The Church Podcast

SummaryCharlotte McCorquodale, co-founder of Ministry Training Source, discusses the challenges and joys of pastoral leaders serving young Catholics. She highlights the need for pastors and ministry leaders to be on the same page regarding expectations and measuring success. McCorquodale emphasizes the importance of listening to the community's needs and sharing the stories of young people to inspire and recruit others. She also mentions strategies such as weekly video podcast messages and utilizing technology to engage and impact the community. The conversation explores the importance of building relationships with young people and the shift towards smaller, more intimate youth ministry models. It also highlights the need for support and formation for pastoral ministry leaders. The guest shares her insights on the future direction of youth and young adult ministry, emphasizing the importance of collaboration and sustainable models. The conversation concludes with advice for new ecclesial ministry leaders and a message of hope for the Church.TakeawaysPastoral leaders face challenges in justifying their role and dealing with an expectations gap.Listening to the needs of the community is crucial for effective ministry.Sharing the stories of young people can inspire and recruit others.Strategies such as weekly video podcast messages and utilizing technology can engage and impact the community. Building relationships with young people is crucial in youth ministryThere is a shift towards smaller, more intimate youth ministry modelsPastoral ministry leaders need support and formationThere is hope for the Church through the dedication and love of pastoral leadersSound Bites:"Pastoral leaders of youth and young adult ministries are a conundrum of joy-filled ministers serving in a bleak post-COVID mission field.""The decline of youth ministry and youth ministry leaders may lead to a decline in ministry leaders in general.""Getting people on the same page about measuring success is critical."Charlotte Recommends:Wired to Series by Britt AndreattaFollow Charlotte: Ministry Training SourceEnhance Your Listening with The Church Podcast + Subscription.Dive deeper into your ministry journey with our premium subscriptions. Enjoy episodes your way, with added benefits to enrich your experience.The Church Podcast + | $6/monthAd-free episodesEarly accessSubscription to MYM Premium Producer credits on video episodes10% off next custom t-shirt order from 4 Marks PrintingSubscribe TodayElevate your podcast experience and support our mission to do church better. Visit thechurchpodcast.org and join our community of dedicated listeners.A Little From Our SponsorsSHOP SOCK RELIGIOUS: Evangelize with funny Catholic shirts and epic saint socks that you can buy at sockreligious.com. Use CHURCHPOD and get 10% off your purchase.GET CUSTOM GEAR for your next ministry event from our partner 4 Marks Printing. They make ministry and evangelization easier! Visit 4marksprinting.com/churchpod for more.MYM MERCH: Show off some humor and what you do with awesome t-shirts from Marathon Youth Ministry’s Store. Visit HERE to see what we have.

SummaryRegina Boyd, a therapist, and founder of Boyd Counseling Services, shares her journey into counseling and the inspiration behind her book 'Leaving Lonely Behind.' The conversation delves into the importance of vulnerability, mental health challenges in ministry, and the role of the church in addressing mental health issues. We also explore the intersection of faith, therapy, and mental health within the context of ecclesial ministry. It delves into the importance of finding therapists who hold a similar worldview, the bright spots in addressing mental health issues within the church, and the significance of setting boundaries in ministry. The conversation also touches on the impact of social media and the hope it brings for evangelization in the church.TakeawaysThe importance of vulnerability in building strong relationships and addressing loneliness.The need for mental health awareness and support in ministry settings.The role of the church in normalizing conversations about mental health and providing resources for mental health challenges. The importance of finding therapists who hold a similar worldview to provide effective therapy within the context of faith and church teachings.The significance of setting boundaries in ministry to prevent burnout and maintain enthusiasm for the work.The hope and potential of social media for evangelization and creating dialogues within the church community.Sound Bites"You can't give what you don't have, right? You have to have that full cup to pour into people.”Follow Regina: https://www.reginaboyd.com/ Enhance Your Listening with The Church Podcast + Subscription.Dive deeper into your ministry journey with our premium subscriptions. Enjoy episodes your way, with added benefits to enrich your experience.The Church Podcast + | $6/monthAd-free episodesEarly accessSubscription to MYM Premium Producer credits on video episodes10% off next custom t-shirt order from 4 Marks PrintingSubscribe TodayElevate your podcast experience and support our mission to do church better. Visit thechurchpodcast.org and join our community of dedicated listeners.A Little From Our SponsorsSHOP SOCK RELIGIOUS: Evangelize with funny Catholic shirts and epic saint socks that you can buy at sockreligious.com. Use CHURCHPOD and get 10% off your purchase.GET CUSTOM GEAR for your next ministry event from our partner 4 Marks Printing. They make ministry and evangelization easier! Visit 4marksprinting.com/churchpod for more.MYM MERCH: Show off some humor and what you do with awesome t-shirts from Marathon Youth Ministry’s Store. Visit HERE to see what we have.

SummaryMatthan Teves, a media enthusiast and content creator, discusses his passion for using media and film as a gift to the Church. He shares his experience working as an associate for live streaming and creative content at St. Joseph's parish and emphasizes the importance of capturing the Holy Spirit in media production. Matthan also talks about his project, Project Faith Moves, which combines his love for dance and faith. He highlights the role of community in ministry and the need for young people to realize that the Church needs them and their innovative ideas.Episode Takeaways:Using media and film as a gift to the Church can be a powerful way to capture the Holy Spirit and share the faith.Community is essential in ministry, providing accountability, support, and the opportunity to use one's talents for the Church.Young people have a unique perspective and skill set that can be harnessed to engage others and bring them closer to the Church.The Church needs young people to step up and contribute their innovative ideas and talents to help spread the faith.Capturing the Holy Spirit in media production requires reverence, authenticity, and a focus on the viewer's experience. Sound Bites from Matthan"Don't try to capture something or don't try to set up artificially what's happening. But instead capture the Holy Spirit.""Put ourselves in the audience viewer perspective and receive it how we would want to receive.""The market in a way is not saturated in a way where there's true competition. We're all fighting for souls and fighting together in a way."Matthan Recommends: Spider Man: Into the SpiderverseFollow Matthan: https://linktr.ee/matteverseEnhance Your Listening with The Church Podcast + Subscription.Dive deeper into your ministry journey with our premium subscriptions. Enjoy episodes your way, with added benefits to enrich your experience.The Church Podcast + | $6/monthAd-free episodesEarly accessSubscription to MYM Premium Producer credits on video episodes10% off next custom t-shirt order from 4 Marks PrintingSubscribe TodayElevate your podcast experience and support our mission to do church better. Visit thechurchpodcast.org and join our community of dedicated listeners.A Little From Our SponsorsSHOP SOCK RELIGIOUS: Evangelize with funny Catholic shirts and epic saint socks that you can buy at sockreligious.comGET CUSTOM GEAR for your next ministry event from our partner 4 Marks Printing. They make ministry and evangelization easier! Visit 4marksprinting.com/churchpod for more.MYM MERCH: Show off some humor and what you do with awesome t-shirts from Marathon Youth Ministry’s Store. Visit HERE to see what we have.

In this episode, I sit down with Jonathan Lewis, the VP of Catholic Faith Technologies, to unpack the fascinating blend of technology and ministry. Jonathan brings a wealth of knowledge on how we can use tech to enhance our Church's mission and build stronger, more connected communities.Jonathan kicks things off by highlighting the importance of using technology to meet people in their everyday lives. He sees tech as a tool for accompaniment, helping us support and guide others on their faith journey, right where they are.One of Jonathan’s key points is the need for tech solutions to reflect the unique flavor of local parishes and dioceses. Customizing technology to fit local contexts ensures that it's not only useful but also resonates deeply with the community.We delve into the benefits of online learning. Jonathan stresses that with clear goals and engagement strategies, online platforms can be a powerful complement to our in-person interactions, enhancing our educational outreach.Jonathan emphasizes the importance of using technology strategically to achieve specific ministry goals. He advises parishes and dioceses to set clear objectives on a quarterly or annual basis and to regularly check their progress. Tech should support these goals, not replace the personal connections that are at the heart of our ministry.Practical Tips and Recommendations: Clarity and Delegation: Jonathan recommends taking regular clarity breaks to reassess priorities and delegate tasks that don’t energize you. This helps keep leaders focused and invigorated.Grounding and Spiritual Tools: For spiritual grounding, he suggests reading 'Life of the Beloved' by Henry Nouwen, especially during Lent. He also recommends the 'Pray As You Go' app for daily reflection and liturgical music.Openness to New Ideas: Jonathan encourages us to avoid dismissing ideas with "we've already done that" and to stay open to innovative approaches.Building a Positive Culture: He talks about the importance of actively contributing to a positive ministry culture and remembering that our unity in the Church is rooted in faith in Christ, not external affiliations.Episode Takeaways:Using technology to meet people in their daily lives and deepen faith connections.Ensuring tech solutions reflect local contexts and community needs.Leveraging online learning with clear goals and engagement strategies.Using tech strategically to support, not replace, personal ministry connections.Practical tips for maintaining clarity, delegation, and spiritual grounding.Building a positive ministry culture and staying open to new ideas.Striving for unity in the Church beyond political divides.Join Jonathan Lewis as he shares his visionary insights on harnessing technology to enhance ministry, build community, and deepen our connections in the Church. Whether a tech enthusiast or a ministry leader, this episode offers valuable insights and practical advice for integrating technology into your faith practices.Jonathan Recommends: Henry Nouwen SocietyFollow Jonathan: jlewis@catholicfaithtech.com and catholicfaithtech.comEnhance Your Listening with The Church Podcast + Subscription.Dive deeper into your ministry journey with our premium subscriptions. Enjoy episodes your way, with added benefits to enrich your experience.The Church Podcast + | $6/monthAd-free episodesEarly accessSubscription to MYM Premium Producer credits on video episodes10% off next custom t-shirt order from 4 Marks PrintingSubscribe TodayElevate your podcast experience and support our mission to do church better. Visit thechurchpodcast.org and join our community of dedicated listeners.A Little From Our SponsorsSHOP SOCK RELIGIOUS: Evangelize with funny Catholic shirts and epic saint socks that you can buy at sockreligious.comGET CUSTOM GEAR for your next ministry event from our partner 4 Marks Printing. They make ministry and evangelization easier! Visit 4marksprinting.com/churchpod for more.MYM MERCH: Show off some humor and what you do with awesome t-shirts from Marathon Youth Ministry’s Store. Visit HERE to see what we have.

In this episode, we talk with Catholic Family Crate founder Elissa Tiprigan about family catechesis and starting your own business.

This is our conversation with Rudy Dehaney about multi-parish ministry, inclusion, and race.

Katherine Angulo invites us into her sacred journey, intertwining personal stories with profound insights into the heart of ministry. This episode isn't just a conversation; it's an invitation into the deeper realms of faith and the challenges of dedicating oneself to a spiritual vocation.We begin by exploring the transformative power of personal invitation. It's more than just a gesture; it catalyzes spiritual awakening and deeper faith. She shares how simple acts of reaching out can have monumental impacts on individuals, guiding them toward a more profound connection with their faith.We dive into the realities—divisions within parishes, the weight of multiple assignments, and the quest for unity. Yet, at the heart of her message is a beacon of hope: the indispensable need for rest and the strength found in peer support. It's a reminder that even shepherds need a flock of their own.Katherine addresses the trials church leaders endure. From the necessity of humility to leaning on God's unwavering support, she paints a picture of resilience and dedication. The conversation shifts to the power of community—how creating support networks can serve as a foundation for growth and resilience among church leaders.In an honest reflection, Katherine discusses the importance of setting boundaries and acknowledging self-worth within the ministry. From negotiating fair salaries to standing up for one’s value, she shares her journey towards recognizing her worth, offering a powerful message for new and seasoned ministry leaders alike.Key Takeaways:- The power of personal invitation in deepening faith.- The critical need for rest and community among pastors.- The role of humility and God's support in overcoming leadership challenges.- The importance of self-worth and negotiation for ministry professionals.- The hopeful future of the Church, marked by new ministries and the spiritual growth of its youth.Follow Katherine:Thriving In Ministry with McGrath Institute: https://thrivinginministry.org/grantees/projects/university-of-notre-dame-mcgrath-institute/Recommended Books:Choosing Forgiveness: Unleash the Power of God's Grace - Father Thomas Berg and Dr. LockThe Heart of a Disciple - Robert McCartyEnhance Your Listening with The Church Podcast + and ++ SubscriptionsDive deeper into your ministry journey with our premium subscriptions. Enjoy episodes your way, with added benefits to enrich your experience.The Church Podcast + | $3/monthAd-free episodesEarly accessThe Church Podcast ++ | $6/monthAll the benefits of +Producer credits on video episodes10% off next custom t-shirt order from 4 Marks PrintingSubscribe TodayElevate your podcast experience and support our mission to do church better. Visit thechurchpodcast.org and join our community of dedicated listeners.A Little From Our SponsorsSHOP SOCK RELIGIOUS: Evangelize with funny Catholic shirts and epic saint socks that you can buy at sockreligious.comGET CUSTOM GEAR for your next ministry event from our partner 4 Marks Printing. They make ministry and evangelization easier! Visit 4marksprinting.com/churchpod for more.

The first week of a new employee starting a new job is one of the most critical times. The first week can often set them up for success in your ministry. Therefore, it’s important to have an intentional plan for onboarding your new hire.In this episode, Chris and John walk through what the first day and the first week should look like for your new staff member so that they can thrive in their new ministry under your leadership.

As we enter into a more polarized society both in the secular and religious realm, the need for the Church to step in with an open heart and a listening mind is crucial. In this episode, we discuss how our parishes can walk the fine line of sharing truth while doing it in a trusting and open setting where dialogue and discussion are encouraged and welcomed. In this episode, we refer back to the following podcast episode: Judgement, Social Media, and Christ

In this episode, Chris shares how we managed to keep 80% of his pre-COVID young people involved in his parish youth ministry by being innovative. He walks through his process of focusing on evangelization and outreach, while developing a new subscription based model of formation that invites young people to engage in small groups throughout the year. Specifically, Chris shares in detail what his “subscription box” looks like that he gives to all families engaged in youth ministry. SUBSCRIPTION KITS INCLUDE: Something fun (e.g., candy, youth ministry gear) Sacramentals (e.g., rosary, prayer rocks) Journal & Pen Content for reflection and discipleship Something seasonal In this episode, we refer back to the following resources: Small Groups from Scratch: A Church Podcast Series Rebuilding Youth Ministry

In this episode, Chris and John discuss strategies to create more effective communication within your parish staff. In so doing, you intentional begin to create more effective external communication. In this episode, we refer back to the following resources: Episode #10: Leading Meetings Well Books by Patrick Lencioni

The reopening of our churches has been slow. Numbers in the pew and faith formation are much lower than expected? Are they coming back? Some data suggests that they aren’t ready to come back to church. So what are we to do? How do we rise to the occasion? In this episode, Chris and John discuss the opportunity that has arisen because of COVID and suggests some further strategies as it becomes clear that people will not be coming back in the same numbers as they were in February 2020. In this episode, we refer briefly to the previous podcast episodes with Doug Tooke: Episode 21: The Realities of Rural Ministry Episode 68: Using Multi-Media Tools in the 21st Century Ministry

In this second episode on parish councils, we begin to discuss how to structure a council so that it is functional and set up for success. We share specifically how many members should be on the council, what the term limits look like, how often they should meet, and what should be in the agenda.