An encounter with the EUCHARIST called him to the PRIESTHOOD // The Exposing Catholics Show | EP 10
Introduction
In a recent podcast episode with Fr. Suso, hosted by DM Productions, we delved into the intricacies of modern Catholic ministry and the efforts to rejuvenate and strengthen faith communities. Fr. Suso shared valuable insights, shedding light on his experiences as a pastor, the challenges faced, and the innovative approaches implemented to create a vibrant and welcoming church environment.
Fr. Suso's Mission
Fr. Suso, the pastor at St. Columbkille in Parma, provided a glimpse into the challenges faced by today's Catholic Church. Recognizing the shifts in culture and the evolving needs of parishioners, Fr. Suso emphasized the importance of adapting ministry to meet people where they are. His dedication to building a thriving community was evident throughout the conversation.
Catching Fire and Young Adult Ministries
One notable initiative discussed was "Catching Fire," an inspiring endeavor led by young adults, Jimmy and Joe. Fr. Suso highlighted the impact of this program on attracting young people to the Church. The discussion touched upon the need for such initiatives to be more widespread, catering to different regions, ensuring that young adults don't have to travel long distances for impactful experiences.
Challenges of Pastoral Leadership
Fr. Suso shared the intricacies of his role as a pastor, managing a large parish with over 3,000 families and 340 students in the school. He emphasized the importance of assembling a competent leadership team and the challenges of overseeing a multi-million-dollar budget without formal training in management. Fr. Suso's commitment to adapting to the changing times was evident in seeking external help and implementing strategies from the book "Rebuilt."
Online Presence and the Evolving Church Landscape
A significant portion of the conversation revolved around the importance of a robust online presence for churches. Fr. Suso stressed the need for updated websites and engaging social media content to attract individuals to the Church. The impact of live-streamed masses, particularly in the context of the COVID-19 pandemic, was discussed, highlighting how people now choose their churches based on online experiences.
Conclusion
Fr. Suso's experiences at St. Columbkille exemplify a modern and adaptive approach to pastoral ministry. The challenges he faced as a pastor led to intentional decisions to build a competent leadership team and enhance the overall experience for parishioners. The success of these efforts is evident in the increased attendance and positive feedback from the community.
As we navigate the ever-changing landscape of faith communities, Fr. Suso's story serves as an inspiration for other Catholic leaders seeking to revitalize their parishes. Building a vibrant and welcoming environment requires embracing change, utilizing technology, and, most importantly, collaborating with dedicated individuals who share the vision of worshiping God, serving others, and forming disciples of Jesus.
To learn more about
St. Columbkille and Catching Fire, visit their website and stay connected on social media platforms. DM Productions extends its gratitude to Fr. Suso for sharing his valuable insights, and we look forward to witnessing the continued growth of faith communities under his leadership.
