Higher Ground by Elevated Parish Missions

Martin Watjen and Brian Hough
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Welcome to Higher Ground, the ultimate podcast by Elevated Parish Missions that takes you on a captivating journey through the Catholic Faith! 🌟 Each episode is packed with fresh insights and perspectives, transforming familiar topics into eye-opening discussions. While we rarely feature guests, our focus is on delivering powerful content that sparks reflection and inspires action. At the end of every episode, you'll receive a practical call to action, empowering you to weave the discussed themes into your daily life. 🎧 Tune in for thought-provoking conversations that elevate your spiritual journey and help you reach for Higher Ground. Don't miss out on this enriching experience!

  1. 8h ago

    What Happens When a Parish Goes All In on Revival

    Send us Fan Mail Episode Description: The next chapter of Higher Ground is here, and it starts with real stories of parish renewal from the front lines. If you care about Catholic evangelization, parish life, or what happens when a community truly encounters Christ, this is the reset episode you need. After 70+ episodes, Martin Watjen & Brian Hough are stepping back to re-center the show around what Elevated Parish Missions is seeing in churches across the country: pastors reignited out of burnout, core teams moving from surviving to thriving, and ordinary parishioners breaking out of routine into intentional discipleship. The result is not theory, but living proof of revival at ground zero.You’ll discover: Why Higher Ground is shifting from solo reflections to field dispatches from parish renewalWhat pastors, parochial vicars, mission core teams, and parishioners reveal after an Elevated Parish MissionThe real obstacles parishes face before renewal startsWhat actually happens when the Holy Spirit moves in a communityWhy the six-month follow-up matters more than the weekend itselfMartin also explains why the show is taking a short pause to prepare the relaunch, line up interviews, and build the new format the right way. Even while the feed goes quiet for a few weeks, the mission stays the same: bring you deeply encouraging, practical, and inspiring stories that strengthen your faith and your parish. Essential listening if you want to hear what parish renewal looks like in real life, not just in theory. Stay subscribed for the relaunch, and if your parish has experienced an Elevated Parish Mission, or you know a story from one of these missions that needs to be told, reach out at info@elevatedparishmissions.org.

  2. Aug 30

    How Catholics Can Approach Mental Illness Without Shame

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore with Belinda Terro Mooney (author, coach, and speaker) the intersection of faith and mental health, discussing how spiritual practices and therapeutic lifestyle changes can promote healing and well-being. Belinda emphasizes the importance of understanding the connection between spirituality, genetics, and mental health, offering practical advice for those struggling with burnout, anxiety, depression, and addiction. Key topics: The connection between spirituality and mental healthMisunderstandings about mental illness in the Catholic communityGenetics and trauma as factors in mental healthPractical steps for mental wellness and spiritual growthThe importance of therapy, coaching, and medical helpThe concept of redemptive suffering and God's mercyHow addiction affects relationships and spiritual lifeThe role of saints and prayer in healing Website: https://belindaterromooney.com/ Email:  belinda@belindaterromooney.com   Link for My Therapeutic Lifestyle Changes Workbook: Creating a Comprehensive Plan for a Calm, Ordered Life https://www.amazon.com/therapeutic-lifestyle-changes-workbook-comprehensive/dp/1955225028 Articles on Catholic 365 https://www.catholic365.com/  Search for my name: Belinda Terro Mooney Social Media links: https://instagram.com/belindaterromooney/   https://facebook.com/belindaterromooney/   https://www.linkedin.com/in/belindaterromooney/  https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCdXvux59JZU_QsQhW-2BZZw https://www.pinterest.com/belindaterromooney/ Other Books: https://www.amazon.com/Pray-Us-Saint-Every-Day/dp/1639662103 www.enroutebooksandmedia.com/alookatlife https://www.amazon.com/Christ-King-Lord-History-Workbook/dp/0895556731/ https://www.amazon.com/Christ-King-Lord-History-Continuing/dp/B098WL7JM8/ https://www.amazon.com/Christ-Americas-Workbook-Study-Answer/dp/0895557444/ Other resources are: CatholicTherapist.com   https://catholictherapists.com/   CatholicLifeCoaches.com https://catholiclifecoaches.com/account/about

  3. Aug 23

    Persistence in Prayer: The Example of St. Monica

    Send us Fan Mail In this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the powerful story of Saint Monica's relentless prayer for her son, Augustine.  They discuss how her life illustrates the importance of persistent prayer, of continual faith, and of trusting in God's ultimate timing in relation to our spiritual journeys. Key Talking Points: Saint Monica's relentless prayer for her son, AugustineThe significance of persistent prayer and faithThe role of community and spiritual mentors in faith journeysThe concept of redemptive suffering and sanctificationPersistent prayer can influence divine plans and change lives.Trusting in God's timing is crucial, even when answers are delayed.Suffering and patience are integral to spiritual growth and sanctification.Let go of guilt and burdens by entrusting loved ones to God's care.Every prayer, especially those in love, is never wasted.

  4. Aug 16

    The Marian Dogmas: "Building Blocks" of Our Faith

    Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the four Marian dogmas of the Catholic Faith.  They delve into the significance of each and how they deepen our understanding of Jesus and Mary. They also discuss how the truths contained therein provide a wonderful foundation upon which to build our spiritual lives as well as give us encouragement in our daily walk with the Lord. Key topics The four Marian dogmas and their order.The authority of the church and infallibility/The dogma of Mary as Mother of God.The perpetual virginity of Mary.The Immaculate Conception and its meaning.The Assumption of Mary and its significance.

  5. Aug 9

    How the Transfiguration Inspires Hope in Our Daily Lives

    Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound Biblical event of the Transfiguration of Jesus, its significance, and how it offers us perspective and hope in our daily lives. Join them as they unpack this pivotal moment and its relevance to today. Key topics The Biblical account of the Transfiguration (Luke 9:28-36).The significance of Jesus' divine light and appearance.The role of Moses and Elijah in the Transfiguration.The importance of perspective and spiritual vision.How moments of clarity can strengthen faith during trials.The connection between the Transfiguration and Jesus' upcoming Passion.The message of listening to Jesus from the cloud.The impact of divine encounters on believers' lives.The importance of sharing faith experiences.Applying the Transfiguration's lessons to daily life.

  6. Aug 2

    Building Community: A Spiritual Perspective

    Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground, Brian Hough and Martin Wajten explore the profound importance of friendship, community, and authentic relationships in our lives. They share personal stories, Biblical insights, and practical tips on fostering meaningful connections that enrich our spiritual and emotional well-being. Key topics The significance of friendship and community in spiritual life.Biblical examples of friendship, including Jesus and his disciples.The impact of modern loneliness and the need for authentic connection.Practical ways to foster meaningful relationships.The spiritual and health benefits of friendship and community.

  7. Jul 26

    The Power of Grandparents in Building Family Legacy

    Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound impact of grandparents and elders in shaping family legacy and community culture. They discuss how intergenerational connections and shared wisdom can build resilient, faith-filled families and parishes. Key Topics The role of grandparents in passing down faith and values.The impact of intergenerational relationships on community strength.Examples of legacy from Martin's and Brian's families.The importance of active engagement across all ages in parish life.Strategies for fostering family and parish connections.

  8. Jul 19

    The Power of Sacramentals: Connecting Body and Soul in Faith

    Send us Fan Mail Summary In this episode of Higher Ground, Martin Watjen and Brian Hough explore the profound significance of physical sacramentals in the Catholic faith, including the brown scapular, holy water, and the power of touch in healing. They discuss how these tangible objects and actions deepen our spiritual connection with the Lord and serve as reminders of our devotion to Christ and Mary. Key topics The importance of physicality in faith and spirituality.The role of sacramentals in our spiritual walk.The Biblical and Church support for the use of sacramentals in our Faith.The connection between body, soul, and spiritual practices.The significance of touch and physical objects in healing and devotion.

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Welcome to Higher Ground, the ultimate podcast by Elevated Parish Missions that takes you on a captivating journey through the Catholic Faith! 🌟 Each episode is packed with fresh insights and perspectives, transforming familiar topics into eye-opening discussions. While we rarely feature guests, our focus is on delivering powerful content that sparks reflection and inspires action. At the end of every episode, you'll receive a practical call to action, empowering you to weave the discussed themes into your daily life. 🎧 Tune in for thought-provoking conversations that elevate your spiritual journey and help you reach for Higher Ground. Don't miss out on this enriching experience!

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