<?xml version="1.0" encoding="UTF-8"?>
<rss version="2.0" encoding="UTF-8" xmlns:dc="http://purl.org/dc/elements/1.1/" xmlns:sy="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/syndication/" xmlns:admin="http://webns.net/mvcb/" xmlns:atom="http://www.w3.org/2005/Atom/" xmlns:rdf="http://www.w3.org/1999/02/22-rdf-syntax-ns#" xmlns:content="http://purl.org/rss/1.0/modules/content/" xmlns:googleplay="http://www.google.com/schemas/play-podcasts/1.0" xmlns:itunes="http://www.itunes.com/dtds/podcast-1.0.dtd" xmlns:fireside="http://fireside.fm/modules/rss/fireside">
  <channel>
    <fireside:hostname>app02</fireside:hostname>
    <fireside:genDate>Wed, 08 Jul 2026 12:45:48 +0000</fireside:genDate>
    <generator>Fireside (https://fireside.fm)</generator>
    <title>Draw Near - Episodes Tagged with “Conversion”</title>
    <link>https://drawnear.fireside.fm/tags/conversion</link>
    <pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
    <description>At Draw Near, we explore the beautiful truth that God, out of His deep and personal love for each of us, takes the first step to draw near. But this divine movement calls for a response—a response that shapes our lives and transforms our hearts. Together, we embark on this journey of faith, discovering the many ways God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit work within us. Rooted in the Catholic faith, our podcast is a space where authenticity meets joy. We’re two best friends navigating life, family, and faith with honesty, humility, and a lot of love. Each episode is a heartfelt conversation—sometimes deep, sometimes lighthearted, but always real. We strive to be vulnerable, faithful, and passionate, sharing insights and stories to inspire you on your path toward Christ. This is more than a podcast; it’s a shared journey toward sainthood. So come laugh with us, reflect with us, and grow with us as we Draw Near to God and one another. Let’s set out together on this adventure of faith, friendship, and grace.</description>
    <language>en</language>
    <itunes:type>episodic</itunes:type>
    <itunes:subtitle>Helping each person to draw near to Christ and to one another. </itunes:subtitle>
    <itunes:author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</itunes:author>
    <itunes:summary>At Draw Near, we explore the beautiful truth that God, out of His deep and personal love for each of us, takes the first step to draw near. But this divine movement calls for a response—a response that shapes our lives and transforms our hearts. Together, we embark on this journey of faith, discovering the many ways God's grace and the power of the Holy Spirit work within us. Rooted in the Catholic faith, our podcast is a space where authenticity meets joy. We’re two best friends navigating life, family, and faith with honesty, humility, and a lot of love. Each episode is a heartfelt conversation—sometimes deep, sometimes lighthearted, but always real. We strive to be vulnerable, faithful, and passionate, sharing insights and stories to inspire you on your path toward Christ. This is more than a podcast; it’s a shared journey toward sainthood. So come laugh with us, reflect with us, and grow with us as we Draw Near to God and one another. Let’s set out together on this adventure of faith, friendship, and grace.</itunes:summary>
    <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/e/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/cover.jpg?v=2"/>
    <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
    <itunes:keywords>Faith; Christ; Podcast; Catholic; Friends; Draw Near</itunes:keywords>
    <itunes:owner>
      <itunes:name>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</itunes:name>
      <itunes:email>drawnear.me@gmail.com</itunes:email>
    </itunes:owner>
<itunes:category text="Religion &amp; Spirituality">
  <itunes:category text="Spirituality"/>
</itunes:category>
<itunes:category text="Religion &amp; Spirituality">
  <itunes:category text="Christianity"/>
</itunes:category>
<itunes:category text="Religion &amp; Spirituality"/>
<item>
  <title>Fred's Journey to Christ: From Brokenness to Beloved</title>
  <link>https://drawnear.fireside.fm/243</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">e4d9cf94-e139-4f1d-be14-608fe84061fa</guid>
  <pubDate>Mon, 22 Jun 2026 06:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/e4d9cf94-e139-4f1d-be14-608fe84061fa.mp3" length="94438175" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>Many listeners have asked to hear more of Fred's story, and in this episode, he shares it.

From a difficult childhood and experiences that left deep wounds, to the moments that shaped his faith, Fred reflects on why he often says, "I shouldn't be alive." More importantly, he shares where Christ was in the midst of the suffering—even when he couldn't see Him.

This is a story of pain, survival, grace, and the relentless love of God that pursues us through every chapter of our lives.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:05:11</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/e/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/episodes/e/e4d9cf94-e139-4f1d-be14-608fe84061fa/cover.jpg?v=2"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;TRIGGER WARNING! Many people have asked to hear more of Fred's story. In this episode, he opens up about parts of his life he doesn't often share publicly.&lt;br&gt;
This episode of Draw Near contains adult themes; we do not recommend listening in the presence of children. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Through an honest conversation with Kara, Fred reflects on his childhood, the hardships he experienced, and the wounds throughout his early life. He shares why he often says, &lt;em&gt;"I shouldn't be alive,"&lt;/em&gt; and how there were moments when his future seemed uncertain.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Yet this episode is about far more than suffering or past wounds. Looking back, Fred can now see how Christ was present even in the darkest seasons: through unexpected people, quiet moments of grace, and circumstances that helped lead him toward healing and faith. What once seemed like random events now reveal a story of God's providence and relentless pursuit.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;In this episode, we discuss:&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;  Fred's childhood and family experiences&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;  The challenges and wounds that marked his early years&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;  Why he says he "shouldn't be alive"&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;  The lasting impact of suffering and brokenness&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;  Where Christ was present throughout the journey&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;  How God works even when we cannot see Him&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;  The path that eventually led Fred to deeper faith and conversion&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;  Hope for anyone who feels trapped by their past&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Whether your story is marked by loss, pain, disappointment, or unanswered questions, this conversation is a reminder that God is never absent. He is often working in ways we cannot yet understand.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;As Jesus says in the Parable of the Prodigal Son (and Kara referenced in the episode): &lt;br&gt;
"For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found." (Luke 15:24)&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;No wound is beyond Christ's reach. No story is beyond redemption.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;*&lt;em&gt;Resources Mentioned&lt;br&gt;
*&lt;/em&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;  OCIA curriculum from Ascension: &lt;a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xeJl-lPwCsQ" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;INVITED Webinar&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;  &lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/drawnearshop/p/the-surrender-journal" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;The Surrender Journal&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;

&lt;p&gt;*&lt;em&gt;Listen Next&lt;br&gt;
*&lt;/em&gt;&lt;br&gt;
If this episode resonates with you, consider listening to Fred's other testimony episodes, where he shares more about his conversion, his Catholic faith, and the ways God continues to work in his life today.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;  Fred's First Testimony Episode: &lt;a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/6umqaZpjeLTE7AtTN9hYxt?si=Phe_mSs-TE2TXpzu1RAP1w" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;From Heathen to Heaven&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;  "Why are you Catholic?" &lt;a href="https://drawnear.fireside.fm/9" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Testimony&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;

&lt;p&gt;For reflections, formation, and community, &lt;strong&gt;FOLLOW Draw Near on Social Media:&lt;/strong&gt; @drawnearbygrace&lt;br&gt;
 &lt;a href="https://www.youtube.com/@drawnearbygrace" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;YouTube&lt;/a&gt; &lt;br&gt;
 &lt;a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnearbygrace/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Instagram&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br&gt;
 &lt;a href="https://www.facebook.com/drawnearbygrace/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Facebook!&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :)&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.patreon.com/c/drawnear/membership" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Click here&lt;/a&gt; to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support! &lt;br&gt;
Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our &lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;home page. &lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp;amp; Kara Kardell &lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Catholic podcast, Draw Near, Fred and Kara, Christian testimony, conversion story, faith journey, Catholic testimony, Catholic conversion, personal testimony, overcoming adversity, healing from childhood trauma, childhood trauma and faith, finding God in suffering, God's grace, God's providence, redemption story, hope after suffering, Christian encouragement, Catholic podcast, Christian podcast, spiritual healing, healing and faith, encountering Christ, relationship with Jesus, journey to Christ, brokenness to beloved, God's love, Christian discipleship, faith and suffering, testimony of God's faithfulness, spiritual transformation, Draw Near Podcast, Fred Shellabarger, where was God in my suffering, how God works through suffering, Christian story of redemption, Catholic conversion testimony, overcoming a difficult childhood, finding hope after trauma, God's presence in suffering, healing childhood wounds through faith, personal journey to Jesus Christ, Christian testimony podcast, Catholic faith journey, how Christ changes lives</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>TRIGGER WARNING! Many people have asked to hear more of Fred's story. In this episode, he opens up about parts of his life he doesn't often share publicly.<br>
This episode of Draw Near contains adult themes; we do not recommend listening in the presence of children. </p>

<p>Through an honest conversation with Kara, Fred reflects on his childhood, the hardships he experienced, and the wounds throughout his early life. He shares why he often says, <em>"I shouldn't be alive,"</em> and how there were moments when his future seemed uncertain.</p>

<p>Yet this episode is about far more than suffering or past wounds. Looking back, Fred can now see how Christ was present even in the darkest seasons: through unexpected people, quiet moments of grace, and circumstances that helped lead him toward healing and faith. What once seemed like random events now reveal a story of God's providence and relentless pursuit.</p>

<p>In this episode, we discuss:</p>

<ul>
<li>  Fred's childhood and family experiences</li>
<li>  The challenges and wounds that marked his early years</li>
<li>  Why he says he "shouldn't be alive"</li>
<li>  The lasting impact of suffering and brokenness</li>
<li>  Where Christ was present throughout the journey</li>
<li>  How God works even when we cannot see Him</li>
<li>  The path that eventually led Fred to deeper faith and conversion</li>
<li>  Hope for anyone who feels trapped by their past</li>
</ul>

<p>Whether your story is marked by loss, pain, disappointment, or unanswered questions, this conversation is a reminder that God is never absent. He is often working in ways we cannot yet understand.</p>

<p>As Jesus says in the Parable of the Prodigal Son (and Kara referenced in the episode): <br>
"For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found." (Luke 15:24)</p>

<p>No wound is beyond Christ's reach. No story is beyond redemption.</p>

<p>*<em>Resources Mentioned<br>
*</em></p>

<ul>
<li>  OCIA curriculum from Ascension: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xeJl-lPwCsQ" rel="nofollow noopener">INVITED Webinar</a></li>
<li>  <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/drawnearshop/p/the-surrender-journal" rel="nofollow noopener">The Surrender Journal</a></li>
</ul>

<p>*<em>Listen Next<br>
*</em><br>
If this episode resonates with you, consider listening to Fred's other testimony episodes, where he shares more about his conversion, his Catholic faith, and the ways God continues to work in his life today.</p>

<ul>
<li>  Fred's First Testimony Episode: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/6umqaZpjeLTE7AtTN9hYxt?si=Phe_mSs-TE2TXpzu1RAP1w" rel="nofollow noopener">From Heathen to Heaven</a></li>
<li>  "Why are you Catholic?" <a href="https://drawnear.fireside.fm/9" rel="nofollow noopener">Testimony</a></li>
</ul>

<p>For reflections, formation, and community, <strong>FOLLOW Draw Near on Social Media:</strong> @drawnearbygrace<br>
 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@drawnearbygrace" rel="nofollow noopener">YouTube</a> <br>
 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnearbygrace/" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a><br>
 <a href="https://www.facebook.com/drawnearbygrace/" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a></p>

<p>Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :)</p>

<p><a href="https://www.patreon.com/c/drawnear/membership" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support! <br>
Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p>

<p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell</p><p><a rel="payment" href="https://www.patreon.com/drawnear">Support Draw Near</a></p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>TRIGGER WARNING! Many people have asked to hear more of Fred's story. In this episode, he opens up about parts of his life he doesn't often share publicly.<br>
This episode of Draw Near contains adult themes; we do not recommend listening in the presence of children. </p>

<p>Through an honest conversation with Kara, Fred reflects on his childhood, the hardships he experienced, and the wounds throughout his early life. He shares why he often says, <em>"I shouldn't be alive,"</em> and how there were moments when his future seemed uncertain.</p>

<p>Yet this episode is about far more than suffering or past wounds. Looking back, Fred can now see how Christ was present even in the darkest seasons: through unexpected people, quiet moments of grace, and circumstances that helped lead him toward healing and faith. What once seemed like random events now reveal a story of God's providence and relentless pursuit.</p>

<p>In this episode, we discuss:</p>

<ul>
<li>  Fred's childhood and family experiences</li>
<li>  The challenges and wounds that marked his early years</li>
<li>  Why he says he "shouldn't be alive"</li>
<li>  The lasting impact of suffering and brokenness</li>
<li>  Where Christ was present throughout the journey</li>
<li>  How God works even when we cannot see Him</li>
<li>  The path that eventually led Fred to deeper faith and conversion</li>
<li>  Hope for anyone who feels trapped by their past</li>
</ul>

<p>Whether your story is marked by loss, pain, disappointment, or unanswered questions, this conversation is a reminder that God is never absent. He is often working in ways we cannot yet understand.</p>

<p>As Jesus says in the Parable of the Prodigal Son (and Kara referenced in the episode): <br>
"For this my son was dead, and is alive again; he was lost, and is found." (Luke 15:24)</p>

<p>No wound is beyond Christ's reach. No story is beyond redemption.</p>

<p>*<em>Resources Mentioned<br>
*</em></p>

<ul>
<li>  OCIA curriculum from Ascension: <a href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=xeJl-lPwCsQ" rel="nofollow noopener">INVITED Webinar</a></li>
<li>  <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/drawnearshop/p/the-surrender-journal" rel="nofollow noopener">The Surrender Journal</a></li>
</ul>

<p>*<em>Listen Next<br>
*</em><br>
If this episode resonates with you, consider listening to Fred's other testimony episodes, where he shares more about his conversion, his Catholic faith, and the ways God continues to work in his life today.</p>

<ul>
<li>  Fred's First Testimony Episode: <a href="https://open.spotify.com/episode/6umqaZpjeLTE7AtTN9hYxt?si=Phe_mSs-TE2TXpzu1RAP1w" rel="nofollow noopener">From Heathen to Heaven</a></li>
<li>  "Why are you Catholic?" <a href="https://drawnear.fireside.fm/9" rel="nofollow noopener">Testimony</a></li>
</ul>

<p>For reflections, formation, and community, <strong>FOLLOW Draw Near on Social Media:</strong> @drawnearbygrace<br>
 <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@drawnearbygrace" rel="nofollow noopener">YouTube</a> <br>
 <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnearbygrace/" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a><br>
 <a href="https://www.facebook.com/drawnearbygrace/" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a></p>

<p>Like our podcast? Hit that “follow” button and tell your friends. :)</p>

<p><a href="https://www.patreon.com/c/drawnear/membership" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support! <br>
Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p>

<p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell</p><p><a rel="payment" href="https://www.patreon.com/drawnear">Support Draw Near</a></p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>If Jesus Is Lord, Life Looks Different</title>
  <link>https://drawnear.fireside.fm/232</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">4ff6e162-b80b-49e8-96fc-e409520f4796</guid>
  <pubDate>Wed, 03 Dec 2025 06:00:00 -0600</pubDate>
  <author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/4ff6e162-b80b-49e8-96fc-e409520f4796.mp3" length="54032962" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>In a gentle (yet challenging) episode on Luke 6:46, Fred and Kara explore Jesus's words to his followers: "Why do you call me Lord Lord and do not do what I tell you?" This episode takes an honest look at what it means to actually live Jesus words from Scripture and his personal promptings to each of our hearts. We explore the freedom and difficulties in the promptings of the Spirit, real obedience even when teachings are hard, and how to discern the deeper “yes” God is inviting you into.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>36:43</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/e/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/episodes/4/4ff6e162-b80b-49e8-96fc-e409520f4796/cover.jpg?v=2"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;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. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;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? &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Throughout the episode, we also explore:&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;how the Holy Spirit prompts us toward deeper faithfulness&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;why some of Jesus’ teachings feel difficult and what that says about our spiritual growth&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;how grace strengthens our weak places&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;the invitation to reflect on areas where we’re not fully following him&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;the simple, daily yes that forms real discipleship&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "&lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;booking page&lt;/a&gt;."&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.patreon.com/c/drawnear/membership" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Click here&lt;/a&gt; to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. &lt;br&gt;
"Like" and follow us on &lt;a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Facebook!&lt;/a&gt;. Follow us on &lt;a href="https://www.instagram.com/fredandkara/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Instagram&lt;/a&gt;! &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our &lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;home page. &lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;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! &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp;amp; Kara Kardell &lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Catholic podcast, Draw Near, Fred and Kara, Jesus is Lord, Luke 6:46, Christian discipleship, living your faith, obedience to God, following Jesus, Holy Spirit guidance, promptings of the Spirit, grace to follow Jesus, Catholic spirituality, Scripture reflection, deeper conversion, hearing God’s voice, living what you believe, spiritual growth, daily discipleship, challenging teachings of Jesus, building faith on the rock, saying yes to God, Lukewarm Faith</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>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. </p>

<p>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? </p>

<p>Throughout the episode, we also explore:</p>

<ul>
<li>how the Holy Spirit prompts us toward deeper faithfulness</li>
<li>why some of Jesus’ teachings feel difficult and what that says about our spiritual growth</li>
<li>how grace strengthens our weak places</li>
<li>the invitation to reflect on areas where we’re not fully following him</li>
<li>the simple, daily yes that forms real discipleship</li>
</ul>

<p>Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.patreon.com/c/drawnear/membership" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. <br>
"Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fredandkara/" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p>

<p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p>

<p>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! </p>

<p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell</p><p><a rel="payment" href="https://www.patreon.com/drawnear">Support Draw Near</a></p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>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. </p>

<p>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? </p>

<p>Throughout the episode, we also explore:</p>

<ul>
<li>how the Holy Spirit prompts us toward deeper faithfulness</li>
<li>why some of Jesus’ teachings feel difficult and what that says about our spiritual growth</li>
<li>how grace strengthens our weak places</li>
<li>the invitation to reflect on areas where we’re not fully following him</li>
<li>the simple, daily yes that forms real discipleship</li>
</ul>

<p>Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.patreon.com/c/drawnear/membership" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. <br>
"Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fredandkara/" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p>

<p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p>

<p>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! </p>

<p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell</p><p><a rel="payment" href="https://www.patreon.com/drawnear">Support Draw Near</a></p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Do Whatever He Tells You</title>
  <link>https://drawnear.fireside.fm/224</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">ff7e1c0a-640b-4d8e-b270-b133e6b38e1c</guid>
  <pubDate>Sun, 05 Oct 2025 00:00:00 -0500</pubDate>
  <author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/ff7e1c0a-640b-4d8e-b270-b133e6b38e1c.mp3" length="135894366" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>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.</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>56:37</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/e/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/episodes/f/ff7e1c0a-640b-4d8e-b270-b133e6b38e1c/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;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 &lt;a href="https://www.studio316.com/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Studio 316&lt;/a&gt; share how they traded corporate success for a life of ministry—and how they’re using creativity and media to lead kids to Christ.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "&lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;booking page&lt;/a&gt;."&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Click here&lt;/a&gt; to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. &lt;br&gt;
"Like" and follow us on &lt;a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Facebook!&lt;/a&gt;. Follow us on &lt;a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Instagram&lt;/a&gt;! &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our &lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;home page. &lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;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! &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp;amp; Kara Kardell &lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Studio 316, Conversion, Obedience, Calling</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>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 <a href="https://www.studio316.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Studio 316</a> share how they traded corporate success for a life of ministry—and how they’re using creativity and media to lead kids to Christ.</p>

<p>Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. <br>
"Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p>

<p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p>

<p>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! </p>

<p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell</p><p><a rel="payment" href="https://www.patreon.com/drawnear">Support Draw Near</a></p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>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 <a href="https://www.studio316.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Studio 316</a> share how they traded corporate success for a life of ministry—and how they’re using creativity and media to lead kids to Christ.</p>

<p>Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. <br>
"Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p>

<p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p>

<p>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! </p>

<p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell</p><p><a rel="payment" href="https://www.patreon.com/drawnear">Support Draw Near</a></p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>DN Classics: There's Something About Mary</title>
  <link>https://drawnear.fireside.fm/199</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">e2b6b807-58b2-4b42-b454-2c9bc3819cdd</guid>
  <pubDate>Fri, 06 Dec 2024 00:00:00 -0600</pubDate>
  <author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/e2b6b807-58b2-4b42-b454-2c9bc3819cdd.mp3" length="90140026" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>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 effect our relationship with God; as well as with Mary. He shares the story of his relationship with Mary, and how she has helped him to find healing. Christ, while bleeding out and dying on the Cross, said to his Mother, “Behold your son;” and to his beloved disciple, “Behold your Mother.” Scripture then affirms that from that day, this beloved disciple “took her into his home.” We to, as beloved disciples must take her into our homes, and allow the love of the Mother of God to penetrate our hearts as only that of a faithful mother can. Her heart is to draw us near to the source of peace that surpasses all understanding: her son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.

In the second half, we return to Kara's teaching on the Immaculate Conception, which we celebrate on December 8. Kara dives into a scriptural study of key texts that point to Mary’s Immaculate Conception with hopes that each listener would be drawn deeper into the celebration of this Holy Day of Obligation. 
</itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:01:15</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/e/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/episodes/e/e2b6b807-58b2-4b42-b454-2c9bc3819cdd/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;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 effect our relationship with God; as well as with Mary. He shares the story of his relationship with Mary, and how she has helped him to find healing. Christ, while bleeding out and dying on the Cross, said to his Mother, “Behold your son;” and to his beloved disciple, “Behold your Mother.” Scripture then affirms that from that day, this beloved disciple “took her into his home.” We to, as beloved disciples must take her into our homes, and allow the love of the Mother of God to penetrate our hearts as only that of a faithful mother can. Her heart is to draw us near to the source of peace that surpasses all understanding: her son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;In the second half, we return to Kara's teaching on the Immaculate Conception, which we celebrate on December 8. Kara dives into a scriptural study of key texts that point to Mary’s Immaculate Conception with hopes that each listener would be drawn deeper into the celebration of this Holy Day of Obligation. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Questions answered in the second half:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;How do we know Mary was special or set apart?&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;What is the Immaculate Conception?&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;What is Original Sin? Where is that in Scripture?&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Where is Mary’s Immaculate Conception found in Scripture?&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Purchase the book, Hail Holy Queen by Scott Hahn &lt;a href="https://amzn.to/3Far6xT" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;here.&lt;/a&gt;&lt;br&gt;
Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "&lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;booking page&lt;/a&gt;."&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Click here&lt;/a&gt; to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. &lt;br&gt;
"Like" and follow us on &lt;a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Facebook!&lt;/a&gt;. Follow us on &lt;a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Instagram&lt;/a&gt;! &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our &lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;home page. &lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;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! &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp;amp; Kara Kardell &lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Mary, Blessed Mother, Conversion, Catholic, Healing, Trauma, Identity, Encouragement, Scripture, Catholic Teaching, Draw Near, Fred Shellabarger, Kara Kardell, Immaculate Conception, December 8, Full of Grace</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>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 effect our relationship with God; as well as with Mary. He shares the story of his relationship with Mary, and how she has helped him to find healing. Christ, while bleeding out and dying on the Cross, said to his Mother, “Behold your son;” and to his beloved disciple, “Behold your Mother.” Scripture then affirms that from that day, this beloved disciple “took her into his home.” We to, as beloved disciples must take her into our homes, and allow the love of the Mother of God to penetrate our hearts as only that of a faithful mother can. Her heart is to draw us near to the source of peace that surpasses all understanding: her son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.</p>

<p>In the second half, we return to Kara's teaching on the Immaculate Conception, which we celebrate on December 8. Kara dives into a scriptural study of key texts that point to Mary’s Immaculate Conception with hopes that each listener would be drawn deeper into the celebration of this Holy Day of Obligation. </p>

<p><strong>Questions answered in the second half:</strong></p>

<ul>
<li>How do we know Mary was special or set apart?</li>
<li>What is the Immaculate Conception?</li>
<li>What is Original Sin? Where is that in Scripture?</li>
<li>Where is Mary’s Immaculate Conception found in Scripture?</li>
</ul>

<p>Purchase the book, Hail Holy Queen by Scott Hahn <a href="https://amzn.to/3Far6xT" rel="nofollow noopener">here.</a><br>
Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. <br>
"Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p>

<p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p>

<p>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! </p>

<p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell</p><p><a rel="payment" href="https://www.patreon.com/drawnear">Support Draw Near</a></p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>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 effect our relationship with God; as well as with Mary. He shares the story of his relationship with Mary, and how she has helped him to find healing. Christ, while bleeding out and dying on the Cross, said to his Mother, “Behold your son;” and to his beloved disciple, “Behold your Mother.” Scripture then affirms that from that day, this beloved disciple “took her into his home.” We to, as beloved disciples must take her into our homes, and allow the love of the Mother of God to penetrate our hearts as only that of a faithful mother can. Her heart is to draw us near to the source of peace that surpasses all understanding: her son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.</p>

<p>In the second half, we return to Kara's teaching on the Immaculate Conception, which we celebrate on December 8. Kara dives into a scriptural study of key texts that point to Mary’s Immaculate Conception with hopes that each listener would be drawn deeper into the celebration of this Holy Day of Obligation. </p>

<p><strong>Questions answered in the second half:</strong></p>

<ul>
<li>How do we know Mary was special or set apart?</li>
<li>What is the Immaculate Conception?</li>
<li>What is Original Sin? Where is that in Scripture?</li>
<li>Where is Mary’s Immaculate Conception found in Scripture?</li>
</ul>

<p>Purchase the book, Hail Holy Queen by Scott Hahn <a href="https://amzn.to/3Far6xT" rel="nofollow noopener">here.</a><br>
Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. <br>
"Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p>

<p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p>

<p>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! </p>

<p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell</p><p><a rel="payment" href="https://www.patreon.com/drawnear">Support Draw Near</a></p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>The Sacrifice of Our Lives (MLMG Ep 21)</title>
  <link>https://drawnear.fireside.fm/163</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">83e48e61-2e99-40b5-9a18-ad97b9f03c1b</guid>
  <pubDate>Fri, 16 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0600</pubDate>
  <author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/83e48e61-2e99-40b5-9a18-ad97b9f03c1b.mp3" length="41933123" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>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? 

Matthew and Fred share what it is like to discover Catholic teaching, and how it led them both through an, at times, confusing process asking the Lord, "Who are you?" Why was the question of authority so critical in this process? This, too. is discussed. 

We look at the "pedestal" that converts can sometimes be placed on, and offer some encouragement for cradle Catholics. 

Matthew also describes the radical new way he encountered Christ in the Eucharist and the realization of becoming a part of a family that goes beyond his blood relations, and _why that matters_! 

Finally, we look at the central question of our show: "How has your encounter with Christ in the Eucharist changed your life?" The answer to this question has everything to do with how we build our lives; what we are centered on (or more accurately, WHO we are rooted in). Should our encounter with Christ in the Eucharist be evident to those around us? If so, how? What is the role of sacrifice in a Eucharistic life? Listen to find out! </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>28:30</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/e/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/episodes/8/83e48e61-2e99-40b5-9a18-ad97b9f03c1b/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;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? &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Matthew and Fred share what it is like to discover Catholic teaching, and how it led them both through an, at times, confusing process asking the Lord, "Who are you?" Why was the question of authority so critical in this process? This, too. is discussed. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;We look at the "pedestal" that converts can sometimes be placed on, and offer some encouragement for cradle Catholics. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Matthew also describes the radical new way he encountered Christ in the Eucharist and the realization of becoming a part of a family that goes beyond his blood relations, and &lt;em&gt;why that matters&lt;/em&gt;! &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Finally, we look at the central question of our show: "How has your encounter with Christ in the Eucharist changed your life?" The answer to this question has everything to do with how we build our lives; what we are centered on (or more accurately, WHO we are rooted in). Should our encounter with Christ in the Eucharist be evident to those around us? If so, how? What is the role of sacrfice in a Eucharistic life? Listen to find out! &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Learn more about &lt;a href="https://matthewsleonard.com/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Matthew Leonard&lt;/a&gt;: &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.scienceofsainthood.com/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;The Science of Sainthood&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://matthewsleonard.com/podcast/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;The Art of Catholic Podcast&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "&lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;booking page&lt;/a&gt;."&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Click here&lt;/a&gt; to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. &lt;br&gt;
"Like" and follow us on &lt;a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Facebook!&lt;/a&gt;. Follow us on &lt;a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Instagram&lt;/a&gt;! &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our &lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;home page. &lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;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! &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;My Lord &amp;amp; My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger &amp;amp; Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching &lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Matthew Leonard, Science of Sainthood, Art of Catholic, Testimony, Conversion, Eucharist, Eucharistic Revival, My Lord and My God, Fred and Kara</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>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? </p>

<p>Matthew and Fred share what it is like to discover Catholic teaching, and how it led them both through an, at times, confusing process asking the Lord, "Who are you?" Why was the question of authority so critical in this process? This, too. is discussed. </p>

<p>We look at the "pedestal" that converts can sometimes be placed on, and offer some encouragement for cradle Catholics. </p>

<p>Matthew also describes the radical new way he encountered Christ in the Eucharist and the realization of becoming a part of a family that goes beyond his blood relations, and <em>why that matters</em>! </p>

<p>Finally, we look at the central question of our show: "How has your encounter with Christ in the Eucharist changed your life?" The answer to this question has everything to do with how we build our lives; what we are centered on (or more accurately, WHO we are rooted in). Should our encounter with Christ in the Eucharist be evident to those around us? If so, how? What is the role of sacrfice in a Eucharistic life? Listen to find out! </p>

<p>Learn more about <a href="https://matthewsleonard.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Matthew Leonard</a>: </p>

<ul>
<li><p><a href="https://www.scienceofsainthood.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">The Science of Sainthood</a></p></li>
<li><p><a href="https://matthewsleonard.com/podcast/" rel="nofollow noopener">The Art of Catholic Podcast</a></p></li>
</ul>

<p>Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. <br>
"Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p>

<p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p>

<p>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! </p>

<p>My Lord &amp; My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching</p><p><a rel="payment" href="https://www.patreon.com/drawnear">Support Draw Near</a></p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>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? </p>

<p>Matthew and Fred share what it is like to discover Catholic teaching, and how it led them both through an, at times, confusing process asking the Lord, "Who are you?" Why was the question of authority so critical in this process? This, too. is discussed. </p>

<p>We look at the "pedestal" that converts can sometimes be placed on, and offer some encouragement for cradle Catholics. </p>

<p>Matthew also describes the radical new way he encountered Christ in the Eucharist and the realization of becoming a part of a family that goes beyond his blood relations, and <em>why that matters</em>! </p>

<p>Finally, we look at the central question of our show: "How has your encounter with Christ in the Eucharist changed your life?" The answer to this question has everything to do with how we build our lives; what we are centered on (or more accurately, WHO we are rooted in). Should our encounter with Christ in the Eucharist be evident to those around us? If so, how? What is the role of sacrfice in a Eucharistic life? Listen to find out! </p>

<p>Learn more about <a href="https://matthewsleonard.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">Matthew Leonard</a>: </p>

<ul>
<li><p><a href="https://www.scienceofsainthood.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">The Science of Sainthood</a></p></li>
<li><p><a href="https://matthewsleonard.com/podcast/" rel="nofollow noopener">The Art of Catholic Podcast</a></p></li>
</ul>

<p>Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p>

<p><a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them. <br>
"Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p>

<p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p>

<p>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! </p>

<p>My Lord &amp; My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching</p><p><a rel="payment" href="https://www.patreon.com/drawnear">Support Draw Near</a></p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>Her Answered Prayer: Sonja Corbitt Testimony (MLMG Ep 18) </title>
  <link>https://drawnear.fireside.fm/160</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">fcf24bbd-7e6f-46d4-8a66-a77ff3fac40c</guid>
  <pubDate>Fri, 02 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0600</pubDate>
  <author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/fcf24bbd-7e6f-46d4-8a66-a77ff3fac40c.mp3" length="47404262" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>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 Scriptures and how that led her into the Catholic Church. 

Fred and Sonja also discuss the challenges and struggles they faced in making that journey toward the Eucharist; but, also how the sacrifice is worth it! Because in Christ, the deepest longing of our hearts can be found. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>44:02</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/e/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/episodes/f/fcf24bbd-7e6f-46d4-8a66-a77ff3fac40c/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;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!" &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;As always, Sonja shares from the heart with passion. She shares her journey of falling in love with Jesus in and through the Scriptures and how that led her into the Catholic Church. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Fred and Sonja also discuss the challenges and struggles they faced in making that journey toward the Eucharist; but, also how the sacrifice is worth it! Because in Christ, the deepest longing of our hearts can be found. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Learn more about Sonja here: &lt;a href="https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our &lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;home page. &lt;/a&gt; Join the Draw Near Community Space on &lt;a href="https://community.suscipe.co/share/M1CQceCQ6cMeBTIB?utm_source=manual" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Suscipe.co&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Click here&lt;/a&gt; to become a supporter/patron or access the patron book study! "Like" and follow us on &lt;a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Facebook!&lt;/a&gt; You can even find us on &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Twitter.&lt;/a&gt; Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "&lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;booking page&lt;/a&gt;."&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;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! &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;My Lord &amp;amp; My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger &amp;amp; Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching &lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Sonja Corbitt, Eucharist, Conversion, Coming Home, Testimony, Catholic Faith, Fred Shellabarger, Kara Kardell, Fred and Kara, My Lord and My God, Draw Near</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>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!" </p>

<p>As always, Sonja shares from the heart with passion. She shares her journey of falling in love with Jesus in and through the Scriptures and how that led her into the Catholic Church. </p>

<p>Fred and Sonja also discuss the challenges and struggles they faced in making that journey toward the Eucharist; but, also how the sacrifice is worth it! Because in Christ, the deepest longing of our hearts can be found. </p>

<p>Learn more about Sonja here: <a href="https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/</a></p>

<p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a> Join the Draw Near Community Space on <a href="https://community.suscipe.co/share/M1CQceCQ6cMeBTIB?utm_source=manual" rel="nofollow noopener">Suscipe.co</a></p>

<p><a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a supporter/patron or access the patron book study! "Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a> You can even find us on <a href="https://twitter.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Twitter.</a> Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p>

<p>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! </p>

<p>My Lord &amp; My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching</p><p><a rel="payment" href="https://www.patreon.com/drawnear">Support Draw Near</a></p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>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!" </p>

<p>As always, Sonja shares from the heart with passion. She shares her journey of falling in love with Jesus in and through the Scriptures and how that led her into the Catholic Church. </p>

<p>Fred and Sonja also discuss the challenges and struggles they faced in making that journey toward the Eucharist; but, also how the sacrifice is worth it! Because in Christ, the deepest longing of our hearts can be found. </p>

<p>Learn more about Sonja here: <a href="https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/" rel="nofollow noopener">https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/</a></p>

<p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a> Join the Draw Near Community Space on <a href="https://community.suscipe.co/share/M1CQceCQ6cMeBTIB?utm_source=manual" rel="nofollow noopener">Suscipe.co</a></p>

<p><a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a supporter/patron or access the patron book study! "Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a> You can even find us on <a href="https://twitter.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Twitter.</a> Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p>

<p>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! </p>

<p>My Lord &amp; My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching</p><p><a rel="payment" href="https://www.patreon.com/drawnear">Support Draw Near</a></p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
<item>
  <title>There's Something About Mary</title>
  <link>https://drawnear.fireside.fm/72</link>
  <guid isPermaLink="false">0b0fe168-811e-4971-b537-2eea086d72d6</guid>
  <pubDate>Wed, 07 Dec 2022 00:15:00 -0600</pubDate>
  <author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</author>
  <enclosure url="https://aphid.fireside.fm/d/1437767933/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/0b0fe168-811e-4971-b537-2eea086d72d6.mp3" length="88228081" type="audio/mpeg"/>
  <itunes:episodeType>full</itunes:episodeType>
  <itunes:author>Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell</itunes:author>
  <itunes:subtitle>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 effect our relationship with God; as well as with Mary. He shares the story of his relationship with Mary, and how she has helped him to find healing. In the second half, we return to Kara's teaching on the Immaculate Conception, which we celebrate on December 8. Kara dives into a scriptural study of key texts that point to Mary’s Immaculate Conception with hopes that each listener would be drawn deeper into the celebration of this Holy Day of Obligation. </itunes:subtitle>
  <itunes:duration>1:01:15</itunes:duration>
  <itunes:explicit>no</itunes:explicit>
  <itunes:image href="https://media24.fireside.fm/file/fireside-images-2024/podcasts/images/e/e1ddec60-ea89-4a32-a14b-8340909d71a5/episodes/0/0b0fe168-811e-4971-b537-2eea086d72d6/cover.jpg?v=1"/>
  <description>&lt;p&gt;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 effect our relationship with God; as well as with Mary. He shares the story of his relationship with Mary, and how she has helped him to find healing. Christ, while bleeding out and dying on the Cross, said to his Mother, “Behold your son;” and to his beloved disciple, “Behold your Mother.” Scripture then affirms that from that day, this beloved disciple “took her into his home.” We to, as beloved disciples must take her into our homes, and allow the love of the Mother of God to penetrate our hearts as only that of a faithful mother can. Her heart is to draw us near to the source of peace that surpasses all understanding: her son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;In the second half, we return to Kara's teaching on the Immaculate Conception, which we celebrate on December 8. Kara dives into a scriptural study of key texts that point to Mary’s Immaculate Conception with hopes that each listener would be drawn deeper into the celebration of this Holy Day of Obligation. &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;strong&gt;Questions answered in the second half:&lt;/strong&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;ul&gt;
&lt;li&gt;How do we know Mary was special or set apart?&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;What is the Immaculate Conception?&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;What is Original Sin? Where is that in Scripture?&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;li&gt;Where is Mary’s Immaculate Conception found in Scripture?&lt;/li&gt;
&lt;/ul&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Purchase the book, Hail Holy Queen by Scott Hahn &lt;a href="https://amzn.to/3Far6xT" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;here.&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our &lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;home page. &lt;/a&gt; Join the Draw Near Community Space on &lt;a href="https://community.suscipe.co/share/M1CQceCQ6cMeBTIB?utm_source=manual" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Suscipe.co&lt;/a&gt;&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;&lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Click here&lt;/a&gt; to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on &lt;a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Facebook!&lt;/a&gt; You can even find us on &lt;a href="https://twitter.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;Twitter.&lt;/a&gt; Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "&lt;a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener"&gt;booking page&lt;/a&gt;."&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;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! &lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp;amp; Kara Kardell&lt;/p&gt;

&lt;p&gt;*As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases. &lt;/p&gt;
</description>
  <itunes:keywords>Mary, Blessed Mother, Conversion, Catholic, Healing, Trauma, Identity, Encouragement, Scripture, Catholic Teaching, Draw Near, Fred Shellabarger, Kara Kardell, Immaculate Conception, December 8, Full of Grace</itunes:keywords>
  <content:encoded>
    <![CDATA[<p>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 effect our relationship with God; as well as with Mary. He shares the story of his relationship with Mary, and how she has helped him to find healing. Christ, while bleeding out and dying on the Cross, said to his Mother, “Behold your son;” and to his beloved disciple, “Behold your Mother.” Scripture then affirms that from that day, this beloved disciple “took her into his home.” We to, as beloved disciples must take her into our homes, and allow the love of the Mother of God to penetrate our hearts as only that of a faithful mother can. Her heart is to draw us near to the source of peace that surpasses all understanding: her son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.</p>

<p>In the second half, we return to Kara's teaching on the Immaculate Conception, which we celebrate on December 8. Kara dives into a scriptural study of key texts that point to Mary’s Immaculate Conception with hopes that each listener would be drawn deeper into the celebration of this Holy Day of Obligation. </p>

<p><strong>Questions answered in the second half:</strong></p>

<ul>
<li>How do we know Mary was special or set apart?</li>
<li>What is the Immaculate Conception?</li>
<li>What is Original Sin? Where is that in Scripture?</li>
<li>Where is Mary’s Immaculate Conception found in Scripture?</li>
</ul>

<p>Purchase the book, Hail Holy Queen by Scott Hahn <a href="https://amzn.to/3Far6xT" rel="nofollow noopener">here.</a></p>

<p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a> Join the Draw Near Community Space on <a href="https://community.suscipe.co/share/M1CQceCQ6cMeBTIB?utm_source=manual" rel="nofollow noopener">Suscipe.co</a></p>

<p><a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a> You can even find us on <a href="https://twitter.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Twitter.</a> Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p>

<p>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! </p>

<p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell</p>

<p>*As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.</p><p><a rel="payment" href="https://www.patreon.com/drawnear">Support Draw Near</a></p>]]>
  </content:encoded>
  <itunes:summary>
    <![CDATA[<p>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 effect our relationship with God; as well as with Mary. He shares the story of his relationship with Mary, and how she has helped him to find healing. Christ, while bleeding out and dying on the Cross, said to his Mother, “Behold your son;” and to his beloved disciple, “Behold your Mother.” Scripture then affirms that from that day, this beloved disciple “took her into his home.” We to, as beloved disciples must take her into our homes, and allow the love of the Mother of God to penetrate our hearts as only that of a faithful mother can. Her heart is to draw us near to the source of peace that surpasses all understanding: her son, our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.</p>

<p>In the second half, we return to Kara's teaching on the Immaculate Conception, which we celebrate on December 8. Kara dives into a scriptural study of key texts that point to Mary’s Immaculate Conception with hopes that each listener would be drawn deeper into the celebration of this Holy Day of Obligation. </p>

<p><strong>Questions answered in the second half:</strong></p>

<ul>
<li>How do we know Mary was special or set apart?</li>
<li>What is the Immaculate Conception?</li>
<li>What is Original Sin? Where is that in Scripture?</li>
<li>Where is Mary’s Immaculate Conception found in Scripture?</li>
</ul>

<p>Purchase the book, Hail Holy Queen by Scott Hahn <a href="https://amzn.to/3Far6xT" rel="nofollow noopener">here.</a></p>

<p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a> Join the Draw Near Community Space on <a href="https://community.suscipe.co/share/M1CQceCQ6cMeBTIB?utm_source=manual" rel="nofollow noopener">Suscipe.co</a></p>

<p><a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" rel="nofollow noopener">Click here</a> to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on <a href="https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a> You can even find us on <a href="https://twitter.com/fredandkara" rel="nofollow noopener">Twitter.</a> Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p>

<p>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! </p>

<p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell</p>

<p>*As an Amazon Associate we earn from qualifying purchases.</p><p><a rel="payment" href="https://www.patreon.com/drawnear">Support Draw Near</a></p>]]>
  </itunes:summary>
</item>
  </channel>
</rss>
