Dave “The Conversationalist” VanVickle and I answer your listener questions today! We answer questions about HR practices in parishes, how to have a fruitful and successful career in ministry, and what to do when you’re a Catholic in a non-denominational Bible study.
Snippet of the Show
Working in ministry is not just about serving the Church, it’s about engaging in battle for the salvation of souls.
Shownotes
Listener Questions
Ray Asks:
I consider myself somewhat of a functional expert (I hold a SHRM-CP certification and most recently oversaw HR at a company covering 10 locations in the US and Ukraine) As dedicated evangelists, HOW THE HECK ARE YOU THE ONES TO BE HAVING THESE CONVERSATIONS??? Is it wrong for me to assume that parishes do not have somebody dedicated to aligning parish vision and personnel strategy? If not, that is a major problem holding the Church back. HR is almost always incorporated into executive level staff in industry because it is critical to alignment and driving success. In the church, if “HR” people are simply office admins, and you are solely relying on the Pastor, or select others to communicate and drive strategy, we’re at least 50 years behind the curve… Worse yet, in a place like here in XXXXXXXX where parishes are being drastically slashed and consolidated, I would love to know who is assisting the Bishop in carrying out these decisions…
Marys Asks:
Since moving to Colorado I have reconnected with a Protestant acquaintance who is involved with a non-denominational bible study here, which I plan to join. My question is, going forward, how can I evangelize in the midst of a non-denominational study, especially (as far as I know) being the only Catholic? Are there times when I should actively mention the Catholic interpretation of Scripture, or is that disrespectful/imposing? Would it be good to maybe just mention that there is a specific Catholic interpretation of something and invite anyone who is interested to talk with me one on one about it at a different time so as to not de-rail the non-denominational nature of the study? Any advice you have on navigating this would be great. I am really enjoying the podcast!
Will Asks:
I’m particularly interested in your input regarding the job search/hiring process. Some questions that come to mind include: What sort of academic programs, certifications, or other types of formation are likely to be both fruitful and practical? How to best identify parishes, organizations, and leaders who have a vision for evangelization and discipleship, rather than just maintaining the status quo? How to be as strong a candidate as possible during the hiring process? Tips to make a career in this work sustainable, avoiding spiritual, personal, or financial burnout?
Resources
- Email us at eksb@ascensionpress.com
- Text “EKSB” to 33-777 to subscribe and be added to Gomer and Dave’s email list
- Romans: The Gospel of Salvation
- Visit Dave’s website www.thecatholictruthaboutangelsanddemons.com and www.artofevangelization.com
- Visit Mike’s website at www.layevangelist.com
- Ascension is pleased to offer our new and improved online bible study programs and sacramental preparation programs digitally to help you minister with flexibility. Go to ascensionpress.com to view all our offerings.
Meet Your Hosts
Michael “Gomer” Gormley
Michael spent 17 years in full-time parish ministry and is now the Mission Evangelist for That Man Is You!, a men’s apostolate for Paradisus Dei. Michael is a frequent speaker at conferences, retreats, and parish missions all over the US and Canada.
He is the founder and creative director of LayEvangelist.com, and hosts two popular Catholic podcasts: Catching Foxes and Every Knee Shall Bow.
He is married to his college sweetheart, Shannon, and has four beautiful and hilarious children: Kateri, Cecilia, Noah, and Thomas.
Dave VanVickle
Dave VanVickle fell in love with the Lord at the age of fourteen and has since dedicated his life to bringing others into a radical relationship with Christ.
He is a speaker and retreat leader who focuses on proclaiming the universal call to holiness, authentic Catholic spirituality, spiritual warfare and deliverance. Additionally, Dave has over ten years of experience assisting Priests with their ministries of exorcism and deliverance.
Dave married his late wife Amber in 2010. He now resides in Pittsburgh with his five children: Sam, Max, Judah, Josie and Louisa.
