Draw Near

What if being united to God begins with being cut open? In this episode of Draw Near, we explore Romans 11 and the powerful image of being “grafted” into God. Using the biblical metaphor of the olive tree, St. Paul reveals something profound about the spiritual life: union with God is living, dependent, and deeply transformative. Grafting is no gentle process. It requires cutting, exposure, and vulnerability before new life can take hold. And the same is true in our relationship with God. He does not simply improve us from the outside; he works within us, cutting away what is hardened so that we can receive his life more fully. We reflect on how God is the root who sustains us, how we are invited to remain in him, and what it means to bear interior fruit fruit that comes not from our own strength, but from grace. Drawing connections to Ezekiel 36 and the promise of a new heart, this episode invites you to consider how God may be at work in the hidden places of your life; and what areas of your own life have you hardened? If you’ve ever wrestled with vulnerability, struggled to trust God in the midst of difficulty, or wondered how real transformation actually happens—this conversation is for you. Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :) Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

St. Patrick’s story is one of suffering, conversion, and mission. Enslaved as a teenager, he encountered God in hardship and later returned to Ireland to preach Christ. This episode reflects on the Lorica of St. Patrick—a powerful prayer of spiritual strength and protection—and its invitation during Lent: to rise each day not by our own strength, but through the strength of the Trinity and the life of Christ. Rooted in the Cross, surrounded by the communion of saints, and sustained by Christ’s presence, we are reminded: we do not walk alone. For reflections, formation, and community, FOLLOW Draw Near on Social Media: YouTube Instagram Facebook! Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :) Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

"I sat down with my dad to ask him what he has learned as a fatherhood." In this special episode of Draw Near, Kara sits down with her dad for an honest and heartfelt conversation about faith and fatherhood. Together they reflect on what it means to become a father, how faith shapes parenting, what we can learn from our parents and children, and the quiet ways children absorb what their fathers believe. Along the way, there are stories, wisdom earned over time, and yes — a few classic dad jokes. Whether you are a father, have a father, or are still healing from that relationship, this conversation invites you to consider how earthly fatherhood reflects (imperfectly but beautifully) the heart of God the Father. Topics include: • Growing in faith through parenting • Spiritual leadership in the home • Lessons learned the hard way • What children really notice Psalm 103:13 reminds us: “As a father pities his children, so the LORD pities those who fear him.” (RSVCE) We pray this episode strengthens families, encourages dads, and helps all of us draw nearer to the Father who never fails. For reflections, formation, and community, FOLLOW Draw Near on Social Media: YouTube Instagram Facebook! Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :) Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Suffering is where transformation begins! What does that have to do with Lent? Many of us approach Lent thinking about what we have to give up. But what if Lent isn’t mainly about loss… but about what God wants to build within us? In this episode, we explore the deeper meaning of penance, suffering, and the desert season of Lent. Why does the Church begin with ashes and words about death? How does penance actually train the heart? And why does every sacrifice ultimately point toward resurrection? Journal Questions: Where in my life right now feels like a desert, and how might God be inviting me to encounter Him there rather than escape it? What comfort, habit, or attachment might God be asking me to surrender so He can build something deeper in me? If resurrection always follows the cross, what “new life” might God be preparing in me through this season? For reflections, formation, and community, FOLLOW us on Social Media: YouTube Instagram Facebook! Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :) Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

BJ and Kara go on a date, and they invite you to listen in. This week on Draw Near, Kara is joined by a very special guest: her husband, BJ!! Join a recorded at-home date centered on one of the most important (and challenging) aspects of marriage: communication. The date follows one of the intentional at-home dates from Draw Near's soon-to-be-released marriage resource, Near to You, a collection of ten guided dates designed to help married couples draw nearer to God and to one another at any stage of marriage. Set at the kitchen table (in sweats, with homemade cocktails), Kara and BJ invite you into a relaxed evening that includes prayer, Scripture, reflection, meaningful conversation, and a goofy game to close the night. Along the way, they talk honestly about how communication styles develop over time, how conflict and silence can affect intimacy, and how words or actions can become instruments of love within marriage. Whether you’re newly married, years into marriage, or simply curious about building a healthy faith-filled relationship, this episode offers encouragement, honesty, and practical ideas you can bring into your own relationship. For more information on this resource or to Pre-Order "Near to You" today CLICK HERE! Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

How do you actually share your faith—without fear, awkward moments, or feeling like you have to have all the answers? In this short episode, Fred reflects on a simple, ordinary moment that became a doorway for grace. What started as a late-night stop for ice cream after church turned into months of prayer, presence, encouragement, and quiet fidelity—and ultimately, a life gently redirected toward healing, hope, and the Church. This story reminds us that sharing our faith doesn’t usually begin with arguments or explanations. It begins with noticing, listening, and having the courage to say a simple “yes” when the Holy Spirit nudges. Because sometimes, the most powerful witness of the Gospel sounds like this: “We’re about to pray. Is there anything we can pray for you about?” Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Clear answers to common misconceptions about Catholicism... In this episode of Draw Near, we begin clearing up some of the most common Catholic misunderstandings or assumptions. Misconceptions explained in this episode: Catholicism is about rules and rituals, not a personal relationship with Jesus. Catholics don’t read the Bible and rely on tradition instead of Scripture. Catholics believe you earn salvation by works instead of being saved by grace. Throughout the episode, we look at key biblical passages and show how the Catholic Church has faithfully taught the fullness of Christ’s message. This episode isn’t a deep dive into every question; it is an invitation to understand what the Catholic Church truly teaches, where those teachings come from, and why they matter. If there’s a specific misconception or teaching you’d like explored further, submit it here—we’d love to continue the conversation. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Draw Near is still here—and this episode is all about returning to our "why." After a season of being in and out, adjusting rhythms, and letting life take its course, we wanted to speak honestly about where Draw Near is right now and how God has been gently guiding us forward. This episode invites you into our discernment, hope, and trust. Rooted in Isaiah 42:3, we reflect on the image of the Servant who does not break a bruised reed or extinguish a dimly burning wick. These words have shaped how we understand this season; It has not been a failure or fading, but as a time of careful tending. Jesus knows how to work with what is fragile. He repairs without rushing and restores without pressure. We share how this passage has helped us see the recent shifts in Draw Near as an invitation to listen more closely, allowing the Spirit to breathe life into the work in more sustainable ways. The mission remains. The vision endures. What’s changing is the rhythm. If you’ve ever wondered whether something good was slipping away—or whether a quieter season meant God was less present—this episode is for you. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Subscribe to Draw Near YOUTUBE Channel Here. Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

God formed you carefully—every part of you. In this episode of Draw Near, Kara leads you through a guided visualization meditation designed to quiet the noise and open you to the depth of God’s love for you. This reflection is especially for anyone who struggles to see themselves as wholly good and loved... those who can appreciate their strengths but wrestle with their weaknesses, insecurities, or parts they wish were different. This meditation gently invites you to see yourself through God’s eyes and to receive yourself with the same love God offers. Drawn directly from the Surrender Journal we wrote and offer through our shop, this prayer experience is meant to be returned to again and again—especially in moments of self-doubt, comparison, or discouragement. Find a quiet place, take a deep breath, and allow God to remind you: you are deeply known, carefully created, and lovingly held. Questions to reflect on before you begin: Where do you find value within yourself? When do feel valuable? Are there moments when you do not feel valuable but worthless? What are they? What lies from the evil one do you listen to regularly regarding your life, identity, or value? What does it mean to be made in the image of God? What does it mean to be in the likeness of God? The Surrender Journal: Find additional meditations in the Surrender Journal. Learn more or ORDER by clicking HERE Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

If we truly believe Jesus is Lord, then his words matter… even the ones that challenge us. In this week’s conversation, we reflect on Luke 6:46: “Why do you call me ‘Lord, Lord,’ and not do what I tell you?” Jesus does not rebuke here, but invites each of us personally to reflect on teachings, words from God, or passages of Scripture we truly believe. Let's also allow it to be an invitation to ask: which of Jesus's words and teachings have I forgotten or discarded because they are difficult. All of us have places where obedience feels costly or inconvenient. Yet Jesus never calls us to follow him on our own strength. Let's also look at what he does to help us? Throughout the episode, we also explore: how the Holy Spirit prompts us toward deeper faithfulness why some of Jesus’ teachings feel difficult and what that says about our spiritual growth how grace strengthens our weak places the invitation to reflect on areas where we’re not fully following him the simple, daily yes that forms real discipleship Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

In a world that often tells us to stay guarded, what does it really mean to live with an open heart? In this episode, we explore the beauty and the cost of “wearing your heart on your sleeve,” and why Jesus shows us a better way than self-protection. If you’ve ever wondered whether vulnerability is worth it, or feared that loving deeply will only get you hurt, this conversation is for you. Come be encouraged to live with authenticity, courage, and Christ-like love. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

In this classic Draw Near episode, we revisit a heartfelt conversation with our friend Sr. Fidelis Marie about what it really means to love one another well — not in theory, but in the daily decisions that shape our relationships and communities. If you’ve ever wrestled with empathy, boundaries, or how to grow in authentic charity, this episode will encourage and challenge you in all the right ways. In this episode, we explore: How to tell the difference between healthy venting and harmful gossip Why it’s so easy to expect empathy but harder to give it How our wounds, assumptions, and interior habits shape the way we treat others What it looks like to approach relationships with intentionality, vulnerability, and authentic love Whether our culture is slowly training us to stop seeing one another as human beings Why evaluating intentions — our own and others’ — matters for spiritual growth Join us for a conversation that keeps unfolding long after the episode ends. This is one worth returning to — and we’re glad to share it with you again. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Sometimes, we all just need a friend day! Grab your favorite drink and join us today for our much needed friend day chat. In this relaxed episode of Draw Near, let's cut throught the stresses and weariness. Fred and Kara catch up, asking each other questions that spark joy, honesty, and laughter. Want to join us? Help us grow by following the Draw Near podcast on your favorite platform. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

There’s an honest difference between "looking" holy and "living" a holy life. Reflecting on Luke 18:9–14, Fred and Kara explore how pride and comparison creep into our hearts, why appearances are not what God looks at, and how one's heart is truly the measure holiness. Looking beyond all you do for God, what does your heart look like? Let's dive into how pride can creep into our prayer life, how comparison blinds us to grace, and why holiness is not something we achieve but an interior posture of the heart. Be sure the like/subscribe to DRAW NEAR on your favorite Podcast platform! Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Imagine Jesus stopping everything just to find you and heal you. That’s exactly what happens in the story of the hemorrhaging woman. In this Lectio Divine episode, Fred and Kara pray with this passage and reflect on the woman's need to "touch" Jesus and how her circumstances during 12 years of suffering would have led to her "desperate" faith. In addition to spiritual themes, this episode also talks about Jesus' initiative to seek the woman and invite her out of her hiding place of shame and into healing. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

In this episode, we’re giving you a peek behind the curtain with real-life updates and our unfiltered takes on everything from reality shows and parish bingos to social media, smartphones, and DIY projects. We even get serious for a moment about how we use technology, faith, and the “thoughts and prayers” culture online. If you’ve ever wondered what we’re like when the mics aren’t scripted—this one’s for you. Fun, honest, and a little unpredictable, this episode mixes laughter with reflection on living faith in everyday life. Writing projects mentioned: "The Surrender Journal" "Near to You:" Marriage retreat at home Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

What does it mean to actually surrender to God?... and how do we begin to do it? There are seasons when God feels silent, when prayers go unanswered, or when our hearts wrestle with waiting. In those moments, surrender can sound like a nice idea but feel nearly impossible. So, where do we begin? To continue your journey to total surrender to God, check out The Surrender Journal on the Draw Near Shop. It shares 30 uniquely crafted meditation exercises that will bring you to a place of surrender. Reflection Questions from this episode: What does it look like for you to actively surrender to God’s timing right now? What truths or promises do you cling to when waiting feels hard? Can you recall a time when waiting brought unexpected grace, growth, or healing? Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Imagine building a thriving career, only to hear a call so strong you can’t ignore it. That’s exactly what happened to Rob “Mr. Theology” Reynolds and Shevin McCullough. In this episode, the founders of Studio 316 share how they traded corporate success for a life of ministry—and how they’re using creativity and media to lead kids to Christ. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

What do Dungeons & Dragons, Harry Potter, the Walking Dead, and A Quiet Place have in common? In this episode, we have some fun exploring how even the most unlikely movies and shows can open doors to deeper conversations about faith. From unlikely heroes and the battle of good and evil, to themes of sacrifice, friendship, and courage... we discover that God can shine through stories we never expected. This isn’t about forcing a religious lens where it doesn’t belong. It’s about learning to see with eyes of faith, and enjoying the creative ways truth, beauty, and goodness can break through, even in secular media. Pull up some popcorn and join us for this lighthearted conversation where we share some of our favorite shows and movies, laugh a little, and give you new eyes for the next time you hit “play.” What You’ll Hear in This Episode: How secular stories can echo the Gospel when we learn to look deeper Why Christian themes show up in unexpected places (and why that matters) The power of sacrifice, courage, and friendship on screen A few of our favorite movies and shows (and why we like them!) Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Do our pets go to heaven? It’s one of those questions people of all ages wonder about. Whether it’s sparked by watching All Dogs Go to Heaven as a kid, or by the very real grief of saying goodbye to a beloved family pet, the thought lingers: Will I see them again? In this episode, Kara shares her family’s personal experience of losing a pet—and how that moment of loss opened up bigger questions of faith, hope, and what God has in store for all creation. Together, let's explore the possibilities by looking at what Scripture and the Catechism actually say about heaven and the renewal of all things. Here, Kara will share her own considerations, as well! Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page." Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. "Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us! Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell