Jun 25, 2026
165| Rachel Herbeck on Evangelization, Young Adults, and The Next Generation
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 introduction
02:03 Rachel’s story and her work with Renewal Ministries
04:37 What young adults are looking for today
09:14 Why Gen Z is becoming more open to faith
12:04 Why young adults are really looking for Jesus
14:29 The power of a simple welcome
18:55 How Renewal Ministries helps young people encounter Christ
20:38 Small groups, adoration, run clubs, and real relationship
22:41 Meeting young adults where they already are
25:44 Evangelization in coffee shops, gyms, and everyday life
36:29 Walking with people for the long haul
41:51 Encouragement for pastors and parish leaders
46:47 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/
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
No comments yet. Be the first to say something!