The Rebuilt Parish Podcast

By Rebuilt ParishReligion & Spirituality Christianity

The Rebuilt Parish Podcast episodes

January 15142| Numbers Matter Because People Count
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

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“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!

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facebook.com/rebuiltparish
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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
35 min
January 08141| The Pastor’s Right-Hand: Why Support Roles Matter More Than You Think
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.

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“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
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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
34 min
January 01140| It’s Not About Money: Rethinking Stewardship as Discipleship
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].
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“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
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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
52 min
December 25, 2025139| Tom Interviews Melissa: The Faith Story Behind the Mic
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
53 min
December 18, 2025138| Curtis Martin on Evangelizing the Next Generation
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

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“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
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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.
59 min
December 11, 2025137| From Obligation to Celebration: Transforming Your Christmas Eve Mass
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
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“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
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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
42 min
December 04, 2025136| Jeff Cavins on Preaching That Builds Disciples
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
57 min
November 27, 2025135| How This Cathedral Parish’s Weekend Observation Sparked Real Results
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
51 min
November 20, 2025134| Jason Simon on Forming Missionary Disciples
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
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“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!

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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
53 min
November 13, 2025133| How One Parish’s Bold Steps Led to Real, Lasting Renewal
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
39 min