Bishop Andrew Cozzens, Brendan Hodge, and Stephen White discuss the National Eucharistic Congress, liturgical experiences, and the impact of physical print media in church parishes. They also explore data analysis in understanding Catholic beliefs and engage in lighthearted games and banter.
The liturgy focus at the National Eucharistic Congress fosters a profound connection with the divine.
Data plays a crucial role in parish decision-making for financial planning and community engagement.
Deep dives
Pillar Podcast Live Recording at International Eucharistic Congress
The podcast episode features a live recording at the National Eucharistic Congress in Indianapolis. Despite technical difficulties, the hosts, Steve and Ed, engage in banter and discuss their experiences at the event. Ed reveals a three-year project culmination that they are excited about, demonstrating the challenges and excitement of their journalistic work. The atmosphere at the Congress is described as a unique gathering of thousands in communion, emphasizing the significance of unity in a non-adversarial context.
Emphasis on Liturgical Experience and Invitation to Communion
The episode highlights the focus on liturgy at the Eucharistic Congress, stressing its profound impact on participants. The hosts acknowledge the power of silence during the holy hour and the communal worship experience within the church. They discuss how the liturgical practices enable a profound connection with the divine, emphasizing the evangelical and inviting nature of well-celebrated liturgies.
Challenges of Building Community Post-Liturgy
The conversation delves into the importance of post-liturgy engagement within parishes to sustain the community and continue the spiritual journey. The hosts explore the need for a balance between liturgical experiences and ongoing catechesis to deepen individual faith and communal connections. They underscore the necessity for parish readiness and welcoming approaches to nurture and retain individuals drawn to the faith.
Analyzing Parishes and Decision-Making with Data
The episode transitions into discussing the role of data in parish decision-making, emphasizing the practical use of numerical insights for financial planning and community engagement. The hosts present the value of data in evaluating parish dynamics, such as attendance, contributions, and retention rates, to address real-world challenges and operational needs. The conversation highlights the significance of leveraging data-driven approaches to enhance parish functioning and address financial concerns.
In this live recording of The Pillar Podcast, JD and Ed talk about the National Eucharistic Congress, its focus on the liturgy and the impact it could have on US Church.
Featuring Bishop Andrew Cozzens of Crookston, Pillar Contributing Editor Brendan Hodge and Stephen White of The Catholic Project.
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There will be no bonus episode this week.
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This episode of The Pillar Podcast is sponsored by Decided Excellence Catholic Media, a print media company that specializes in Community and Parish magazines.