Speaking of Faith: A Minnesota Catholic Podcast

What does it mean to be a pilgrim today? In this episode, theologian and comparative theologian, Dr. Chris Conway explores pilgrimage as a spiritual practice that stretches across religions, cultures, and even secular life. Drawing on Hindu devotional traditions, Pope Francis' Jubilee theme "Pilgrims of Hope," and personal experiences from India to the U.S.–Mexico border, Conway reflects on journey, encounter, and transformation. The conversation invites listeners to imagine pilgrimage not only as travel to sacred places, but as a daily way of living rooted in intention, mercy, and hope. Chris Conway is the Director of Jay Phillips Center for Interfaith Learning and an associate professor in the Department of Theology at the College of Saint Benedict and Saint John's University and The Saint John's School of Theology and Seminary. He completed his doctoral studies at Boston College in comparative theology, and his areas of research include spiritual practices and devotional traditions in Christianity and Hinduism. For information about Chris' upcoming Theology Day presentation, visit: https://www.csbsju.edu/sot/special-programs-and-events/theology-day/

In this episode Julene Jarnot, founder and executive director of the Catholic Garden Network, talks about how gardens in Catholic settings connect faith, prayer and practical service. She also discusses gardening as a lived way to care for creation and a connection to the Works of Mercy. Julene offers advice to start small with clear goals and emphasizes that many gifts—not just gardening expertise—are needed. Julene shares her Minnesota upbringing where, gardening and Catholic life were intertwined, her nonprofit work and how coordinating her parish garden led to creating a national network that connects, celebrates and supports Catholic gardens in parishes, schools, universities, retreat centers and cemeteries.

In this podcast, host Amber interviews Jim Ennis, executive director of Catholic Rural Life, about rural Catholic communities — their value, existing challenges and his hope for the future. Challengs he shares include priest shortages, limited formation resources, isolation and elevated suicide rates among farmers. He discusses the importance for stronger lay leadership, ecumenical collaboration and viewing agriculture and stewardship of creation through a Catholic lens. Jim shares ways Catholic Rural Life provides support through small-group formation programs, rural clergy retreats and local leadership training to help revitalize parishes and communities. Connect with Catholic Rural Life on their website CatholicRuralLife.org or find them on Facebook or Instagram.

In this episode of Speaking of Faith, host Amber interviews Kateri Mancini, director of the Office of Social Concerns, and Lexi Torres, a social concerns intern and M.Div. student, about their experience at "Day on the Hill" in St. Paul with the Joint Religious Legislative Coalition (JRLC). They share how the day began with multi-faith prayer and advocacy education and moved into meetings with legislators. The conversation emphasizes that representatives are approachable neighbors and that small actions of advocacy matter. Key issues included strengthening food security, safeguarding affordable housing and homelessness supports, opposing gambling expansion and improving dignity for foster youth by replacing trash bags with proper luggage. For more information, visit the JRLC website or the Social Concerns Office section of the diocesan website.

In this episode of the Diocese of St. Cloud podcast Speaking of Faith, Tom Delaney, a secular Franciscan, educational psychologist, and mental and behavioral health advocate explains forgiveness as both a gift and a process that integrates wrongdoing into one's life story. He shares how forgivness can offer health benefits and allows us to participate in salvation. Using Jesus and Peter as an example, he describes restoring relationships without excusing injustice, distinguishes decisional from deeper emotional forgiveness and suggests formalizing forgiveness in writing. He also emphasizes how the home is a "school of forgiveness" and how the sacraments of reconciliation and Eucharist can help along the way.

In this episode of "Speaking of Faith," Father William Orbih, rector of the seminary at Saint John's School of Theology and Seminary, previews his upcoming Theology Day presentation titled "Christian Hope: Ark, Anchor and Action." He shares why he considers hope the often forgotten theological virtue, why Christian hope is a person — Jesus Christ — and not a feeling and how listeners can let Christian Hope shape their lives. For more information about Theology Day, visit: https://www.csbsju.edu/sot/special-programs-and-events/theology-day/

In this episode of Speaking of Faith, Amber interviews Craig Gould, the program director of Notre Dame Vision at the McGrath Institute for Church Life. Gould shares personal anecdotes of his connection to Minnesota and his humor-filled family life. The conversation covers his upcoming keynote speech at the men's conference in St. Cloud, focusing on the themes of 'His Power, Our Weakness' and the call for laymen to embrace their secular priesthood roles. The discussion highlights the importance of vulnerability, the need for communal support among men and the significance of living out one's faith in everyday life. Emphasizing the role of laymen in today's world, they delve into how embracing weakness can lead to spiritual growth and stronger community bonds. For more information about Gould's keynote or about the upcoming men's conference, visit: https://stcdio.org/event/catholic-mens-conference-2026/

This episode of 'Speaking of Faith' features Shawn Colberg, the dean of St. John's School of Theology and Seminary, who shares about the $10 million Stabilitas grant the school received from the Lilly Foundation. The grant work will focus on renewal in rural ministry and includes collaboration with nine dioceses across Minnesota, South Dakota, Iowa, Wyoming and Montana. Colberg explains how the grant will empower local dioceses through formation opportunities and the creation of endowments to ensure sustained financial support for ongoing formation.

In this episode of 'Speaking of Faith,' Collin Prom, a diocesan seminarian, and Father Doug Leibsch, the vocations director for the Diocese of St. Cloud, discuss Totus Tuus. Totus Tuus, meaning 'totally yours' in English, is a summer program organized by the diocesan vocations office and hosted by local Area Catholic Communities aimed to help young people (grades 1 – 12) grow in their understanding of the faith and their love for Jesus and His Church. Collin shares his experiences as a Totus Tuus missionary and intern and both share of Totus Tuus's impact on participants and the college-aged missionaries who lead the week-long program. For more information about Totus Tuus, visit: https://stcdio.org/vocations/totus-tuus/ For the summer Totus Tuus schedule visit: https://stcdio.org/vocations/totus-tuus/parish/

In this episode of Speaking of Faith, host Amber talks with Melanie Solland, Philip Shefveland and Father Derek Wiechmann about their experience at the SEEK Conference in Columbus, Ohio. The discussion highlights the growth, spiritual rejuvenation and the universal Church connection experienced by young Catholics at the event. They share their preparation, the structure of the conference, and impactful sessions. SEEK, hosted in three sites across the United States, attracted nearly 30,000 attendees. For more information visit https://seek.focus.org/ To access content from SEEK 2026, visit: https://seekreplay.com For more information about Christ Church Newman Center in St. Cloud visit: https://www.scsucatholic.org

In this podcast episode, Father Erik Lundgren and Matt Birk, a former NFL Center and Super Bowl Champion discuss faith paths and personal growth. Birk shares his journey of growing up in a devout Catholic family, through his football career and how he regained a deeper connection with his Catholic faith. While sharing the challenges he's faced in his faith, Birk emphasizes the importance of community, mentorship and personal witness in fostering a robust faith life. Both Brik and Father Erik highlight how each of us can create human connections to help those returning to faith.

In this episode of 'Speaking of Faith,' Father John Klassen, a Benedictine priest and director of Abbey Development at St. John's Abbey, discusses the concept of Christian unity. Father Klassen delves into the historical context of Christian unity, emphasizing the significance of the Second Vatican Council and its progressive stance towards ecumenism. Throughout the discussion, Father Klassen highlights the importance of listening and humility in ecumenical dialogues. The episode also explores practical steps for fostering Christian unity, such as participating in services of other denominations and understanding the shared roots and theological differences among various Christian traditions.

In the second episode with Father Erik Lundgren and Kelli Kleinschnitz, the two share results of the Path survey, which was aimed to understand why some Catholics have fallen away from the church. Discussion included how respondents felt disconnected from their parish, disagreed with church teachings, or had busy schedules. Additionally, the value of community and authenticity in their current faith communities was explored. Father Erik and Kelli highlighted the importance of authentic faith experiences and the need for better parish staffing and volunteer for potential future outreach initiatives. The episode also underscores the significance of creating an inclusive and welcoming church environment, particularly in the wake of restructuring efforts through 'All Things New.' To learn more about their upcoming event with Matt Birk, visit: https://holysaintsmn.org/matt-birk-your-path-survey-event/ To take the Path survey, visit: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdMRfn8_SpWXeFhpwWbmOB_EBNt2got3D4IJtSkxB0Fs_edRQ/viewform

In this episode of Speaking of Faith, host Amber Walling welcomes Kelli Kleinschnitz, Director of Faith Formation, and Father Erik Lundgren, Pastor of three parishes within the Holy Saints ACC. Together, they discuss innovative efforts to reconnect with lapsed Catholics, offer a deeper look into their approach which included the use of technology to gather rapid feedback through a survey called Path. Responses for the survey were designed to better understand the faith journeys of former churchgoers and to create opportunities for dialogue, healing and a possible return to the church community. The conversation also explores re-engagement strategies, including an upcoming special event featuring Matt Birk, former Minnesota Viking and Super Bowl champion, who will share his story of rediscovering purpose, faith, and his calling in today's world. For more information about the Matt Birk event: https://holysaintsmn.org/matt-birk-your-path-survey-event/ To participate in the 'Path' survey: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdMRfn8_SpWXeFhpwWbmOB_EBNt2got3D4IJtSkxB0Fs_edRQ/viewform

This episode of Speaking of Faith features a conversation with Sarah Kroger, an award-nominated musician and newly published children's author. Sarah discusses her journey of discovering self-love and identity and how it inspired her to write her song 'Belovedness.' From that, she authored a devotional and her recently released children's book, 'My Beloved Child.' Sarah hopes that through her book, children will "grow up with this knowledge that they are loved beyond a shadow of a doubt, beyond their comprehension by the Father" Sarah also shares about her Advent hymns project, her tour during the Advent season, and the importance of living out one's faith. The episode encourages listeners to embrace vulnerability and community, and to find moments of stillness and connection with God amidst the busyness of life.

In this episode of Speaking of Faith, Elizabeth Brown, the director of the Mission Office and the Society for the Propagation of Faith, shares about her background in ministry and the multifaceted work of the Mission Office. She also shares the principles of Fair Trade, detailing how it supports marginalized farmers and artisans by ensuring fair wages and safe working conditions. Lastly, Elizabeth highlights the Mission Office's holiday sale during the month of December and invites community involvement through donations, Fair Trade product purchases and educational outreach. Visit the Mission Office at 11 8th Ave S in Saint Cloud.

Sister Pat Forster and Patty Keeling, who are deeply involved in immigrant advocacy, share insights into the Church's teachings on welcoming immigrants and discuss the rights of immigrants to work, equality and support. Both Sister Pat and Patty reflect on their personal faith and how their work with immigrants has deepened their understanding of love, compassion, and universal dignity. The conversation touches on practical ways to support immigrants, such as knowing rights, engaging with local sheriffs, writing to legislators, and attending training sessions. Referenced resources: Minnesota Catholic Conference Franciscan Action Network Upcoming prayer service: Prayer Vigil for the Just Treatment of Immigrants Thursday, November 13th at 5:30 p.m. St. Joseph Catholic Church 106 7th Ave N Waite Park, MN

In this episode, John Grim and Mary Evelyn Tucker, co-directors of the Yale Forum on Religion and Ecology delve into their decades-long work on integrating religious and ecological studies to address environmental crises. They discuss the impact of Pope Francis' encyclical 'Laudato Si', which fuses social justice with environmental concerns, and explore the significance of ecological conversion. The episode also highlights their website 'Living Earth Community,' aimed at fostering a dialogue on biodiversity, the rights of nature, and sustainable living, emphasizing respect, reverence, and responsibility.

Kristin Molitor has ministry background in both diocesan and parish settings and has heart for discipleship and spiritual formation. In this episode, she discusses the essence of accompaniment in Christian faith. The conversation draws parallels between Jesus' discipleship and modern accompaniment and stresses that faith thrives on shared experiences and relational bonds. Practical steps for fostering these connections within church communities and personal lives are explored.

In this episode, we welcome Fr. Juan Molina, president and CEO and Lizett Farias, senior director of programs at the Mexican American Catholic College (MACC). Both discusses the diverse formation programs offered by MACC and highlight their mission to equip individuals for ministry through certificate and degree programs, partnerships with other educational bodies, and a strong emphasis on intercultural competence and lifelong learning. Also discussed: MACC's historical role in serving the Hispanic community, fostering transformative ministry leaders, the importance of integral formation, and their collaboration with Saint John's School of Theology.