web02.fireside.fm Sat, 11 Apr 2026 10:08:15 -0500 Fireside (https://fireside.fm) Draw Near - Episodes Tagged with “Testimony” https://drawnear.fireside.fm/tags/testimony Fri, 16 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0600 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 The Sacrifice of Our Lives (MLMG Ep 21) https://drawnear.fireside.fm/163 83e48e61-2e99-40b5-9a18-ad97b9f03c1b Fri, 16 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0600 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell 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! 28:30 no 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 sacrfice in a Eucharistic life? Listen to find out! Learn more about Matthew Leonard (https://matthewsleonard.com/): The Science of Sainthood (https://www.scienceofsainthood.com/) The Art of Catholic Podcast (https://matthewsleonard.com/podcast/) Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page (https://www.drawnear.me/booking)." Click here (https://www.drawnear.me/donate) 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! (https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara). Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/)! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. (https://www.drawnear.me/) 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! My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching Matthew Leonard, Science of Sainthood, Art of Catholic, Testimony, Conversion, Eucharist, Eucharistic Revival, My Lord and My God, Fred and Kara 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 sacrfice in a Eucharistic life? Listen to find out!

Learn more about Matthew Leonard:

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!

My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching

Support Draw Near

]]> 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 sacrfice in a Eucharistic life? Listen to find out!

Learn more about Matthew Leonard:

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!

My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching

Support Draw Near

]]> I'll See You in the Eucharist (MLMG Ep 19) https://drawnear.fireside.fm/161 070c3182-a6df-4328-9f60-0ffeb2707284 Fri, 09 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0600 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell In this episode we are joined by one of the people that makes My Lord and My God (and the Draw Near apostolate) possible: John Fitzsimmons! In his testimony we hear how the legacy of faith has been handed down from one generation to the next; how encountering Christ in the Eucharist shaped his childhood and fostered in him a desire for more as a new father. We also hear how prioritizing that encounter with Christ in the Eucharist has shaped his family and the impact it has had on his children (two of which we are blessed to call friends). Finally, we see what great fruit "dragging your kids to daily Mass" can bear as John shares how his son Jimmy (seminarian) and his daughter, Mary Kate (entering religious life), are deepening his own faith by sharing with him their own encounter with Christ in the Eucharist! 25:08 no In this episode we are joined by one of the people that makes My Lord and My God (and the Draw Near apostolate) possible: John Fitzsimmons! In his testimony we hear how the legacy of faith has been handed down from one generation to the next; how encountering Christ in the Eucharist shaped his childhood and fostered in him a desire for more as a new father. We also hear how prioritizing that encounter with Christ in the Eucharist has shaped his family and the impact it has had on his children (two of which we are blessed to call friends). Finally, we see what great fruit "dragging your kids to daily Mass" can bear as John shares how his son Jimmy (seminarian) and his daughter, Mary Kate (entering religious life), are deepening his own faith by sharing with him their own encounter with Christ in the Eucharist! Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page (https://www.drawnear.me/booking)." Click here (https://www.drawnear.me/donate) 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! (https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara). Follow us on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/drawnear.me/)! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. (https://www.drawnear.me/) 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! My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching eucharist, family, body of christ, John Fitzsimmons, Testimony, Family, Religious life, children, adoration, kneeling, communion In this episode we are joined by one of the people that makes My Lord and My God (and the Draw Near apostolate) possible: John Fitzsimmons! In his testimony we hear how the legacy of faith has been handed down from one generation to the next; how encountering Christ in the Eucharist shaped his childhood and fostered in him a desire for more as a new father. We also hear how prioritizing that encounter with Christ in the Eucharist has shaped his family and the impact it has had on his children (two of which we are blessed to call friends). Finally, we see what great fruit "dragging your kids to daily Mass" can bear as John shares how his son Jimmy (seminarian) and his daughter, Mary Kate (entering religious life), are deepening his own faith by sharing with him their own encounter with Christ in the Eucharist!

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!

My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching

Support Draw Near

]]> In this episode we are joined by one of the people that makes My Lord and My God (and the Draw Near apostolate) possible: John Fitzsimmons! In his testimony we hear how the legacy of faith has been handed down from one generation to the next; how encountering Christ in the Eucharist shaped his childhood and fostered in him a desire for more as a new father. We also hear how prioritizing that encounter with Christ in the Eucharist has shaped his family and the impact it has had on his children (two of which we are blessed to call friends). Finally, we see what great fruit "dragging your kids to daily Mass" can bear as John shares how his son Jimmy (seminarian) and his daughter, Mary Kate (entering religious life), are deepening his own faith by sharing with him their own encounter with Christ in the Eucharist!

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!

My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching

Support Draw Near

]]> Her Answered Prayer: Sonja Corbitt Testimony (MLMG Ep 18) https://drawnear.fireside.fm/160 fcf24bbd-7e6f-46d4-8a66-a77ff3fac40c Fri, 02 Feb 2024 00:00:00 -0600 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell 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. 44:02 no 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. Learn more about Sonja here: https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/ Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. (https://www.drawnear.me/) Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co (https://community.suscipe.co/share/M1CQceCQ6cMeBTIB?utm_source=manual) Click here (https://www.drawnear.me/donate) to become a supporter/patron or access the patron book study! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! (https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara) You can even find us on Twitter. (https://twitter.com/fredandkara) Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page (https://www.drawnear.me/booking)." 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! My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching Sonja Corbitt, Eucharist, Conversion, Coming Home, Testimony, Catholic Faith, Fred Shellabarger, Kara Kardell, Fred and Kara, My Lord and My God, Draw Near 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.

Learn more about Sonja here: https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co

Click here to become a supporter/patron or access the patron book study! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! You can even find us on Twitter. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking 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!

My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching

Support Draw Near

]]> 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.

Learn more about Sonja here: https://www.biblestudyevangelista.com/

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co

Click here to become a supporter/patron or access the patron book study! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! You can even find us on Twitter. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking 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!

My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching

Support Draw Near

]]> I Was Made to Be A Priest (MLMG Ep 15) https://drawnear.fireside.fm/157 caa22d47-da5a-4ad2-a5db-dbde279014cc Fri, 12 Jan 2024 00:00:00 -0600 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell When God calls your heart, you answer. Fr. Andrew Auer of St. Louis shares how through an invitation to attend weekly mass, God changed his heart. Father's encounter with Christ in the mass at 16 years old led him to leave sin and desire holiness, and it ultimately led him to the priesthood. In this episode Fred, Kara, and Father Auer also discuss God's desire for us to approach him with the security and reliance of that like a child to a parent. 35:45 no When God calls your heart, you answer. Fr. Andrew Auer of St. Louis shares how through an invitation to attend weekly mass, God changed his heart. Father's encounter with Christ in the mass at 16 years old led him to leave sin and desire holiness, and it ultimately led him to the priesthood. In this episode Fred, Kara, and Father Auer also discuss God's desire for us to approach him with the security and reliance of that like a child to a parent. Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. (https://www.drawnear.me/) Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co (https://community.suscipe.co/share/M1CQceCQ6cMeBTIB?utm_source=manual) Click here (https://www.drawnear.me/donate) to become a supporter/patron or access the patron book study! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! (https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara) You can even find us on Twitter. (https://twitter.com/fredandkara) Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page (https://www.drawnear.me/booking)." 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! My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching testimony, encounter, eucharist, mass, adoration, witness, priesthood, father andrew auer, my lord and my god, catholic, podcast, communion, draw near, fred and kara When God calls your heart, you answer. Fr. Andrew Auer of St. Louis shares how through an invitation to attend weekly mass, God changed his heart. Father's encounter with Christ in the mass at 16 years old led him to leave sin and desire holiness, and it ultimately led him to the priesthood.
In this episode Fred, Kara, and Father Auer also discuss God's desire for us to approach him with the security and reliance of that like a child to a parent.

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co

Click here to become a supporter/patron or access the patron book study! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! You can even find us on Twitter. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking 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!

My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching

Support Draw Near

]]> When God calls your heart, you answer. Fr. Andrew Auer of St. Louis shares how through an invitation to attend weekly mass, God changed his heart. Father's encounter with Christ in the mass at 16 years old led him to leave sin and desire holiness, and it ultimately led him to the priesthood.
In this episode Fred, Kara, and Father Auer also discuss God's desire for us to approach him with the security and reliance of that like a child to a parent.

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co

Click here to become a supporter/patron or access the patron book study! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! You can even find us on Twitter. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking 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!

My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching

Support Draw Near

]]> My Baptist Friends Led Me to Priesthood (MLMG Ep 10) https://drawnear.fireside.fm/136 6d5e6a25-e341-40ff-99b0-dcd57b7b080d Fri, 01 Dec 2023 01:00:00 -0600 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell In this episode we are joined by the co-host of the Outcast Catholic podcast, Fr Travis Crotty. In this "testimony" episode, we root our discussion in one of the foundational questions for our show: How has your encounter with Christ in the Eucharist changed your life? Of course, this is not merely a once in a life time encounter, because the Lord is always seeking to encounter us and pour out his love into our hearts; and inviting us to go deeper in that same love. This invitation, found in the Eucharist, celebrated at every Mass, is the very source of stability that helped Fr Travis to overcome difficulty and suffering during his teenage years. So what was it then that made him take up the call to the priesthood? To dedicate his life to helping others to encounter Christ in the Eucharist? It all began with some Baptist friends challenging him for his Catholic faith. This pressure was actually a catalyst for conversion to a deeper faith rooted in, the Eucharist. So many can give in to the temptation to slip away from the Catholic faith when challenged. Fr Travis provides a great example of how to respond in these situations. How does one maintain a fervor and love for the Eucharist? How should understanding the reality of the Christ being present in the Eucharist shape the way we live our lives and approach the world around us? Listen to find out! 29:48 no In this episode we are joined by the co-host of the Outcast Catholic podcast, Fr Travis Crotty. In this "testimony" episode, we root our discussion in one of the foundational questions for our show: How has your encounter with Christ in the Eucharist changed your life? Of course, this is not merely a once in a life time encounter, because the Lord is always seeking to encounter us and pour out his love into our hearts; and inviting us to go deeper in that same love. This invitation, found in the Eucharist, celebrated at every Mass, is the very source of stability that helped Fr Travis to overcome difficulty and suffering during his teenage years. So what was it then that made him take up the call to the priesthood? To dedicate his life to helping others to encounter Christ in the Eucharist? It all began with some Baptist friends challenging him for his Catholic faith. This pressure was actually a catalyst for conversion to a deeper faith rooted in, the Eucharist. So many can give in to the temptation to slip away from the Catholic faith when challenged. Fr Travis provides a great example of how to respond in these situations. How does one maintain a fervor and love for the Eucharist? How should understanding the reality of the Christ being present in the Eucharist shape the way we live our lives and approach the world around us? Listen to find out! Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. (https://www.drawnear.me/) Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co (https://community.suscipe.co/share/M1CQceCQ6cMeBTIB?utm_source=manual) Click here (https://www.drawnear.me/donate) to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! (https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara) You can even find us on Twitter. (https://twitter.com/fredandkara) Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page (https://www.drawnear.me/booking)." 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 My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching Eucharist, Testimony, Fr Travis Crotty, Outcast Catholic, My Lord and My God, Vocation, Encounter, Fred and Kara In this episode we are joined by the co-host of the Outcast Catholic podcast, Fr Travis Crotty. In this "testimony" episode, we root our discussion in one of the foundational questions for our show: How has your encounter with Christ in the Eucharist changed your life? Of course, this is not merely a once in a life time encounter, because the Lord is always seeking to encounter us and pour out his love into our hearts; and inviting us to go deeper in that same love.

This invitation, found in the Eucharist, celebrated at every Mass, is the very source of stability that helped Fr Travis to overcome difficulty and suffering during his teenage years.

So what was it then that made him take up the call to the priesthood? To dedicate his life to helping others to encounter Christ in the Eucharist? It all began with some Baptist friends challenging him for his Catholic faith. This pressure was actually a catalyst for conversion to a deeper faith rooted in, the Eucharist. So many can give in to the temptation to slip away from the Catholic faith when challenged. Fr Travis provides a great example of how to respond in these situations.

How does one maintain a fervor and love for the Eucharist? How should understanding the reality of the Christ being present in the Eucharist shape the way we live our lives and approach the world around us? Listen to find out!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co

Click here to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! You can even find us on Twitter. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking 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
My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching

Support Draw Near

]]> In this episode we are joined by the co-host of the Outcast Catholic podcast, Fr Travis Crotty. In this "testimony" episode, we root our discussion in one of the foundational questions for our show: How has your encounter with Christ in the Eucharist changed your life? Of course, this is not merely a once in a life time encounter, because the Lord is always seeking to encounter us and pour out his love into our hearts; and inviting us to go deeper in that same love.

This invitation, found in the Eucharist, celebrated at every Mass, is the very source of stability that helped Fr Travis to overcome difficulty and suffering during his teenage years.

So what was it then that made him take up the call to the priesthood? To dedicate his life to helping others to encounter Christ in the Eucharist? It all began with some Baptist friends challenging him for his Catholic faith. This pressure was actually a catalyst for conversion to a deeper faith rooted in, the Eucharist. So many can give in to the temptation to slip away from the Catholic faith when challenged. Fr Travis provides a great example of how to respond in these situations.

How does one maintain a fervor and love for the Eucharist? How should understanding the reality of the Christ being present in the Eucharist shape the way we live our lives and approach the world around us? Listen to find out!

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co

Click here to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! You can even find us on Twitter. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking 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
My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching

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]]> Fred's Testimony: From Heathen to Heaven (MLMG Ep 5) https://drawnear.fireside.fm/131 fd14f9e5-082f-4ce1-958f-8a4a7d47e936 Fri, 27 Oct 2023 02:00:00 -0500 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell What led a "professional heathen" to an encounter with Jesus Christ? How did merely "looking for a church to get married in" lead to a radical conversion that gave way to a quest for the fullness of faith and desire for truth? In this episode Fred tells the story of his "tale of two conversions" and recounts how a desire for a deeper encounter with Christ led him into the Catholic Church. Fred also recounts his First Communion and how that has shaped his reception of Communion ever since that first moment. He also recounts the challenges he faced coming into the Catholic Church and why he would do it all over again. As he states, "For me, receiving Christ in the Eucharist was the end of a lifelong journey; I found what I had been looking for my whole life. But, it was also more than that. It was also the commissioning for a new journey. A mission; sharing the love of Christ that I have found in the Eucharist with others." 25:12 no What led a "professional heathen" to an encounter with Jesus Christ? How did merely "looking for a church to get married in" lead to a radical conversion that gave way to a quest for the fullness of faith and desire for truth? In this episode Fred tells the story of his "tale of two conversions" and recounts how a desire for a deeper encounter with Christ led him into the Catholic Church. Fred also recounts his First Communion and how that has shaped his reception of Communion ever since that first moment. He also recounts the challenges he faced coming into the Catholic Church and why he would do it all over again. As he states, "For me, receiving Christ in the Eucharist was the end of a lifelong journey; I found what I had been looking for my whole life. But, it was also more than that. It was also the commissioning for a new journey. A mission; sharing the love of Christ that I have found in the Eucharist with others." Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. (https://www.drawnear.me/) Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co (https://community.suscipe.co/share/M1CQceCQ6cMeBTIB?utm_source=manual) Click here (https://www.drawnear.me/donate) to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! (https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara) You can even find us on Twitter. (https://twitter.com/fredandkara) Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page (https://www.drawnear.me/booking)." 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 My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching Testimony, Fred Shellabarger, Convert, Catholic, My Lord and My God, Church Fathers What led a "professional heathen" to an encounter with Jesus Christ? How did merely "looking for a church to get married in" lead to a radical conversion that gave way to a quest for the fullness of faith and desire for truth? In this episode Fred tells the story of his "tale of two conversions" and recounts how a desire for a deeper encounter with Christ led him into the Catholic Church. Fred also recounts his First Communion and how that has shaped his reception of Communion ever since that first moment. He also recounts the challenges he faced coming into the Catholic Church and why he would do it all over again. As he states, "For me, receiving Christ in the Eucharist was the end of a lifelong journey; I found what I had been looking for my whole life. But, it was also more than that. It was also the commissioning for a new journey. A mission; sharing the love of Christ that I have found in the Eucharist with others."

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co

Click here to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! You can even find us on Twitter. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking 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
My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching

Support Draw Near

]]> What led a "professional heathen" to an encounter with Jesus Christ? How did merely "looking for a church to get married in" lead to a radical conversion that gave way to a quest for the fullness of faith and desire for truth? In this episode Fred tells the story of his "tale of two conversions" and recounts how a desire for a deeper encounter with Christ led him into the Catholic Church. Fred also recounts his First Communion and how that has shaped his reception of Communion ever since that first moment. He also recounts the challenges he faced coming into the Catholic Church and why he would do it all over again. As he states, "For me, receiving Christ in the Eucharist was the end of a lifelong journey; I found what I had been looking for my whole life. But, it was also more than that. It was also the commissioning for a new journey. A mission; sharing the love of Christ that I have found in the Eucharist with others."

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co

Click here to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! You can even find us on Twitter. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking 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
My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching

Support Draw Near

]]> Kara's Testimony: "I Am Here" (MLMG Ep 4) https://drawnear.fireside.fm/130 b3b0c791-75e3-4057-b8a8-023b1e3a1620 Fri, 27 Oct 2023 01:00:00 -0500 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell God deeply desires our love, just as he gives his love to us. He draws us to a deeper encounter with Christ through the Eucharist. This is exactly what happened in Kara Kardell's life. From a lukewarm Catholic with every opportunity to leave the Faith to a Catholic in love with God and the Church, tune in to this episode to hear her testimony of how her life was changed one night in Adoration. 25:52 no God deeply desires our love, just as he gives his love to us. He draws us to a deeper encounter with Christ through the Eucharist. This is exactly what happened in Kara Kardell's life. From a lukewarm Catholic with every opportunity to leave the Faith to a Catholic in love with God and the Church, tune in to this episode to hear her testimony of how her life was changed one night in Adoration. Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. (https://www.drawnear.me/) Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co (https://community.suscipe.co/share/M1CQceCQ6cMeBTIB?utm_source=manual) Click here (https://www.drawnear.me/donate) to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! (https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara) You can even find us on Twitter. (https://twitter.com/fredandkara) Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page (https://www.drawnear.me/booking)." 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 My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching Testimony, Kara Kardell, My Lord and My God, Catholic, Adoration, Eucharist, Monstrance, St. Clare, Scott Hahn, God deeply desires our love, just as he gives his love to us. He draws us to a deeper encounter with Christ through the Eucharist. This is exactly what happened in Kara Kardell's life. From a lukewarm Catholic with every opportunity to leave the Faith to a Catholic in love with God and the Church, tune in to this episode to hear her testimony of how her life was changed one night in Adoration.

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co

Click here to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! You can even find us on Twitter. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking 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
My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching

Support Draw Near

]]> God deeply desires our love, just as he gives his love to us. He draws us to a deeper encounter with Christ through the Eucharist. This is exactly what happened in Kara Kardell's life. From a lukewarm Catholic with every opportunity to leave the Faith to a Catholic in love with God and the Church, tune in to this episode to hear her testimony of how her life was changed one night in Adoration.

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co

Click here to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! You can even find us on Twitter. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking 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
My Lord & My God Theme: Original Music © Fred Shellabarger & Kara Kardell; Arranged and Performed by Paul Ching

Support Draw Near

]]> One Hour with Our Son https://drawnear.fireside.fm/98 38f869c1-5ed8-453a-afcd-ef6b56414377 Wed, 01 Feb 2023 00:15:00 -0600 Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell full Fred Shellabarger and Kara Kardell *** Trigger Warning: Infant Loss and Miscarriage *** In this episode we are joined by our friends Danny and Ashley Swalve as we discuss their journey of coming to a deeper faith in Christ and how that has shaped their marriage and helped them to find great hope even through otherwise overwhelmingly difficult circumstances. At the heart of their testimony is their story of surrender and trust in God's will for their lives; a desire to be used by Him to help bring healing to others who have faced similar challenges. 52:42 no Trigger Warning: Infant Loss and Miscarriage In this episode we are joined by our friends Danny and Ashley Swalve as we discuss their journey of coming to a deeper faith in Christ and how that has shaped their marriage and helped them to find great hope even through otherwise overwhelmingly difficult circumstances. At the heart of their testimony is their story of surrender and trust in God's will for their lives; a desire to be used by Him to help bring healing to others who have faced similar challenges. *Looking for resources on infant loss? Here are some that we recommend: * This article (https://aleteia.org/2018/10/21/here-are-places-that-can-help-if-youve-had-a-miscarriage-or-stillbirth/?fbclid=IwAR2MLVQwqAzJ1lqBZdReODEK--SYDjTNGYLaMx-7JljU_5YNNhYrTswrWE8) helped Fred and his wife, Krystal, in the immediate days and weeks following their own miscarriage Elizabeth Ministry (www.elizabethministry.org) Springs in the Desert (www.springsinthedesert.org) Rachel's Vineyard (https://www.rachelsvineyard.org/) (a ministry for those needing healing from abortion) Learn more about Danny's Podcast: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2115328.rss The book Ashley mentions, "Don't Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table: https://amzn.to/3X5Z0Lg Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. (https://www.drawnear.me/) Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co (https://community.suscipe.co/share/M1CQceCQ6cMeBTIB?utm_source=manual) Click here (https://www.drawnear.me/donate) to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! (https://www.facebook.com/fredandkara) You can even find us on Twitter. (https://twitter.com/fredandkara) Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page (https://www.drawnear.me/booking)." 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 Catholic, Marriage, Infant Loss, Suffering, Surrender, Draw Near, Fred Shellabarger, Kara Kardell, Fred and Kara, Danny Swalve, Ashley Swalve, Miscarriage Trigger Warning: Infant Loss and Miscarriage
In this episode we are joined by our friends Danny and Ashley Swalve as we discuss their journey of coming to a deeper faith in Christ and how that has shaped their marriage and helped them to find great hope even through otherwise overwhelmingly difficult circumstances. At the heart of their testimony is their story of surrender and trust in God's will for their lives; a desire to be used by Him to help bring healing to others who have faced similar challenges.

*Looking for resources on infant loss? Here are some that we recommend: *

This article helped Fred and his wife, Krystal, in the immediate days and weeks following their own miscarriage

[Elizabeth Ministry](www.elizabethministry.org)

[Springs in the Desert](www.springsinthedesert.org)

Rachel's Vineyard (a ministry for those needing healing from abortion)

Learn more about Danny's Podcast: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2115328.rss

The book Ashley mentions, "Don't Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table: https://amzn.to/3X5Z0Lg

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co

Click here to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! You can even find us on Twitter. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking 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

]]> Trigger Warning: Infant Loss and Miscarriage
In this episode we are joined by our friends Danny and Ashley Swalve as we discuss their journey of coming to a deeper faith in Christ and how that has shaped their marriage and helped them to find great hope even through otherwise overwhelmingly difficult circumstances. At the heart of their testimony is their story of surrender and trust in God's will for their lives; a desire to be used by Him to help bring healing to others who have faced similar challenges.

*Looking for resources on infant loss? Here are some that we recommend: *

This article helped Fred and his wife, Krystal, in the immediate days and weeks following their own miscarriage

[Elizabeth Ministry](www.elizabethministry.org)

[Springs in the Desert](www.springsinthedesert.org)

Rachel's Vineyard (a ministry for those needing healing from abortion)

Learn more about Danny's Podcast: https://feeds.buzzsprout.com/2115328.rss

The book Ashley mentions, "Don't Give the Enemy a Seat at Your Table: https://amzn.to/3X5Z0Lg

Who are "Fred and Kara?" Find out by visiting our home page. Join the Draw Near Community Space on Suscipe.co

Click here to become a supporter/patron! "Like" and follow us on Facebook! You can even find us on Twitter. Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking 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

]]>