuilt Parish podcast as we sit down with David Chrzan, a seasoned leader with over 25 years of experience in church leadership. Discover the profound connection between David and Tom and dive into the behind-the-scenes stories of working with renowned churches like Saddleback and Life.Church. Listen in to explore the impact of the YouVersion Bible app.   Don't miss out on the transformative power of the YouVersion Bible App. Download it today and start your journey of digital discipleship: https://www.bible.com/    Key Highlights:   Mentorship and Leadership: David shares his journey of mentoring Tom and the importance of having a big vision in ministry.  The Power of the Word: Discussing the significance of engaging with the Bible and the global efforts to make it accessible in every language.  Vision and Faith: How vision is tied to one's perception of God and the importance of thinking big, regardless of church size.  Digital Discipleship: The role of YouVersion in fostering spiritual growth and its impact on global faith communities.  Collaboration Across Denominations: Insights into building bridges between different Christian streams and the upcoming partnerships with Catholic leaders. Faith in Action: The discussion underscores that faith requires action, and vision should be aligned with one's perception of God.   Get our FREE Communications Resources here: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/communications-resources      Keywords: Mentorship, Church Leadership, Vision, YouVersion, Digital Discipleship, Bible Engagement, Faith, Collaboration, Catholic Partnerships, Spiritual Growth   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish 

In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, we’re giving you something truly special—a peek into one of the standout breakout sessions from the Rebuilt Conference. Out of 40 incredible breakout sessions, this is one we knew we had to share with everyone.   Delve into practical ideas for digital discipleship with Shana Hospelhorn and Jenny Fletcher, part of the Marketing and Communications Team at Church of the Nativity. Discover how to harness the power of the internet to make meaningful connections and fulfill the Great Commission. From sharing authentic stories to building real-life connections, learn how to use digital tools intentionally to lead people closer to their faith. Don't miss out on this opportunity to transform your digital spaces for a greater purpose.   Get our FREE Communications Resources here: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/communications-resources      Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish 

In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Austin Suggs shares his journey from a non-denominational background to exploring Catholicism and ecumenism. He discusses the importance of digital discipleship, the blending of traditional and modern worship practices, and the need for authentic conversations about faith.    The discussion highlights generational differences in faith experiences, the significance of community, and the challenges faced by the de-churched. Austin emphasizes the beauty of the good news and the importance of sharing personal experiences over expertise.   Check out Austin’s video we discussed in the episode: https://youtu.be/v1TDwOpfGCs?feature=shared    Takeaways Austin's journey began in a non-denominational church. He started creating YouTube videos to explore theology. Digital discipleship is crucial for engaging young people. Authenticity is key in reaching the de-churched. Tradition and modernity can coexist in worship. Community building is essential in faith journeys. Crisis of faith is common and should be openly discussed. The good news of the gospel is compelling and beautiful. Sharing experiences can be more impactful than expertise. Understanding your audience is vital for effective outreach.   Get our FREE Communications Resources here: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/communications-resources      Chapters 00:00 Introduction and Background 01:44 Austin's Journey into Theology 04:25 Digital Discipleship and Community Engagement 10:22 Ecumenical Conversations and Shared Experiences 12:28 Insights from Church of the Nativity 16:35 Gospel Simplicity and Community Building 21:47 The Good News and Its Impact 23:25 The Journey Back to Faith 30:04 Crisis of Faith and Authenticity 33:09 Engaging the de-churched 39:38 Bridging the Gap with Wisdom 42:12 Final Thoughts and Encouragement   Keywords faith journey, digital discipleship, ecumenism, Catholicism, Protestantism, church community, theology, worship, crisis of faith, youth engagement   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish   

In this conversation, Melissa Wilkinson speaks with Abby Daniels and Joe Tomaso about their innovative approaches to discipleship and digital outreach at St. Joseph's parish. They discuss their roles in overseeing communications and youth ministry, the importance of engaging the next generation, and the success of their Shine week initiative.    The conversation highlights the integration of discipleship steps into programs, effective content strategies, and the use of analytics to drive decisions. They also share advice for other parishes looking to enhance their digital engagement and their aspirations for future growth in digital discipleship.   Get our FREE Communications Resources here: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/communications-resources    Takeaways Weekly discipleship opportunities post helps consolidate parish activities. Engaging youth on social media boosts community involvement. Shine week empowers high schoolers to lead middle school service projects. Digital media is crucial for sharing parish stories and results. Analytics guide content strategy and engagement efforts. Photos are more engaging than traditional ads on social media. Clarity and consistency in messaging lead to better discipleship. Investing in a new database system will enhance outreach efforts. Chapters 00:00 Introduction to Discipleship and Digital Outreach 02:04 Innovative Communication Strategies for Discipleship 05:08 Engaging the Next Generation in Faith 07:08 Shine Week: Empowering Youth through Service 10:46 Intentional Discipleship Steps in Youth Programs 14:56 Content Strategy and Digital Engagement 19:09 Success Stories in Digital Discipleship 24:07 Advice for Parishes on Digital Media 29:04 Future Aspirations for Digital Discipleship Keywords discipleship, digital outreach, youth ministry, church communication, social media strategy, community engagement, faith formation, Shine week, parish growth, analytics Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish 

In this conversation, Melissa and Shana discuss the transformative role of video in church communication and digital discipleship. Shana shares her experiences at Church of the Nativity, highlighting how video storytelling, particularly through testimonials, can engage parishioners and foster community.    They explore the creative process behind producing message series trailers, the importance of authenticity in storytelling, and practical tips for parishes with limited resources. The discussion emphasizes the need for churches to leverage the talents within their congregations and adapt to the evolving digital landscape.   Takeaways Shana is the director of marketing and video at Church of the Nativity. Video is a key communication tool for discipleship and storytelling. Trailers for message series help set the tone and engage parishioners. Authenticity in storytelling is crucial for impactful video content. Testimonial videos capture life-changing stories and deepen faith. Collaboration and creativity are essential in video production. Parishes can start video projects with limited resources and equipment. Engaging the next generation in video production fosters community ownership. Measuring success involves looking at engagement and achieving ministry goals. The future of church video should focus on authenticity amidst AI-generated content.   Get our FREE Communications Resources here: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/communications-resources     Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Digital Discipleship 02:04 - The Role of Video in Church Communication 05:55 - Creating Engaging Message Series Trailers 09:58 - The Importance of Testimony Videos 13:50 - Drawing Out Authentic Stories 17:49 - Using Testimonies Effectively 21:56 - Balancing Quality with Limited Resources 26:07 - Measuring Success in Video Content 29:58 - The Future of Video in Church   Keywords digital discipleship, church communication, video production, storytelling, testimonials, parish engagement, creative ministry, church marketing, video strategy, community building   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish 

In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Mackenzie Coble and Michael Morrison, Partner Parish leaders from Holy Spirit Parish in Grand Rapids, Michigan,  share the story of how they revitalized their parish’s digital presence. They walk through the rebranding process, highlight key communication strategies, and explain how they leveraged tools like Canva, social media, and live streaming to better engage their community. From building a clean email list to tailoring messages for different platforms, Mackenzie and Michael offer practical insights that any parish can apply. They also reflect on the challenges of digital discipleship and the importance of starting small, staying intentional, and connecting personally with parishioners. Whether your parish is just beginning its digital journey or looking to take things to the next level, this conversation offers both inspiration and actionable steps to help you grow your digital outreach and engagement. Get our FREE Communications Resources here: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/communications-resources   Takeaways Digital marketing can significantly increase parish engagement. Understanding your audience is essential for effective communication. Visual content outperforms text-heavy messages. Canva is a user-friendly tool that simplifies parish design needs. Personal engagement leads to increased parishioner involvement. Live streaming helps connect with those who can’t attend in person. Maintaining a clean email list is key for successful outreach. Collaboration with parishioners enhances digital ministry efforts. Learning from other parishes can spark fresh ideas and strategies. Flexibility and openness are crucial in navigating digital transformation. Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to the Guests and Their Roles 01:32 – The Shift to Digital Marketing and Communication 03:08 – Initial Digital Presence and First Steps 05:10 – Utilizing Canva for Visual Communication 06:50 – Key Moments of Impact in Digital Efforts 10:44 – Tools and Platforms for Digital Outreach 12:24 – Tailoring Messages for Different Platforms 14:10 – Engagement Through Personal Connection 17:14 – Creative Direction in Video Content 20:18 – The Evolution of Live Streaming in the Parish 22:05 – Transitioning to Digital Outreach 30:14 – Engagement and Community Building 37:14 – Overcoming Challenges in Digital Discipleship 41:39 – Advice for Improving Digital Presence Keywords digital marketing, parish communication, community engagement, social media, church outreach, digital discipleship, rebranding, live streaming, Canva, parish growth Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish 

In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Scott Logan, from Juxt Marketing, explores the essential role parish websites play in modern-day evangelization and community engagement. He emphasizes how a well-designed, intentional website serves as a primary communication tool that welcomes both first-time visitors and long-time parishioners. Scott walks through key principles for creating a frictionless online experience—highlighting how simplicity, clarity, and design consistency build trust. He explains how to balance the needs of new and existing parishioners, avoid insider jargon, and offer clear pathways for every type of visitor. He also shares practical insights into common mistakes parishes make with their websites, the importance of optimizing for mobile use, and how your parish website should be fully integrated into your broader digital strategy. Most importantly, Scott reminds us that our digital efforts, like all ministry, should be rooted in prayer. Connect with Scott and the team at Juxt Marketing to help you with your parish website:  JuxtMarketing.com Facebook Instagram LinkedIn   Get our FREE Communications Resources here: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/communications-resources  Chapters 00:00 – Introduction to Parish Websites 02:56 – The Importance of a Parish Website 05:55 – Elements of an Effective Parish Website 08:59 – Balancing Outsiders and Insiders 12:08 – Design and Visual Appeal in Parish Websites 23:05 – The Power of Design in Communication 24:25 – Creating a Welcoming Environment for the Unchurched 27:14 – Common Mistakes in Parish Websites 30:11 – Integrating Website with Digital Strategy 34:11 – Optimizing for Mobile Experience 38:35 – Bathe Your Website in Prayer 40:22 – Next Steps for Parish Website Improvement Takeaways A parish website is a primary communication tool. 80% of visitors check a church's website before attending. Reducing friction on the website is crucial for visitor retention. Effective websites answer common visitor questions simply. Design consistency builds trust and enhances user experience. Avoid insider jargon to make newcomers feel welcome. Intentionality in website design is essential for engagement. Mobile optimization is critical for reaching users on-the-go. Clear pathways for different audiences improve user experience. Bathe your website in prayer to invite divine guidance. Keywords parish website, church marketing, digital strategy, community engagement, website design, outreach, church communication, user experience, welcoming visitors, online presence Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!    https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish   

In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Father Dave Dwyer from Busted Halo shares the origins of Busted Halo, his journey into radio, and the importance of crafting messages that resonate with the unchurched. He discusses the challenges of making faith accessible and the role of digital media in connecting people spiritually. Throughout the conversation, Father Dave emphasizes the need for clear communication and the intimate nature of audio media in reaching audiences.    In this conversation, Fr. Dave Dwyer discusses the nuances of digital storytelling and its role in spiritual connection. He emphasizes the importance of authenticity in communication, particularly in the context of sharing faith experiences. The dialogue explores the impact of a new pope on the church and the opportunities for evangelization that arise from media coverage. Fr. Dwyer also addresses the balance between addressing current events and maintaining the eternal truths of faith, encouraging listeners to stay true to their audience while being inclusive of diverse voices in their outreach efforts.   Get our FREE Communications Resources here: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/communications-resources    Takeaways The ministry aims to answer basic questions about faith. Sirius Radio approached them to create a Catholic channel. Father Dave's background in communications helped shape his radio career. The show fosters an intimate connection with listeners. Language and jargon can alienate potential listeners. It's important to explain church terms to make them accessible. Digital media plays a crucial role in spiritual connection. Listeners often prefer personal commentary over mainstream news coverage. We have to give them everything. Digital storytelling plays a significant role in spiritual connection. Authenticity is crucial in communication. Sharing personal experiences of faith is essential. The new pope presents an opportunity for evangelization. Curiosity about the church can lead to deeper engagement. It's important to integrate faith into everyday conversations. Balancing news and eternal truths is a challenge for parishes. It's okay if some long-time members choose to leave for other styles of worship. Diverse voices should be represented in outreach efforts.   Chapters 00:00 - The Origin of Busted Halo 02:36 - Father Dave's Journey into Radio 07:01 - Crafting Accessible Messages for the Unchurched 14:15 - Staying Focused on the Unchurched 16:18 - The Role of Digital Media in Spiritual Connection 18:56 - The Art of Audio Storytelling 19:32 - Digital Storytelling and Spiritual Connection 21:53 - Authenticity in Communication 23:43 - Translating Faith Experiences 25:53 - The Impact of a New Pope 29:47 - Navigating Media Opportunities 31:40 - Balancing News and Eternal Truths 35:57 - Staying True to Your Audience 40:39 - Encouragement for Digital Discipleship   Keywords Busted Halo, Father Dave Dwyer, podcasting, Catholic ministry, unchurched, digital media, spiritual connection, radio, accessibility, communication, digital storytelling, spiritual connection, authenticity, communication, Pope Francis, Pope Leo, media opportunities, church, evangelization, faith experiences, audience engagement Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish 

In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish podcast, Chrissy, the Director of Marketing, discusses the vital role of media in reaching the lost and enhancing parish communication. She emphasizes the importance of creating relevant content, meeting people where they are, and extending the church's reach beyond its physical walls.    The conversation also covers practical tips for parishes starting their media journey, balancing quality and consistency, and aligning digital efforts with the church's mission. Chrissy shares insights on overcoming hesitations in digital media and highlights the significance of understanding audience trends.   Get our FREE Communications Resources here: https://www.rebuiltparish.com/communications-resources    Takeaways Media is essential for reaching those who are lost. Parishes must create content that resonates with their audience. Engagement metrics should not solely focus on likes and comments. Consistency in posting is crucial for building an online presence. Digital media extends a parish's reach beyond its physical location. Storytelling is a powerful tool in church communication. Understanding audience trends is key to effective outreach. Parishes should start with what they are comfortable with in media. It's important to align media efforts with the church's mission. Marketing is a long-term commitment that requires patience.   Book Referenced: Know Who You’re For by Jeff Henderson   Chapters 00:00 - Introduction to Rebuilt Parish Podcast 01:04 - Meet the Marketing Director 02:25 - The Importance of Media for Parishes 04:05 - Media and the New Evangelization 05:17 - Creating Relevant Content 07:40 - Extending Reach Beyond Church Walls 11:55 - Getting Started with Media 15:35 - Balancing Quality and Consistency 18:37 - Overcoming Hesitations in Digital Media 21:23 - Aligning Media with Mission 23:09 - Trends in Digital Communication   Keywords parish marketing, digital media, evangelization, church communication, social media, community engagement, content strategy, outreach, church growth, digital discipleship   Rate, Review, & Follow us wherever you listen to podcasts!    “I love the Rebuilt Podcast! It’s helping my parish make strides in parish renewal!” If that sounds like you, please consider rating and reviewing our show! This helps us support more people just like you, take steps towards parish renewal and making disciples. Be sure to give us 5 stars, write a review and share what you loved most about the episode!  https://www.rebuiltparish.com/     facebook.com/rebuiltparish instagram.com/rebuiltparish  https://www.linkedin.com/company/rebuilt-parish/  https://www.youtube.com/@rebuiltparish