Episode 140: Neighbors In Need: How to Leverage the Resources and Compassion Within Your Local Community

Did you know that only 8% of the people in our church pews can claim that they know the names of their 8 closest neighbors? As Christians, we aught to be on the front lines of the fight against what the Surgeon General calls and “epidemic of loneliness”. Omaha itself, with all its strengths, grapples with mental health issues, people feeling isolated, and disparities in education and opportunities. So, in today's podcast, I sit down with Jed Mullenix, the CEO of Within Reach. He works to unify our local church communities around these issues. Together we can address community needs and spread the love of Jesus. He highlights the significance of pursuing proximity with neighbors, cultivating empathy, and committing to long-term relationships built on genuine care and compassion. As he puts it, "The world needs to know. They need to hear, they need to see, they need to feel and experience the love or the kindness of Jesus. And so, we call the church back to that place of rugged, beautiful, persistent kindness in their lives and in Jesus’ name.” In this episode, you'll learn: The primary concerns of neighbors and how the local church can address them. Inspiring examples of churches actively engaging with their communities. Strategies for cultivating empathy and building long-term relationships with neighbors. The importance of activating Christians to share the story of Jesus through acts of kindness and service. Don't forget to check out Within Reach (https://withinreach.com/)! Jed also recommends The Art of Neighboring (https://www.amazon.com/Art-Neighboring-Building-Genuine-Relationships/dp/080101459X/ref=sr_1_1?hvadid=580750215260&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9024585&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=11296911781463010006&hvtargid=kwd-304064976896&hydadcr=22567_13493270&keywords=the+art+of+neighboring+book&qid=1707333448&sr=8-1) and The Power of the Cross (https://www.amazon.com/Power-Cross-Friday-Sermons-Preacher/dp/1685780032/ref=sr_1_1?hvadid=648041675020&hvdev=c&hvlocphy=9024585&hvnetw=g&hvqmt=e&hvrand=6575013877800400065&hvtargid=kwd-1988249758964&hydadcr=18053_13467033&keywords=the+power+of+the+cross+raniero&qid=1707333497&sr=8-1). 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)