What does it actually take to move from good intentions to real renewal in the Church?In Episode 35 of the Magnified Ministries Podcast, Fr. Peter and Marco continue Part 2 of a 3-week series on resolutions by focusing on the critical shift from discernment to movement. This conversation explores how renewal rarely begins with grand plans or large crowds, but with small acts of obedience and a willingness to take the next faithful step.Fr. Peter reflects on Pope Francis’ call to be a listening and discerning Church, where strangers become friends, friends share their dreams, and God’s vision begins to emerge through prayer and conversation. The episode highlights the power of starting small, inviting a few people, creating space for the Holy Spirit to move, and trusting that this is ultimately God’s work, not our own.The apostles did not remain in the Upper Room. Filled with the Holy Spirit, they went out in obedience, even at great personal cost. That same holy momentum is an invitation for us today. When we say yes to Jesus, one step leads to another, creating permission for others to discern, lead, and respond to God’s call in their own lives.This episode also sets the stage for next week’s conversation on accompaniment, reminding us that movement is not the end goal, but the beginning of walking with others toward lasting transformation.Key themes in this episode include:• Discernment rooted in prayer and listening• Starting small and trusting the process• Obedience over outcomes• Creating space for holy momentum• Risk, humility, and mission• Preparing for accompanimentWhat might God be inviting you to risk for Him?What small step could spark renewal in your parish, your community, or your own life?Subscribe, share, and join us as we continue this journey of faith, obedience, and renewal.#MagnifiedMinistries #NoFilterJustFaith #CatholicPodcast #ChurchRenewal #FaithInAction #Discernment #MissionaryDiscipleship #HolySpirit #ParishLife
.As a new year begins, many parishes feel the tension between big hopes and real limitations. In this first episode of 2026, Fr. Peter and co host Marco explore what lasting renewal actually requires and why it cannot be built on enthusiasm alone.Through stories, practical frameworks, and lived parish experience at St. Clement, this conversation walks leaders through the early stages of renewal. It begins with listening deeply to God and to the people in front of you. It moves into prayerful discernment, recognizing patterns, and resisting the temptation to react to the loudest voices. Fr. Peter emphasizes the importance of community, accountability, and shared language rooted in prayer, reminding us that transformation happens together, not in isolation.This episode offers a realistic and hope filled roadmap for anyone sensing a holy restlessness and wondering how to take the first faithful steps toward renewal in 2026.If God is stirring something new in your parish or ministry, this conversation will help you name it, pray for it, and begin walking forward together.#MagnifiedMinistries #NoFilterJustFaith #CatholicPodcast #ChurchRenewal #ParishLeadership #FaithInAction #Discernment #HolySpirit #CatholicLife #NewYearFaith #ParishMission #SpiritualGrowth
Episode 33 of the Magnified Ministries Podcast is our Advent episode leading into Christmas.
For many people, this is the one time of year they step into a church. Christmas Mass, candlelight, familiar hymns, tradition. But Advent invites us to do more than show up. It invites us to show intent.
In this episode, we talk about how to truly capitalize on Advent even in the middle of a busy holiday season. How small, intentional choices can prepare our hearts for Christ. How slowing down, even briefly, can change how we experience Christmas.
We also reflect on the opportunity Advent creates for the Church. When people walk through the doors for the first time in a year, how do we invite them to stay? How do we meet them where they are and help them take the next step in faith after Christmas ends?
If you feel stretched thin this season but still want Christmas to mean something deeper, this episode is for you.
New episodes of the Magnified Ministries Podcast release weekly. Subscribe, share, and join the conversation.
Pathways of Engagement During Advent
In this second episode of our Advent series, we explore how this season invites us into deeper connection with God, with one another, and with our own spiritual growth. We discuss the power of silence and candlelit prayer, allowing Jesus to speak to the heart amid the busyness of the season.
We also look at engaging families and children through meaningful traditions, from activities that shift their focus from Santa to the wonder of Christ, to joyful cultural practices like the Polish Nativity caroling. Finally, we reflect on our healing and reconciliation night, where people experience prayer, sacraments, and quiet moments of grace.
Advent offers countless pathways to encounter God, how will you engage this season?
#Advent2025 #MagnifiedMinistries #CatholicLife #FaithCommunity #AdventSeries #SpiritualRenewal #HealingAndHope #FamilyFaith #SaintClementChurch #PrepareTheWay
This episode explores how Advent invites us to begin the liturgical year with intention, cultivate meaningful family and parish traditions, and keep Jesus at the center of Christmas. We look at practical ways to balance cultural customs like Santa while staying rooted in the mystery of the Incarnation. We dive into how thoughtful rituals, healing opportunities, and simple parish practices can prepare not only our own hearts but also the hearts of those returning to church or visiting for the first time. Advent becomes a season of welcome that leads people into wonder at the God who comes close to us.
What step can you take this Advent to help someone experience the wonder of Jesus?
#MagnifiedMinistries #CatholicPodcast #Advent #WelcomeToWonder #FaithFormation #CatholicTraditions #EncounterJesus #LiturgicalYear #CatholicParish #GrowInFaith
In this episode, Fr. Peter dives into the heart of discipleship and the mission of the Church. Using the powerful image of the Church as a “field hospital,” he explains how faith communities meet people where they are, caring for seekers, guiding believers, and supporting disciples as they grow in their relationship with God.From fostering deep friendships that make the Church feel like family, to programs like Alpha and the Executive Speaker Series that help parishioners connect faith with everyday life, Fr. Peter shares how St. Clement intentionally walks alongside people at every stage of their spiritual journey. He also highlights the importance of humility, patience, and starting with the basics — even lifelong Catholics sometimes need to be reintroduced to the foundations of prayer and discipleship.Whether you’re exploring your faith, looking for ways to go deeper, or seeking inspiration to serve others, this episode reminds us that discipleship is about caring, listening, and inviting God into every part of our lives.#MagnifiedMinistries #CatholicPodcast #TheWhy #FaithJourney #Discipleship #MissionaryDisciples #FaithCommunity #AlphaCourse #HolySpirit #EncounterGod #CatholicLife
.In part two of our Who, What, Where series, Father Peter and Marco dive into the what of mission, what it actually looks like to live out our call to share the Gospel. From recognizing how the Holy Spirit leads us to start small, to saying yes when God stirs our hearts, this episode explores how faith becomes real when it moves from theory to practice.It’s not about perfect plans or polished strategies. It’s about stepping out, accompanying others, and creating space for the Spirit to work. Whether it’s two people around a table or a new ministry that grows into something bigger, the call is simple, start somewhere, listen, and trust that God honors your movement.How is God calling you to take your next step in faith?#MagnifiedMinistries #CatholicPodcast #FaithInAction #Discipleship #HolySpirit #CatholicFaith #Mission #SpiritualGrowth #Evangelization #CatholicCommunity #TrustInGod
In part one of our new three-part series Who, What, and How, Fr. Peter and Marco explore the “Who” at the heart of the Church’s mission. From the Great Commission to the everyday call of discipleship, this episode dives into what it truly means to be chosen, equipped, and empowered to share the Gospel. Through honest stories and practical wisdom, they remind us that evangelization isn’t just for priests or leaders, it’s for everyone. Whether it’s inviting someone to Alpha, praying with a friend, or simply being a witness to God’s love, we all have a part to play in bringing Christ to others.
How is God calling you to live out your mission today?
#MagnifiedMinistries #CatholicPodcast #FaithJourney #Discipleship #CatholicFaith #Mission #GreatCommission #Evangelization #FaithInAction #SpiritualGrowth #CatholicCommunity
In our final episode of the Gen Z series, Marco and Fr. Peter reflect on what it means to truly hand over the keys. From the call to lead with humility to the challenge of creating space for the next generation, this conversation dives deep into how the Church can move from theory to practice.Together, they explore what lasting leadership looks like, building community, empowering others, and trusting that God is working through the hands of those who will come after us.How do we make room for new voices while staying rooted in faith?#MagnifiedMinistries #CatholicPodcast #GenZFaith #FaithInAction #CatholicChurch #Discipleship #Leadership #SpiritualGrowth #Community #trustingod Barna — Rising Spiritual Openness in America (2023): barna.com/research/rising-spiritual-openness/• Barna — Teens & Jesus (2023) and 52% Very Motivated (2025): barna.com/research/teens-and-jesus/ ; barna.com/trends/teens-curious-about-jesus/• Pew Research — Religious 'Nones' in America (2024) + 2023–24 Religious Landscape (2025): pewresearch.org/religion/2024/01/24/religious-nones-in-america-who-they-are-and-what-they-believe/ ; pewresearch.org/religion/2025/02/26/religious-landscape-study-executive-summary/• Springtide — The State of Religion & Young People: springtideresearch.org• Fuller Youth Institute — Growing Young: fulleryouthinstitute.org/growingyoung• Vatican — Towards Full Presence (2023): vatican.va/roman_curia/dpc/documents/20230528_dpc-verso-piena-presenza_en.ht
In part one of our new three-part series Who, What, and How, Fr. Peter and Marco explore the “Who” at the heart of the Church’s mission. From the Great Commission to the everyday call of discipleship, this episode dives into what it truly means to be chosen, equipped, and empowered to share the Gospel. Through honest stories and practical wisdom, they remind us that evangelization isn’t just for priests or leaders, it’s for everyone. Whether it’s inviting someone to Alpha, praying with a friend, or simply being a witness to God’s love, we all have a part to play in bringing Christ to others.
How is God calling you to live out your mission today?
#MagnifiedMinistries #CatholicPodcast #FaithJourney #Discipleship #CatholicFaith #Mission #GreatCommission #Evangelization #FaithInAction #SpiritualGrowth #CatholicCommunity
In our final episode of the Gen Z series, Marco and Fr. Peter reflect on what it means to truly hand over the keys. From the call to lead with humility to the challenge of creating space for the next generation, this conversation dives deep into how the Church can move from theory to practice.Together, they explore what lasting leadership looks like, building community, empowering others, and trusting that God is working through the hands of those who will come after us.How do we make room for new voices while staying rooted in faith?#MagnifiedMinistries #CatholicPodcast #GenZFaith #FaithInAction #CatholicChurch #Discipleship #Leadership #SpiritualGrowth #Community #trustingod Barna — Rising Spiritual Openness in America (2023): barna.com/research/rising-spiritual-openness/• Barna — Teens & Jesus (2023) and 52% Very Motivated (2025): barna.com/research/teens-and-jesus/ ; barna.com/trends/teens-curious-about-jesus/• Pew Research — Religious 'Nones' in America (2024) + 2023–24 Religious Landscape (2025): pewresearch.org/religion/2024/01/24/religious-nones-in-america-who-they-are-and-what-they-believe/ ; pewresearch.org/religion/2025/02/26/religious-landscape-study-executive-summary/• Springtide — The State of Religion & Young People: springtideresearch.org• Fuller Youth Institute — Growing Young: fulleryouthinstitute.org/growingyoung• Vatican — Towards Full Presence (2023): vatican.va/roman_curia/dpc/documents/20230528_dpc-verso-piena-presenza_en.ht
In this episode of Magnified Ministries Podcast, Kevin and Amy share how their time at St. Clement shaped their faith journey and how they continue to live it out beyond the parish walls. From Theology on Tap to online Alpha during the pandemic, they discovered ways to stay connected, build meaningful friendships, and grow in community even in uncertain times.Kevin and Amy also reflect on how small invitations, shared meals, and mentorship helped them take their faith beyond Sunday Mass. What started as simple yeses to God’s call became experiences of prayer, service, and witnessing faith in action. Their story shows that community, hospitality, and intentional connection are key to living as disciples and carrying faith into every part of life.#MagnifiedMinistries #FaithJourney #CatholicPodcast #SaintClementChicago #AlphaProgram #FaithCommunity #CatholicLife #ChurchBeyondTheBuilding #Discipleship #CommunityOfFaith
In this episode of the Magnified Ministries Podcast, Fr. Sergio shares the story of his priestly journey, from life in a monastery to parish leadership and beyond. He reflects on how God often works in surprising ways, including a conversation with a bishop that changed the course of his ministry. Fr. Sergio speaks candidly about the challenges of being seen as “an institution,” the importance of lay evangelization, and the simple yet powerful practices that help build authentic connections in parish life. At the heart of the conversation is his hope for a diverse and missionary Church, where every Catholic is encouraged to share not just doctrine but their lived experience of Christ.
Matt and Jess first met at St. Clement Parish, where their relationship and marriage were shaped by a vibrant faith community. In this episode, they share how St. Clement helped them move from simply attending Mass to living as active disciples.
They reflect on building faith together as a couple, the importance of community, and how they now carry that spirit into new parishes. Their story is a reminder that the Church is not just a place you go, but a mission you bring with you wherever you are.
Episode 21 of the Magnified Ministries Podcast explores why Gen Z, often called the Open Generation, is far more committed than the stereotypes suggest. When invited into community, leadership, and a life with Jesus, they show up with passion and purpose. We talk about the heartbreak pastors feel when people drift away, the importance of personal connection and follow-up, and how parishes can create real pathways for young people to go deeper in faith and step into leadership.What do you think is the biggest key to helping Gen Z commit to faith and community? Share your thoughts in the comments.#MagnifiedMinistries #GenZ #OpenGeneration #CatholicPodcast #FaithJourney #CatholicLife #YoungAdultMinistry #Discipleship
Episode 20 of the Magnified Ministries Podcast continues our deep dive into engaging Gen Z in the Church. In this episode, we explore how parishes can create authentic, welcoming spaces where people of all ages feel invited into Christian community. From the importance of discipleship to the opportunities social media presents for sharing faith, we unpack practical ways to make faith visible, approachable, and transformative..We also discuss how young adults are naturally drawn to authenticity and how the personal love of Jesus—like healing, forgiveness, and generosity—moves people to invite others into the faith. This episode challenges parish leaders to reflect on their spaces, their communities, and the ways they empower people to share the joy, peace, and freedom that comes from encountering Christ.What’s one step your parish can take today to make faith more welcoming and authentic for young people?#MagnifiedMinistries #CatholicPodcast #GenZFaith #FaithCommunity #CatholicChurch #Discipleship #YoungAdults
In this episode of Magnified Ministries, Fr. Peter and Marco dive into what makes Jesus so compelling for today’s generation. From Alpha experiences that make faith real, to the five qualities of Jesus that deeply attract young people, authenticity, generosity, kindness, encouragement, and mercy, the conversation highlights how God is awakening hearts toward Him.They reflect on the challenges and opportunities for parish leaders: creating space for authentic encounters, seeing the Church as a field hospital for the wounded, and moving away from the idea that faith communities are museums of perfect people. Instead, the call is to build communities where people experience healing, belonging, and the living presence of Christ.How have you personally encountered Jesus as real and alive in your life?#MagnifiedMinistries #CatholicPodcast #EncounterJesus #FaithJourney #YoungAdultCatholics #CatholicLife #LivingFaith #CatholicCommunity #FaithThatTransforms