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
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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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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September 18, 2024 • 7 mins
Fred shares a brief reflection on an experience from middle school, and how it has effected his view of present cultural circumstances and relationships.
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" ...
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August 30, 2024 • 6 mins
Those that know us, know we LOVE music and worship. Please enjoy this raw (very un-edited) Cover of "Reckless Love" (with harmonies added) by Kara Kardell and Fred Shellabarger (Originally by Cory Asbury. This version by I Am They)
Book Fred and/or Kara to speak or lead worship 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 esse...
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August 21, 2024 • 48 mins
There is so much division in the world... but also in the Church! The Church has been described in the image of a "Boat" since the Early Church Fathers. We are all ONE BOAT. ONE Church.
What do we allow to divide us? Where is God in our opinions? Does pride divide us?
Join us for this episode as we discuss what causes division in the Church and how it can be healed.
REGISTER for the Draw Near Retreat HERE (https://www.exploretoc...
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August 7, 2024 • 47 mins
How do we reconcile the faith, God's will, and Scripture with feelings of anxiety and depression? Fred and Kara with the Draw Near podcast bring in Spiritual Director, Sister Fidelis Marie to have an honest discussion about anxiety and depression.
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 ess...
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July 24, 2024 • 39 mins
In this surprisingly personal episode, Fred and Kara share how the words of Jeremiah 29 can change our hearts.
It gives a "map" of how to find God and what God wants to bring into your life!
REGISTER for the Draw Near Retreat HERE (https://www.exploretock.com/draw-near/event/486475/draw-near-retreat-a-future-a-hope)
Book Fred and/or Kara to speak by visiting the Draw Near "booking page (https://www.drawnear.me/booking)."
Click her...
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July 10, 2024 • 47 mins
In this final episode of the Draw Near "Apologetics series," Fred and Kara share practical tips to defending your Catholic faith and sharing Truth with Love! "Defending" the faith doesn't have to be defensive or offensive. Here are best-practices to "always be ready" to witness when God presents you the opportunity.
REGISTER for the Draw Near Retreat HERE (https://www.exploretock.com/draw-near/event/486475/draw-near-retreat-a-futu...
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June 26, 2024 • 56 mins
What do Catholics ACTUALLY believe? Enjoy part 3 where Fred & Kara continue to defend the Catholic Church and correct any misconceptions or misunderstandings!! (We hope you're loving these Catholic teaching episodes as much as we are.)
REGISTER for the Draw Near Retreat HERE (https://www.exploretock.com/draw-near/event/486475/draw-near-retreat-a-future-a-hope)
Questions addressed in this episode:
1. Where is the papacy in Scriptu...
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June 12, 2024 • 77 mins
In PART 2 of this 4-part apologetics series, Fred and Kara take up more difficult Catholic questions like: creation, aliens, the Eucharist, Confession, and Purgatory.
REGISTER for the Draw Near Retreat HERE (https://www.exploretock.com/draw-near/event/486475/draw-near-retreat-a-future-a-hope)
Questions answered in this episode:
1. What do Catholic (have to) believe about Creation? Evolution? 7-literal days?
2. Aliens
3. Where is t...
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