Recently, The Evangelical Catholic teamed up with Catholic Leadership Institute to conduct the “Priests for an Apostolic Age” conference. Jason explains how the two organizations jointly approach parish transformation: “We (The Evangelical Catholic) launch the ‘reality’, the people who go out to others through the power of their baptism. And we recognize that to sustain this in parishes, there needs to be structure around that reality. CLI provides the structure and methods that support the mission, which help to catapult parish efforts…”
Jason sees an opportunity to use technology—particularly artificial intelligence—not only to share the story of salvation more broadly, but also to analyze feedback from trained members, gaining insights into the real struggles they face as they begin evangelizing. The ministry is highly personal and relational and depends on deep friendship. At the same time, Dan Cellucci, CEO of Catholic Leadership Institute, emphasizes relevant metrics for parishes to understand the impact of ministry. Systems can help track metrics, identify trends, and even notify people when to make personal contact, which helps to strengthen in-person ministry.
Hear more about mission-driven parishes full of fervent parishioners making a difference for others. And check out Jason Simon’s book: Mission-Ready Friendship: A Blueprint for Deeper Relationships and Life-Changing Faith (Ave Maria Press, 2024).
Terry Poplava
Terry Poplava serves as General Manager, ACST Catholic. As a cradle Catholic, his faith was lukewarm until he was confronted by the intense challenge and commitment he heard in the message about Stewardship. “What do I own and what owns me?” which led him to executive roles at Our Sunday Visitor and Catholic Leadership Institute before his current focus on serving the Catholic Church at ACS Technologies. Terry has extensive experience working with churches across the U.S., supporting their planning, stewardship, and engagement efforts
