The Church Podcast

Christopher Wesley
  • 5.0 (20)
  • RELIGION
  • UPDATED WEEKLY

Each episode features conversations with people from various backgrounds, exploring the real side of ministry. We discuss insights and learnings from the local and national landscape, enriching our understanding of the ministry's impact.

  1. Episode 046 – Called to Lead and Questions Worth Living with John Rinaldo

    2D AGO

    Episode 046 – Called to Lead and Questions Worth Living with John Rinaldo

    In this episode of The Church Podcast, Christopher sits down once again with longtime friend and pastoral leader John Rinaldo for a wide-ranging conversation on leadership, accompaniment, and formation in the Church today. John shares about a new season of ministry that includes launching the podcast Called to Lead, founding Accompaniment Partners, and continuing his work as an adjunct lecturer at Santa Clara University. Together, they explore what it means to lead faithfully amid complexity, why accompaniment is more demanding than it sounds, and how leaders can resist the urge to rush toward solutions instead of formation. The conversation closes with a reflective invitation for listeners to consider the questions they are living with—not to solve them quickly, but to let them shape how they lead.

    50 min
  2. Episode 045 – Ministry Questions We’re Afraid to Ask (Q&A Edition)

    12/23/2025

    Episode 045 – Ministry Questions We’re Afraid to Ask (Q&A Edition)

    In Episode 045 of The Church Podcast, host Christopher Wesley dives into the often-untouched questions surrounding ministry in our Q&A edition. As we wrap up the 2025 season, Christopher addresses anonymous listener inquiries, tackling the challenges of engaging parents in their children’s faith formation and navigating the delicate balance of holding others accountable without seeming judgmental. He emphasizes the importance of building relationships within ministry, listening actively, and seeking community support. Whether you're feeling burnt out or striving for deeper connections, this episode offers practical insights and encouragement for ministry leaders, ensuring you’re equipped as we transition into the new year. Tune in for a thoughtful exploration that aims to uplift and empower your ministry journey.

    27 min
  3. Episode 044 – The Maronite Tradition and the Next Generation with Fr. Chris Nahra

    12/16/2025

    Episode 044 – The Maronite Tradition and the Next Generation with Fr. Chris Nahra

    In this rich and wide-ranging episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with Father Chris Nahra, Associate Pastor at St. Sharbel Maronite Catholic Church in Clinton Township, Michigan. As a priest formed in the ancient Syriac tradition—and as a national leader in Maronite youth ministry—Fr. Chris brings a passionate and deeply pastoral perspective to the challenges and hopes of the young Church. Together, Christopher and Fr. Chris explore the beauty of the Maronite Catholic tradition, from its roots in the monastic witness of St. Maron to its poetic, symbolic, and contemplative liturgy. They discuss why young people today are increasingly drawn to ancient forms of worship, how a culture of belonging transforms a parish, and what Eastern and Western Catholics can learn from one another as the Church seeks renewal. Fr. Chris also shares his own vocational story—beginning with a life-changing encounter at a Maronite youth conference—and opens up about the joys, challenges, and surprises of ministering to a generation facing unprecedented loneliness and spiritual hunger. For more on the episode visit us at thechurchpodcast.org

    52 min
  4. Episode 043 – Reboot: Start the Year Strong — Habits, Focus, and the Power of One Word

    12/09/2025

    Episode 043 – Reboot: Start the Year Strong — Habits, Focus, and the Power of One Word

    In this episode of The Church Podcast, I reflect on the transition into a new year while also embracing the current Advent season. Together with John, we explore the powerful concept of choosing one word to guide our goals and aspirations for the year ahead. With the hustle of holiday preparations, it’s easy to overlook the importance of personal growth and leadership development. We discuss how focusing on a single word can simplify our resolutions and help us create actionable habits. Whether you're a seasoned leader or just starting out, this episode is filled with insights on setting intentions for the upcoming year. Join us as we delve into the significance of discipline, collaboration, and the unique phases of life that shape our journeys in ministry.

    38 min
  5. Episode 042 – The Call of the Laity: Listening, Formation, and Mission with Maria Parker

    12/02/2025

    Episode 042 – The Call of the Laity: Listening, Formation, and Mission with Maria Parker

    In Episode 042 of The Church Podcast, I sit down with Dr. Maria Parker, Assistant Director for The Laity at the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops. Together, we explore the vital role of the laity in the Church, focusing on listening, formation, and mission. Maria shares her inspiring journey from teaching in Philadelphia to her work with FOCUS and now at the USCCB, emphasizing how the Church is helping laity rediscover their baptismal identity. As we discuss the Listen.Teach.Send. initiative, we reflect on the Holy Spirit's active role in awakening discipleship and engaging the laity in their unique callings. This conversation serves as a timely reminder during Advent that we are all called to live out our faith intentionally and authentically in our communities. Tune in for insights that encourage and empower your ministry journey.

    58 min
  6. Episode 041 – Future Focused Faith: Trust, Change, and the Next Generation with Kara Powell

    11/25/2025

    Episode 041 – Future Focused Faith: Trust, Change, and the Next Generation with Kara Powell

    In this inspiring and wisdom-filled episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with Dr. Kara Powell, Chief of Leadership Formation and Executive Director of the Fuller Youth Institute at Fuller Theological Seminary. Kara is also one of the founders of the TENx10 Collaboration and co-author of Future Focused Church, Growing Young, and 3 Big Questions That Shape Your Future. Together, Christopher and Kara explore what it takes to form young people in an age of distrust, disconnection, and change. Kara shares her own story—from cleaning a youth room kitchen in high school to becoming one of the most respected voices in leadership and ministry formation today. They discuss why listening, mentorship, and trust are the essential building blocks for reaching Gen Z and Gen Alpha, how 10x10 is helping churches work together ecumenically, and why sustainable change in ministry is more like a crockpot than a microwave. Key Takeaways Trust Is Built Through Presence: In a culture of distrust, small consistent acts—like checking in, showing up, and listening—build credibility with young people. The Three Barriers to Mentorship: Adults often hesitate because they feel too busy, not spiritual enough, or not “cool” enough—but real ministry only requires warmth, not perfection. Mental Health and Hope: Gen Z faces unprecedented levels of anxiety, but they are also more open than ever to authentic, caring relationships with trusted adults. Church Change Takes Time: 70% of organizational change efforts fail. Kara shares the Here, There, Who, and How framework from Future Focused Church to help parishes move from vision to transformation. Collaboration Is Essential: TENx10 is uniting Catholic, Protestant, and Orthodox leaders to make faith matter more for 10 million young people in the next 10 years. Slow Is Sustainable: Real change in ministry happens through listening, relationship, and patience—embracing the “crockpot” pace of the Holy Spirit. For more visit https://thechurchpodcast.org

    54 min
  7. Episode 040 – Faith on Campus: Discipleship, Discernment, and the Next Generation with Brian Rhude

    11/18/2025

    Episode 040 – Faith on Campus: Discipleship, Discernment, and the Next Generation with Brian Rhude

    In Episode 040 of The Church Podcast, I sit down with Brian Rhude, campus minister at Towson University’s Newman Center, to explore the evolving landscape of campus ministry. Brian shares his remarkable journey from culinary school to campus ministry, highlighting the vital role of mentorship and discipleship for today’s young adults. We discuss the challenges college students face in balancing their faith with academic and social pressures, and how ministries can better support them. Brian emphasizes the importance of placing Christ at the center of life and the need for intergenerational relationships in the Church. Join us as we delve into the unique dynamics of faith on campus and the call to accompany the next generation in their spiritual journeys.

    1h 6m
  8. Episode 039 – Faith Meets the Feed: Storytelling, Strategy, and Stewardship with Katie Hinderer

    11/11/2025

    Episode 039 – Faith Meets the Feed: Storytelling, Strategy, and Stewardship with Katie Hinderer

    In this insightful and practical episode, Christopher Wesley sits down with Katie Hinderer, founder and CEO of Rosebud Social, a digital marketing agency helping Catholic and mission-driven organizations tell their stories online with clarity and creativity. From journalism to social media strategy, Katie shares her journey of discovering how faith and innovation can meet in the digital space. Together, they explore the intersection of communication, culture, and mission—how parishes, schools, and ministries can move beyond event flyers and start sharing authentic stories that evoke belonging, inspire trust, and build real community. Katie also offers a behind-the-scenes look at how she leads a remote creative team, integrates AI tools ethically, and balances hustle with holiness. Key Takeaways The Power of Presence Online: The Church must reclaim its place as a leader in art, culture, and digital storytelling—not just participate. Authenticity Over Aesthetics: The most effective posts tell human stories, not just share information. People want to see faces, not flyers. Consistency Builds Trust: Posting regularly (at least three times a week) signals life and vibrancy within your parish or organization. Faith and AI Can Coexist: Tools like ChatGPT can enhance creativity, save time, and aid discernment—if used responsibly. Healthy Hustle: Rest, boundaries, and sabbath rhythms aren’t optional extras; they’re essential for sustainable leadership. Team Care: Leadership means modeling rest—Katie enforces tech breaks, creative Fridays, and digital sabbaths for her staff. For more on this episode visit https://thechurchpodcast.org

    55 min
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About

Each episode features conversations with people from various backgrounds, exploring the real side of ministry. We discuss insights and learnings from the local and national landscape, enriching our understanding of the ministry's impact.

Information

  • Creator
    Christopher Wesley
  • Years Active
    2017 - 2026
  • Episodes
    130
  • Rating
    Clean