In this insightful episode of Religion to Reality, hosts Dave Plisky and Fr. John Gribowich step back from theory to examine the hard data behind Catholic discipleship and faith formation. They explore surprising findings from their comprehensive discipleship study and discuss what the numbers reveal about modern spiritual practices, evangelization comfort levels, and the changing landscape of faith in America.

Featuring interviews with three leading voices in faith research, Hans Plate (Vinea Research), Josh Packard (Future of Faith), and Fr. Joseph Gibino (Diocese of Brooklyn), this episode bridges the gap between data and pastoral practice. Discover what Gen Z really thinks about God, why 100% of people with spiritual directors found them through a spiritual community to which they already belong, and how the Synod on Synodality is reshaping the Church's approach to listening.

Key Takeaway: Data isn't just for businesses—it's essential for understanding how to meet people where they are in their faith journey and creating meaningful pathways to deeper discipleship.

[00:00:00] Opening Reflection

[00:01:00] Why Data Matters for the Church

[00:02:00] Surprising Study Findings

[00:04:00] The Omnichannel Approach to Faith

[00:06:00] Interview with Hans Plate (Vinea Research)

[00:09:00] Rethinking Evangelization

[00:13:00] The Mormon Example

[00:15:00] The Lived Gospel

[00:17:00] Interview with Josh Packard (Future of Faith)

[00:22:00] "Young People Aren't Leaving—Their Parents Already Did"

[00:25:00] A Golden Opportunity

[00:28:00] The Power of Lived Example

[00:31:00] Interview with Fr. Joe Gibino (Diocese of Brooklyn)

[00:36:00] The Synod's Impact on Parish Identity

[00:39:00] Synod vs. Discipleship Study

[00:41:00] Addressing Both Sides

[00:47:00] Trusting in God's Love

Hans Plate - Founder & President, Vinea Research. Hans partnered with Religion to Reality to conduct the discipleship study. He also runs Pensari, a healthcare research company, and brings extensive expertise in understanding highly engaged Catholics.

Josh Packard - Co-founder, Future of Faith. Formerly the Director of Spring Tide Institute for Research, Josh provides custom research for faith communities and offers crucial insights into Gen Z's relationship with faith and spirituality.

Father Joseph Gibino - Vicar of Evangelization, Diocese of Brooklyn, Pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Church. Father Joe led diocesan-level Synod on Synodality efforts and champions family-centered faith formation.

"Listen and silent share the same letters, and if we haven't silenced ourselves, then we can't listen." - Father Joe Gibino

"The most compelling gospel is the one that's lived." - Father John Gribowich

"Young people are not leaving the church. Their parents are. In many cases, their parents left the church." - Josh Packard

"We as Catholics are always directly and indirectly advertising our faith—we are human billboards." - Hans Plate (quoting Matthew Kelly)

"What could possibly happen in this whole process that's going to lead to the utter collapse of God's love? It's just impossible." - Father John Gribowich

Join us for the season finale as Dave and Fr. John tie everything together and explore how to truly live an integrated life. Don't miss this culminating conversation that brings together all the insights from Season 1!

Learn More About the Discipleship Study: Religion to Reality is built on comprehensive research into how Catholics are living their faith today. Visit our website for more details and resources from the study.