The Rebuilt Parish Podcast
The Rebuilt Parish Podcast exists to equip pastors and parish leaders to help make church matter in their community.
The Rebuilt Parish Podcast exists to equip pastors and parish leaders to help make church matter in their community.
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Episodes

2 days ago
2 days ago
37 min
What can a parish accomplish in less than a year when its leaders are willing to pray, experiment, and take the next right step?
In this episode, Melissa Wilkinson speaks with Father Norm Douglas and Deacon Andy Davis of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Akron, Ohio. Since beginning Rebuilt Parish Coaching, their parish has formed a strategic leadership team, introduced message series, strengthened collaboration with the pastoral council, developed small groups, expanded digital outreach, and begun creating a more consistent message across the parish and school.
Father Norm and Deacon Andy share how they navigated resistance to change without leaving people behind, built momentum through smaller and more manageable initiatives, and learned to plan ahead rather than responding to each season at the last minute.
Their experience offers a hopeful reminder for parish leaders: meaningful progress does not always begin with one enormous change. Often, it begins with prayer, the right people, and the courage to experiment.
Read the First Chapter Free
Every person is searching for something more: more meaning, more purpose, and more of the life God created us to experience.
In their new book, Jesus, the Rich Young Man, and the Meaning of Life, Fr. Michael White and Tom Corcoran explore Jesus’ encounter with the rich young man and what it teaches us about faith, generosity, surrender, and the things we hold most tightly.
Read the first chapter for free at rebuiltparish.com/book and begin reflecting on how this Gospel encounter could speak to you, your leadership, and your parish.
In This Episode
How St. Vincent de Paul began responding to declining attendance
Why the parish created a strategic leadership team
How the leadership team and pastoral council work together
Why frequent leadership meetings improve focus and follow-through
How message series create consistency without limiting a preacher’s voice
Ways to extend one message across Mass, small groups, meetings, faith formation, and school
How annual planning helps parish leaders move beyond last-minute preparation
Why experimentation is essential for parish growth
How small, achievable changes can build momentum
Encouragement for leaders discerning their parish’s next right step
Timestamps
00:03 Meet Father Norm and Deacon Andy01:24 Two Different Perspectives on Parish Leadership03:37 The Story of St. Vincent de Paul Parish06:00 Father Norm’s Unexpected Arrival07:24 Beginning Coaching Without Changing Everything09:04 Forming a Strategic Leadership Team10:35 Why the Leadership Team Meets Weekly12:37 Connecting the Pastoral Council and Leadership Team14:57 Introducing Message Series18:23 Making Prayer More Than an Agenda Item19:47 Bringing One Message Across the Parish22:07 Connecting the Message to the Parish School23:18 The Value of Annual Planning25:04 Moving Beyond Last-Minute Ministry26:16 Experimenting with Podcasts and Video28:34 The Common Thread: Do Not Be Afraid29:45 Choosing the Next Right Step31:11 Learning from Practices That Work33:27 Building Momentum Through Small Changes
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
parish leadership, Catholic parish growth, parish coaching, strategic leadership team, pastoral council, message series, Catholic evangelization, parish planning, annual ministry plan, parish school, small groups, leadership development, parish communication, discipleship, church growth, St. Vincent de Paul Akron, Father Norm Douglas, Deacon Andy Davis, Rebuilt Parish

Aug 6, 2026
Aug 6, 2026
53 min
What helps a parishioner move from simply attending a parish to investing deeply in its mission?
In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson and Tom Corcoran sit down with Nativity parishioner, real estate investor, and philanthropist Wayne Gioioso. Wayne offers parish leaders a valuable perspective from the other side of the stewardship conversation: what inspires someone to give, what builds trust, and what pastors should understand before making an invitation.
Wayne shares how Scripture, mentors, Catholic education, and the Ignatian Spiritual Exercises shaped his faith and approach to generosity. He also explains how the principles that guided his business life, including focus, discipline, authenticity, and delayed gratification, became part of the framework he uses when deciding where and how to give.
For pastors and parish leaders who feel uncomfortable discussing money, Wayne offers clear encouragement. Generous parishioners are often willing to meet, listen, and help when they believe in the mission and trust the person making the invitation. The key is to build real relationships, communicate authentically, and invite people to participate without using pressure or guilt.
This conversation will help parish leaders better understand the hearts and perspectives of high-capacity givers while offering practical wisdom for building a healthier culture of generosity.
Read the First Chapter Free
Every person is searching for something more: more meaning, more purpose, and more of the life God created us to experience.
In their new book, Jesus, the Rich Young Man, and the Meaning of Life, Fr. Michael White and Tom Corcoran explore Jesus’ encounter with the rich young man and what it teaches us about faith, generosity, surrender, and the things we hold most tightly.
Read the first chapter for free at rebuiltparish.com/book and begin reflecting on how this Gospel encounter could speak to you, your leadership, and your parish.
Key Points
Why high-capacity givers want to understand and trust the mission
How a parishioner’s faith formation shapes generosity
Why relationships should come before financial invitations
What authenticity looks like from a giver’s perspective
How pastors can overcome their fear of asking
Why parish leaders should invite rather than pressure
How a clear vision helps people give with confidence
Why generous people often bring their professional frameworks into their giving
The importance of focusing resources where they can make the greatest impact
How Catholic education and spiritual mentors can plant lifelong seeds
Why an initial “no” may not be the end of the conversation
How giving can deepen a parishioner’s relationship with God and the Church
Timestamps
00:00 – Introduction
00:38 – Wayne’s Family and Professional Background
02:29 – Finding His Path into Real Estate
04:40 – Wisdom, Discipline, and Delayed Gratification
08:14 – Developing a Focused Business Model
09:44 – Avoiding Ego and Shiny Objects
11:08 – Wayne’s Faith Background
13:40 – Reading the Gospel of John to His Grandfather
15:45 – Rediscovering Scripture
16:14 – The Influence of a Spiritual Director
17:18 – The Ignatian Spiritual Exercises
19:22 – Learning Generosity Through Mentorship
20:53 – A Teacher Who Planted a Seed
23:16 – The Impact of Catholic Education
24:02 – Developing a Framework for Giving
25:20 – Giving from What You Have Received
26:07 – The Joy and Sacrifice of Generosity
27:17 – A Memorable Invitation to Support Nativity
30:49 – The More You Give, the More You Receive
32:02 – Focused and Intentional Philanthropy
35:29 – Understanding How Givers Think
36:24 – How Wayne Found Nativity
40:53 – Generosity Beyond Financial Gifts
41:49 – Advice for Pastors Asking for Support
42:28 – Why Authenticity Matters
45:12 – Building Relationships Before Making an Ask
45:47 – Overcoming the Fear of Asking
47:25 – Inviting Without Guilt or Pressure
49:09 – Final Encouragement for Parish Leaders
A Practical Takeaway for Pastors
Pastors do not need to become professional fundraisers. They do need to know their people.
Spend time with parishioners. Listen to their stories, understand what matters to them, and share clearly where God is leading the parish. When the relationship and mission are authentic, an invitation to give can become an opportunity for deeper discipleship rather than an uncomfortable transaction.
Some parishioners may respond immediately. Others may need time to pray, discern, or see the vision more clearly. A respectful invitation can plant a seed that bears fruit well beyond the first conversation.
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 stewardship, parish stewardship, high-capacity givers, major gifts, Catholic philanthropy, parish fundraising, church fundraising, stewardship for pastors, Catholic pastors, parish leadership, Catholic parish leaders, donor relationships, building donor relationships, asking parishioners for money, generosity and faith, Christian generosity, Catholic generosity, culture of generosity, stewardship as discipleship, authentic leadership, relational ministry, parish vision, faith and business, Catholic business leader, Catholic entrepreneur, Catholic education, Ignatian spirituality, Ignatian Spiritual Exercises, Gospel of John, Book of Proverbs, Jesus and the rich young man, Church of the Nativity, Rebuilt Parish, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Wayne Gioioso, Tom Corcoran, Melissa Wilkinson

Jul 30, 2026
Jul 30, 2026
52 min
In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson sits down with Bill Baird, Rebuilt Parish’s new Executive Director. Bill has been part of Rebuilt for years as a coach, parishioner at Nativity, and leader, bringing experience from the business world, diocesan leadership, parish consulting, and parish coaching.
Bill shares how God has shaped his path from finance to parish renewal, what he is hearing from pastors and parish leaders across the country, and why Rebuilt’s work begins with accompanying pastors and their teams. Together, Melissa and Bill talk about the challenges facing parishes today, the call to look beyond the four walls, the importance of activating the “silent majority,” and how generosity, leadership, and prayer all play a role in making disciples.
This conversation is full of encouragement for pastors, parish staff, and ministry leaders who are longing to see renewal take root in their communities.
To connect with Bill Baird directly, email bill@rebuiltparish.com.
To join the Rebuilt Conference insiders list and be the first to hear about early bird pricing, speakers, and event updates, visit rebuiltparish.com/conference.
Timestamps
00:04 Introduction to Bill Baird01:00 Bill’s background in business, diocesan leadership, and parish renewal03:09 Understanding parish life and diocesan life04:48 Bill’s faith formation and diaconate studies06:53 The Institute for Evangelization and the road to Emmaus09:08 Challenges facing parish leaders today11:16 Looking beyond the four walls of the parish12:05 Serving the whole community, not just Catholics15:36 Meeting young families where they are17:24 Demystifying evangelization19:01 The growth of Rebuilt parish coaching20:22 Activating the silent majority22:50 Loving those who resist change24:26 Giving as an act of worship28:27 How donor generosity supports parish renewal31:38 What transformation looks like in coaching33:50 Helping pastors rediscover joy in their priesthood35:38 Building teams around the pastor38:52 The momentum of the Rebuilt Conference39:17 Why pastors and teams should come to the conference46:35 What Bill is praying for as Rebuilt looks ahead48:22 Prayer as the foundation of Rebuilt’s work
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, parish coaching, Catholic leadership, Catholic podcast, parish transformation, Bill Baird, Catholic evangelization, discipleship, Catholic discipleship, parish leadership, Catholic pastors, parish staff, parish teams, parish renewal movement, Church of the Nativity, Catholic parish growth, parish mission, Catholic Church renewal, Rebuilt Conference, Catholic generosity, stewardship, giving as worship, Catholic ministry, evangelization strategy, parish culture, small groups, weekend experience, Catholic community, ministry leadership

Jul 23, 2026
Jul 23, 2026
32 min
What does it actually look like to invite a Rebuilt Parish speaker into your parish?
In this episode of The Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson talks with Fr. Roger Gustafson, pastor of St. Hilary Parish in Tiburon, California, about his experience bringing multiple Rebuilt speakers to his parish over time. Fr. Roger shares how these speaking events helped strengthen parish vision, encourage parishioners, and support the work of parish renewal at St. Hilary.
A major focus of the conversation is Tom Corcoran’s Rebuilt Faith mission and the way it helped parishioners better understand discipleship, not as an abstract idea, but as a practical invitation to follow Jesus more intentionally. Through clear teaching, real parish experience, and a framework that emerged through the conversation, Fr. Roger reflects on how outside voices can help reinforce the mission pastors are already trying to lead.
This episode is especially helpful for pastors, parish staff, and Catholic ministry leaders who are wondering whether a Rebuilt speaker, parish mission, or faith formation event could help their parish take a next step.
Join us for the next Rebuilt Conference and experience practical formation, encouragement, and renewal alongside parish leaders from across the country. Rebuiltconference.com
Timestamps
00:00 — Welcome to The Rebuilt Parish Podcast01:00 — Meet Fr. Roger Gustafon of St. Hilary Parish03:00 — Why St. Hilary invited Rebuilt speakers to the parish06:00 — The impact of bringing in outside voices09:00 — What Tom Corcoran brought through the Rebuilt Faith mission13:00 — Helping parishioners understand discipleship more clearly17:00 — The framework for parish transformation that emerged21:00 — How multiple Rebuilt speakers helped build momentum25:00 — What other pastors should know before inviting a speaker29:00 — How parish missions can support renewal and next steps32:00 — Final encouragement for parish leaders
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, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, parish renewal podcast, Catholic parish leadership, Catholic parish mission, Catholic parish speakers, Tom Corcoran, Rebuilt Faith, Fr. Roger Gustafon, St. Hilary Parish Tiburon, Catholic discipleship, parish discipleship, Catholic evangelization, parish transformation, Catholic pastors, parish staff, Catholic ministry leaders, parish growth, Catholic parish coaching, Church of the Nativity, Catholic leadership, Catholic faith formation, parish mission speaker, Catholic parish mission speaker, Catholic Church renewal, discipleship in the Catholic Church

Jul 16, 2026
Jul 16, 2026
44 min
On this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa welcomes back Abby Daniels and introduces Andrea Zubiri-Flynn from St. Joseph Catholic Church in Libertyville, Illinois, to talk about a milestone many parishes dream about: reaching 10,000 followers on Instagram.
Abby and Andrea share how their parish moved from simply posting announcements to creating intentional, engaging, and mission-focused content that helps them reach the next generation, connect with parishioners, and grow wider online. They talk about the value of real photos, parishioner stories, clergy involvement, trending content, and building a media ministry that includes multiple generations.
This conversation is full of practical encouragement for parish leaders who know social media matters but feel overwhelmed by where to begin. Abby and Andrea remind us that digital outreach does not have to be complicated. Sometimes it starts with taking one photo, sharing one moment, answering one DM, and trusting that God can work even through the algorithm.
Follow St. Joseph Catholic Church in Libertyville, Illinois on Instagram @sjlibertyville to see examples of the posts, reels, and parish communications Abby and Andrea discussed in this episode.
Join us for the next Rebuilt Conference and experience practical formation, encouragement, and renewal alongside parish leaders from across the country. Rebuiltconference.com
Timestamps:
00:03 – Welcome back, Abby, and welcome, Andrea00:29 – Why this episode is focused on parish social media growth00:59 – Abby reintroduces herself and her role at St. Joe’s01:27 – Andrea introduces herself and her communications role01:51 – What reaching 10,000 Instagram followers meant to the team03:37 – The Taylor Swift reel and using cultural moments creatively05:35 – Shifting from announcements to intentional engagement07:47 – Moving from “asking” to “giving” on social media09:14 – What kinds of posts perform best10:00 – Interactive posts and building community conversation11:20 – Why real photos matter more than polished flyers12:29 – Making parishioners feel seen online13:53 – Using trending audio and social media trends carefully16:57 – First steps for parishes that feel overwhelmed by social media18:50 – Creating content that is engaging and still points to Jesus22:35 – Social media as a welcoming front door to parish life23:29 – Systems, habits, and planning rhythms for consistency24:31 – Using a content calendar and an “eight-to-one” nourishment ratio25:04 – Building a media ministry and layers of leaders26:32 – Involving teens and multiple generations in content creation28:31 – How Instagram growth is leading to deeper engagement29:35 – DMs as a new kind of parish office31:35 – Encouragement for pastors and parish leaders who feel unsure37:01 – Abby’s experience at the Rebuilt Conference39:29 – Professional growth, personal encounter, and parish renewal40:59 – Final encouragement and where to follow St. Joe’s
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 social media, parish Instagram growth, Catholic Instagram, parish communications, church communications, Catholic communications, digital evangelization, Catholic digital outreach, parish renewal, Rebuilt Parish, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, St. Joseph Catholic Church Libertyville, Abby Daniels, Andrea Severe Flynn, reaching the next generation, Catholic youth ministry, parish media ministry, Catholic leadership, parish leadership, Catholic parish growth, grow wider, grow deeper, layers of leaders, church social media strategy, Instagram for churches, Catholic evangelization, Catholic parish marketing, Catholic parish outreach, parish engagement, social media ministry, digital discipleship

Jul 9, 2026
Jul 9, 2026
53 min
In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson and Tom Corcoran sit down with Frank Kelly III of Kelly Benefits for a conversation about faith, business, leadership, and evangelization in everyday life. Frank shares how his faith moved from his head to his heart during his college lacrosse years, how the Holy Spirit led him back home to Baltimore and into the family business, and how Kelly Benefits has grown with a mission rooted in honoring God and blessing people.
This conversation is a powerful one to share with parishioners, especially those living out their faith in the workplace. Frank reminds us that discipleship is not limited to church ministry. Whether in business, family, athletics, leadership, or everyday conversations, we are invited to love God, love others, and go make disciples.
To learn more about Frank, his story, his speaking, and his books, visit FrankKellyIII.com. Frank’s website includes more about his leadership, faith, family, and business background, as well as access to his books, including Love and Go, Influence and The Creator’s Game, and Look & See.
00:03 – Welcome and introduction to Frank Kelly III00:43 – Frank shares his background, family, and the start of Kelly Benefits03:28 – Living an integrated life of faith04:00 – Frank’s college conversion story through football and lacrosse08:50 – Missionary work in Japan and hearing God’s call home11:18 – Baltimore, business, school, lacrosse, and friends13:11 – Entering the family business on a “one-year” commitment16:14 – Understanding God’s purpose and our unique purpose19:29 – The early days of Kelly Benefits and dedicating the business to God20:53 – Writing a mission statement and building a faith-rooted organization22:11 – Mission, values, pillars, and Scripture in business26:43 – Helping employees grow personally and professionally30:33 – Wellness, generosity, and giving as a witness32:57 – Stewardship, giving, and Nativity’s teaching on generosity35:38 – Frank’s books and the message behind Love and Go39:30 – Why sharing failures matters for leaders40:03 – What Frank learned from Nativity, Rebuilt, and parish renewal44:23 – Finding and encouraging the “Franks” in your parish46:06 – God winks, Rebuilt, and sharing truth with other parishes48:09 – Where to find Frank’s books and resources49:36 – The Creator’s Game and coming to know the Creator50:55 – Final thoughts and closing
To join the Rebuilt Conference insiders list and be the first to hear about early bird pricing, speakers, and event updates, visit rebuiltparish.com/conference
Catholic podcast, Catholic business leader, faith in business, Frank Kelly III, Kelly Benefits, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Catholic leadership, Catholic evangelization, parish renewal, discipleship, Catholic discipleship, living your faith at work, faith and work, Catholic workplace witness, Christian business leadership, Catholic business, stewardship, generosity, Holy Spirit, Catholic conversion story, lacrosse faith story, Love and Go, Catholic small groups, Church of the Nativity, Tom Corcoran, Melissa Wilkinson, Fr Michael White, parish leadership, Catholic parish leaders, making disciples, Catholic testimony, Catholic family business, faith and leadership
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

Jul 2, 2026
Jul 2, 2026
53 min
In this episode of the Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Melissa Wilkinson and Tom Corcoran sit down with Natalie Marts, a Chick-fil-A owner/operator and parish leader at Church of the Nativity. Natalie shares her story of entrepreneurship, faith, leadership, and stewardship, from buying her first business at 19 years old to leading a thriving Chick-fil-A team in Towson, Maryland.
Together, they explore what parish leaders can learn from business leadership, including how to balance relationships and results, build layers of leadership, develop young people, hire the right people, and create a healthy culture. Natalie also shares a powerful story about praying before 70,000 people at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl and how God often prepares us before we even know what he is asking of us.
This conversation is full of practical “nuggets” for pastors, parish staff, ministry leaders, and anyone working to build a healthier, mission-driven parish culture.
Key Takeaways
Parish leaders are called to be both relational and results-oriented. Caring for people does not mean avoiding accountability.
Stewardship is not just about money. It is about recognizing that everything entrusted to us belongs to God.
Healthy leadership requires layers. Growth depends on building teams, developing leaders, and giving people ownership.
The personal ask matters. Many gifted leaders in the parish will not step forward until someone personally invites them.
Culture is everyone’s job. It is shaped by what leaders model, celebrate, and tolerate.
Want to be part of what’s next? Join the Rebuilt Conference insiders list at rebuiltparish.com/conference to be the first to hear about early bird pricing, speaker announcements, event updates, and everything you need to start planning who from your parish should be in the room.
00:00 Introduction00:50 Natalie’s faith journey and path to Chick-fil-A05:38 How early mentors shaped Natalie’s entrepreneurial leadership08:26 Developing young people through work and leadership09:32 Balancing relationships and results11:15 Why clear expectations and hard conversations matter14:26 Stewardship as a foundation for leadership17:25 Leading through challenges with prayer and trust20:47 The importance of having someone who challenges your thinking22:16 Working with different gifts and shared leadership25:27 When God is protecting or preparing you27:08 Praying at the Chick-fil-A Peach Bowl31:38 Building layers of leadership in a large team36:11 Why leaders cannot wear every hat forever38:33 Getting the right people in the right seats40:17 Hiring, recruiting, and protecting culture46:21 Why parish leaders should personally ask business leaders to serve48:55 Culture is everyone’s job50:03 Closing thoughts
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 leadership, parish renewal, Rebuilt Parish, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, Chick-fil-A leadership, Natalie Marts, Catholic leadership, parish culture, church leadership, Catholic business leadership, stewardship, parish stewardship, leadership development, ministry leadership, Catholic ministry, parish staff, pastors, parish leaders, Catholic evangelization, discipleship, team culture, volunteer leadership, business leaders in the Church, leadership layers, Church of the Nativity, Tom Corcoran, Melissa Wilkinson

Jun 25, 2026
Jun 25, 2026
51 min
Young adults are searching for truth, belonging, and something deeper than what the culture is offering. In this episode, Melissa Wilkinson welcomes Rachel Herbeck from Renewal Ministries for a conversation about reaching Gen Z and young adults with the Gospel.
Rachel shares what she is seeing in the next generation, why many young people are becoming more open to the Church, and how parishes can be ready to welcome them. She talks about the importance of authentic community, clear proclamation of Jesus Christ, and meeting people where they are.
From coffee shops and gyms to homes, small groups, and parish life, Rachel reminds us that evangelization is not extra. It is part of being Catholic. This episode will encourage parish leaders to look beyond programs and begin creating real pathways of welcome, relationship, and discipleship.
Learn more about Renewal Ministries: renewalministries.net
Timestamps
00:00 Welcome and introduction02:03 Rachel’s story and her work with Renewal Ministries04:37 What young adults are looking for today09:14 Why Gen Z is becoming more open to faith12:04 Why young adults are really looking for Jesus14:29 The power of a simple welcome18:55 How Renewal Ministries helps young people encounter Christ20:38 Small groups, adoration, run clubs, and real relationship22:41 Meeting young adults where they already are25:44 Evangelization in coffee shops, gyms, and everyday life36:29 Walking with people for the long haul41:51 Encouragement for pastors and parish leaders46:47 Where to learn more about Rachel and Renewal Ministries
To join the Rebuilt Conference insiders list and be the first to hear about early bird pricing, speakers, and event updates, visit rebuiltparish.com/conference.
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
Gen Z, young adults, Catholic young adults, Catholic evangelization, parish evangelization, reaching young adults, Catholic parish renewal, Renewal Ministries, Rachel Herbeck, young adult ministry, Catholic discipleship, Catholic podcast, Rebuilt Parish Podcast, parish leadership, Catholic parish leadership, Catholic Church, Catholic faith, Catholic youth ministry, next generation Catholic, Catholic community, parish hospitality, Catholic ministry, evangelization, discipleship, missionary discipleship, Catholic Gen Z, young Catholics, Catholic young women, Be Love Revolution, prayer, Scripture, adoration, Catholic small groups, parish life, Catholic pastors, parish staff, Catholic leaders, Church renewal, encounter Jesus, welcome ministry, Catholic parish growth, Catholic inspiration, faith and culture, returning to Church, young adults coming back to Church


