Episode 183: Charisms in the Chaos: How a Parish Community Mobilized After a Tornado

Can something as simple as kindness really change someone's view of God? Simple acts of love and kindness are how Jesus shows up in people’s lives. When someone feels seen, heard, and cared for—especially in their mess or suffering—it softens hearts. It opens a door. That’s when people start to wonder, “Why are you doing this?” And we get to say, “Because Jesus loves you.” When we meet people in their suffering with compassion—feeding them, clothing them, praying with them—we’re not just meeting physical needs, we’re revealing the heart of Jesus. And when people experience that kind of love, they start to believe again that God is real, that He sees them, and that He hasn’t forgotten them. In today’s episode, I sit down with Mandy Busch and Amanda Pfeiffer to share the incredible story of how their parish community responded after an EF4 tornado struck. Instead of just reacting, they mobilized hundreds—each person using their unique spiritual gifts—to serve with compassion, leadership, and faith. We talk about how discovering and using our charisms—the gifts given by the Holy Spirit—can be a game changer for unity and fruitfulness in mission. When we stop comparing and start collaborating, the Church comes alive. Like a puzzle, every piece matters. And when we come together in love, the result is powerful. [01:14] Revisiting the Tornado Incident [03:46] Immediate Aftermath and Community Response [07:22] Mobilizing Resources and Long-Term Support [09:40] Charisms in Action [12:39] Coordination and Leadership [18:45] Recognition and Reflection [24:17] Witnessing the Holy Spirit at Work [26:35] Street Ministry and Community Impact [30:04] Acts of Mercy and Returning to Faith [34:09] Teamwork and Charisms in Action [42:26] Long-term Effects and Continued Support [44:24] Encouragement for Parish Leaders [49:03] Final Thoughts and Resources Don’t forget to check out St. Pat’s Elkhorn (https://www.stpatselkhorn.org/), Called and Gifted (https://siena.org/called-gifted), and related episode “Match Your Gifts to Your Mission” (https://equip.archomaha.org/match-your-gifts-to-your-mission-how-charisms-have-the-power-to-change-everything/). For more practical advice and experiences from real people sharing their mission with the world, go to https://equip.archomaha.org/podcast/. A Production of the Archdiocese of Omaha Editor: Taylor Schroll (ForteCatholic.com)