Draw Near

Draw Near

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.

Episodes

Is God Your Best Friend? Prayer Meditation: Unlocking the Doors of the Heart

June 18, 2025 • 23 mins
“Prayer is nothing else than a close sharing between friends.” — St. Teresa of Ávila In this powerful and reflective episode of Draw Near, Kara invites you to explore the deeply personal and transformative nature of prayer as an intimate friendship with God. Using the story of Doubting Thomas in John 20, Kara reflects on how God responds to us when we ask, and gives us exactly what is needed. Jesus enters the locked rooms of our li...
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A Chosen People: Building the Kingdom of God

May 28, 2025 • 8 mins
What does it mean to be a "living stone" in God's Church? How can we live as a royal priesthood, and build communities that truly reflect the love and unity of Christ? In this episode, Fred explores the readings for the Sixth Sunday of Easter and unpacks our identity as chosen people—called not just to believe, but to build. Drawing from Acts, Revelation, and John’s Gospel, we’ll dive into what it means to be part of something eter...
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The Shepherd’s Voice: Trusting in God’s Guidance

May 14, 2025 • 42 mins
How do we hear the voice of Jesus in a world full of noise, distraction, and doubt? And what does it mean to truly follow him—especially when the road is uncertain or difficult? In this episode, we reflect on John 10 and Jesus’ words: “My sheep hear my voice; I know them, and they follow me.” We explore how to discern the voice of the Good Shepherd through prayer, silence, and Scripture—and we introduce insights from St. Ignatius o...
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Surprised by Mercy

April 30, 2025 • 39 mins
In this full-length episode of Draw Near, we return to the mic for a heartfelt conversation on one of the most essential themes of our faith—mercy. What does it really mean to be merciful? Is mercy just forgiveness, or something more? And in a world full of division, anxiety, and wounds, how can God’s mercy truly heal us and flow through us to others? Together, we explore: How Scripture and the Catechism define mercy The surprising...
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Unbind Him: Finding Resurrection in the Midst of the Cross

April 16, 2025 • 23 mins
Is it possible to feel joy in the midst of sorrow? Can we call Holy Week happy even while meditating on the suffering of Jesus? In this short and heartfelt Holy Week reflection, Fred and Kara share a deeply personal and spiritually rich meditation on John 11—the raising of Lazarus. Together, we explore what it means for Jesus to stand before our tombs and call us by name, how we’re invited into community to help “unbind” one anothe...
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Coming Home: A God Who Runs to Us

April 2, 2025 • 43 mins
This week on Draw Near, we dive into one of the most beloved parables in all of Scripture—the Prodigal Son. But this time, we ask three questions that challenge us to look deeper: How is God’s love different from the love we experience from others—or even from ourselves? What does “coming home to the Father” look like in real life? And how do we respond when grace feels... unfair? With humor, vulnerability, and heart, we reflect on...
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The Mountaintop Experience: Encountering Christ’s Glory

March 20, 2025 • 25 mins
Have you ever had a powerful “mountaintop” moment in your faith—only to struggle when coming back to daily life? In this episode, we dive into the Transfiguration of Jesus (Luke 9:28-36) and explore: How to seek moments of transformation in your spiritual life What it means to carry the light of Christ into everyday struggles The power of prayer to open our hearts to God’s transformative love Lent is a season of renewal—don’t miss ...
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Into the Desert: Overcoming Temptation

March 13, 2025 • 64 mins
Lent isn’t just about giving things up—it’s about conversion, renewal, and drawing closer to Christ. In this episode, we dive into Jesus’ time in the desert (Luke 4:1-13) and what it teaches us about resisting temptation, deepening our faith, and embracing the call to holiness. 🔥 We also explore: ✔️ How The Screwtape Letters by C.S. Lewis reveal the battle of temptation. ✔️ The distractions that sabotage our prayer life—and what t...
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The Cross Isn’t the End of the Story: Holding Onto Hope in Grief

February 18, 2025 • 8 mins
What happens when you endure the Cross, but joy feels impossibly far away? In this episode, we explore the mystery of suffering, the hope of unseen joy, and the strength we find in Christ to carry us through life’s heaviest trials. 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 "sponsor...
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Roses from Heaven: In Loving Memory of Catherine Thérèse Shellabarger

January 29, 2025 • 5 mins
Few knew that Fred and Krystal were expecting their seventh child. At 24 weeks, their beautiful daughter’s heartbeat could no longer be detected. On January 21, 2025, with heavy hearts, they said goodbye as Krystal delivered her in the hospital. This episode is a tribute to Catherine’s life, an acknowledgment of the deep grief of losing a child, and a witness to the hope we hold in Christ. Please keep the Shellabarger family in you...
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Washed and Chosen: Living Out Our Baptismal Call

January 15, 2025 • 55 mins
In this inspiring episode of Draw Near, we delve into the transformative power of our baptism and its enduring impact on our identity and mission as disciples of Christ. *Theme: *Renewing Our Identity in Christ Through meaningful reflection and practical insights, we explore the deep truth that each of us is a beloved child of God, uniquely called to live out our baptismal mission with purpose and joy. Key Questions Answered: How c...
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Bonus: Songs for Frances

December 21, 2024 • 48 mins
Think of this episode as sitting by a cozy fire with some friends, singing, playing music and praising God. Its also a peek into our "family of friends" as little Frances loves to listen to Draw Near music at bedtime. We thought it would be easier if it was all in one place. But, we also thought this may be a blessing to some of our listeners. Enjoy! Songs: Reckless Love I Shall Not Want Amazing Grace Revelation Song I am Not Al...
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Advent Reflection: Already and Not Yet

December 18, 2024 • 38 mins
Jesus is coming... AGAIN! Advent is a time of Preparation! In this Lectio Divina Reflection Fred and Kara talk about preparing for the coming of Jesus! He was born of a virgin in a manger and so has ALREADY come. BUT also... not YET, because Jesus will come again. Are we preparing ourselves for Jesus to return? What if Jesus returned tomorrow? Are you ready? Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page ...
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Best of “Dad Jokes”, Bloopers and Shenanigans

December 16, 2024 • 49 mins
Pure silliness and fun with great friends. In order to celebrate both our 200th episode, and the completetion of four years of Draw Near, we thought it would be fun to share some of our "best of" dad jokes, outtakes and bloopers' moments. We are joined by special guests, Phillip Grothus, Taylor Schroll, and John Paul Keane. Enjoy! Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page (https://www.drawnear.me/booki...
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200th Episode Special: "Best of Guests"

December 13, 2024 • 55 mins
We could think of no better way to celebrate our 200th Episode, than spotlighting some "Best of Guests" moments. The truth is, there are too many to fit in one episode... but this is a good start! We pray it will be a blessing to you! Draw Near to Christ and Draw Near to one another. Friendships rooted in Christ... with the usual sharing over coffee, has always been at the heart of Draw Near. Fred and Kara Listen to the episodes s...
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Early Preview: Take, Lord, and Receive All That I Have and Possess (ISAM S4E4)

December 9, 2024 • 48 mins
In this early preview of the fourth episode of our I See A Movement podcast, Kara and Fred are joined by good friend and frequent collaborator, Eric Gallagher. We take a look at what Eric sees the Lord doing in his life and ministry and we discuss the nature of total surrender to the will of God in one's life. The joys, the struggles, the grounding in hope; this is sure to be an inspiring and uplifitng episode for those who are dis...
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DN Classics: There's Something About Mary

December 6, 2024 • 61 mins
In the deeply personal first half of this episode, Fred and Kara reflect on their relationship with Mary, and how that has changed and grown over the years. Fred shares more of his testimony about converting to Catholicism and the role Mary played in that process. He also reflects on issues such as identity, childhood trauma, mistrust, and difficult family experiences and how these can effect our relationship with God; as well as w...
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"In the Desert, I Praise You:" Gratitude Reflection

November 20, 2024 • 37 mins
Do you praise God in EVERYTHING?... the Good AND the Pain? With Thanksgiving fast approaching, it is common to be thankful for the good gifts, graces, love, or comforts of life. But, how often do we thank God for the thorn in our side, the pit we have fallen into, or the desert we simply cannot find a way out of? In this episode of the Catholic podcast, Draw Near, Fred and Kara reflect on 2 Scripture passages focusing on gratitude...
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Wholly inadequate: Homily by Fr. Patrick Behm

October 16, 2024 • 13 mins
In Father Patrick Behm's homily from the 25th Sunday in Ordinary time (September 22nd), he poses the question: "Will I ever be enough?" He looks at Mark 9: 30-37 (https://bible.usccb.org/bible/readings/092224.cfm): "Who is the greatest in the kingdom of Heaven?" This Gospel passage brings a beautiful reflection on: "Do successes and achievements somehow make us more lovable? Where is God in the mess?" Mass Readings: Found Here (htt...
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An Inside look at our Catholic Friendship: Fred and Kara Interview one another

October 2, 2024 • 65 mins
How exciting to give listeners a look inside our lives, hearts, and our Catholic friendship! In this fun light-hearted episode, we decided to interview one another. There are serious faith-driven questions as well as goofy opinion questions. Because who says striving for holiness has to be boring? Grab some coffee and join us as friends, as you listen to this highly caffeinated interview episode of Draw Near! Register for the Draw...
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