Renewing the Church (Morning Air – 7/11/25)

Image via alexkoral / Shutterstock.


John Morales spends time with Bishop Edward Scharfenberger from Albany, NY. They look into what it really means to “renew” the Church.


Mission ≠ Maintenance

Bishop reminds us that being Catholic isn’t just about “showing up” on Sundays and claiming your favorite pew. Baptism remakes us for mission; we’re sent out to bring Jesus to the world.


“Who’s your neighbor?” It’s not just the lady in the pew ahead of you with the fabulous hat. It’s the lonely coworker, the guy at the grocery store, or the friend struggling with addiction. Basically, it’s anyone God puts in your path.


🏘️Parishes aren’t bubbles

His excellency talks about parish boundaries. Did you know the Church is literally organized so no part of the world is left without a shepherd? But parishes shouldn’t be little islands. Bishop Edward Scharfenberger is pushing for neighboring parishes to collaborate, especially when it comes to difficult matters like sharing priests, Mass schedules, or closing buildings when necessary.


🙌 Everybody’s in!
The bishop’s big hope is that everyone in the pews realizes they’re part of the Church’s mission. We are called to bring the Good News wherever we go, in small, personal ways.


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Jake Moore serves as a Digital Audio Content Producer for Relevant Radio®. He is a graduate of Franciscan University of Steubenville, and is passionate about classic movies, Christian music, young adult ministry, and leading this generation to Christ through compelling media. You can listen to more of his podcasts at relevantradio.com and on the Relevant Radio® app.