Episode 114: From the Archives: Are We Sacramentalized but not Evangelized?

Sherry Weddell, in her great book Forming Intentional Disciples, suggests that we have raised Catholics who are “sacramentalized, but not evangelized.” Wow! Powerful statement!

In this archived episode, Chris and John begin the first episode of a series looking at sacramental preparation programs and how we can evangelize as well as sacramentalize. At the center of this conversation is this idea that Weddell shares:

“If our pastoral practice is to be life-changing, then we must be acutely aware that the reception of a valid sacrament and the fruitful reception of sacramental grace are two different but related issues. Validity means that the sacrament was truly bestowed and the intended grace made truly present to the person receiving the sacrament. But validity does not guarantee that the grace made available has been actively received and is bearing fruit in that person’s life.” –pg. 99

Episode 113: From the Archives: Greeters, Ushers, and Hospitality: Helping People Feel Welcomed at Church

Do people feel welcome in your church? That is a question that all ministry leaders need to ask themselves. In this archive episode of The Church Podcast, Chris and John explore strategies for being intentional about developing a ministry of hospitality.