The Catholic Diocese of Saginaw launched the United in Mission: One Heart and Mind podcast in October of 2024, led by Communications Director John Gonzalez and Media Manager Tim Spear. The show highlights inspiring stories and initiatives, embodying the diocese’s call to be “A Diocese on Mission.” The spirit of the podcast is inspired Bishop Robert Gruss, who says "we must live with an unshakeable confidence in the Lordship of Jesus. He has a plan – a great plan – for us. ...We must become a ...
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Talks and presentations to help you in your Catholic faith. We participate in activities of social justice, support the good works of persons locally and in other countries, prepare our children and young people to be faith-filled, responsible members of the community — and we do all this in the name of our Lord, Jesus Christ.The Catholic Diocese of Saginaw includes 56 parishes in 11 counties of Mid-Michigan.Our Mission Statement: Trusting in the Holy Spirit and nourished by the Eucharist, w ...
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Celebrating Rural Life: Faith, Community, and Tradition
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25:29In this episode we explore the significance of rural life masses and upcoming events across various locations. We highlight the diocese's mission to support priests and form disciples while celebrating the 100th anniversary of the Catholic rural life organization. Community engagement and the unique challenges of outreach are discussed, along with …
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Transformative Faith: Sarah Kroger's involvement in Rescue Michigan
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25:37Sarah Kroger shares her role as worship leader of the SOLD OUT 'Rescue Michigan' event, May 17 at the Great Hall in Midland, Michigan. Sarah shares her journey as an artist and author of her new devotional book, 'Belovedness', which reflects her personal struggles.By Catholic Diocese of Saginaw
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Special Edition with seminarian Charles Warner
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12:52
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12:52Anticipating a New Pope: John Gonzalez welcomes viewers and introduces Charles Warner, a seminarian studying theology in Rome. As he approaches his diaconate ordination, Charles shares insights on the somber mood following Pope Francis's passing and the excitement surrounding the upcoming papal election.…
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Teresa Tomeo- Conclave experience and exploring Italy's Shrines
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20:09In this episode Teresa Tomeo shares her experiences from Italy during the conclave and discusses her new book, 'Italy's Shrines and Wonders.' She highlights the challenges of live broadcasting and the media's extensive coverage of the event. The conversation emphasizes the role of saints in her book and introduces a new series based on it.…
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Father John Riccardo discusses Rescue Michigan
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28:55In this episode, host John Gonzalez and Father John Ricardo discuss the upcoming Rescue Michigan event, focusing on the Diocese's mission and community involvement. The conversation highlights the cultural role of sports in Detroit and the risks of idolatry associated with it. Emphasizing the importance of the gospel, attendees are encouraged to de…
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From the Secular to the Sacred: Preparing Your Heart for a True Encounter - First Friday Talk April 4, 2025 -
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53:49
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53:49Bishop Gruss' presentation emphasizes preparing the heart for genuine encounters with God, highlighting the difference between viewing sacraments as mere events and experiencing them as personal encounters. Bishop Gruss addresses misconceptions about Christianity, focusing on the relational aspect of faith. He also encourages seeing confession as a…
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Is your faith a ‘firsthand experience’ or a ‘second hand story?’
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7:46“When I was growing up, my family was never really much involved in parish life other than attending Mass on Sunday and Holy Days. As kids, we attended Religious Ed – back then it was called CCD. “As far as living out a life of faith in the context of service, I don’t recall doing much of that. Things were different back in the 60s and 70s. It was …
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Rita Maher, of the Saginaw Diocesan Council of Catholic Women on empowering women and community
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21:48Rita Maher, president of the Saginaw Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, shares the council's mission to empower women and support community initiatives in this episode of the United in Mission: One Heart and Mind Podcast. Click above the listen to her interview with John Gonzalez.By Catholic Diocese of Saginaw
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Where is your heart directed? Bishop Gruss' message for fifth weekend of Lent
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7:19A number of years ago, I was on a retreat with the other bishops of the United States and the retreat director posed a question to us – and perhaps it is a good question for everyone today. “Where is my heart directed?” It is a question that needs to be asked daily. Where is your heart directed? Let me rephrase this. What relationship in your life …
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Taylor Piotrzkowski discusses prayer, having a personal relationship with God and the upcoming young adult retreat on prayer
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25:38Taylor Piotrzkowski discusses prayer, having a personal relationship with God and the upcoming young adult retreat on prayer in this episode of the United in Mission: One Heart and Mind Podcast. Taylor Piotrzkowski serves as coordinator of youth & young adult ministry for the Catholic Diocese of Saginaw.…
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Bishop Gruss discusses Scripture – Hearing God’s Voice through His Word
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7:43Through his words in Sacred Scriptures, the Lord reveals his hopes and dreams for us, each of us, as well as for your family and your faith community. How many of you want to know God’s hopes, dreams and plans for you, for your life? This video is part of Bishop's Lenten series on six Spiritual Practices that will deepen our relationship with the L…
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Dr. Marcus Peter discusses masculinity, fatherhood and his conversion from atheism to Catholicism
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23:24
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23:24Dr. Marcus joined Ave Maria Radio as a radio and tv host in 2022 and as Director of Marketing in 2023. He now functions as the Director of Theology for Ave Maria Radio and oversees all theological considerations for the work and content produced by Ave Maria Radio.By Catholic Diocese of Saginaw
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Bishop Gruss discusses growing in holiness and the upcoming men's conference
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9:51By Bishop Robert Gruss
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Embracing Manliness: Insights from a Surfer's Journey
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22:51
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22:51In this episode, surfer, author and evangelist Bear Woznick shares insights from his podcast and book while preparing for the Jubilee Men's Conference. The conference focuses on themes of manliness, with discussions on work, responsibility, and spiritual warfare. The guest uses surfing as a metaphor for life, highlighting commitment and spiritual s…
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John Gonzalez shares good news from Diocese as well his own faith journey during Ave Maria Radio Interview
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17:03By Catholic Diocese of Saginaw
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Bishop Gruss discusses Almsgiving – Living God’s Generosity
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7:14This episode is part of Bishop's Lenten series on six Spiritual Practices that will deepen our relationship with the Lord, helping us to live more fully the life the Lord seeks to give us – as a way of personal encounter.By Catholic Diocese of Saginaw
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Father Andy LaFramboise discusses his new podcast, growing in faith, the Jubilee of Hope and more during Ave Maria Radio Interview
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15:54By Catholic Diocese of Saginaw
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Father Andy LaFramboise interview on WSGW's Art Lewis Show
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32:06Father Andy LaFramboise discusses his new podcast "Finding and Burying Again", vocations to the priesthood and more on WSGW's Art Lewis ShowBy Catholic Diocese of Saginaw
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Listening to God's voice- homily from March 16
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15:53Bishop Gruss discusses listening to God's voice during his homily from Sunday, March 16.By Catholic Diocese of Saginaw
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Empowering Communities: The CRS Rice Bowl 2025 Initiative
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11:41This episode highlights the CRS Rice Bowl 2025 initiative and its 50-year history of supporting local communities and feeding the hungry. The Catholic Diocese of Saginaw focuses on forming disciples and reaching out to those in need. Donations significantly benefit local charities, and the initiative serves as a teaching tool for children about cha…
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Bishop Gruss discusses fasting – a way to the heart of God
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7:45Fasting enables the Holy Spirit to reveal our true spiritual condition, our brokenness, leading to repentance and a transformed life – conversion. This video is part of Bishop's Lenten series on six Spiritual Practices that will deepen our relationship with the Lord, helping us to live more fully the life the Lord seeks to give us – as a way of per…
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Bishop Gruss discusses what happens when the Pope dies (First Friday presentation)
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57:07During First Friday on March 7, Bishop Gruss discussed what happens when the Pope dies, including details about how the Conclave works, who participates and more.By Bishop Robert Gruss
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Empowering Faith: Men's Conference Announcement
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14:01This episode highlights an upcoming Men's Conference on April 5th. Carl White discussing the men's conference's history since 2006 and shares details about the event, including speakers and themes, and stressing the importance of men's groups in building faith and community. Listeners are encouraged to attend and invite others.…
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Bishop Gruss: What is the most fruitful activity in your life?
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8:12This is part of Bishop Gruss' six part Lenten series on spiritual practices that will deepen our relationship with the Lord, helping us to live more fully the life the Lord seeks to give us – as a way of personal encounter.By Bishop Robert Gruss
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"God is waiting with open arms and he's pleading with us to return to him..." Bishop Gruss' homily from Ash Wednesday Mass
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13:04By Bishop Robert Gruss
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Exploring the Seminary Experience in Rome with Charles Warner
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23:45Charles Warner, seminarian for the Diocese of Saginaw, shares his experiences at the Pontifical North American College in Rome, discussing its significance and beauty. He reflects on his personal faith journey and the call to priesthood. The health of Pope Francis is addressed, along with community prayers for his recovery. The Jubilee Year of Hope…
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Celebrating 25 Years of Little Books: A Journey of Faith
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12:10In this episode we share Bishop Gruss' homily from the Mass marking the 25th anniversary of Little Books, reflecting on the covenant with Noah and the identity of Jesus. The discussion highlights the challenges of Christian life, including suffering and evangelization. Celebrating the impact of Little Books, gratitude is expressed for its ministry.…
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Fr. Marcel Portelli on the Eucharist, evangelization and more
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25:16
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25:16In this episode host John Gonzalez talks with Father Portelli about his background and his upcoming presentations on the Mass. They highlight the importance of understanding the Eucharist and men's involvement in faith practices. Father Portelli shares his vocation journey and the significance of discernment, encouraging listeners to invite others …
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Bishop Gruss' homily from Sunday, Feb. 10, 2025
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12:46
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In this episode Rev. Andrew S. LaFramboise shares a powerful message for the Knights of Columbus, focusing on their upcoming winter diocese meetings and the theme of being a pilgrim of hope in this Jubilee Year. He encourages personal pilgrimages to deepen faith and reflects on the significance of the Jubilee year. The role of the Knights in the co…
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Bishop Gruss' homily on the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord
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13:05This homily was given by Bishop Gruss on Feb. 2, 2025 at the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption.By Bishop Robert Gruss
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Bishop Gruss discusses upcoming Come and See vocations gathering, discernment and more
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19:42
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19:42Bishop Gruss was interviewed by Vanessa Denha Garmo on Ave Maria Radio's "Epiphany" program. During the interview, Bishop Gruss discussed the upcoming Come and See Dinner, the importance of family support in discernment, obstacles in the discernment process and more.By Bishop Robert Gruss
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Bishop Gruss on Nurturing good soil in our hearts and the importance of prayer and the sacraments- Catholic Schools Week homily
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19:05
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19:05Bishop Gruss' homily from his Catholic Schools Week Mass at All Saints Parish in Bay City as he shares insights on faith, community, and personal growth through parables, using the giant Sequoia tree as a metaphor. He highlights the significance of nurturing good soil in our hearts to strengthen spiritual roots and embrace community support. Bishop…
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What's the latest with our Catholic Schools and Catholic Schools Week? Listen as John Gonzalez and Dr. Cormac Lynn along with guests, Fr. Andy Booms, Laura Wilkowski and Clark Switalski discuss the vital partnership between schools and families in education and faith formation on the One Heart and Mind Podcast. Catholic school students in all 12 sc…
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Stacey Trapani, executive director of Little Books of the Diocese of Saginaw, shares about the New Little Book on the Eucharist, prayer and a bit about the origins of Little Books.By Catholic Diocese of Saginaw
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Mission trip to Africa- Love for Lukulu (United in Mission: One Heart and Mind Podcast)
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26:57On this episode of United in Mission: One Heart and Mind Podcast our guests discuss a upcoming mission trip to Africa. The host and guests share experiences of living conditions and cultural insights that reflect the universal nature of the Catholic faith.By Catholic Diocese of Saginaw
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What we celebrate today, and what we heard over these past five weeks is the greatest love story in human history- The conclusion of Bishop Gruss' Advent series
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10:54The invasion of one kingdom by another kingdom is complete. As C.S. Lewis said, the rightful king has landed in disguise.By Bishop Robert Gruss
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God has rescued me. Now, what will be my response?- Fourth Sunday of Advent - RESPONSE - Bishop Gruss' Advent retreat
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11:46Yes, the Gospel is not just the Good News. It is Great News! Spectacular news! God has rescued me. Now, what will be my response?By Bishop Robert Gruss
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Derek: A Journey of Faith, Hope and Love- Part 2! Derek Pfaff and his family discuss their journey
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30:31John Gonzalez and Erin Carlson discuss Derek Pfaff's face transplant journey with the Pfaff family. They share their experience following Derek's incident and the challenges that ensued, including the miracles experienced and the support from their community.By Catholic Diocese of Saginaw
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'If we have been captured by the Enemy, what has God done about it?'- Bishop Gruss' Advent retreat series
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12:07'If we have been captured by the Enemy, what has God done about it?' What He has done is extraordinary - unbelievable Good News! This video is part of Bishop Gruss' Advent retreat. The purpose of this retreat is to lead us into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and to introduce to you what the Lord has shared with the Mission Leadership Team …
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'Why is everything so obviously messed up?'
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11:45
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11:45Look around at what has happened and is happening in our world today. Wouldn’t you agree that the world is a bit messed up today? Why is that? This is an important question to answer. Again, the purpose of this retreat is to lead us into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and to introduce to you what the Lord has shared with my Mission Leaders…
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Vocations and the goal to have 20 seminarians by 2030 with Fr. Andy LaFramboise
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13:13John Gonzalez and Fr. Andy discuss the goal to have 20 seminarians by 2030, up from the current four. They discuss the vocation campaign, which received 125 submissions from a diverse group of parishioners. The importance of fostering a culture of invitation is highlighted, along with the discernment process that involves prayer and guidance. An up…
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What is Mary’s actual impact on the Church? Diocesan theologian discusses this on during Ave Maria Radio interview
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13:02"Dr. Dan Osborn from the Diocese of Saginaw explains his groundbreaking research project to gather data regarding Mary’s influence as Mother of the Church."- Ave Maria RadioBy Catholic Diocese of Saginaw
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'Why is there something instead of nothing?' First Sunday of Advent - CREATED - Week Two of Bishop Gruss' Advent retreat
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7:53So many people today live as if there is nothing – nothing beyond this world. So many people today live as if there is no hope. The world is dire, and there is nothing anybody can do about it. Are you one of them? Well, the Lord God has the answer! Again, the purpose of this retreat is to lead us into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and to …
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Christ the King - Following the True Voice of the King, Week 1 of Advent Series
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10:58
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10:58Bishop Gruss: Thank you for joining me as we celebrate the Solemnity of Christ the King and begin this six week retreat together all across the diocese. Again, the purpose of this retreat is to lead us into a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ and to introduce to you what the Lord has shared with my Mission Leadership Team regarding our future –…
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Having a Biblical Worldview and Intro to Advent Series
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5:19
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5:19Have you ever been overwhelmed by the Gospel? Secondly, what is the lens in which you view your life and our world? In other words, what is the lens of your personal reality?By Bishop Robert Gruss
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Derek: A Journey of Faith, Hope and Love"- Part 1. Erin Carlson is interviewed by John Gonzalez
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12:36John Gonzalez discusses Derek Pfaff's face transplant journey with guest Erin Looby Carlson. Erin shares the emotional challenges during Derek's recovery, highlighting the family's faith and community support.By Catholic Diocese of Saginaw
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Bishop Gruss' discusses discernment during First Friday talk on Nov. 1, 2024
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52:45By Bishop Robert Gruss
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Empowering Catholics for Everyday Evangelization
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23:40The second episode features Adam Janke, COO of St. Paul Street Evangelization, discussing how to equip Catholics for evangelization in daily life. Personal stories are highlighted as effective tools for sharing faith. Adam shares his journey back to Catholicism and the founding of St. Paul Street Evangelization, emphasizing non-confrontational outr…
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Empowering Discipleship and Evangelization in the Diocese of Saginaw
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21:39In this episode, John Gonzalez is joined by guest host Kellie Deming and special guest Julianne Stanz to delve into an upcoming event, Go! Make Disciples, with keynote speaker Julianne Stanz centered around discipleship and evangelization. The discussion revolves around the crucial task of making disciples and the various challenges encountered in …
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