Have you ever felt your ministry energy start to fade a few months into the season? That sense of slowing down, coasting, or even drifting can happen to the best of us — but it doesn’t have to keep you stuck.
In this episode, Eric shares some thought around why drift happens — the human, spiritual, and cultural forces that quietly pull us off course — and how we can return to the fire of mission.
Show Notes / Key Points:
Feeling flat or coasting in ministry is normal. Drift happens when we stop intentionally moving toward mission.
Key insight: to drift, we simply need to do… nothing.
Scripture: Philippians 3:13-14 NRSV
Human side: fatigue, busyness, and familiarity. Rest and relational honesty help restore energy. (Matthew 11:28-30)
Spiritual side: losing connection to Jesus and the Holy Spirit. Abiding in Him is the source of fruitfulness. (John 15:4-5, Romans 8:26)
Cultural side: pressure for constant growth and visible success. Trust God’s rhythms of pruning and seasons. (Ecclesiastes 3:1-2, 2 Corinthians 4:16-18)
Return to relationship: spend time with Jesus, remember your identity as a beloved child of God. (1 John 4:19, Ephesians 2:10)
Reconnect with the Holy Spirit: pray for guidance, boldness, and renewed vision. (Acts 1:8, Galatians 5:16)
Remember your why and who: focus on the people God has placed in your life and ministry. (Matthew 28:19-20, 1 Peter 3:15)
Reflect on your witness: love is the first way people encounter the Gospel.
Re-engage in community: ministry flourishes in shared life, prayer, and encouragement. (Hebrews 10:24-25, 1 Thessalonians 5:11)
The Spirit who called you is still with you. You can fan the flame of your God-given gift for mission. (2 Timothy 1:6-7)
Proclaim Team Resources:
In-person trainings, workshops, and leadership summits to help leaders refocus on mission.
Examples: Accompaniment Masterclass, Rescue Project support, Alpha parish sessions.
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
In this special episode recorded live at the Upper Room Conference, Eric sits down with Archbishop Richard Smith for a heartfelt and joyful conversation. The Archbishop shares personally, brings a few laughs, and offers timely encouragements for all of us on mission.
Together, they explore:
-What it means to be witnesses of the Gospel in today’s world
-How to recognize and lean into points of attraction that draw others to Christ
-Praying bold prayers and ""letting the Holy Spirit fall on us""
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
What does Spirit-filled leadership actually look like in a parish? How can we move beyond just filling roles to raising up missionary disciples?
In this episode of the Proclaim Podcast, Krista sits down with Pete Burak to explore how leadership rooted in the Holy Spirit can transform parish life. Pete shares how Spirit-filled leaders recognize and call out the gifts in others, cast a compelling vision, and invest in a few to reach the many.
They also discuss the challenges of leadership, how to stay grounded in prayer, and practical ways parish teams can invite the Holy Spirit into their planning and decision-making. If you long to see your parish come alive with missionary zeal, this episode will inspire and equip you for the journey.
Takeaways
-Spirit-filled leadership is essential for effective discipleship.
-Volunteers are crucial, but leaders must be specifically invited to serve.
-Identifying and nurturing gifted leaders can transform parish life.
-A parish thriving in spirit-filled leadership has a clear vision and engaged community.
-Structure in leadership can provide stability and effectiveness.
-Leaders must remain grounded in their relationship with Jesus.
-Celebrating small victories is as important as large successes.
-Prayer should be a foundational practice in parish leadership.
-Listening to the Holy Spirit is key to bold actions.
-Intimacy with Jesus fuels effective ministry and leadership.
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
In this episode of the Proclaim podcast, Eric Chow speaks with Peter Andrastek, a senior consultant with Evangelical Catholic, about the vital role of the laity in the Church's mission. They discuss the importance of understanding the laity's mission field, which extends beyond parish life into everyday environments such as homes and workplaces. The conversation emphasizes the need for apostolic formation within parishes, the challenges faced in contemporary parish structures, and the innovative ReachMore model designed to support laity in their mission. Peter encourages listeners to form authentic Christian communities to support each other in their spiritual growth and mission work.
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
In this episode of the Proclaim Podcast, Eric sits down with Deacon Andre Coronado to hear the story of his unexpected and grace-filled journey into the permanent diaconate. From preaching and serving in RCIA, to simply sharing faith in everyday conversations with family and friends, Deacon Dre has found countless ways to proclaim Jesus.
He also opens up vulnerably about how formation as a deacon was more than just training for ministry—it was a journey of healing. God gently confronted areas of pride and self-reliance, drawing him into deeper humility and trust. Along the way, there have been surprising moments of joy, unexpected opportunities, and a growing sense of God’s faithfulness.
If you’ve ever wondered how God calls ordinary people into extraordinary service, or how grace can transform even the hidden corners of our hearts, you won’t want to miss this conversation.
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
In this inspiring episode of the Proclaim Podcast, host Eric Chow welcomes Mildred Moy, founder of Catholic Street Missionaries. Filled with joy and extraordinary faith, Mildred shares her powerful story of encountering God’s relentless pursuit of her heart—a moment that changed everything.
Leaving behind a successful corporate career, Mildred embraced her calling to serve the poor and bring Christ’s love to the streets. Through Catholic Street Missionaries, she has empowered young people to step boldly into missionary discipleship, deepening their faith and discovering clarity in their vocations.
Tune in to hear:
-Mildred’s moving journey from corporate life to full-time ministry
-How a life-changing encounter with God set her on a mission to serve the poor
-The vision behind Catholic Street Missionaries and its impact on young disciples
-Stories of transformation and vocational clarity among participants
-Encouragement for anyone discerning their own call to mission
Whether you’re curious about street ministry or looking for inspiration to follow God’s call more courageously, Mildred’s testimony will encourage you to listen for God’s voice and respond with joy.
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
In this episode of the Proclaim Podcast, host Eric Chow sits down with the vibrant and faith-filled Sue Coutant, Coordinator for Ministries and Outreach in the Archdiocese of Vancouver, supporting Marriage Formation. Sue shares how her love for Jesus animates her ministry—from leading Proclaim's Accompaniment Masterclass to sparking conversations about faith during her daily commute on the West Coast Express.
Discover how Sue’s studies at St. Mark’s College helped shape her approach to accompaniment, why she believes relational evangelization is essential, and the missional opportunity she sees in marriage formation.
In this episode, you’ll hear:
🔹What first inspired Sue about the Proclaim movement
🔹How she moved from participant to leader in the Accompaniment Masterclass
🔹Insights on the connection between marriage ministry and evangelization
🔹Real-life stories of everyday evangelization— on her daily commute!
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
In this episode of the Proclaim Podcast, Eric Chow sits down with Jason Borkowski, principal of Star of the Sea Elementary School in White Rock. Jason shares his journey of being called to the vocation of Catholic education and how his school leadership is deeply rooted in missionary discipleship.
Through simple, Spirit-led invitations and a heart for relationship, Jason is building bridges of trust with families in the school community—bridges that are leading to real transformation, including baptisms and renewed faith.
Discover how Jason models what it means to be a missionary disciple in the everyday context of Catholic education, and how you, too, can respond to the Spirit’s promptings in your own community.
🔹 The power of invitation in evangelization
🔹 Trust-building in schools and families
🔹 Real stories of conversion and new life
🔹 Living the mission as a Catholic educator
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
In this episode of the Proclaim Podcast, host Eric Chow sits down with Deacon Tim Kostamo, whose life story is anything but ordinary. Raised in a missionary family, Tim shares how his early evangelical roots eventually led him to the Catholic Church—and to a surprising call to the diaconate. With humor, energy, and deep conviction, Deacon Tim encourages us all to be filled with the Holy Spirit and boldly proclaim the Good News in our everyday lives. Whether you’re just beginning to explore mission or already living it out, this conversation will inspire you to take the next step.
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
This episode is a re-release of an episode from Glass Canvas' podcast entitled "This Strange Land". Eric, Director for Proclaim, is interviewed by Jason Jensen from Glass Canvas. They sit down to discuss the Proclaim Movement in the Archdiocese of Vancouver, the missionary potential of Catholic parishes, and principles for powerful transformation. Together they break down Proclaim’s Parish Transformation Framework, and share what they’ve seen bear fruit in the local church.
To watch the video, find original episode timestamps, and reference quotes you can go to https://www.glasscanvas.io/this-strange-land/a-movement-for-parish-transformation
You can find This Strange Land podcast wherever you listen to podcasts, and Glass Canvas at glasscanvas.io
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
At the time of this recording, the world has just been introduced to Pope Leo XIV and the Archdiocese of Vancouver is preparing to welcome Archbishop Smith. 2025 also saw record numbers of people entering the Church, locally and globally! Brett and Eric take a few moments to reflect on what this means for Proclaim and how we might respond. They discuss the wisdom of the Church in her ability to keep continuity and allow for fresh expressions of missionary activity.
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
In this episode, Proclaim Director Eric Chow a foundational inspiration behind the Proclaim movement in Vancouver: Pope Francis' apostolic exhortation, Evangelii Gaudium (The Joy of the Gospel). Discover how the Holy Father's powerful call to evangelization sparked a local movement dedicated to awakening disciples to proclaim Jesus.
A Lasting Legacy:
Following the passing of Pope Francis, Archbishop J. Michael Miller of Vancouver reflected on his profound impact, stating:
""The most significant legacy left to the Archdiocese of Vancouver by Pope Francis is undoubtedly his heart for evangelization. Inspired by his declaration of an Extraordinary Missionary Month in October 2019, we launched Proclaim, a movement that awakens disciples to proclaim Jesus. The Pope’s challenge to embrace missionary discipleship continues to guide our evangelization efforts today.""
Eric reads and highlights several key paragraphs from Evangelii Gaudium that have deeply influenced the Proclaim movement:
Paragraph 3: On the urgent need for a renewed personal encounter with Jesus Christ, emphasizing that this relationship is the foundation of evangelization.
Paragraph 14: Discussing the three principal settings for the new evangelization: the ordinary pastoral ministry, the evangelization of the unchurched, and the evangelization of those who have abandoned the practice of the faith.
Paragraph 28: Underscoring the transformative power of a genuine missionary impulse, capable of shaping all of the Church’s activities.
Paragraph 169: Calling the Church to initiate everyone into the ""art of accompaniment,"" emphasizing the importance of walking alongside others on their faith journey with compassion and understanding.
To delve deeper into Pope Francis' Apostolic Exhortation, you can read the full text of Evangelii Gaudium on the Vatican website: Link to The Joy of the Gospel on the Vatican Website (https://www.vatican.va/content/francesco/en/apost_exhortations/documents/papa-francesco_esortazione-ap_20131124_evangelii-gaudium.html)
Father Raf Salvino and Eric have a discussion around the parish life unfolding at Corpus Christi Parish, where Father Raf is the assistant pastor. Corpus Christi Parish has been on a missional journey to live out their vision of moving towards an apostolic mode of engagement through their vision, values, and evangelistic efforts. Father Raf joined the parish 2 years ago (at the time of this recording) and shares his experience of being part of a parish engaging in missional renewal.
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
In this episode of the Proclaim podcast, Eric Chow welcomes Julianne Stanz, who shares her journey of faith and the importance of proclaiming the Gospel in our homes and communities. Julianne discusses her conversion experience, the call to evangelization, and the shifts in understanding missionary discipleship. She emphasizes the need for practical skills in evangelization, the importance of engaging those on the periphery of faith, and the significance of recognizing 'thin places' where we can encounter God. The conversation highlights the role of personal stories, spiritual persistence, and the rhythms of opportunity to share Jesus in our everyday lives.
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
Fr. Mark McGuckin joins the podcast to share his experiences of parish renewal at his parish St. Francis de Sales. He shares his gratitude for the parish leadership team, the evangelizing initiatives, and the fruits their parish is experiencing. Fr. Mark has been supported by Proclaim, Alpha, Divine Renovation and has attended conferences and workshops hosted by Amazing Parish and Evangelical Catholic (Priests for an Apostolic Age Conference). Fr. Mark's witness is full of magnanimity and humility as he shares how God has been moving in his life and at St Francis de Sales.
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
Sister John Mary Sullivan, Franciscan Sister of the Eucharist (FSE), joins the podcast to discuss her experience of accompaniment in her life, her religious community, and in ministry. Eric and Sister John Mary also jump into the art of listening, as a follow up to a previous episode on listening well in accompanying others towards Jesus.
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
Eric sits down with Archbishop Michael Miller, CSB (Archbishop of Vancouver) to discuss his thoughts on the future Church in Vancouver. In February 2024 the Archbishop offered 12 points to consider for the future Church in Vancouver. His presentation can be listened to here: https://weareproclaim.com/collections/proclaim-podcast/060
They discuss 5 points in greater detail:
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
Fr. Justin Huang joins Eric on the podcast to discuss parish renewal. For over a decade he has been pastor of St. Anthony of Padua in Marpole, where they have experienced ""seasons"" of parish renewal animated by particular virtues. Fr Justin gets honest and shares his personal need to constantly ask the Lord for humilty. As St. Anthony of Padua moves into a new springtime for renewal, Fr. Justin and the parish is going "all in" with CCO's model of Intentional Accompaniment.
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
Previous podcast episodes referenced:
060: Archbishop Miller - a missional invitation to pastors (and Proclaim) https://weareproclaim.com/collections/proclaim-podcast/060
049: Mastering Your Alpha With These 7 Best Practices https://weareproclaim.com/collections/proclaim-podcast/049
Evangelii Gaudium Quotes:
EG 28 The parish is not an outdated institution; precisely because it possesses great flexibility, it can assume quite different contours depending on the openness and missionary creativity of the pastor and the community. While certainly not the only institution which evangelizes, if the parish proves capable of self-renewal and constant adaptivity, it continues to be “the Church living in the midst of the homes of her sons and daughters”.
Proclaim is a movement of the Archdiocese of Vancouver inspiring disciples to proclaim Jesus in their homes and communities. The Proclaim podcast is a space where you listen to inspiring disciples talk all things around sharing Jesus with others, and learn how to step into your own missionary identity. To learn more about Proclaim, you can visit weareproclaim.com and follow us on Facebook and Instagram at @weareproclaim
Eric sits down with Andre Regnier, co-founder of Catholic Christian Outreach, to discuss a clear and simple way to pray everyday. Andre shares the importance of relationship in prayer, and 5 practical keys to praying everyday.
References in the discussion:
-Scripture/Mass Readings: https://beholdvancouver.org/services/daily-mass-readings
-Building a Vocabulary of Praise: https://companionscross.org/building-a-vocabulary-of-praise/
-CCC 2708
Meditation engages thought, imagination, emotion, and desire. This mobilization of faculties is necessary in order to deepen our convictions of faith, prompt the conversion of our heart, and strengthen our will to follow Christ.
To learn more you can visit CCO.ca/prayer to sign up for the online and live courses on forming personal prayer.