Draw Near
Draw Near is a Catholic faith podcast hosted by two best friends, Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell. Each episode features heartfelt conversations about life, family, and faith, exploring how God's grace and the Holy Spirit work in our lives. The hosts aim to be authentic, joyful, and vulnerable, sharing personal stories and insights to encourage listeners on their spiritual journey. The podcast emphasizes the idea that God always takes the first step to draw near to us, and invites listeners to respond and grow in holiness.
Episodes
What the Bible Says About Spiritual Warfare
Spiritual warfare is real—but it doesn't have to be confusing or frightening.
In this episode, we open Scripture to explore what God has revealed about the unseen spiritual battle every Christian faces. Together we'll look at who Satan is, how he works through temptation, deception, and accusation, and why we never need to live in fear. Most importantly, we'll discover the overwhelming v
Real Ministry is Personal
Real ministry is not built on polished content... it is built when we are willing to share our very selves.
In this roadside reflection episode, Kara finally shares what Fred and her recent writing project has been (with Ascension Press) and reflects on a personal passage from St. Paul in 1 Thessalonians 2:8–9:
“So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you n
Grafted Into God: The Interior Life of Romans 11
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, expos
I Arise Today
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 a
Faith & Fatherhood: A Conversation With My Dad
"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
Penance: The Desert Where God Transforms Us
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 dea
BJ and Kara’s Date Night: The Power of Words in Marriage
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 c
What to Do When the Service is Bad
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 redirect
Clearing Up Catholic Misconceptions
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 be
Still Here
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
Guided Meditation: God Saw That It Was Good
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, inse
If Jesus Is Lord, Life Looks Different
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 invitati
Wearing Your Heart on Your Sleeve
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
DN Classics: You Talking About Me?
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
Friend Day: Want to Join?
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.
I Am Not Like the Rest of Humanity
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
The Hemorrhaging Woman: Desperate for Healing
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
Surrender: Trusting God in the Waiting
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
Do Whatever He Tells You
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
Finding God in the Least Likely Movies
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
All Dogs go to Heaven... or Do they?
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 qu
Encountering God in Scripture: Listening with Your Heart
In this episode of Draw Near, we explore how Scripture becomes a living encounter with the voice of God. We talk about how to prepare our hearts to hear him, the power of knowing the full story of salvation, and how God speaks uniquely and personally through his Word. With personal stories, practical tips, and favorite passages that have carried us through suffering and joy, we hope to in
Beyond "I’m Praying for You": Being There for Others
Prayer is essential—but sometimes, it’s not the only thing someone needs. In some seasons, words can fall short if they aren’t paired with presence and love. This episode invites you to reflect on how we can truly support one another—not only by praying for someone, but by walking with them.
Drawing from Scripture, the wisdom of the saints, and real-life experience, we explore the power
Life's Interruptions or Divine Invitations?
What if the interruptions in your day aren’t distractions… but invitations? In this reflective "shorty," Kara shares a personal insight drawn from her own life and the life of Christ in Scripture. Jesus never pushed people away because they weren’t part of “the plan.” He embraced them as the plan.
This episode invites you to rethink the way you see the unexpected moments in your own life
The Bread of Life: Rediscovering the Power of the Eucharist
In this episode of Draw Near, we reflect on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ and invite you to rediscover the power, beauty, and reality of the Eucharist. More than a symbol, the Eucharist is the living presence of Jesus—true food for the soul, strength for the weary, and healing for the brokenhearted.
Together, we explore:
How to cultivate a deeper devotion to t
Is God Your Best Friend? Prayer Meditation: Unlocking the Doors of the Heart
“Prayer is nothing else than a close sharing between friends.” — St. Teresa of Ávila
In this powerful and reflective episode of Draw Near, Kara invites you to explore the deeply personal and transformative nature of prayer as an intimate friendship with God. Using the story of Doubting Thomas in John 20, Kara reflects on how God responds to us when we ask, and gives us exactly what is ne
A Chosen People: Building the Kingdom of God
What does it mean to be a "living stone" in God's Church? How can we live as a royal priesthood, and build communities that truly reflect the love and unity of Christ?
In this episode, Fred explores the readings for the Sixth Sunday of Easter and unpacks our identity as chosen people—called not just to believe, but to build. Drawing from Acts, Revelation, and John’s Gospel, we’ll dive in
The Shepherd’s Voice: Trusting in God’s Guidance
How do we hear the voice of Jesus in a world full of noise, distraction, and doubt? And what does it mean to truly follow him—especially when the road is uncertain or difficult?
In this episode, we reflect on John 10 and Jesus’ words: “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” We explore how to discern the voice of the Good Shepherd through prayer, silence, and Scripture—
Surprised by Mercy
In this full-length episode of Draw Near, we return to the mic for a heartfelt conversation on one of the most essential themes of our faith—mercy.
What does it really mean to be merciful? Is mercy just forgiveness, or something more? And in a world full of division, anxiety, and wounds, how can God’s mercy truly heal us and flow through us to others?
Together, we explore:
How Scriptu
Unbind Him: Finding Resurrection in the Midst of the Cross
Is it possible to feel joy in the midst of sorrow? Can we call Holy Week happy even while meditating on the suffering of Jesus? In this short and heartfelt Holy Week reflection, Fred and Kara share a deeply personal and spiritually rich meditation on John 11—the raising of Lazarus.
Together, we explore what it means for Jesus to stand before our tombs and call us by name, how we’re invit
Coming Home: A God Who Runs to Us
This week on Draw Near, we dive into one of the most beloved parables in all of Scripture—the Prodigal Son. But this time, we ask three questions that challenge us to look deeper:
How is God’s love different from the love we experience from others—or even from ourselves?
What does “coming home to the Father” look like in real life?
And how do we respond when grace feels... unfair?
Wit
The Mountaintop Experience: Encountering Christ’s Glory
Have you ever had a powerful “mountaintop” moment in your faith—only to struggle when coming back to daily life? In this episode, we dive into the Transfiguration of Jesus (Luke 9:28-36) and explore:
How to seek moments of transformation in your spiritual life
What it means to carry the light of Christ into everyday struggles
The power of prayer to open our hearts to God’s transformative
Into the Desert: Overcoming Temptation
Lent isn’t just about giving things up—it’s about conversion, renewal, and drawing closer to Christ. In this episode, we dive into Jesus’ time in the desert (Luke 4:1-13) and what it teaches us about resisting temptation, deepening our faith, and embracing the call to holiness.
🔥 We also explore:
✔️ How The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis reveal the battle of temptation.
✔️ The distracti
The Cross Isn’t the End of the Story: Holding Onto Hope in Grief
What happens when you endure the Cross, but joy feels impossibly far away? In this episode, we explore the mystery of suffering, the hope of unseen joy, and the strength we find in Christ to carry us through life’s heaviest trials.
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 o
Roses from Heaven: In Loving Memory of Catherine Thérèse Shellabarger
Few knew that Fred and Krystal were expecting their seventh child. At 24 weeks, their beautiful daughter’s heartbeat could no longer be detected. On January 21, 2025, with heavy hearts, they said goodbye as Krystal delivered her in the hospital.
This episode is a tribute to Catherine’s life, an acknowledgment of the deep grief of losing a child, and a witness to the hope we hold in Chris
Washed and Chosen: Living Out Our Baptismal Call
In this inspiring episode of Draw Near, we delve into the transformative power of our baptism and its enduring impact on our identity and mission as disciples of Christ.
**Theme: **Renewing Our Identity in Christ
Through meaningful reflection and practical insights, we explore the deep truth that each of us is a beloved child of God, uniquely called to live out our baptismal mission with
Bonus: Songs for Frances
Think of this episode as sitting by a cozy fire with some friends, singing, playing music and praising God. Its also a peek into our "family of friends" as little Frances loves to listen to Draw Near music at bedtime. We thought it would be easier if it was all in one place. But, we also thought this may be a blessing to some of our listeners. Enjoy!
Songs:
Reckless Love
I Shall Not Wa
Advent Reflection: Already and Not Yet
Jesus is coming... AGAIN!
Advent is a time of Preparation! In this Lectio Divina Reflection Fred and Kara talk about preparing for the coming of Jesus! He was born of a virgin in a manger and so has ALREADY come. BUT also... not YET, because Jesus will come again.
Are we preparing ourselves for Jesus to return? What if Jesus returned tomorrow? Are you ready?
Book Fred and/or Kara to s
Best of “Dad Jokes”, Bloopers and Shenanigans
Pure silliness and fun with great friends. In order to celebrate both our 200th episode, and the completetion of four years of Draw Near, we thought it would be fun to share some of our "best of" dad jokes, outtakes and bloopers' moments. We are joined by special guests, Phillip Grothus, Taylor Schroll, and John Paul Keane. Enjoy!
Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near
200th Episode Special: "Best of Guests"
We could think of no better way to celebrate our 200th Episode, than spotlighting some "Best of Guests" moments. The truth is, there are too many to fit in one episode... but this is a good start! We pray it will be a blessing to you!
Draw Near to Christ and Draw Near to one another. Friendships rooted in Christ... with the usual sharing over coffee, has always been at the heart of Draw
Early Preview: Take, Lord, and Receive All That I Have and Possess (ISAM S4E4)
In this early preview of the fourth episode of our I See A Movement podcast, Kara and Fred are joined by good friend and frequent collaborator, Eric Gallagher. We take a look at what Eric sees the Lord doing in his life and ministry and we discuss the nature of total surrender to the will of God in one's life. The joys, the struggles, the grounding in hope; this is sure to be an inspiring
DN Classics: There's Something About Mary
In the deeply personal first half of this episode, Fred and Kara reflect on their relationship with Mary, and how that has changed and grown over the years. Fred shares more of his testimony about converting to Catholicism and the role Mary played in that process. He also reflects on issues such as identity, childhood trauma, mistrust, and difficult family experiences and how these can ef
"In the Desert, I Praise You:" Gratitude Reflection
Do you praise God in EVERYTHING?... the Good AND the Pain? With Thanksgiving fast approaching, it is common to be thankful for the good gifts, graces, love, or comforts of life. But, how often do we thank God for the thorn in our side, the pit we have fallen into, or the desert we simply cannot find a way out of?
In this episode of the Catholic podcast, Draw Near, Fred and Kara reflect o
Wholly inadequate: Homily by Fr. Patrick Behm
In Father Patrick Behm's homily from the 25th Sunday in Ordinary time (September 22nd), he poses the question: "Will I ever be enough?" He looks at Mark 9: 30-37: "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven?" This Gospel passage brings a beautiful reflection on: "Do successes and achievements somehow make us more lovable? Where is God in the mess?"
Mass Readings: Found Here
Book Fred
An Inside look at our Catholic Friendship: Fred and Kara Interview one another
How exciting to give listeners a look inside our lives, hearts, and our Catholic friendship! In this fun light-hearted episode, we decided to interview one another. There are serious faith-driven questions as well as goofy opinion questions. Because who says striving for holiness has to be boring?
Grab some coffee and join us as friends, as you listen to this highly caffeinated interview
Friday the 13th
Fred shares a brief reflection on an experience from middle school, and how it has effected his view of present cultural circumstances and relationships.
Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."
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"Reckless Love" (Cover by Fred and Kara)
Those that know us, know we LOVE music and worship. Please enjoy this raw (very un-edited) Cover of "Reckless Love" (with harmonies added) by Kara Kardell and Fred Shellabarger (Originally by Cory Asbury. This version by I Am They)
Book Fred and/or Kara to speak or lead worship by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."
Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" an
One Boat: Are We a Church Divided?
There is so much division in the world... but also in the Church! The Church has been described in the image of a "Boat" since the Early Church Fathers. We are all ONE BOAT. ONE Church.
What do we allow to divide us? Where is God in our opinions? Does pride divide us?
Join us for this episode as we discuss what causes division in the Church and how it can be healed.
REGISTER for the
Coping with Anxiety
How do we reconcile the faith, God's will, and Scripture with feelings of anxiety and depression? Fred and Kara with the Draw Near podcast bring in Spiritual Director, Sister Fidelis Marie to have an honest discussion about anxiety and depression.
Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."
Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" a
A Future & A Hope: A Lectio Divina Discussion
In this surprisingly personal episode, Fred and Kara share how the words of Jeremiah 29 can change our hearts.
It gives a "map" of how to find God and what God wants to bring into your life!
REGISTER for the Draw Near Retreat 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
Apologetics PART 4: How to share your faith
In this final episode of the Draw Near "Apologetics series," Fred and Kara share practical tips to defending your Catholic faith and sharing Truth with Love! "Defending" the faith doesn't have to be defensive or offensive. Here are best-practices to "always be ready" to witness when God presents you the opportunity.
REGISTER for the Draw Near Retreat HERE
Did you miss Parts 1, 2, or 3?
Apologetics PART 3: the Pope, Bible ALONE, Rapture, & Resurrection
What do Catholics ACTUALLY believe? Enjoy part 3 where Fred & Kara continue to defend the Catholic Church and correct any misconceptions or misunderstandings!! (We hope you're loving these Catholic teaching episodes as much as we are.)
REGISTER for the Draw Near Retreat HERE
Questions addressed in this episode:
Where is the papacy in Scripture? How does he have authority?
The bi
Apologetics PART 2: Creation, Aliens, & Purgatory
In PART 2 of this 4-part apologetics series, Fred and Kara take up more difficult Catholic questions like: creation, aliens, the Eucharist, Confession, and Purgatory.
REGISTER for the Draw Near Retreat HERE
Questions answered in this episode:
What do Catholic (have to) believe about Creation? Evolution? 7-literal days?
Aliens
Where is the Eucharist in the Bible?
Why do you confess yo
Apologetics PART 1: Mary & Salvation
Who loves Q&A? We do! Fred and Kara answer common Catholic questions, among Catholics, Protestants, or even atheists. Enjoy part 1 of this extended series.
REGISTER for the Draw Near Retreat HERE
*Questions in this episode: *
Why do Catholic Worship Mary? What's the deal with Mary?
Why do Catholics pray to Mary and the Saints?
What do Catholics believe about salvation? How are yo
COVER SONG: "I Am Not Alone"
Enjoy this Draw Near Cover of "I Am Not Alone" by Kara Kardell and Fred Shellabarger (originally by Kari Jobe)
Book Fred and/or Kara to speak/lead worship 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 you.
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Ask and I Will Do It: A Lectio Divina Reflection on John 14
"Whatever you ask in my name, I will do it." Just like that... no questions asked? Does he need anything from us? In this episode, we reflect on the words of Jesus in John 14:12-14 as we look for answers to these questions.
Scriptures Mentioned In This Episode
John 14:12-14
“Truly, truly, I say to you, he who believes in me will also do the works that I do; and greater works than these
Christian tips on "How to Friend" in today's changing world
We were made for relationship and friendship. Yet, so many of us often feel alone; lost in a sea of acquaintances, with few "real" friends. We feel alone. How are we to overcome this? How are we to actually "Add Friend" in real life? Why is it more important to "belong" in a friendship, rather than to simply "fit in?" What can we learn from Jesus about what true friendship looks like?
T
Source and Summit (MLMG Ep 27)
In this final episode of My Lord and My God, we explore the meaning of the phrase, drawn from Church teaching, "The Eucharist is the Source and Summit of our Faith." Why is it important? In Scripture, Christ wants to abide in us; to cast our anxieties upon Him. We are reminded that it is only in Him that we have life in the fullest and truest sense.
We also read that He will be with us e
DN Classics: Virtuous Friendship
Despite the world being so "connected," many of us find ourselves struggling with feelings of isolation and loneliness. We have many "friends," or more accurately, "best acquaintances," but we often lack the meaningful relationships; the friendships we long for that are characterized by love, vulnerability, mutual encouragement and accountability. What can Scripture teach us about friends
Catholic Calisthenics (MLMG Ep 26)
What's with all the sitting, standing, and kneeling at a Catholic mass? What is the meaning behind the different postures, because there IS meaning. There is a reason, and that reason brings us deeper into prayer!
Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co
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Why Can't non-Catholics Receive the Eucharist? (MLMG Ep 25)
Fred's struggle with the protestant teaching on "communion" actually led him to believe the Catholic understanding! Kara grew up not knowing that, as a Catholic, she shouldn't receive "communion" in other Churches. And why can't non-Catholics receive the Eucharist in the Catholic Church?
Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on S
Why do bad things happen to good people?
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Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."
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Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.
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For You (DN Classics)
Going back to one of our earliest episodes, we pull this discussion of the Passion, Death and Resurrection of Christ from the vault. We pray that it will be a blessing to you as you prepare your hearts for the Paschal Triduum (Holy Thursday, Good Friday, and Easter).
["I Thirst" reflection ](https://avemariaradio.net/wp-content/uploads/2013/03/Jesus-I-Thirst.pdf)
Prayer at the end of e
Chosen, Blessed, Broken, and Given
In this episode, taken from the third season of the I See a Movement podcast, we are joined by Eric Gallagher as we discuss our own personal victories through struggles and crosses. We take a look at how suffering and trials give way to resurrection! We also reflect on the necessity of embracing our own brokenness and weaknesses, and how, by grace, this helps us to trust the Lord more and
Emmaus Teaches the Mass (MLMG Ep 24)
Did you know the Road to Emmaus reveals a lot about our encounter with Christ in the Mass? This is one of Fred and Kara's favorite passages!
Checkout our new endeavor:[ I See a Movement](www.iseeamovement.com) today! It has videos of us, blogs, and resources for growing in your faith!
Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on Su
God is in the Mess and in the Mass (MLMG Ep 23)
In this testimony episode of MyLord and My God, with EmmaLee Miklosovic, she shares how God has called her out of perfectionism and loved her in her mess. That translates to her relationship with Jesus in the Eucharist: where he has pursued her heart as a romance. As LOVE himself.
Read EmmaLee's blog "Joyfully His."
Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the
Struggles in the Interior Life
In this third episode taken from the I See a Movement series on the apostolate, we discuss the reality of struggles and obstacles we face in the interior life. Why do these obstacles exist? How do we overcome them? Listen to find out!
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-produ
The Interior Life
In this second episode taken from the I See a Movement series on the apostolate, we discuss the interior life and it's place within the apostolate of every believer. What is the interior life? What are some of the struggles we face as we strive to grow in the interior life? Listen to find out!
Learn more about I See a Movement at: https://www.iseeamovement.com
Book Fred and/or Kara
Behold the Lamb (MLMG Ep 20)
"Behold, the Lamb of God, who takes away the sin of the world!"
In this episode, by looking at the Scriptural meaning and themes of "the lamb," we can better understand the gravity of the words we hear every mass... but perhaps have never truly heard.
These words, spoken by John the Baptist (John 1:29), are familiar to us, as Catholics. We hear them at each mass as the priest raises the
The Last Supper (MLMG Ep 22)
The Institution of the Eucharist (Catholic Mass) comes at the Last Supper. In this episode, we bring all of the episodes that come before together to show how Jesus fulfills the Old Covenant, institutes the New, and gives us the "thank" offering that will continue for all of time in the Eucharist.
*Scriptures mentioned: *
Ex 19: 3-6
Ex 24: 7-8, 11
Jer 31: 31-33
Lk 22: 19-20
Mt 26: 26-28
The Soul of the Apostolate
We are joined by our good friend Eric Gallagher over the next five epsiodes on the apostolate and the interior life! This episode originally posted as part of the Substack platform/podcast we share with Eric, called I See a Movement! We thought this series would be a blessing to all of our Draw Near listeners on your Lenten journey. And of course... we also want you to check out https://w
The Sacrifice of Our Lives (MLMG Ep 21)
In this episode we are joined by our friend, catholic speaker, author, filmmaker, founder of the Science of Sainthood, and host of the Art of Catholic podcast, Matthew Leonard. What was the journey from being a Protestant pastor's kid to receiving Christ in the Eucharist like for Matthew? How did meeting one Catholic family who did "relational evangelization" well set him on a new path?
DN Classics: Doing Lent... Well?
Reaching back into "the vault" from a couple of years ago, we share one of our most popular Lenten episodes. If you think you are good at Lent… You are not. No one is good at Lent. But there is a good reason for this. Lent is often a challenge because it requires letting go of things that hinder us in following the Lord. It requires taking up the cross and denying ourselves for something
I'll See You in the Eucharist (MLMG Ep 19)
In this episode we are joined by one of the people that makes My Lord and My God (and the Draw Near apostolate) possible: John Fitzsimmons! In his testimony we hear how the legacy of faith has been handed down from one generation to the next; how encountering Christ in the Eucharist shaped his childhood and fostered in him a desire for more as a new father. We also hear how prioritizing t
Wrestling with God: A Lectio Divina Reflection on Genesis 32
In this episode we dive deep into one of the most perplexing passages in Scripture and reflect on its meaning and the implications for our own lives. What is this passage? Genesis 32:22-32, in which Jacob wrestles with God. In what ways is this passage an invitation for all of us? In what we ways do (and perhaps must) we also wrestle with God? How does this wrestling leave us changed? Lis
Her Answered Prayer: Sonja Corbitt Testimony (MLMG Ep 18)
In this episode, we are so grateful to be joined by our good friend, Sonja Corbitt! Here, Sonja shares with us her powerfully stirring testimony about how God led her to the answer to her prayer, and the longing of her heart: "Lord, I want to be closer to you!"
As always, Sonja shares from the heart with passion. She shares her journey of falling in love with Jesus in and through the Sc
As You Did in Egypt (MLMG Ep 17)
St Augustine famously said, that in the Old Testament, the New Testament is concealed. And in the New Testament, the meaning of the Old Testament is revealed. The Catechism of the Catholic Church reminds us that, "All sacred Scripture is but one book, and this one book is Christ (CCC 134). We hear the St John the Baptist and other New Testament writers refer to Christ as the "Lamb of God
Jesus, I Trust In You
In this episode, we share some exciting news! We also spend some time reflecting on one of our favorite prayers, the Litany of Trust. Continuing our "Lectio Series" by reflecting on the prayer itself, we look at what it means to "trust" in the Lord. How can we trust in hard times? How does God forge our trust and hope in Him in the midst of our day to day lives? Listen to find out!
Pray
I AM the Bread of Life (MLMG Ep 16)
Continuing our discussion from the episodes, Bread from Heaven and Feeding of the 5,000, in this episode we discuss the meaning of John 6 (particularly, the Bread of Life discourse). In this passage, Jesus says, “Truly, truly, I say to you, unless you eat the flesh of the Son of man and drink his blood, you have no life in you; he who eats my flesh and drinks my blood has eternal life, an
I Was Made to Be A Priest (MLMG Ep 15)
When God calls your heart, you answer. Fr. Andrew Auer of St. Louis shares how through an invitation to attend weekly mass, God changed his heart. Father's encounter with Christ in the mass at 16 years old led him to leave sin and desire holiness, and it ultimately led him to the priesthood.
In this episode Fred, Kara, and Father Auer also discuss God's desire for us to approach him with
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