6 days ago
153| What Parish Renewal Really Looks Like
What does parish renewal actually look like when it moves from ideas into real parish life? In this special replay from the 2025 Rebuilt Conference, Melissa Wilkinson sits down with a panel of parish leaders who have spent years putting the Rebuilt model into practice. Together, they share honest stories from the field, including what their parishes were facing before coaching, the hesitations and resistance they encountered, and the progress they have seen through faithful, intentional leadership.
You will hear from leaders serving in very different parish contexts, from multicultural communities to collaborative parishes to growing suburban churches. What ties their stories together is not a perfect formula, but a willingness to take the next step. They talk about leadership, weekend experience, communication, small groups, resistance to change, and the importance of staying focused on mission.
This conversation is encouraging for any pastor or parish staff member who knows renewal is needed but is unsure where to begin. If your parish feels stuck, overwhelmed, or hesitant to make a change, this episode offers both practical wisdom and real hope.
Key Takeaways
- Renewal often begins with one clear step, not a full overhaul.
- Strong leadership teams create the foundation for lasting parish change.
- A better weekend experience can become a catalyst for wider renewal.
- Resistance is normal, but clarity, conviction, and communication matter.
- Coaching helps parish leaders move from inspiration to action.
Featured Guests
- Analia Kolikowski, Pastoral Associate, Church of St. John the Apostle, East Stroudsburg, Pennsylvania
- Fr. Roger Gustafson, Pastor, St. Hilary Parish, Tiburon, California
- Fr. Mark Peacock, Pastor, Holy Spirit Parish, Grand Rapids, Michigan
- Cathy O’Leary, Creative Director, New Roads Catholic Community, Belmont, Massachusetts
Strong parishes are built on strong leadership. Get a clear picture of where your leadership is today and where it can grow with our free Leadership Self Evaluation. https://download.rebuiltparish.com/leadershipevaluation
Why This Episode Matters
If you have ever wondered whether renewal could really happen in your parish, this conversation offers a grounded and hopeful answer. These leaders share what changed when they stopped trying to do everything at once and instead took faithful steps forward with vision, courage, and support.
Listener Invitation
Want to see what parish renewal can look like in real life? Listen in and consider what one next step God may be inviting your parish to take.
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/
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