web01.fireside.fm Thu, 21 May 2026 09:28:49 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) Draw Near - Episodes Tagged with “Evangelization” https://drawnear.fireside.fm/tags/evangelization Thu, 07 May 2026 06:00:00 -0500 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. en episodic Helping each person to draw near to Christ and to one another. Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell 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. no Faith; Christ; Podcast; Catholic; Friends; Draw Near Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell drawnear.me@gmail.com Real Ministry is Personal https://drawnear.fireside.fm/242 76b651e9-e092-41f8-ab1b-945b62c4cf14 Thu, 07 May 2026 06:00:00 -0500 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell In this "roadside reflection" on 1 Thessalonians 2:8–9, Kara discusses authentic discipleship, vulnerability, and why real ministry can be deeply personal. She also share updates on Draw Near's recent writing project with Ascension Press, and where God led the mission over this past Lent. 15:45 no <p>Real ministry is not built on polished content... it is built when we are willing to share our very selves.</p> <p>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:</p> <p>“So, being affectionately desirous of you, we were ready to share with you not only the gospel of God but also our own selves…” </p> <p>This conversation dives into vulnerability, discipleship, authentic ministry, loving others even when it is difficult, and what it means to hope for others.</p> <p>Also, the audio quality is a little different this episode. Life and family obligations have made studio recording difficult lately, so I pray this “roadside reflections” is okay! Enjoy some Brother Francis and Veggie Tales in the background.</p> <p>Follow Draw Near on social media and join us as we continue building a community centered on prayer, authentic faith, discipleship, and drawing near to God and one another.</p> <p>For reflections, formation, and community, <strong>FOLLOW Draw Near by Grace on all Social Media:</strong> <br> <a href="https://www.youtube.com/@drawnearbygrace" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">YouTube</a> <br> <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnearbygrace" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a><br> <a href="https://www.facebook.com/drawnearbygrace" target="_blank" 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" target="_blank" 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/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">home page. </a></p> <p>Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger &amp; Kara Kardell </p> Catholic podcast, Draw Near, Fred and Kara, Catholic podcast, Car podcast, Catholic discipleship, Christian vulnerability, authentic ministry, 1 Thessalonians 2, sharing the Gospel, Catholic reflection, roadside reflection, Christian leadership, Catholic spirituality, ministry and relationships, Catholic evangelization, discipleship podcast, St. Paul reflection, authentic faith, Catholic content creator, Christian encouragement, pastoral ministry, relational ministry, Draw Near podcast 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 not only the gospel of God but also our own selves…”

This conversation dives into vulnerability, discipleship, authentic ministry, loving others even when it is difficult, and what it means to hope for others.

Also, the audio quality is a little different this episode. Life and family obligations have made studio recording difficult lately, so I pray this “roadside reflections” is okay! Enjoy some Brother Francis and Veggie Tales in the background.

Follow Draw Near on social media and join us as we continue building a community centered on prayer, authentic faith, discipleship, and drawing near to God and one another.

For reflections, formation, and community, FOLLOW Draw Near by Grace on all Social Media:
YouTube
Instagram
Facebook!

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

Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support!
Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> 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 not only the gospel of God but also our own selves…”

This conversation dives into vulnerability, discipleship, authentic ministry, loving others even when it is difficult, and what it means to hope for others.

Also, the audio quality is a little different this episode. Life and family obligations have made studio recording difficult lately, so I pray this “roadside reflections” is okay! Enjoy some Brother Francis and Veggie Tales in the background.

Follow Draw Near on social media and join us as we continue building a community centered on prayer, authentic faith, discipleship, and drawing near to God and one another.

For reflections, formation, and community, FOLLOW Draw Near by Grace on all Social Media:
YouTube
Instagram
Facebook!

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

Click here to become a patron! We wouldn't be "Draw Near" without your support!
Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> What to Do When the Service is Bad https://drawnear.fireside.fm/236 d3ccbb7e-6a8e-4903-8d07-8895edc8c58f Wed, 04 Feb 2026 00:00:00 -0600 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell bonus Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell How do you actually share your faith—without fear or feeling like you have to have all the answers? In this short episode, Fred reflects on a simple, ordinary moment that became a doorway for grace. What started as a late-night stop for ice cream after church turned into months of prayer, presence, encouragement, and quiet fidelity—and ultimately, a life gently redirected toward healing, hope, and the Church. 7:26 no <p>How do you actually share your faith—without fear, awkward moments, or feeling like you have to have all the answers?</p> <p>In this short episode, Fred reflects on a simple, ordinary moment that became a doorway for grace. What started as a late-night stop for ice cream after church turned into months of prayer, presence, encouragement, and quiet fidelity—and ultimately, a life gently redirected toward healing, hope, and the Church.</p> <p>This story reminds us that sharing our faith doesn’t usually begin with arguments or explanations. It begins with noticing, listening, and having the courage to say a simple “yes” when the Holy Spirit nudges.</p> <p>Because sometimes, the most powerful witness of the Gospel sounds like this:<br> “We’re about to pray. Is there anything we can pray for you about?”</p> <p>Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p> <p><a href="https://www.patreon.com/c/drawnear/membership" target="_blank" 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" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/fredandkara/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p> <p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" target="_blank" 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> Catholic podcast, Draw Near, Fred and Kara, ice cream How do you actually share your faith—without fear, awkward moments, or feeling like you have to have all the answers?

In this short episode, Fred reflects on a simple, ordinary moment that became a doorway for grace. What started as a late-night stop for ice cream after church turned into months of prayer, presence, encouragement, and quiet fidelity—and ultimately, a life gently redirected toward healing, hope, and the Church.

This story reminds us that sharing our faith doesn’t usually begin with arguments or explanations. It begins with noticing, listening, and having the courage to say a simple “yes” when the Holy Spirit nudges.

Because sometimes, the most powerful witness of the Gospel sounds like this:
“We’re about to pray. Is there anything we can pray for you about?”

Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."

Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.
"Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us!

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> How do you actually share your faith—without fear, awkward moments, or feeling like you have to have all the answers?

In this short episode, Fred reflects on a simple, ordinary moment that became a doorway for grace. What started as a late-night stop for ice cream after church turned into months of prayer, presence, encouragement, and quiet fidelity—and ultimately, a life gently redirected toward healing, hope, and the Church.

This story reminds us that sharing our faith doesn’t usually begin with arguments or explanations. It begins with noticing, listening, and having the courage to say a simple “yes” when the Holy Spirit nudges.

Because sometimes, the most powerful witness of the Gospel sounds like this:
“We’re about to pray. Is there anything we can pray for you about?”

Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."

Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.
"Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us!

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> The Soul of the Apostolate https://drawnear.fireside.fm/169 d43aaf97-eb3c-457f-ab47-c38b6705fd8d Wed, 21 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0600 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell 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://www.iseeamovement.com/ In this episdoe, we begin by laying a foundation for this new season. Here we look at the foundational truth, that by grace and the power of the Holy Spirit at work in our souls, we are apostles. We take an honest look at what this means for our our lives; and discuss our tendency to want to be independent and in control. We look at the value and necessity of the interior life, and the role our relationship with Christ bears in the fruitfulness of our efforts. We also take a look at the importance of prayer and humility as the greatest strength. 55:38 no <p>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 <a href="https://www.iseeamovement.com/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">https://www.iseeamovement.com/</a> </p> <p>In this episdoe, we begin by laying a foundation for this new season. Here we look at the foundational truth, that by grace and the power of the Holy Spirit at work in our souls, we are apostles. We take an honest look at what this means for our our lives; and discuss our tendency to want to be independent and in control. We look at the value and necessity of the interior life, and the role our relationship with Christ bears in the fruitfulness of our efforts. We also take a look at the importance of prayer and humility as the greatest strength. </p> <p>Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "<a href="https://www.drawnear.me/booking" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">booking page</a>."</p> <p><a href="https://www.drawnear.me/donate" target="_blank" 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" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Facebook!</a>. Follow us on <a href="https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/" target="_blank" rel="nofollow noopener">Instagram</a>! </p> <p>Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our <a href="https://www.drawnear.me/" target="_blank" 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> Discipleship, Evangelization, Catholic, Ministry, Apostolate, Relational Ministry, Interior Life, 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://www.iseeamovement.com/

In this episdoe, we begin by laying a foundation for this new season. Here we look at the foundational truth, that by grace and the power of the Holy Spirit at work in our souls, we are apostles. We take an honest look at what this means for our our lives; and discuss our tendency to want to be independent and in control. We look at the value and necessity of the interior life, and the role our relationship with Christ bears in the fruitfulness of our efforts. We also take a look at the importance of prayer and humility as the greatest strength.

Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."

Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.
"Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us!

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

]]> 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://www.iseeamovement.com/

In this episdoe, we begin by laying a foundation for this new season. Here we look at the foundational truth, that by grace and the power of the Holy Spirit at work in our souls, we are apostles. We take an honest look at what this means for our our lives; and discuss our tendency to want to be independent and in control. We look at the value and necessity of the interior life, and the role our relationship with Christ bears in the fruitfulness of our efforts. We also take a look at the importance of prayer and humility as the greatest strength.

Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page."

Click here to become a patron! Patrons are essentially "sponsors" and co-producers or Draw Near as it could not happen without them.
"Like" and follow us on Facebook!. Follow us on Instagram!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page.

Like our podcast? Hit that “subscribe” button AND the notification button/bell to know when new episodes are posted! Give us a rating! Leave a review! Tell your friends! Even more, pray for us!

Draw Near Theme © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell

Support Draw Near

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